Historic Walnut Hill Reservoir Site Set for Redevelopment
The nearly 150-year-old Walnut Hill Reservoir is scheduled to have its large tanks removed and the property redeveloped. The City Water Works, a private company, built it in 1881 as part of an early water system designed for fire protection.
The Walnut Hill Reservoir dates to 1881, when a private utility known as the City Water Works constructed it as part of an early fire-protection water network. Now, after almost a century and a half, its sizable tanks are to be taken out and the property is to be redeveloped. The case reflects a broader heritage question: aging industrial-era waterworks can be viewed as obsolete infrastructure, historic landmarks, or both.
The redevelopment could affect local residents, heritage advocates, and those interested in industrial-era infrastructure. Removing the tanks may alter a familiar landmark and change how the site is used, while redevelopment could bring new activity or amenities. Whether the change is seen as loss or renewal may depend on how the site's history is acknowledged.