The Floating Pool Lady: A Quest to Bring a Public Pool to New York City's Waterfront

Ann L. Buttenwieser floated a pool up the Atlantic coastline to bring it to rest at a pier on the New York City waterfront. She wanted New Yorkers to reestablish their connection to their riverine surroundings and was energized by the prospect of city youth returning to the Hudson and East Rivers. Buttenwieser battled for years with politicians and struggled with bureaucrats to bring her scheme to fruition, and her story raises consciousness about persistent environmental issues and the challenges of developing a constituency for projects to make cities livable in the twenty-first century.

Format: Hardback
Length: 304 pages
Publication date: 15 May 2021
Publisher: Cornell University Press

In her captivating memoir, "The Floating Pool Lady," Ann L. Buttenwieser recounts her remarkable journey, which began in the enchanting bayous of Louisiana and culminated in the placement of a self-sustaining, floating swimming pool at the New York City waterfront. Driven by a deep desire to revitalize the New York City shoreline, Buttenwieser sought inspiration from the city's rich history. She envisioned a way for New Yorkers to reconnect with their riverine surroundings and was filled with excitement at the prospect of city youth rediscovering the Hudson and East Rivers. However, what she didn't anticipate was the immense challenges that lay ahead in her quest to donate a swimming facility for free enjoyment by the public.

As Buttenwieser vividly details in "The Floating Pool Lady," she battled for years with politicians and grappled with bureaucratic obstacles as she tirelessly pursued her ambitious project. From delving into dusty archives in the historic Battery Maritime Building to engaging in high-stakes community board meetings and navigating tense negotiations in the Louisiana shipyard, Buttenwieser relives the incredible process that brought her visionary idea to life.

The result of her unwavering determination is a pool aptly named "The Floating Pool Lady," which finds its temporary home at Barretto Point Park in the Bronx, ready to welcome summer swimmers. Throughout "The Floating Pool Lady," Buttenwieser not only shares her personal story but also raises awareness about pressing environmental issues and the challenges of creating a constituency for projects that aim to make cities more livable in the twenty-first century. Her tale serves as both a cautionary tale and a source of inspiration for those who dare to dream of realizing innovative public projects in the modern urban landscape.

"The Floating Pool Lady" is a testament to the indomitable spirit of individuals who refuse to be deterred by obstacles and who are committed to making a positive impact on their communities. It reminds us that with perseverance, vision, and a willingness to embrace the unexpected, we can create extraordinary projects that transform the world around us.

Weight: 28g
Dimension: 229 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781501716010