Update – The carousel and concession area is tentatively scheduled to reopen in early fall 2008.

On January 1, the East Bay Regional Park District will temporarily close Tilden Regional Park's historic carousel to begin a state-of-the-art construction and renovation project. The 1911 Hershell Spillman carousel spent several decades at various locations throughout the country before settling in Tilden Regional Park in 1948. An instant attraction, the carousel has provided enjoyment for generations of East Bay residents. The carousel, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, has unique hand-painted carved animals which are now all antiques. As the popular attraction nears the century mark, the Park District's main concern is to further protect the carousel from deterioration by wind and fog.

The District sought an attractive yet durable weatherproof enclosure for the carousel and hired Bruce Boyd, Architects and Planners of Nevada City, to design one. The new design includes a unique component of doors and windows that fully enclose the structure in a charming setting without detracting from viewing the carousel. For the public's convenience, the enclosure provides more warmth inside during the cooler months and allows several of the doors to be opened during the summer months. New lighting will also be added for both aesthetics and safety for patrons.

During the construction of the enclosure, the District will also replace the carousel platform and restore the musical organ. Various other rotunda and site maintenance issues will also be addressed.

"The carousel is the Park District's most beloved asset," states District General Manager Pat O'Brien. "As with any antique, it requires continuous repair and renovation. We've restored various components of the carousel over the years, including replacing mechanical workings. But, this new enclosure is by far the largest undertaking of its kind, and definitely the most important. Thankfully, we received the funding from Measure CC and also a large grant to enable us to move forward."

The entire construction and renovation project is estimated to cost just over $700,000, with funding from Measure CC, a parcel tax measure passed by voters in 2004. Additional funds are from an American Express Partners in Preservation grant, the Regional Parks Foundation, and the Park District. The carousel is expected to be reopened to the public in fall 2008.

Artist's rendering of new enclosure for the carousel at Tilden Regional Park

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