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Taste & See KC: Abandoned Kessler Park reservoir

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KANSAS CITY, Mo. — It once served an essential purpose for Kansas City, but now the water reservoir in Kessler Park sits abandoned and vandalized.

In the early 1900s, Kansas City’s Fire and Water Commission proposed building a reservoir to provide water to the growing number of industrial industries in the area. 

Construction began in 1919 and the Northeast Reservoir was completed in 1920.

Soon after it was in use, cracks developed under the enormous amount of water pressure. Other water sources and treatment centers were developed and the reservoir was drained and left empty. 

Now, it is overgrown with vines and weeds and graffiti is scattered throughout the area.

The Kansas City Park and Recreation Department asked for the city’s input on what to do with the area. It was accepting proposals until February. No plans have been announced as of yet.