481 



WOllld involve a serious addition to the actual cost, of the work. 

 Every block used in the soffit was accordingly arranged to be of 

 the one most convenient, dimension for Working purposes — thirly- 

 six inches by eighteen inches — and the plan was so arranged that 

 the use of three moulds, one for the vertical ribj one for the hori- 

 zontal rib, and one for the panel, should be -sufficient to complete 

 the whole interior work of the arch. Each of the wooden moulds 

 or patterns was elaborated with carved work, and the one for the 

 panel deeply incised so as to secure additional artistic effect. 



The archway is not yet completed, and the interior work is not 

 fully pointed, but the result is sufficient to show that the good or 

 bad effect of the material, in any such situation, is entirely de- 

 pendent on the designer; and that, if it maintains its reputation 

 for strength and durability, it must prove a valuable addition to the 

 decorative resources of the architect. 



The era' ling of the Jamaica parkway, or grand approach to the 

 park from the eastward, has been well advanced during the year, 

 the work having been prosecuted under contracts, made by the 

 Board., throughout its entire length. The construction of the 

 Ocean parkway, connecting the park, by a continued system of 

 pleasure roais and walks, with the seashore, is delayed by legal 

 difficulties which, it is understood, must be removed by l< 

 lation. Should this be obtained during the present season, rapid 

 progress may be made, on account of the more favorable ehar- 

 a I t of the ground, and these two important undertakings advance 

 toget ; 



additions have been made to the plantations of the 

 park during the year, and the satisfactory condition of the previous 

 plantings, and the good results of the measures taken for the im- 

 provement of the old woods continue. We have a special report in 

 preparation u] on the plantations of the park, which will soon be laid 

 before you. 



i progress than had been anticipated has been made during 

 the year in the improvement of the pleasure ground of Fort Greene, 

 on account of difficulties with contractors, explained in the report 

 of the chief engineer. The value of the work previously done has 

 been demonstrated by the large numbers of people who have re- 

 sorted to the ground, in their evident enjoyment, and in the good 

 order which has generally prevailed. 



The principal work of the improvements at Tompkins square, 

 suggested in our report of last year, and adopted by your Board, has 



