International Cleaning Week

International Cleaning Week

Spotless Spaces Competition Finalist

Central Park Conservancy

New York, NY

Facility Manager

ISSA Directory Profile

Web site

Describe your Spotless Space

The spotless space we proudly maintain is the Davis Center, operated by the Central Park Conservancy in Central Park, New York City. The mission of the Central Park Conservancy is “to preserve and celebrate Central Park as a sanctuary from the pace and pressures of city life, enhancing the enjoyment and wellbeing of all.” The Davis Center is a public recreational facility that serves visitors year-round, offering ice skating in the winter and swimming in the summer. As a high-traffic, multi-use public space, it is essential that the facility remains clean, safe, and welcoming for guests of all ages and backgrounds.

What specific measures do you or your team implement to ensure this space meets the highest standards of cleanliness and embodies the value of clean?

Our team follows ISSA cleaning guidelines, using industry-recognized standards to ensure consistency, safety, and effectiveness in all cleaning operations. Our staff are trained according to ISSA best practices, which emphasize proper procedures, product use, and hygiene protocols. We maintain structured cleaning schedules to ensure restrooms, locker rooms, public areas, and high-touch surfaces are routinely serviced and disinfected. This disciplined approach ensures the Davis Center remains clean, sanitary, and ready to safely accommodate the thousands of visitors who enjoy the facility throughout the year.

What does having a spotless space mean to you and your team and how does it contribute to the organization’s business outcomes?

Maintaining a spotless environment is more than a responsibility—it is our way of giving back to the Conservancy and supporting its mission. Our work helps create a welcoming and comfortable environment where visitors can fully enjoy the park’s recreational offerings. By ensuring the facility remains clean and safe, we contribute to a positive visitor experience, encourage continued community engagement, and support the Conservancy’s reputation for excellence. Our commitment reflects pride in our work, respect for the park, and appreciation for the opportunities the organization provides to both staff and the public.

How does your facility promote sustainability and/or green cleaning?

Sustainability is a core part of our cleaning operations. We use environmentally responsible methods and products to protect both the park and the surrounding community. We utilize the TruShot® by SC Johnson system, which reduces chemical waste through precise dilution and controlled usage. This system ensures effective cleaning while minimizing environmental impact. We collaborate with our procurement team to implement sustainable practices, including reducing delivery frequency to lower carbon emissions and selecting products with recyclable packaging and environmentally friendly materials. We also participate in recycling initiatives, including collecting disposable gloves through approved recycling programs and laundering reusable cleaning textiles such as mop heads and cloths. These practices reduce landfill waste and extend product life cycles. Through these efforts, we align our cleaning operations with the Conservancy’s commitment to protecting and preserving Central Park for future generations.

Give any examples of how you aim to create an inclusive and accessible experience in your facility for users and cleaners.

The Davis Center is designed to provide an inclusive and accessible experience for all visitors and staff. Family-friendly amenities include baby-changing stations located in multiple restrooms to support caregivers. The facility features ADA-compliant entrances, pathways, and restrooms equipped with grab bars and adequate space for mobility devices, ensuring accessibility for individuals with disabilities. Clear signage and wayfinding assist visitors in navigating the facility safely and easily. We also support elderly visitors by maintaining safe walkways, providing seating areas, and ensuring handrails are available in high-traffic areas. For our cleaning staff, we provide ergonomic equipment designed to reduce physical strain and improve safety. Staff are trained in inclusive cleaning practices and use green cleaning systems like TruShot® by SC Johnson to minimize exposure to harsh chemicals. These efforts help ensure the Davis Center remains welcoming, safe, and accessible for everyone who visits and works there.