Connecting the arch with the goals of the builders of Central Park

The main architects and designers of Central Park, Frederick Olmstead and Calvert Vaux, built the park around a primary purpose to provide an inclusive space for all people to enjoy the environment, regardless of their background. Interestingly, the trefoil arch, as previously mentioned, is most often used as a symbol for the Holy Trinity and was built in a Gothic style. In the mid-1800s, some of the most common religions/denominations in New York City include the Methodist Church, Baptist Church, and Presbyterian Church, all denominations of Christianity. Vaux, the designer responsible for planning most of the bridges and arches within Central Park, may have created the trefoil arch to send the message that all people within New York City, regardless of background and socioeconomic status, could follow the Christian beliefs. 

 Additionally, the arch was designed to blend in with its surrounding environment, since Olmstead and Vaux desired to keep a pastoral or natural ambience within the park. 

Image source: https://www.centralparknyc.org/locations/trefoil-arch