The pond was subsequently enlarged, and architect Frank Freeman engaged to design a new, larger pumping station.

[1][2] In 1898, Brooklyn was absorbed into New York City, allowing the former access to the Croton Aqueduct system, and reducing demand for the Milburn supply.

By 1929, the Milburn Pumping Station was downgraded to a standby supply, for operation only in emergencies, at which time the building's two large smokestacks were dismantled.

Mileus then came up with a new proposal to convert what remained of the building into a nursing home, but this plan was eventually blocked by local government.

The roof was supported by a spacious pin truss, while an "elaborate" iron walkway ran around the walls, encircling the five giant steam pumps.