Never ridden in Central Park at night, had a few questions:
1. Is it safe enough if you're alone?
2. How lit up is the loop? Do I need a reflecting jacket? Headlights? I don't plan on riding to and from, so what I would need on the streets is not an issue.
Thanks

i think it's as safe as can be. definitely a good place to ride at night. it's well lit, but you should use a blinky so that you're visible to pedestrians and other cyclists.

Not too bad. There are organized rides through Times Up at night year long - I'd suggest going on one of those and see how you like it. CP's not too bad but I'd probably go with someone as a matter of safety. There are some lights but personally I like having my own as a precaution.

Are you a tuba player by any chance?

I rode through Central Park last month on my way to the start of the NYC Century. It was around 6am, still dark out, and the lights in the park hadn't come on yet. I'd imagine they probably turn the lights off around Midnight or 1 am when the park "closes."

Run front and rear blinkies. You want to be seen as a matter of safety to yourself and others.

I ride in CP year round as late as 10-11pm. I'll ride with people occasionally, but most of my rides are done alone. I've never had a problem. I do have front & rear lights. Definitely watch out for wrong way runners, bikers, peds & racoons.