Outside of the CRRNJ Terminal Building in Liberty State Park last night, Department of Environmental Protection Commissioner Shawn LaTourette addressed the crowd with the promise of a park for the people.
The assembly then filed into the dimly lit terminal building to view and vote upon the various designs.
The attendees circulated around the room placing colored dots on the designs they preferred. Consultants were there to explain details and answer questions. “There’s a station for everyone,” the commissioner explained. “History, art, nature, sports — please offer your feedback.”
The “open house” event was organized so that residents could view the NJDEP’s exhibits and provide feedback on their design recommendations for Liberty State Park’s north side.
LaTourette spoke exuberantly about the plans saying, “It’s our job to protect your environment and to let us know how to serve you best.”
Designs included free recreation areas, cultural amenities, passive recreation, transportation with shuttle buses and even a children’s train. “This is the people’s park! It’s for everyone. Designers, consultants, and professional architects are here to spark your ideas. There’s a station for everyone” said LaTourette.
Sam Pesin, president of Friends of Liberty State Park, was elated by the event. “It was so heartwarming to see so many long time and new Liberty State Park supporters who support the Central Park vision for Liberty State Park attend the DEP open house to see and provide feedback to the consultants’ recommendations for the future of Liberty State Park’s north side.”
“I urge all who care about Liberty State Park’s future to go to the DEP revitalization webpage to see the recommendations and provide public comment until mid-November” he said.
The DEP has created a webpage where people can view and comment on the plans.