We must stand vigilant for LSP

Monday, August 01, 2005
Letters to the Editor
The Jersey Journal

I thank The Jersey Journal and reporter Bonnie Friedman for alerting the public with her July 16 story, "Activists fight marina proposal" which exposed developers' unconscionable proposal to get a privatization lease from the NJDEP for 42 acres of NJDEP water and two Liberty State Park grassy jetties, in order for them to build a millionaire's yacht marina alongside the entire south end of the park.

The Friends thanks Sen. Jon Corzine, state Sen. Joe Doria, Jr., Assemblyman Lou Manzo, Greg Remaud, conservation director for NY/NJ Baykeeper, and CWA Local 1037 President Hetty Rosenstein for expressing their opposition to this harbor view-confiscating marina which would start near LSP's public boat launch, which is next to the developers' approved 3 "super premium luxury" condo towers, "Residences at Liberty" and the private golf course with its $750,000 membership fee. The private Liberty Landing Marina exists now at LSP's north end with 550 slips, and its 99-year lease allows a dry rack storage building with spaces for 300 boats.

Though it's very encouraging news that NJDEP Commissioner Brad Campbell told The Jersey Journal reporter that he probably would reject it when the developer submits a formal application, and that he wouldn't support any LSP privatization proposal unless it shows "an overwhelming benefit to the public", LSP supporters still need to be vigilant.

Hopefully, the commissioner will say an immediate "no" to any application for a south end millionaires' marina in the People's Park and not cause another negative statewide grassroots battle. The NJDEP should know very well after 29 years of park battles, that the vast majority has always strongly wanted a free, non-privatized park behind Lady Liberty.

Our legacy to future generations and the public trust of the public water, and the vital, spectacular harbor views must be protected forever. The people who come to picnic, play, relax, boat, and fish at the south end have the right to enjoy unblocked harbor views without yachts stuck in our faces. The Public Good must be chosen over private interests.

SAM PESIN PRESIDENT, FRIENDS OF LIBERTY STATE PARK JERSEY CITY