The Star LedgerLiberty Park freed
Editorial
Sunday, April 27, 2003
The state has a new plan for Liberty State Park that wisely changes the vision for the park's future. Instead of emphasizing commercial ventures, the state's most popular park will be reserved for open space and recreation.
That is exactly what the public wants from this waterfront jewel, with its stunning views of the Statue of Liberty and the New York skyline. Unfortunately, the nonprofit corporation that has run the park for 17 years clung stubbornly to other ideas.
The Liberty State Park Development Corp. pushed to build a golf course or a commercial water park on the land. The goal was to generate cash to help Liberty State Park become self-supporting.
But that would have destroyed the park's setting. Parks are not supposed to make money. They are supposed to provide green oases, particularly in densely packed urban areas like Hudson County. That is why parks, as a common public good, are supported by taxes.
State Environmental Commissioner Bradley Campbell has now abolished the development corporation and promised to form a citizen advisory committee that will plan a more appropriate future for the park. The vision is to include a balance of areas for nature and recreation, such as ballplaying. Roads will be improved and a shuttle bus service considered to reduce traffic congestion within the park.
It is a fitting vision that will serve all those who use New Jersey's most urban state park.