USA: Port Authority OKs Funding for Newark Development Project

The Port Authority Board of Commissioners today approved a contribution of $1.3 million to Essex County for the development of the Riverbank Park Extension in Newark.

The site includes more than 12 acres of public open space and waterfront access along the banks of the Passaic River. Today’s authorization completes the purchase of the waterfront land and boosts the agency’s total investment in the project to $9 million.

The action by the Board continues an extensive Port Authority of New York and New Jersey initiative that preserves open space habitat and wetlands with public access on both sides of the Hudson River. The Port Authority’s $60 million Hudson-Raritan Estuary Resource Program has protected more than 390 acres for public uses over the past decade in New Jersey and New York, helping to ensure the region’s long-term quality of life and its vital business needs.

Since launching the Hudson-Raritan Estuary Resource Program in July 2001, Port Authority investments have protected eight properties in New York City and nine properties in New Jersey, much of it waterfront property. The investments have resulted in the creation of important public spaces, while also protecting critical wildlife habitat, including woodlands and wetlands for migratory birds and other wildlife.

“Through the $60 million Harbor-Raritan Estuary Resources Program, the Port Authority has delivered on its commitment to the environment by investing in communities throughout the region to create much needed public spaces while also protecting critical coastal habitat and wetlands for migratory birds and other wildlife,” said Port Authority Chairman David Samson. “Today’s investment provides the community of Newark with valuable recreation space and preserves an important wetland habitat along the Passaic River.”

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Press Release, October 19, 2012