You can call it the ultimate example of public-private partnerships for community good.
You can call it the ultimate example of how sustainability and ecological restoration can be incorporated into any project.
Or you can simply call it a much-needed park for residents to enjoy.
Last week’s opening of the East Newark Riverfront Park, a five-acre green space developed on a former industrial site along the Passaic River, meant so much to so many.
The ribbon-cutting ceremony celebrated the culmination of a multi-year effort with federal natural resource trustees to restore and transform the property.
The park was designed to support recreation, environmental education and ecological restoration. It features a 1,000-foot boardwalk, an urban amphitheater, and open space for walking, gathering and hands-on learning.
Constructed with sustainability at its core, the park aligns with 15 of the 17 United Nations sustainable development goals. It incorporates eco-friendly materials, native landscaping and design elements that promote biodiversity and environmental resilience.
The project was led by BASF in coordination with federal and local partners — including the U.S. Department of Interior, The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, and the Borough of East Newark — with support from the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection.
“The opening of the East Newark Riverfront Park represents the best of what public-private collaboration can achieve,” BASF CEO Heather Remley said.
“This transformation from a legacy industrial site into a vibrant, sustainable public space underscores BASF’s commitment to environmental stewardship, community engagement, and long-term impact. We are proud to contribute to a project that enhances quality of life, supports biodiversity and serves as a model for urban restoration.”
The park is the result of a new model for expedited restoration, developed through a collaboration between BASF and the federal natural resource trustees.
The organizations involved say this innovative approach to natural resource crediting accelerates benefits to communities while still meeting restoration goals.
East Newark is the first successful example of this model, delivering environmental and community benefits nearly a decade faster than traditional processes would typically allow. Gov. Phil Murphy hopes more will follow.
“Ensuring that every New Jersey resident has access to safe, welcoming green space is a priority for our administration,” he said. “Green public spaces not only restore and enhance vital natural areas, but they also strengthen community connections and reflect our collective commitment to a more resilient, inclusive, and sustainable future for the state.”
East Newark Mayor Dina Grilo said Riverfront Park will serve as a much-needed green space for residents and visitors, offering opportunities for recreation, education and community events for all ages.
In addition to the boardwalk and outdoor amphitheater, the new park includes water fountains, restrooms, picnic tables, a playground, a great lawn and a large shade structure for the community to enjoy.
“Today marks a milestone for our community — a day when vision, hard work, and collaboration have come together to create something truly special,” Grilo said. “This park is not just a space; it’s a testament to the strength and unity of our residents and partners. We have built something that will benefit generations to come, and I am incredibly proud to be part of this journey.”
Congressman Rob Menendez (D, 8th District) said the project’s long-term impact on quality of life, environmental stewardship and urban revitalization.
“Today’s opening of the park showcases what is possible when we put resilience, collaboration and sustainability at the forefront,” he said.
“Prioritizing green spaces throughout our communities benefits all of us — and I’m grateful to Mayor Grilo and her team for making this possible. Because of their work, this once underutilized space will now serve as a place for friends and neighbors to gather for years to come.”
