Project Description

In August 2022, construction began on a 5-acre urban park located along the Passaic River in East Newark, NJ. The park will include walking paths, an elevated walkway along the river, pollinator gardens, plantings of native trees and vegetation, a small wetland area, and open green spaces for recreation. When complete, the East Newark Riverfront Park will provide public access to the Passaic River shoreline, and outdoor recreational opportunities for community members in an area impacted by industry and pollution for decades. This will also benefit migratory birds and other wildlife passing through the urban landscape of the greater New York/New Jersey metropolitan area by creating foraging, nesting, and resting habitat. As part of an interim settlement, the BASF Corporation, a potentially responsible party (PRP) at the Diamond Alkali Superfund Site and Berry's Creek Study Area, will fund the design, construction, and 30-year stewardship of East Newark Riverfront Park. Once completed, this will offset a portion of BASF's alleged liability for natural resource damages at the two sites. This project serves as an example of an early restoration project that compensates the public for the damage or loss of natural resources, while promoting environmental justice. The park is expected to open in spring 2024.

Restoration Land Ownership

County or Municipal

Parties Implementing Restoration

BASF Corporation

DOI Project Representatives

Fish and Wildlife Service