Great Falls National Park gets almost $680,000 for plaza and riverwalk
By Jonathan Greene
Published: October 2, 2015
The New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) has received a $679,335 federal grant from the National Park Service (NPS) to fund the construction of a public plaza and a river walk at the Great Falls National Park, according to Rep. Bill Pascrell.
“These federal funds mark yet another significant step towards properly showcasing the beauty of our local treasure,” Pascrell said Friday afternoon. “The Great Falls represent one of the most historically significant places in the country, and this federal investment has the potential to help promote tourism, create jobs and stimulate the economy.”
The grant funds are from the federal Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF), a program that expired on September 30, and was renewed at the urging of Pascrell and other lawmakers.
“Unfortunately, despite overwhelming bipartisan support, Congress has continued its tradition of shortsightedness and allowed this effective program to expire,” Pascrell said. “Congress needs to provide full, mandatory funding for the Land and Water Conservation Fund and honor the bipartisan commitment it made 50 years ago to safeguard natural areas, water resources and our cultural heritage.”
Pascrell joined 130 of his colleagues to urge the House leadership to reauthorize the LWCF, a partnership program that provides states and local communities matching funds to acquire, develop, and conserve parks and open space areas. The program is administered by the National Park Service in conjunction with state governments.
“This innovative project right here in Paterson is a perfect example of the resounding success of this federal program,” Pascrell said. “I remain committed to securing the resources needed to further enhance the Great Falls National Historical Park for all Patersonians, New Jerseyans and Americans to enjoy.”