Local advocates and community members, alongside design professionals, plan to gather in Trenton to demonstrate how inclusive, community-driven planning can generate a transformative and feasible design that can be built within a reasonable budget.
A Community Design Kick-Off Meeting for Capital Park is scheduled for Tuesday, April 8 at 12:30 p.m. at
the Masonic Temple, 100 Barrack St. in Trenton. The long-awaited Capital Park project, intended to revitalize Trenton’s State House grounds, has stalled in the middle of the design process. Despite $8 million already committed to planning and construction, the project remains stuck and is in jeopardy of not happening.
This action comes after repeated efforts to engage the state in moving the park forward.
Advocates say that with the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence fast approaching, finishing Capital Park is essential to honoring Trenton’s rich history and ensuring vibrant, accessible green space for residents and visitors alike.
Assemblywoman Reynolds Jackson expected to attend, as well as local organizations Isles, Inc., the New Jersey League of Conservation Voters, and the New Jersey Conservation Foundation.
Planned activities for the demonstration include a walking tour of the site identifying key design elements and amenities; community members participating in hands-on planning activities; statements from advocates and policymakers on the urgency of completing Capital Park; and perspectives on how the park will transform downtown Trenton.
