A new park and plans for increased waterfront access seek to reintroduce Newark's residents, and even tourists, to the Passaic River, the longtime industrial dumping ground that flows through the city, writes Sharon Adarlo.
With the opening of the 12-acre Essex County Riverfront Park and plans for increased environmental cleanup and expansion of riverfront access, the Passaic River, once seen as "a metaphor for all that went wrong environmentally in Newark," now reflects the, "larger forces that have brought development and jobs to the city" more recently.
"Now, Newark is billing its long-defiled section of the state's longest
river as a tourist attraction, heralding the opening of a new park on
its shores and lengthening its city-run boat tours of the waterway to
include views of new parkland and a burgeoning wildlife population," writes Adarlo of the transforming relationship between Newark and its waterfront.
FULL STORY: Newark Reintroduces Itself to River

Study: Maui’s Plan to Convert Vacation Rentals to Long-Term Housing Could Cause Nearly $1 Billion Economic Loss
The plan would reduce visitor accommodation by 25,% resulting in 1,900 jobs lost.

North Texas Transit Leaders Tout Benefits of TOD for Growing Region
At a summit focused on transit-oriented development, policymakers discussed how North Texas’ expanded light rail system can serve as a tool for economic growth.

Why Should We Subsidize Public Transportation?
Many public transit agencies face financial stress due to rising costs, declining fare revenue, and declining subsidies. Transit advocates must provide a strong business case for increasing public transit funding.

How to Make US Trains Faster
Changes to boarding platforms and a switch to electric trains could improve U.S. passenger rail service without the added cost of high-speed rail.

Columbia’s Revitalized ‘Loop’ Is a Hub for Local Entrepreneurs
A focus on small businesses is helping a commercial corridor in Columbia, Missouri thrive.

Invasive Insect Threatens Minnesota’s Ash Forests
The Emerald Ash Borer is a rapidly spreading invasive pest threatening Minnesota’s ash trees, and homeowners are encouraged to plant diverse replacement species, avoid moving ash firewood, and monitor for signs of infestation.
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