Bill > S3042

This bill establishes the Liberty State Park Protection Act, which creates a comprehensive framework for preserving and managing Liberty State Park in Jersey City. The legislation creates a nine-member Liberty State Park Advisory Committee to help protect the park's natural, historic, cultural, and recreational resources. The bill prohibits the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) from commercializing, developing, or privatizing the park, with strict limitations on potential concessions or property transfers. Specifically, the bill protects two critical areas: a 215-acre interior portion (including 165 acres of natural restoration and 50 acres of active recreation) and the 21.5-acre Caven Point Peninsula. The committee will have the power to review and make recommendations on any proposed agreements or changes to the park, and the DEP must consult the committee and provide public opportunities for input before making significant decisions. The bill also requires the DEP to hold annual public forums, post relevant documents on its website, and ensure that any small-scale commercial activities enhance visitors' ability to enjoy the park's resources. The legislation aims to preserve Liberty State Park as a free, green urban space that serves as a sanctuary for wildlife and a recreational resource for millions of visitors annually.

Agriculture and Natural Resources, Budget and Finance

https://www.njleg.state.nj.us/bill-search/2024/S3042