Dear Editor,
I moved to Hoboken many years ago. I loved the architecture, tree lined streets with stoops, great restaurants and the little delis, the great views and sense of community. I could go on and on about all the things I love about Hoboken. I think we all could.
Back then you could play ball in a empty lot or bike to Liberty State Park or up North to The Palisades park along River Road. Those days are gone. The lots are built up, there is too much traffic on the roads and still the construction continues.
I helped found a group that has been petitioning for Hoboken to invest in our community. We want the city to purchase several blocks in Hoboken for open space and recreation. Hoboken Common Sense is calling for perimeter parking with trolley service running through town.
We need concrete action now or we will lose our only opportunity to get badly needed open space, and avoid choking on congestion. Right now we have eight schools that use Church Square Park as their recreation space. All teams are struggling to find a place to practice. The Girls softball team couldn’t finish their season since they got kicked off the field. Then there is the issue of the 30,000 adults in town that want to play some sport, start a league, or just get some exercise. And of course the parent with children, dog owner, or the senior who wants to enjoy a walk in the park. We should implement green architecture zoning to help combat the rainwater runoff problem that has gotten worse since too many areas are covered with non-permeable surfaces. People don’t blame overdevelopment for their sewer overflow – but they should.
Hoboken needs to take the feedback from the MasterPlan meetings seriously. We must implement smart solutions that enhance the great features of Hoboken while insuring future growth is a blessing, not a curse. As we continue to develop and build we need a plan. We then must guarantee that all the areas of the city follow that plan through due process of law. Citizens must have free access to information so that we can protect our quality of life. The city government and our laws were created to protect and help people. This administration was elected on a promise to make that happen. When they succeed we do applaud them. When they fail we all must hold them accountable.
Elizabeth Markevitch
Mother
Business Owner
Member of Hoboken Common Sense