Dear Editor:
I am writing as a Maryland resident who was born and bred in Jersey City and makes frequent visits to New Jersey. The presence of Liberty State Park as a "people park" sparked the revitalization of the Jersey City waterfront and the spirit of Hudson County. I strongly decry any attempt to alter the tenor of the park by establishing a commercial performance venue in the park as reported by Eugene Mulero, July 22, in "A Piece of the Park."
The park in its present form is New Jersey’s gift to the United States. It is a sacred space in the middle of the most densely populated section of the country where all Americans can come and reflect upon the immigrant experience and how it shaped our country by viewing and visiting the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island. Liberty Park is also a haven to new Americans who struggle to carve out secure lives in our country and can enjoy the open space with their families during the few hours they are not working.
I strongly urge the candidates for Governor of New Jersey to dismantle the Development Corporation which will not rest until a major commercial venture has been established in the Park. There is so much at risk here. The candidates should put their support behind keeping Liberty State Park as free, open space and end the continual threats posed by the Development Corporation.
My many friends and family in New Jersey who are active civic participants and voters, are keenly following public statements on this issue and will support the gubernatorial candidate who reflects the above views.
Judith Richter