Understanding community needs and desires
Creating a great park is about more than delineating space on a plan. It’s about understanding people’s needs and desires, and ensuring community members are centered in the design process. Gehl developed a vision and concept plan for Liberty State Park based on the data collected from local engagement, workshop sessions, surveys, and existing conditions assessments. The data revealed an uneven distribution of amenities and an unmet demand amongst locals for recreation and athletic facilities.
Gehl’s vision balances recreational, cultural, and educational facilities and the natural landscape surrounding them. It responds to the needs of Jersey City that coaches, educators, and community leaders have identified as pressing for the health, well-being, and opportunity of the city’s youth and residents. balanced everyday recreation, competitive athletics, arts, culture, and education.
Beyond presenting conceptual and dynamic plans, the team served as a conduit for continued, open dialogue with the local community and DEP leaders. By fostering discussions for how the park can best serve nearby neighborhoods, the broader city, and the wider region Gehl is ensuring that the park continues to evolve to meet the city’s diverse and evolving present and future needs. Needless to say, this is just the beginning for Liberty State Park
