Clifton Breaks Ground on Nash Park Rejuvenation Effort
Revitalization Focuses on Inclusivity and Honoring the Park’s Legacy
Revitalization Focuses on Inclusivity and Honoring the Park’s Legacy
The City of Clifton celebrated a groundbreaking ceremony that marked the start of construction on a host of improvements to Nash Park at 700 Lexington Ave. Clifton Mayor Ray Grabowski, City Council members and officials, residents, representatives of the Clifton fire and police departments, members of the Board of Recreation and recreation administrative staff, project contractor ADP Group Inc, and project architect and engineer LAN Associates were all in attendance to commemorate the Park’s renewal. The event focused on dedicating the park’s new splash pad to local councilman William F. Gibson in recognition of his more than 50 years of service to the Clifton community. His family was in attendance to represent him.
In addition to the new splash pad, the extensive revitalization of the 530,000-sf park features an inclusive playground, new ADA-accessible walking paths, the rehab of the historic Rose Garden, comfort station renovations, an upgraded dog park, and basketball court improvements. The project was partially funded by grants from the NJDEP Green Acres program and an NJ Urban Parks grant, with the remainder funded by an allocation of local capital funds.
Inclusive play elements are a key feature of the project, beginning with the 2,500-sf splash pad. Beyond serving as a gathering space for children and families, the splash pad will also provide a refreshing way for residents to cool off, helping to mitigate the effects of the urban heat island.
Also soon to be under construction at Nash Park is a 6,300-sf inclusive playground, tailored to provide recreational opportunities and bring together children of all ages and abilities. This means that alongside traditional items like swing sets, climbers, and large play sets, visitors will also find features such as an inclusive whirl. The entire park will also receive new ADA-accessible walkways and landscaping, which will improve function and connectivity, extending inclusivity beyond the playground and ensuring the whole park can be used by all.
Located near the Passaic River, where routes 21 and 46 intersect, Nash Park has a long history of serving and highlighting the Clifton community. The historic Rose Garden, dating back to the 19th century, provides a quiet retreat while also honoring the botanical achievements of Scotto Nash, for whom the park is named. The garden upgrades will include new benches, garden box edging, and stamped-concrete walkways to improve accessibility and reduce maintenance.
In addition to civil engineering, land surveying, and architectural design services, LAN Associates provided landscape architecture design. These landscaping improvements will include the preservation of existing ornamental cherries and the addition of tree species native to the park’s geographical location. Shrubs and ground covers will also be added to provide seasonal interest and habitat for pollinators and other wildlife. These natural elements will be added throughout the park for beautification and to comply with local ordinances.
The park’s comfort station will also receive upgrades after being closed to the public in recent history. This will provide a much-needed support structure that allows visitors to stay at the park longer while meeting their daily needs. Other park improvements include resurfacing and new hoops for both basketball courts, and upgrades to the existing 6,700-sf dog park, new agility equipment, water fountains, and benches. Throughout the Park, picnic tables will also be installed, alongside essential security upgrades.
All elements are anticipated to be completed in Fall 2026.
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