(Camden, NJ) – The Freeholder Board, City of Camden and Cooper’s Ferry Partnership broke ground on significant renovations for Alberta Woods Park located at Fremont Avenue and S. Dudley Street in Camden.
“Improving open spaces for the community is a key component to raising the standard of living for Camden County residents,” said Freeholder Jeff Nash, liaison to the Camden County Park System. “Ensuring a safe modern greenspace for families and kids is something we strive to produce for every neighborhood and Alberta Woods Park will be the next recipient of these important enhancements and improvements for the neighborhoods of East Camden.”
The improvements to Alberta Woods Park, which begin this week, are estimated at $775,000 and will include a new and expanded playground and sprayground, along with a graded lawn for sports practices and active recreation.
Nash talked about the input that steered the renovations and the expansion of resources for Alberta Woods Park.
“We held public meetings at the Mastery East Camden Middle School to get community input which greatly contributed to the design of the park,” said Freeholder Jeff Nash, liaison to the Camden County Park System. “With the warmer weather on the way, a new sprayground will help children beat the heat as they enjoy getting in some summer recreation.”
Congressman Donald Norcross talked about the advances taking place across Camden.
“It’s amazing to witness Camden’s historic transformation and it’s an honor to be a part of it. We’ve seen major improvements in schools and public safety followed by many new employers and opportunities for residents, and now this park renovation is one example of neighborhood renewals across the city,” Norcross said. “I thank everyone involved in this project and the entire Camden community as we continue working together to make our city a better, more beautiful place to call home.”
The park will also contain a new stage, a new sidewalk that will serve as a walking loop, and new picnic tables, benches and eye in the sky security cameras to improve safety. The park will also feature a new rain garden to capture storm water.
Camden Mayor Frank Moran continued that Alberta Woods and the city extensive and growing park system is a priceless amenity for families and children.
“The city’s parks are a tremendous asset and the planned renovations to Alberta Woods Park will only enhance Camden’s outstanding open spaces,” Moran said. “I applaud all involved and I’m grateful to the county for being such a strong partner. This project highlights the city’s and the county’s commitment to strengthening Camden’s neighborhoods. I am particularly happy to see that Camden residents where actively involved in the design process. I expect the project will exceed expectations and be enjoyed by residents for many years to come.”
Cooper’s Ferry Partnership will be managing the renovations of the park.
“Cooper’s Ferry Partnership is proud to collaborate with Camden County and the City of Camden to transform Alberta Woods Park,” said Susan Bass Levin, Co-Chair of the Cooper’s Ferry Partnership. “With the input of East Camden residents and students, we are able to bring the dream of a vibrant neighborhood park to life.”
Kim Davis of the Mastery Parent Action Team said the improvements will benefit the community.
“I am delighted that Alberta Woods Park is being renovated. I live just two blocks away in the house where I was born and raised. My son attends Mastery’s High School and I work in the afterschool program at Mastery McGraw and East Campus which are both right across the street from the park. This renovation means that our community and hundreds of students and families in the school will have a beautiful and safe place to learn, play and celebrate,” Davis said. “I can’t wait to see our students perform on the outside stage. To be able to reclaim this little park right in the heart of our neighborhood as a place for our families to enjoy nature, push their children on swings, have picnics, play kickball- this is a dream come true!”
The Camden County Park System’s 21 parks and conservation areas offer over 2,000 acres of natural settings for picnics, family gatherings, sporting events, beautiful waterways for fishing and boating, a wealth of playgrounds and a variety of ball fields that are close to home. Highlights of the Camden County Park System include the New Brooklyn Park Disc Golf Course, the Watchable Wildlife Trail at Maria Barnaby Greenwald Memorial Park, and the Timber Creek Dog Park. The Park System also includes the award-winning and fully accessible Challenge Grove Park, designed to be enjoyed by everyone regardless of physical ability.