“New Jerseyans and Newarkers often talk about pollution. We talk about things that smell, but we don’t dig deep enough to know the reasons behind that, so that set me off in wanting to know more. I wanted the younger generation to be aware of what happened, but also get involved in the process of cleaning up the river,” said DePina.

The revitalization of Newark’s riverfront is part of a campaign to attract people back to the river by using a variety of free art and cultural programming that includes kayaking, river boat tours, dance music nights, and yoga. Newark native and yoga instructor, Sakina Williams, understands the importance of water and community, which is why she chose to hold her yoga classes during the summer at Riverfront Park. “For me personally, seeing water when I meditate and when I’m practicing yoga is important,” said Williams, adding that “seeing activities around water helps to connect you to yourself and to the environment that you are in.”

In addition to having access to green space and the Passaic River, where the community can connect to nature and each other, the revival of the riverfront may lead to economic opportunities for Newark residents looking for jobs and entrepreneurs who want to create their own businesses. Aisha Glover, President and Chief Executive Officer of Newark Community Economic Development Corporation (Newark CEDC), believes the improvements to Newark Riverfront Park will offer Newark residents economic incentives. “I would love to see an active waterfront where people—workers and residents—come out and gravitate to play, celebrate, [and] relax in the same way you go to Brooklyn Bridge Park or Liberty State Park. There are a tremendous number of opportunities for people to take advantage of the city’s assets. I think the park is going to [help] attract even more people [to the city],” said Glover.