HOBOKEN, NJ March 22, 2007 – The Trust for Public Land today presented Mayor David Roberts with a $200,000 check to assist the city’s efforts to convert 1600 Park Avenue, a 2.1 acre parcel, into open public space.

“We are greatly appreciative of this grant which will help fulfill our overall goal of creating 17 new acres of open space to be enjoyed by our residents and visitors. The 1600 Park Avenue site is a centerpiece of our initiative to transform northern Hoboken into a recreational destination,” said Mayor Roberts.

The Trust for Public Land is a national non-profit, land conservation organization that conserves land for people to enjoy as parks, community gardens and other public uses, ensuring livable communities for future generations.

In addition to today’s grant award, the Trust for Public Land provided additional financing for negotiating the city’s acquisition of the property, which amounted to $7.1 million, and other costs associated with the appraisal and survey fees.

Additional funding has been committed by the Hudson County Open Space Trust Fund, state Green Acres funding, and a municipal bond issue, among other sources.

“The 1600 Park Avenue site promises to make available an array of both active and passive recreational elements for the enjoyment of residents and others from the region,” said Terrence Nolan, New Jersey State Director of the Trust for Public Land, who presented the check.

The 1600 Park Avenue site would connect with a previously announced City park at the Hoboken Cove leading to the waterfront walkway extending to Weehawken. The overall park expansion program throughout the City has been outlined in the Master Plan.