Newark Park Sees Surge In Visitors After Playground Addition

NEWARK, NJ — It isn’t just a much-needed playground – it’s a “masterpiece in design.” That’s what city officials had to say about renovations at Chamblee Square Park during a recent ribbon-cutting ceremony.

Last week, Newark officials held a celebratory event at the park, which has received an “Excellence in Design – Multi-Use Facility – Playground Award” from the New Jersey Recreation and Park Association.

According to a news release from the city, the area previously lacked a playground within a 10-minute walk, leaving residents without a dedicated space for recreation and social interaction. In response, Newark designed a “vibrant, inclusive and accessible park” at 556-560 Hunterdon Street, featuring dynamic play structures, fitness areas and water features.

Community involvement and feedback played a big role in the design, officials said.

Since reopening, Chamblee Square Park has seen a surge in visitors, showing that there is a local demand for “accessible, high-quality public spaces,” officials said.

“Chamblee Square Park isn’t just a much-needed playground; it is a masterpiece in design that highlights the inclusion and sense of belonging that Newarkers are known for,” Mayor Ras Baraka said.

“I’m sure many wonderful childhood and family memories will be made here in the years to come,” the mayor added.

HONORING THE CHAMBLEE FAMILY

The park is named for the Rev. Ernest Lee Chamblee, who served the Hunterdon Street neighborhood with his family to care for its people and places. Until his passing in 2019, he provided residents with jobs, food, and other material assistance, and even, on one occasion, the working battery from his own watch. He also kept the community beautified.

Chamblee was remembered with reverence during last week’s ceremony. His wife, Deloase Chamblee, and other family members were present and honored as they participated in the ribbon cutting.

“Here on Hunterdon Street, the legacy of Reverend E.L. Chamblee and his family lives on,” said Donnell Redding, director of the Department of Recreation, Cultural Affairs & Senior Services.

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