PATERSON – Above the Great Falls, Mayor Andre Sayegh climbed to the summit of his city and looked out over the brawling domain of steeples, bodegas, brick mills, beaux arts diehards, reborn ravages, Garrett Mountain and New York City shimmering in the distance.
“This is the highest point in the city,” he said.
Wait a minute. What about Garrett Mountain over there?
Some of the mountain’s steppes fall within Paterson City limits, the mayor explained, but not the crown. Right here, on a pile of rock overlooking the Passaic River – this is the top.
An exhilarating high point that affords not only an architectural history of the country but of Paterson’s unique biospheric locale and Big Apple proximity, for a while, it was a dumping ground awaiting an apartment complex. That project eventually fell through, enabling Sayegh to move on a complement to city development in and around the historic Hinchliffe Stadium.
Hinchliffe – which sits immediately above the Great Falls and includes a civil rights museum, affordable housing complex, and childcare center – forms the core of a $116 million citywide property investment project, which includes this parcel here, Vista Park, rehabbed for $1.4 million.
Sayegh said the park is part of his overall effort to remove derelict crime magnets and turn them into points of Paterson pride. Targeting October of this year as a completion date, Vista will feature a public picnic area, amphitheater, playground, and fitness zone.
On Friday afternoon, bulldozers tore over the area as they marked off the different sections.
“I would like to deliver the State of the City here,” Sayegh said, looking out at Silk City.
By way of background, from Paterson:
“The 6.4-acre parkland was purchased by the State of NJ in 2016 and is now being designed in preparation for construction later this year. The park concept plan envisions numerous passive recreational amenities appropriate for all ages, and will be open to all.
“In 2016, the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection’s (NJDEP) Green Acres Program acquired 8.4 acres of vacant land on the cliff overlooking the City of Paterson and Paterson Great Falls National Historical Park (GFNP). This acquisition assures the use of the property as public open space in perpetuity. It creates a continuous network of publicly-owned land along the plateau on the north side of the river, extending from the Great Falls to Ryle Avenue.”
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Paterson, New Jersey is a city rich in history and culture, with a diverse population and a vibrant arts scene. One of the best ways to experience all that Paterson has to offer is by taking in the views from the summit of the city.
Insider NJ recently published a guide to exploring the views from the summit of Paterson, highlighting some of the best spots to take in the breathtaking scenery. From the Great Falls National Historical Park to the Paterson Museum, there are plenty of opportunities to see the city from a new perspective.
One of the most popular spots for taking in the views from the summit of Paterson is the overlook at Garret Mountain Reservation. This park offers stunning views of the city skyline, as well as the surrounding mountains and valleys. It’s a great spot for a picnic or a leisurely hike, and it’s easily accessible from downtown Paterson.
Another must-see spot for exploring the views from the summit of Paterson is Lambert Castle. This historic mansion offers panoramic views of the city and its surroundings, as well as a glimpse into the city’s past. The castle is home to a museum that showcases the history of Paterson and its residents, making it a great destination for history buffs and nature lovers alike.
For those looking for a more active way to explore the views from the summit of Paterson, there are plenty of hiking trails and parks to choose from. The Paterson Great Falls National Historical Park offers miles of scenic trails that wind through the city and along the Passaic River, providing plenty of opportunities to take in the natural beauty of the area.
Overall, exploring the views from the summit of Paterson is a great way to experience all that this vibrant city has to offer. Whether you’re interested in history, nature, or simply taking in the sights, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in Paterson. So grab your camera and your hiking boots, and get ready to explore the views from the summit of this hidden gem of a city.
