Situated on the Hudson River, the Central Railroad of New Jersey terminal operated its railroad/maritime complex for over 100 years in this area. After its shutdown in 1967, community advocates, already lobbying for nine years, continued their successful campaign for the site to become a public park. With over 1,000 acres, Liberty State Park opened on Flag Day—June 14, 1976. Today, this recreational landscape features the Nature Interpretive Center, Liberty Science Center, and a section of the Hudson River Waterfront Walkway. Liberty State Park, in Jersey City, is the only place in New Jersey where one can board a ferry to visit Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty. Liberty State Park showcases the rich cultural and environmental history of this landscape's transformation from an abandoned waterfront transportation hub into one of America's most exceptional state parks.
A lifelong Jersey City resident, Gail Zavian is an author and photographer. She has selected images from her professional archive and also from park supporters, dedicated environmentalists, and the park's own historical collection.