In alignment with Mayor Victor G. Carstarphen’s focus on improving the quality of life for Camden residents, and in its role as Brownfields Coordinator for the City of Camden, Camden Redevelopment Agency (CRA) is seeking grant funds from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to address contamination at the Judge Robert B. Johnson Park. Located in the Centerville neighborhood at 723 Carl Miller Boulevard. Judge Robert B. Johnson Park is 14.7 acres of open space, basketball courts, and ball fields. It has been closed since soil contamination associated with historic fill was discovered during a site investigation in preparation for making improvements to the park.
On an annual basis, EPA offers grants for the purpose of assisting communities in addressing contaminated brownfield sites. The 2022 proposal to the EPA requests funds for the environmental cleanup of Judge Robert B. Johnson Park which, once completed, will safeguard the community from contamination and allow for the park to be rehabilitated.
If awarded, an EPA cleanup grant will provide $1 Million, with no required matching funds from the City. Contaminated soil a foot deep will be removed. A barrier between contaminated soil and park users will be installed. Long-term monitoring will ensure good cap condition and continued protectiveness.
In FY2023, EPA anticipates awarding an estimated 40 Cleanup Grants for an estimated $60 million, making these grants highly competitive.
At the Community Meeting of November 15, 2022, residents were surveyed about what improvements they want in the new park. Minimally, improvements at the Park are to include new athletic fields and upgraded facilities.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT
Olivette Simpson, Interim Executive Director, Camden Redevelopment Agency
OlSimpso@ci.camden.nj.us
or
Megan Stanley, PP, AICP
1.
17087.006 - RBJ Park SIR Final Draft 2.18.22
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17087.006 - Robert B. Johnson Park - PA Report 09.03.2021
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17087.006 Robert B.Johnson Cap-in-Place Summary Report 8.1.22
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CRA EPA Cleanup Grant Fact Sheet FINAL_19OCT 2022_SPANISH
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Draft ABCA - RB Johnson 11.15.22
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Judge Park EPA Cleanup Grant Fact Sheet Final
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Robert B Johnson Park Presentation Community Meeting DRAFT 15Nov2022
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Robert B Johnson Bibilography
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