Description & History
The Jersey City Reservoir Preservation Alliance incorporated in 2005 by a few concerned citizens. We have since been working to save the Reservoir’s lake, meadow, and woods from destruction and misuse. The JCRPA is an entirely volunteer-run organization with a working board: we have no paid employees.
Our mission is to preserve the historic structures and natural resources of Jersey City Reservoir #3, establish the site as a public park and wildlife sanctuary, and promote educational and recreational opportunities at the Reservoir.
Specifically, we work to:
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Preserve the circa 1874 Egyptian Revival stone walls and three related structures of Reservoir #3
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Establish the entire Reservoir #3 site, (bounded by Central, Jefferson, Summit Avenues, and Pershing Field Park,) as a public historic and nature park, botanical sanctuary, and wildlife habitat
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Protect the lake, woods, meadows, and the entire Reservoir site from new building construction, or any use inconsistent with a passive recreation park
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Work for recognition of the site by local, state, and federal agencies
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Develop appropriate re-use of the existing structures, such as a visitor and nature education center, meeting place, and boathouse
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Develop passive non-commercial recreation with trails, lookouts, and other spaces.
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Establish and promote educational and recreational events and programs including boating, fishing, art, senior events, gardening, cleanups, historic preservation, ecology programs, and wilderness programs
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Educate the public regarding the Reservoir’s historical, cultural, aesthetic and environmental merits through tours, events, and communication media
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Secure public and private support for developing and maintaining the Reservoir as a historic site and open space resource for the public
The Alliance watches over the Reservoir – conducting tours, running school programs, boating and nature events, caretaking wildlife and cleaning up the site, and working with government.