On Friday, the Board of Commissioners, alongside Camden Mayor Victor Carstarphen and community members, commenced a $4.1 million improvement project at Von Nieda Park in Camden City’s Cramer Hill neighborhood. The park is a central hub for the East Camden community.
The project is divided into three phases. The first phase, completed in 2015, involved separating the stormwater system, adding a natural grass baseball field, and constructing a new parking lot and sidewalks. The upcoming phases will include site remediation and the installation of new facilities such as an irrigated soccer/football field, refurbished little league fields with dugouts and benches, and a covered picnic area with fencing.
“Von Nieda Park is a beloved community space that allows Cramer Hill residents to socialize, exercise and enjoy the outdoors close to home,” stated Jeffrey Nash from the Parks Department. “We understand and value the importance of providing access to quality green spaces, so we are thrilled to get the final stages of this transformative project underway.”
Funding for this initiative comes from grants provided by the State of New Jersey.
“Parks are more than playgrounds and fields—they are where memories are made, where friendships are formed, and where a community takes root,” said Mayor Victor G. Carstarphen. “The City of Camden and Camden County have invested more than $150 million into our park system. We are thrilled to be able to make additional improvements at Von Nieda Park to further improve the quality of life in our neighborhoods.”
City Council President Angel Fuentes highlighted how this project would benefit city residents.
“Our residents deserve parks and open spaces that inspire, and this project builds upon that mission,” Fuentes remarked. “The City of Camden boasts some of the best parks in this region. These spaces help to bring us together and create wonderful memories.”
Councilwoman Jannette Ramos emphasized how these enhancements contribute to community health.
“The improvements at Von Nieda Park only expand upon our commitment to strengthening our community,” Ramos commented. “Our neighborhood parks play a huge part in our city’s overall community health and wellness.”
