West Side Park

West Side Park is a 31.36-acre urban oasis located in the Central Ward of Newark, New Jersey. Established in 1895, it is the ninth largest park in the Essex County park system. The park was originally designed by the Olmsted Brothers, renowned landscape architects of the time.

The park's landscape features two distinct sections: a flat eastern half with few trees, and a western half surrounded by statuesque linden trees. These areas are connected by steep slopes that were once used for skiing. The park's elevated western section offers views over the flatter eastern side, where a lake once existed before being filled in to create space for various recreational activities.

Over the years, West Side Park has undergone significant changes to meet the evolving needs of the community. In the 1970s, the park underwent a major rehabilitation, including the construction of a large community center with a gymnasium. This renovation, completed in 1987, cost approximately $2.8 million.

Today, West Side Park serves as a vital recreational space for Newark residents, offering a variety of sports facilities and outdoor amenities. The park has also been a venue for performances by notable artists, including Dionne Warwick and Whitney Houston, both native to New Jersey.

While the park has changed dramatically since its inception, losing some of its original features like the lake and formal gardens, it continues to play an important role in the community as a space for active recreation and community gatherings.