EPA Cleanup Paves the Way for Quarry Lawn Park Reopening in Paterson, New Jersey
Paterson, N.J. - Quarry Lawn Park in Paterson, New Jersey, has reopened to the public as a result of U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) extensive cleanup work to address asbestos and lead contamination at the former Allied Textile Printing site. This work, which is nearing completion, was carried out in close partnership with the city of Paterson. EPA Regional Administrator Michael Martucci joined the city of Paterson and other officials today to mark the park’s reopening after months of coordinated work to remove serious hazards and stabilize the site, allowing the community to regain access to the park ahead of the summer season.
“This work is about getting a secure, usable park back into the hands of the Paterson community,” said EPA Regional Administrator Michael Martucci. “In a great example of EPA’s work to provide clean land for people and to work cooperatively will all levels of government, EPA worked closely with the city to remove immediate risks so families can return here for recreation while we complete the remaining work.”
“The grand opening of the Quarry Lawn and Riverwalk is a meaningful milestone for the City of Paterson and a testament to what strong partnership can achieve," said City of Paterson Mayor Andre Sayegh. "We are grateful to the EPA for their thorough work in addressing serious environmental hazards and helping us restore this important community space. As we head into the summer season, we are proud to welcome families into a safer, revitalized park along the Passaic River.”
"From mountain to quarry to the engine of Paterson’s industrial prime, this land has lived many lives. After forty years of silence following the city’s deindustrialization, we are transforming these ruins into a place of respite. This site now stands as a monument to the industry that once hummed along the river, enriching the Great Falls experience for the 250,000 visitors who come here annually to be inspired," said Darren Boch, superintendent, Paterson Great Falls National Historical Park.
EPA began work under its Superfund program at the site in June 2025 to address hazards associated with the former Allied Textile Printing facility, including asbestos-containing materials and lead-contaminated debris. Crews dismantled a deteriorating smokestack brick by brick, removed contaminated soil and debris, and stabilized remaining structures to reduce risk to the surrounding community.
Work also included clearing unstable building sections, securing the site, and preparing areas of the park for safe public use. EPA’s work has helped return the property to productive community use.
EPA has now completed the work necessary for the park’s safe reopening. Remaining site activities will continue into June and will not affect normal use of the park, though there may be limited, short-term access restrictions in specific areas as work is completed. EPA will continue working collaboratively with the city of Paterson and other parties as we assess other portions of the property.
With the park reopening, residents once again have access to green space along the Passaic River.
Visit the Allied Textile Printing site removal webpage for additional background and site documents.
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