Our Beginning, Mission Statement, and Goals

The Conservancy serves as the park’s advocate; Conservancy members stroll through the park daily to keep the Essex County Department of Parks, Recreation and Cultural Affairs apprised of maintenance and safety needs within the park. The Conservancy fundraises to augment the county’s budget so that needed improvements can be made in a timely fashion, fallen trees can be replaced and seasonal garden replanting and other projects can be performed.

The partnership between the Conservancy and Essex County Department of Cultural Affairs is supported and encouraged by Essex County Executive, Joseph N. DiVincenzo, Jr., and the Board of County Commissioners (formerly the Freeholders). The Conservancy and county work well together identifying and addressing safety, maintenance, and enhancement concerns.

Mission

The Conservancy is dedicated to the maintenance, restoration, and enhancement of the Grover Cleveland Park.

Vision

To maintain and enhance the Olmsted design features including rolling hills, water features, meandering paths, woods, fields, playgrounds for current and future generations.

Purpose

To serve a diverse audience including walkers, runners, exercisers, dog walkers, families, children/teens of the West Essex community. Build membership and encourage volunteerism among members and the West Essex community.

Goals

The Conservancy’s goals are to assist the Essex County Department of Parks, Recreation, and Cultural Affairs to maintain, restore, and enhance this beautiful, historic park nestled on the borders of Essex Fells, Caldwell and West Caldwell.