Reimagining the Civic Commons

Sustaining Civic Assets for a Brighter Future

In Camden, New Jersey, a diverse collaboration is piloting a new operating model in four public spaces, focusing on programming and maintaining these spaces in ways that could be expanded citywide. This approach is helping ensure that a network of newly renovated parks and public spaces will remain welcoming nodes of community—a crucial shift in a city with no stand-alone parks or recreation department. The team is pursuing a range of impactful strategies—including clean and safe ambassadors, community charrettes, corporate sponsorships and neighborhood and nonprofit partnerships—designed to contribute to greater civic engagement, increased trust and a more hopeful future

About the Pilot

Why?

Build a lasting park maintenance system that supports thriving public spaces in Camden.

Funding for pilot park services is available through the end of 2026.

Elijah Perry Park, Walt Whitman Park, Cooper’s Poynt Park, and Roosevelt Plaza Park.

A Collaborative Effort

Convener

Camden Special Services District

 

Collaborators

Camden County

Camden Community Partnership

City of Camden Department of Public Works

Daelight Foundation

Not in our Parks

Trust for Public Land

Subaru of America Foundation

 

The JPB Foundation

John S. and James L. Knight Foundation

The Kresge Foundation

William Penn Foundation