Newark Begins Phase Two of Harriet Tubman Square Upgrades

The city moves forward with plaza improvements and new play areas in the historic James Street district.

Updated on Oct. 29, 2026 in Home Renovation

Bold vector editorial illustration of stacked paving bricks and an iron light post, representing urban park infrastructure improvements. — Newark has launched the second phase of renovations at Harriet Tubman Square, focusing on infrastructure upgrades and expanded recreational facilities. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Newark is launching phase two of its extensive renovation project at Harriet Tubman Square following successful phase one efforts completed in 2023. This latest stage aims to boost park functionality through updated infrastructure and expanded recreational space.

Why it matters

City officials are modernizing the park to better serve local residents by replacing underutilized lawn space with active entertainment and play facilities. The improvements follow a formal city-led competition held in 2021 to reimagine the space.

The phase two plan includes constructing two dedicated play areas and installing new brick monument signs at three corner entrances. The design replaces previous underutilized lawns with an entertainment plaza and a new public comfort station.

The players

Ras Baraka

Ras Baraka is the Mayor of Newark who issued the order to rename the space from Washington Park to Harriet Tubman Square.

Studio Cooke John

Studio Cooke John is the design firm responsible for the Shadow of a Face monument located within the square.

Edgewater Design

Edgewater Design is the firm currently managing the second phase of park-wide upgrades.

New Jersey State Historic Preservation Office

This state agency provided the necessary regulatory approvals for work within the historic district.

Newark Landmarks and Historic Preservation Commission

This municipal commission authorized the renovation plans for the city-owned property.

The details

The project will install a modern public comfort station featuring a utility room and two restrooms to improve park amenities. Workers will also replace older concrete pathways with a combination of brick and concrete to match the aesthetic of the surrounding James Street Historic District.

1927: A Columbus statue was installed in the original Washington Park.
2020: The Columbus statue was removed from the park grounds.
2021: Newark hosted a competition to reimagine the public park.
2023: Phase one of the park renovation project concluded.
January 2026: Jan Saltiel Rafel issued a project statement regarding the site.

Culture Shift

The project must adhere to the James Street Historic District preservation guidelines, which ensure that structural updates remain consistent with the area's legacy. These renovations reflect a broader trend of repurposing historical urban squares to better accommodate modern community needs.

Residents can expect improved amenities, including new restroom facilities and dedicated play areas, once the phase two construction concludes. These changes will transform currently underutilized lawn space into a more functional public gathering area for the local neighborhood.

The takeaway

Urban parks are increasingly moving toward multi-use designs that replace static landscaping with interactive features like entertainment plazas. Residents should look for public announcements regarding temporary park closures as construction crews begin site work.