FPA Attends the Ribbon Cutting Ceremony for Vera Ames Community Park
French & Parrello Associates (FPA) proudly joined local officials from the City of Paterson to celebrate the ribbon cutting ceremony for the revitalized Vera Ames Community Park.
The park is dedicated to Councilwoman Vera Ames Garnes, former Paterson City Council president and the first African American woman elected to represent the City’s Fourth Ward. She served the community for more than 25 years before her retirement. Michael J. Piga, LLA, RLA, Manager of Landscape Architecture, and Landscape Designer Griffin Murtha represented FPA at the event.
Designed by FPA, the park’s transformation introduces a vibrant and inclusive public space featuring new basketball courts, a musically themed ADA compliant playground and splashpad, updated pavilions, improved sidewalks, and enhanced lighting. These improvements represent a meaningful investment in the neighborhood and strengthen the home of many community, recreational, educational, and cultural programs throughout the City of Paterson.
Vera Ames’ many years of public service make this park especially fitting, serving as a lasting reminder of her dedication and the enduring value of community and service.
Michael J. Piga, LLA, RLA recapped the event in saying, “We would like to say that it was an honor and privilege to work on Vera Ames Community Park. We look forward to seeing all the residents, young and old, enjoy the park.”
