For Immediate Release
Wednesday, May 6, 2009
Contact: Julio Tavarez
862-262-8621
ESPAÑOL

Paterson, NJ – Councilman at Large Rigo Rodriguez and 5th Ward Councilman Julio Tavarez were delighted, as well as other council members, by the project presented by the Plaza Juan Pablo Duarte Committee at the Tuesday, May 5th, 2009 City Council Workshop Meeting.  The committee, lead by Deputy Mayor Elsa Mantilla, is proposing to adopt and rename the pocket park located on the corner of Straight Street and Market Street Juan Pablo Duarte Plaza (see map below).

“This is a great project that will revive that park and compliment the ordinance introduced and sponsored by Councilman Rodriguez to allow for a section of Park Avenue to be known as Juan Pablo Duarte Drive.” Stated Councilman Tavarez.

“This is a wonderful project that has been developed by the Juan Pablo Duarte Plaza Committee.  Juan Pablo Duarte Plaza will be located at the end of Juan Pablo Duarte Drive truly complimenting the ordinance I introduced and that is being co-sponsored by 5th Ward Councilman Julio Tavarez.  Both projects will serve to highlight the many contributions and positive impact the Dominican-American Community have had on the City of Paterson.” Stated Councilman Rigo Rodriguez.

Juan Pablo Duarte is known as the Father and architect of Dominican Independence.  His name has been used by other municipalities around the country to honor the positive impact Dominican-Americans have had on their communities.

“The Dominican community is a vibrant component of our great city and this is a homage to their hard work and dedication to make our city a better place to live for all us.” Stated Councilman Rigo Rodriguez. “This is something that will bring joy and pride to the Dominican-American community of Paterson.”  Added Councilman Julio Tavarez.