9-11 Trail (New Jersey Newark Spur)

The Newark segment of the 9-11 Trail, which is part of the larger Essex-Hudson Greenway, began construction in July 2025. It is currently expected to open by the end of 2026.

This section is officially known as the 9-11 Trail (New Jersey Newark Spur). It is a key part of the Essex-Hudson Greenway, which in turn is a component of the September 11th National Memorial Trail.

The trail is being developed from a former railway line, so you can expect a generally linear and relatively flat pathway. It will feature green infrastructure, native plantings, and will traverse a mix of urban landscapes and natural elements.

The Newark Spur will offer varied scenery, including urban views and natural elements. You'll find overlooks of Branch Brook Park, and the broader Essex-Hudson Greenway may provide views of the Meadowlands and potentially the Manhattan skyline. The route also connects to Riverfront Park.

Yes, the Essex-Hudson Greenway, including this section, is designed as a multi-use trail with accessibility in mind. It will feature safe, ADA-accessible paths, making it generally easy to moderate and suitable for a wide range of users, including beginners and families.

As a multi-use greenway, it is anticipated that the trail will be dog-friendly. However, specific leash rules and waste disposal requirements will be posted upon its opening. Always ensure your dog is on a leash and clean up after them.

Once open, the trail is expected to be enjoyable year-round. Spring and fall will likely offer pleasant temperatures and vibrant foliage, while summer provides longer daylight hours. Winter visits could be scenic, but check for conditions like ice or snow.

As a public greenway and state park, there are typically no entrance fees or permits required for accessing the trail itself. Similarly, Riverfront Park generally does not require permits or charge entrance fees for general access.

The Newark segment of the trail runs approximately 0.8 miles from Branch Brook Park to Broadway. Specific parking facilities and public transportation access points will be detailed closer to the trail's opening. Look for information regarding access near Branch Brook Park and along Broadway in Newark.

Yes, this section is part of the larger Essex-Hudson Greenway, which is transforming an abandoned railway corridor into a linear park connecting several New Jersey communities. It will also feature community gathering spaces, including the Newark Central Activity Center, Tiffany Manor Community Space, and Branch Brook Park Overlook.

The Newark Spur is significant as an "active memorial" honoring those lost on September 11, 2001. It's also a major urban transformation project, converting an abandoned railway into vital green space, and represents the largest single investment in New Jersey's history for a new state park.