Rumson Celebrates Completion of Emerald Necklace Green Infrastructure Project

The Borough of Rumson officially celebrated the completion of the Emerald Necklace Green Infrastructure Project with a ribbon cutting ceremony on May 21, 2026, marking the successful culmination of a multi-year environmental initiative that began in 2022.

The project was made possible through a combination of grants and community support, including $20,000 from the Sustainable Jersey/PSE&G Foundation, $10,000 from NJ American Water, and $6,000 from the Rumson Garden Club. Along with critical in-kind contributions from the Borough of Rumson and numerous community partners, these funds supported the installation of demonstration rain gardens designed to capture and manage stormwater runoff while protecting Rumson’s waterways.

The Emerald Necklace Project reflects Rumson’s ongoing commitment to environmental stewardship, sustainability, and climate resilience. Surrounded on three sides by the Navesink and Shrewsbury Rivers, the borough faces growing environmental pressures from stormwater runoff and water pollution. The newly installed rain gardens function as natural filtration systems, slowing and absorbing runoff before it enters local waterways, improving water quality while enhancing the beauty and usability of public spaces.

Speaking at the ribbon cutting ceremony, Kristen Hall, Chair of the Rumson Environmental Commission, emphasized both the environmental impact and the collaborative spirit behind the initiative.

“Our demonstration rain gardens are more than beautiful landscapes — they are working environmental solutions that capture and filter stormwater before it reaches our rivers,” Hall said. “They are living examples of how small, thoughtful changes can make a meaningful difference for water quality, wildlife, and future generations.”

Hall also highlighted the broad coalition of partners that helped bring the project to life, including the Borough of Rumson, the Rumson Environmental Commission, the Rumson School District, the Rumson Garden Club, Rutgers Cooperative Extension, the American Littoral Society, TWIN Resources and many dedicated residents and volunteers.

The project extends well beyond the installation of rain gardens. Educational outreach has been a central component of the initiative, including community workshops, public presentations, the creation of a Rain Garden Ambassador program, and integration into the Rumson School District science curriculum. These efforts aim to empower residents with practical tools and knowledge to support environmental stewardship at home and throughout the community.

Sustainable Jersey Development Manager Hayley Klein attended the ribbon cutting ceremony and praised the borough’s leadership and long-term vision for the project.

“The purpose of the grant program is to turn ideas into action,” Klein said, calling the Emerald Necklace Project “a wonderful reflection of the borough’s ongoing commitment to advancing green infrastructure and creating opportunities for students and residents to learn more about protecting the rivers and ecosystems that support them.”

Heather Robinson, Vice Chair of the Rumson Environmental Commission and President of the Rumson Garden Club, noted that the project pays tribute to the vision of renowned landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted, whose concept of interconnected green spaces inspired both its name and mission.

"Rumson’s “Emerald Necklace” seeks to connect neighborhoods, schools, parks, and waterways through thoughtful landscape design and environmental stewardship.”

Speaking on behalf of the Borough Council, Mayor Joseph K. Hemphill recognized the collaboration that made the project possible.

"I want to recognize the Rumson Environmental Commission for its vision in creating the Emerald Necklace Green Infrastructure Project," Hemphill said. "This project is a great example of what can happen when dedicated residents, educators, and public partners work together toward a shared environmental goal."

The mayor also thanked the Rumson Department of Public Works for its contributions.

"Their hard work, professionalism, and continued commitment help turn projects like this from an idea into something that benefits the entire community. Their efforts often happen behind the scenes, but they are essential to maintaining and improving the quality of life we all value here in Rumson."

Borough officials and project partners expressed gratitude to the many organizations, educators, volunteers, and residents whose support made the project possible, describing the Emerald Necklace as an important first step in expanding green infrastructure throughout the borough.

Today, the completed rain gardens stand as both practical environmental solutions and lasting symbols of Rumson's commitment to protecting its rivers, strengthening community partnerships, and investing in a healthier, more sustainable future for generations to come.