In 1990, the City of East Orange, New Jersey developed a vision statement that proposed that "the city and its neighborhoods first and always be developed for the livability they offer people, both those already here and those who will come after them.. In putting people first, East Orange must attend to its economic health, the education of its children, equality of opportunity, and its historic, cultural and ethnic heritage."
Nationwide and in New Jersey, the opportunities afforded by the redevelopment of urban areas are being closely examined. There is a growing appreciation of the cultural and visual diversity available in cities.
In tending to its redevelopment East Orange has established an Urban Enterprise Zone and Business Improvement District, identified redevelopment areas and implemented redevelopment plans and taken steps to establish a diversified , stable economic base.1
Learn more about what's going on in East Orange.
The City of East Orange in 1994 initiated a "Unique Schools of Choice" program, which allows students a choice in attending schools with certain themes.
- George Washington Carver Institute for Science and Technology
- Johnnie L. Cochran Jr. Academy for Legal Studies and Community Services
In addition to these there are (2) early childhood schools, (12) elementary, (4) middle/ junior high, (3) high schools and (1) Community College. The themed schools program has resulted in standardized scores rising and in five of the schools earning nationally recognized awards.
East Orange has excellent health care for ambulatory as well as rehabilitation. East Orange general is a 158 bed state of the art facility. The hospital is placing a great amount of emphasis on general health issues such as pediatric and prenatal care, also providing attention to children and seniors. There is also a 684 bed New Jersey VA health system available within the city. There are four nursing homes with 725 beds.
The Central Avenue Historic District (once known as the Fifth Avenue of New Jersey) is the most active business district in East Orange. This district has continued to experience success in drawing new tenants. The Brick Church Plaza shopping Center is also experiencing success and is fully leased. All types national retailers occupy locations in East Orange.
East Orange is quickly gaining a reputation for access to New York City and Newark. These are two of the most famous Cities in the North East. Newark to the South of East Orange has many buses hourly entering East Orange. East Orange offers a direct train to Midtown New York, which is approximately a 20 minute ride. East Orange is also located between two major highways, which take you to the west (I280) or south (Garden State Parkway)
There are over 40 houses of worship within the East Orange community servicing all faiths and denominations. East Orange has 6 historic sites within 10 miles of the city, some of these include: Knapp's Colonial Home, Lackawanna and Western Railroad District, Maple Avenue Footbridge, East Orange Post Office, Arlington Avenue Presbyterian Church.2
- East Orange Master Plan Reexamination, April 2004 Orth-Rodgers & Associates
- East Orange Master Plan, these sites are eligible for State Register of Historic Places