In 2008, African American remains were discovered and disturbed during construction of the City of Newburgh courthouse on Broadway. Now, the city is steps closer to re-interring the remains in a new memorial site planned at the top of Downing Park.

Members of Studio HIP Landscape Architecture, PLLC and PUSH Studio, LLC presented to the city council on Thursday, February 22 a final illustrated version of their design plan for the new memorial site. The council approved in November 2022 an agreement with these firms for the design process.

City Director of Planning and Development Alexandra Church reintroduced the project and the members of the design team, who were present physically and on Zoom, to the council.

The courthouse is located at the site of the former Broadway School, which was built in 1909 atop the burial site. After discovery of the remains in 2008, further digs were conducted and the remains have continued to be preserved and cared for at various locations, such as SUNY New Paltz.

The design for the proposed memorial shows a circular area that would descend into the hillside slope. The top of the hill would be designated for parking and a dropoff area that could also be used for ceremonial events. All ramps would be ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliant.

As visitors enter the site, the illustrations show an educational area on one side that could be used for larger groups, such as local students. The educational material and content would require further discussion before a final decision. Areas for public sitting are included.

In the center of the site are grassy areas that are proposed to be the future resting places of the reinterned remains. A contemplation area at the bottom of the slope would be for visitors to reflect on the site and take in the scenery of the Hudson River from additional seating areas. Site materials for landscaping and design were also discussed and included for reference to the council.

After the presentation, Councilman Robert McLymore inquired about the funding for the project. The funding for the design phase was provided through the city’s General Fund, Church said. Other funds are also hopefully being pursued with the submission of a Parks Bond, which also includes funding and work for the city dock and the city pool. Site security and protection from vandalism were also topics of concern from council members.

Councilwoman Ramona Monteverde raised the issue of signage, which would need further discussion, but she was very supportive of the design. Councilman Omari Shakur commented that this project would be a beneficial tool of education for the youth and a possible location for future events such as a Juneteenth celebration. Councilwoman Patty Sofokles expressed support for the project but also wanted to see how the Pergola could also be worked on as it is adjacent to the site.

According to Church, the final illustrated plan presented that night to council would then lead to further construction documents, and then ultimately the project would go out for bid.