Rea Silver-Chisholm

Portraits of New Jersey is an ongoing Jersey Vindicator series by photojournalist Andres Kudacki, who speaks with residents about what they love — and what frustrates them — about life in the Garden State. He pairs each conversation with a photograph.

The appeal of Jersey City: “Just getting off the PATH after the city—there’s more space, less crowded buildings around.

Why she loves the state: “We have the beach, we have mountains, and great public transportation. I’m a big fan.”

Housing and affordability: “I still live at home in my childhood house in Jersey City. I don’t think it’s easy to rent here. It’s pretty expensive. Most people I know who moved here a few years ago say their rent keeps going up.”

Cleanliness: “I think it could be cleaner. I was in Boston recently and noticed there’s less trash around.”