Mayor Steven M. Fulop and the Municipal Council join the Riverview Neighborhood Association (RNA) to announce the full reopening of Riverview-Fisk Park following $2.1 million in much-needed upgrades for the complete renovation of the neighborhood park.
Working with the local community to best meet residents’ needs, the improvements include a modernized infrastructure, restoration of historic elements, tree canopy preservation and expansion, and additional recreation features for kids of all ages to enjoy the outdoors.
“Especially in times like these with the pandemic over the last year, we realize now more than ever how important parks and open space is for a City. This is why we continue to invest in improvements to parks citywide,” said Mayor Fulop.
Construction began in February 2020 and is equally funded through Hudson County Open Space and municipal dollars to include tree pruning and planting of 89 new trees, shrub and perennial plantings, an irrigation system, bocce court, shade structures, a community bulletin board, steel fencing, bench seating, new light fixtures, and a new multi-purpose plaza with a central water fountain.
To complement the park’s renowned views overlooking the vast NYC skyline, the City also restored several historical monuments, including the gilded concrete sculptural bust of Henry Hudson, originally dedicated to the park in 1917.
A cast bronze eagle sculpture and a Theodore Conrad Dedication Plaque were each cleaned and refinished to further preserve the park’s historical significance.
“Planning and discussions with the City about the park began about five years ago. RNA presented a basic plan to the community to get feedback and input and priorities were then decided on.
We thank the Jersey City Division of Architecture and Engineering, the City of Jersey City, and Mayor Fulop for their hard work and cooperation regarding this beautiful renovation, and we look forward to future projects planned for the park,” Jocelyn Patrick, RNA President.
The City removed a concrete water fixture that hadn’t worked for decades and replaced it with an additional grassy area for recreation.
A frost-proof ornamental water fountain has been installed and serves as a centerpiece of the entire park. A circular pathway was also paved to improve access to the weekly Farmers’ Market within the park.
“The Jersey City Parks Coalition is pleased to see the completion of the renovation in Riverview-Fisk Park. Five years of focused discussions and planning involving the City, as well as community outreach through the Riverview Neighborhood Association, yielded a park ready for the 21st century with new infrastructure and park features,” said Roger Heitmann, Board Member of the Jersey City Parks Coalition.
“We thank the City of Jersey City and Mayor Fulop, and we look forward to future park projects.
Infrastructure upgrades made throughout the park include an improved irrigation system and electrical system. Stemming from the successful addition of splash pads at various other parks citywide, a new spray park has been installed to invite Jersey City’s youth to enjoy outdoor fun.
Other recreational assets include a completely rebuilt bocce ball court to replace the deteriorated and unusable court on site.
In addition to the surface improvements, underground upgrades include new foundations, conduit, water lines, drainage lines, stormwater absorption, and site grading as part of the project, as well as the installation of a new water service line comprised of meters, backflow preventers, ground hydrants, and an irrigation system.