Jersey City officials including Mayor Fulop, the Municipal Council, and the Riverview Neighborhood Association {RNA} announced the reopening of Riverview-Fisk Park following the $2.1 million renovations. The upgrades 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 according to the press release.
The project broke ground 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 park overlooks the 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.
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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.
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.
“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.
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“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 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 look forward to future park projects.
