In Secaucus, Laurel Hill Park successfully renovates $450k boat launch ramp

Secaucus and Hudson County officials gathered at Laurel Hill Park earlier this week to tout the successful renovation of a $450,000 boat launch ramp that was badly damaged by a storm back in January. 

By John Heinis/Hudson County View

In the ensuing months, the Hudson County Improvement Authority (HCIA), Hudson County Parks Department and Hackensack Riverkeeper combined their efforts to rebuild the boat launch, which sits on the Hackensack River, back to its previous form.

“The damage was severe but we knew we needed to build this back up to what it once was and I’m happy to see we have,” Hudson County Executive Tom DeGise said in a statement.

“I know how important this is to have for the many boat lovers of Hudson County and the surrounding area and we are pleased they will now have the opportunity to use this site once again.”

After putting the project out to bid in March, the lowest bid  was for $449,600, by Mott Macdonald, was accepted and work began in June and was completed in late July.

The renovations included boat launch replacement, removal of the damaged dock and piles from the water, and gangway repairs.

“This took a lot of work and cooperation from several different parties but in the end, it couldn’t have turned out any better,” added HCIA Chief Executive Officer Norman Guerra.

“The renovations look terrific and we encourage the community to come check it out for themselves.”

Secaucus Mayor Michael Gonnelli also expressed satisfaction with the renovations.

“Laurel Hill Park is one of the highlights of our town and the boat launch is one of the highlights of the park,” he said.

“We were all saddened to see what happened after the storm in January, but to see it bounce back the way it has is remarkable.”

The original boat launch at Laurel Hill Park was designed and commissioned in 1995.