After roughly three decades, Jersey City officials came together today to cut the ribbon on Ward D’s Reservoir 3 after completing $6 million worth of renovations.
By John Heinis/Hudson County View
Initially built in the 1870s, Reservoir 3’s 14-acre site is listed on the State and National Registers of Historic Places and had been largely dormant since the late 80s before the city broke ground on $6 million worth of upgrades in 2021.
“Reservoir 3 is a beloved landmark in Jersey City, and its reopening marks a significant milestone in our commitment to preserving our city’s rich history while providing modern amenities and ensuring our parks remain valuable resources for recreation, education, and natural beauty for all residents to enjoy,” said Mayor Steven Fulop said in a statement.
A new bridge to create continuity, coupled with the path widening to meet ADA compliance standards, were part of emphasizing accessibility and safety improvements.
Other improvements include the multi-phase project include removing invasive species and overgrowth to improve esthetics and water views while also maintaining the retaining wall’s structural integrity and allowing for beneficial species to grow
Additionally, there is now new fencing and lighting, view sheds to overlook the water and landscape, while algae was cleared from the reservoir’s surface.
“Reservoir 3 is a valued asset for our community that will enhance the outdoor experience for our residents, and we encourage everyone to take full advantage of its amenities,” said Ward C Councilman Rich Boggiano.
“As the former commissioner of Jersey City’s Historic Preservation Commission, I am especially passionate about this preservation project and improving the reservoir’s accessibility for all Jersey City residents.”
The reopening boasts a serene environment for walking and nature observation, as well as offering educational opportunities about the reservoir’s history and ecological significance.
“With this important park improvement project, we are proud to have created a space that honors the past while serving the needs of present and future generations with a beautiful, revitalized space for all residents to enjoy,” added Ward D Councilman Yousef Saleh.
“Reservoir 3 is key to our overall mission of preserving, improving, and expanding Jersey City’s parks and green spaces wherever possible,” noted Barkha Patel, Director of the Department of Infrastructure.
The city worked with the State Historic Preservation Office, Jersey City Parks Coalition, Reservoir Preservation Alliance, and Boy Scouts Troop 466 to break ground on the improvements in April 2021.
The Reservoir 3 project represents the largest park investment since the city established Berry Lane Park in 2016.
The Hudson County Open Space Trust Fund and New Jersey Department of Environmental Protections’s (NJ DEP’s) Green Acres Program funded this phase of the restoration and preservation work.
Furthermore, the Jersey City Parks Coalition aided in the preservation process for Reservoir 3.
“As the city’s nonprofit partner for expanding access to parks and public spaces, preserving Reservoir 3 was imperative for enhancing public green spaces in The Heights,” explained Jersey City Parks Coalition President Paula Mahayosnand.
“Working with the community, the Department of Infrastructure, and the Reservoir Alliance, this was a collaborative effort to honor the reservoir’s rich history and improve the overall experience for the community.”
The city has secured permits from the NJDEP and funding from the New Jersey Historic Trust to move forward with the next phase of construction to preserve the reservoir’s historic pump house.
Lies by the autocrat mayor. He did not work with any groups listed, he ignored the expertise from these groups, actual long-time visitors, and the community. His cronies failed in managing the project and overcut native trees and vegetation. Fulop created a boring park instead of something unique.