The Hank Gallo Community Center in Jersey City has suffered extensive damage in the wake of the recent blizzard, county and local officials confirmed to HCV.
By Dan Israel/Hudson County View
Board of Commissioners Chair Anthony Romano (D-5) announced that the center in the west side’s Lincoln Park had suffered extensive damage in recent days at yesterday’s regular session.
“Between the legislative and executive branch, repairs are ongoing immediately to try to get it back in circulation,” Romano said.
Commissioner Bill O’Dea (D-2) said that the board will soon need to reach out to the Hudson County Improvement Authority (HCIA) and other necessary stakeholders to secure a temporary location for all the activities that go on there.
“There’s way too many community events that occur there. I think I’ve identified a potential site working with [Parks] Director [Jonathan] DeFilippo. It may cost us a few bucks, but it’s well worth it. The center has always been used for the community, which is what makes it great.”
In an interview after the meeting, O’Dea said the damage occurred the day of or directly after the storm, when the fire suppression system pipe broke in the facility. As a result, there was massive water damage from the second floor to the basement of the building.
After the meeting, Ward B Councilman Joel Brooks told HCV that he was coordinating with county officials on the matter.
“I’m aware of the issue and in touch with county officials. We are willing to provide assistance if needed, he noted.
