Site Program 10/24/07
Enhancing pubic awareness and providing access to the Meadowlands rich natural resources – especially the Hackensack River - has been a key focus for the New Jersey Meadowlands Commission. River Barge Park will be a new public park and boating center on the west bank of the Hackensack River in Carlstadt, Bergen County. The site is adjacent to the Richard P. Kane Natural Area - formerly known as the Empire Tract - the largest contiguous tract of undeveloped land in the Meadowlands District.
Boating on the Hackensack has a history going back at least 350 years. The Lene Lenape hunted and fished from canoes. The early Dutch Settlers staged rowing competitions on the river. The river was the conduit by which development spread; it was used for transportation, commerce and recreation. While the commercial use of the river has declined, it still serves a vital function as open space, wildlife habitat and recreational opportunity for residents of the meadowlands region.
The park will:
· Showcase NJMC “clean and green” initiatives and sustainable design principals
· Provide recreational opportunities
· Establish a visual landmark from the river
· Create a compelling destination point for a wide variety of users
The park will feature several green buildings:
· NJMC Winter Boat Storage Facility with public restrooms
· NJMC Paddle Center
· Meadowlands Regional Rowing (possibly community, colligate or high Schools based rowing programs)
- Security Station for NJDEP Conservation Officers (pending)
The marina and public boat ramp will operate in accordance with NJDEP Clean Marina Program. It will provide accessible docks for the NJMC’s fleet of boats, which are used for public eco-tours and scientific studies. Rowing docks will be provided for sculls, kayaks and canoes.
The park features include:
· Pedestrian plaza and waterfront promenade with wildlife observation and seating areas
- Car, trailer and bus parking
- Site furnishings - benches, drinking fountains, recycling bins, interpretive signage
- Site lighting - vehicular, pedestrian and renovated “Barge” entrance sign
· Native planting and biobasins for stormwater management
· Washout area by renovated boat ramp
- Wetland enhancement planting
The goal of this project is to provide facilities to connect residents to their natural resources and their local history, helping them to appreciate the unique qualities of the place they call home.