FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: May 12, 2025
CONTACT: Karina Diaz, Hudson County Executive’s Office
PHONE: 201-795-6200
Green Acres funds will be used to construct a walking trail in North Bergen’s Braddock Park
JERSEY CITY, NJ — Today, Hudson County Executive Guy announced that the County’s Green Acres application for the James J. Braddock Park Nature Trail in North Bergen has been recommended for funding. Once approved by the New Jersey Legislature, Hudson County will be awarded a $2,099,000 million grant to improve James J. Braddock Park and create a Nature Trail, a walking trail that will allow residents to exercise and appreciate the natural world native to North Bergen.
“I am thrilled that Hudson County’s Green Acres Program application to construct a Nature Trail in North Bergen’s James J. Braddock Park has been recommended for funding. As County Executive I have prioritized green space improvements through the County’s Open Space Trust Fund, and this Green Acres Program funding will allow us to continue making upgrades to our parks. North Bergen’s Braddock Park is a gem in our County parks’ system and this green space helps residents remain active, connected to nature, and is crucial to maintaining both North Bergen and Hudson County’s high quality of life. My administration and I will continue our work in developing amenities like this Nature Trail across Hudson County for residents and families to enjoy,” said County Executive Craig Guy.
“As elected officials, it is imperative that we remain responsive to the needs of the community and Hudson County has seen great improvement in the number of green and open spaces available to residents – but there is still work to be done. The James J. Braddock Park Nature Trail will be a shining example of what the County is doing when we work together,” said Chairman of the Hudson County Board of Commissioners, Anthony Romano (District 5).
“Open spaces give all residents – especially children – opportunities to learn about and appreciate the natural world around them that greatly improves their quality of life. We represent the people, and we must make decisions that benefit residents, especially when they are sitting at the table and telling us what they need. Hudson County as a whole is invested in providing opportunities to enjoy time outdoors, and in the preservation of the nature that surrounds us. This project is a part of that, and I’m proud to work with County Executive Guy and the Board of County Commissioners to get it done,” said County Commissioner Bob Baselice (District 8).
The James J. Braddock Park Nature Trail project will include a walking trail with lighting, observation platforms, interpretive signage, and seating. Proposed improvements also include the removal of invasive species, the plantings of native species, improved park maintenance access, Wi-Fi, and an emergency call system at the site. These improvements will expand the network of open space by increasing connectivity between James J. Braddock Park and River Road, while at the same time protecting and revitalizing this natural area.
The concept for the James J. Braddock Park Nature Trail project originated through community feedback about the redevelopment of the site. Over a decade ago, in 2014, a Community Vision Plan was prepared by the American Planning Association; however, there was no funding available for implementation.
In 2024, Hudson County solicited the services of Suburban Consulting Engineers, Inc. to revisit the vision for the site and prepare a concept plan for James J. Braddock Park. The concept plan included feedback from various County departments and members of the public resulting in various iterations.
The Green Acres Program was created in 1961 to meet New Jersey’s growing recreation and conservation needs. For more information on the project, click here for the full list of Green Acres Program project descriptions. Hudson County is on page 17.