Developer Hartz Mountain, which built the Lincoln Harbor development on the town’s south waterfront, reopened North Park on June 1. The 2.5-acre public space now includes a tot lot, children’s playground, and exercise equipment. The park also features new landscaping and new brick pavers on the ground.
The park had closed in late 2017 for work to start. Workers graded the park to minimize ponding of water during heavy rain. The renovations cost $1.5 million and took over six months to complete, officials said.
“Lincoln Harbor’s North Park is unmatched on the Hudson County waterfront with its location, the views, and the amenities,” said Gus Milano, President of Hartz Mountain Industries, at the reopening. “The spacious lawn area will be perfect for picnics, lounging in the sun, or summer concerts after a meal at one of Lincoln Harbor’s several restaurants. We are thrilled to make this park a special place for all residents of Weehawken.”
The park is situated near the site of the town’s planned municipal recreation and pool complex, set to open in 2019. As a condition of redeveloping Lincoln Harbor and constructing up to 1,300 new residences in phases, Hartz Mountain has agreed to contribute $6 million to the design and construction of the recreation and pool complex.
“Hartz is proud to be making our first payments totaling in excess of $3,250,000 towards a pool facility for the residents of Weehawken to enjoy,” Milano added, “ The tandem of North Park and the pool facility will provide a world-class recreation facility for the public.”
“This park will dovetail beautifully with the town’s pool and rec complex when that is complete,” said James Rhatican, vice president of land use and development for Hartz. “We want to thank the town of Weehawken, its planning board, and other officials for their input and oversight on this project.”
Hartz has a number of residential projects planned for Lincoln Harbor. Earlier this year, they broke ground on what is to become the 15 story, 573 unit Hamilton Cove development. It will include 733 parking spaces, according to Rhatican.
Hartz is also working on opening a Whole Foods 365, under construction at 1450 Harbor Blvd. That should open around year’s end, is Whole Foods 365 location. It will be the first in Hudson County.
Today, Lincoln Harbor includes the Estuary residential development, the Sheraton Lincoln Harbor Hotel, retail shops, restaurants including Houlihan’s and Chart House, a marina, and waterfront walkways.
Hannington Dia can be reached at hd@hudsonreporter.com
