North Bergen, NJ — A passionate plea has been issued by North Bergen resident Robert Walden to Hudson County Executive Guy, Hudson County Commissioners, and NJ State Senator Stack, urging them to oppose North Bergen’s proposal to permanently divert Braddock Park for the expansion of a preschool facility. Walden’s letter highlights the significant financial and environmental impacts of the plan, arguing that it will place an undue burden on Hudson County taxpayers while failing to meet the needs of the broader community.
According to Walden, the ongoing cost to Hudson County taxpayers for replacing land lost to North Bergen’s illegal diversion of Braddock Park has already reached into the millions. He warns that if the current proposal is approved, the county will need to provide up to five times the amount of replacement parkland currently required for the preschool’s diversion, compared to three times if the preschool were relocated from Braddock Park.
Walden asserts that the replacement lands provided so far, including the River Road and Paterson Plank Road sites, are either inaccessible or poorly maintained, offering little benefit to residents outside the immediate North Bergen area. He describes the River Road site as a steep, overgrown strip with no amenities, and the Paterson Plank Road site as a small, restricted pocket park intended primarily for nearby apartment residents.
Critics argue that this proposal will lead to increased traffic, pollution, and noise, significantly impacting Braddock Park’s environment and historical value. Walden contends that other Hudson County municipalities might also seek to divert the park’s resources, further compromising its integrity.
The controversy is compounded by claims that North Bergen had previously committed to reconfiguring its schools to avoid the need for parkland diversion. Walden recalls that North Bergen acquired the High Tech High School property with plans to convert it into a junior high school, allowing for the relocation of preschoolers from Braddock Park. This plan was supported by a $65 million referendum approved by North Bergen taxpayers, intended to address school overcrowding and preserve Braddock Park.
In his letter, Walden accuses North Bergen officials of betraying taxpayer trust and mismanaging funds, urging Hudson County leaders to exercise fiduciary responsibility and reject the proposed diversion. He emphasizes the importance of preserving Braddock Park, one of only two major historic and cultural parks in the county, and calls for action to protect its future.
For more information or to voice support against the diversion, Walden invites residents to contact him directly. The debate continues as Hudson County officials deliberate the future of Braddock Park and the impacts of North Bergen’s proposal.