Earlier this week the City of Bayonne held a ground-breaking ceremony at Russell Golding Park, which is located on Avenue E between 48th and 51st Streets. According to Public Works Director Tom Cotter, the nearly one-acre-sized park is having “a total renovation.” A combination of federal and county funds is behind this $5.75 million park reconstruction. The project received $5 million from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development and $750,000 from the Hudson County Open Space Fund.
At the ceremony, held on May 4th, City Council President and Third Ward Council Member Gary LaPelusa said it was “a great day in the City of Bayonne.” He noted that the renovated park will feature new playgrounds, basketball courts, pickleball courts, and other features that will enhance the northern gateway to Bayonne. Council President LaPelusa thanked Congressman Rob Menendez for supporting the federal funds for the park project.
Congressman Menendez thanked Mayor Robert Kubert, the City Council Members, and City Planner Suzanne Mack for helping the park work happen. Menendez also thanked former Congressman Albio Sires for working to secure the park funding. Menendez said the park “serves all the folks who call this neighborhood and town home.” Mayor Kubert credited former Mayor Jimmy Davis, who is now County Sheriff, with pushing successfully for the new construction at Russell Golding Park.
In his closing remarks, Council President LaPelusa thanked Bayonne’s “federal, state, and county partners.” He mentioned County Executive Craig Guy, the members of the State Legislature, the Hudson County Commissioners, and City Planner Mack. The Council President also extended thanks to Rich Picerno of Picerno-Giordano Construction (the contractor for the park renovation), Public Works Director Tom Cotter and his department, and Engineer Rob Russo of Center State Engineering.
In addition to the facilities mentioned above, the completed park will also include exercise equipment, a large spray park, an open-air shelter for basketball and pickleball, and new lighting.
The park is named after Fire Captain Russell Golding, who led recreational activities for children before he passed away in 1970.