Action Center
Monday July 14, 2008
Funding Secured for Morris Canal Walkway
by Tom Boud – July 14, 2008
The borough was presented with a $147,000 ceremonial check for the Morris Canal bikeway and walking trail by Rep. Bill Pascrell (D-8th) on July 7.
The morning press conference took place in Thomas May Park at Mount Pleasant and Overmount Avenues. The congressman joined Mayor Pat Lepore, some local councilpersons, and Passaic River Coalition officials.
The money will help launch the first phase of the recreational path. The trail will start at Thomas May and head towards Brophy Lane, as far as money allows. Besides the $147,000, the borough has secured a $250,000 Passaic County Open Space grant. A $200,000 New Jersey Historic Trust Fund application has also been filed.
Eventually, West Paterson, in future grant funded stages, will extend the walkway to Brophy Lane.
Actual park construction may commence in several months. The designed path, made of crushed bluestone aggregate, will be eight feet wide. The work will include local street connecting access points and old-style wooden bridges. There will be heritage markers, lighting, and aesthetic vegetation upgrades.
In addition, the canal bed will also be regraded for improved water retention.
Speaking from a podium, Pascrell said the canal park, will foster historical continuity for residents, youngsters, and their future children.
“This project is about enhancing the history of this area.”
The congressman said the endeavor will enhance the area’s quality of life. He said the path will “get people out of their cars.” He said a park, by bringing visitors, will also reduce vicinity nuisance offenses.
“Once you make a bike route, you’ll cut down on people dumping here, and cut down on all the things that make mayors nuts.”
Mayor Pat Lepore said the government handout paves the way for future Morris Canal project funding.
“I think it will go a long way for future requests. When we say we are going to do things, we do things and get them done,” he said about open space accomplishments.
Councilman Keith Kazmark said the undertaking will not cause any taxpayer headaches.
“We made a commitment not to take any money out of the budget for these open space projects.”
Ella Filippone – Passaic River Coalition executive director – said building the walkway may take five years. She said the issue is getting enough funds for the whole job.
Reprinted with permission. (c)2008 Passaic Valley Today (Passaic Co., NJ) Tom Boud
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