Barkha Patel (MCRP ’15) was interviewed by CBS New York’s Vanessa Murdock about the completion of phase 1 of the historic Jersey City reservoir, which recently reopened to the public.
Jersey City officially reopened the historic Reservoir 3 Tuesday, marking the completion of the first phase of a multimillion-dollar project at the “urban oasis” in the Heights neighborhood.
Mayor Steve Fulop, members of the city council, Department of Infrastructure, Department of Recreation and Youth Development, Jersey City Parks Coalition and the Reservoir Alliance cut the ribbon following three years of renovation.
Initially built in the 1870s, the 14-acre Reservoir 3 is listed on the state and national Registers of Historic Places.
“Reservoir 3 is a beloved landmark in Jersey City, and its reopening marks a significant milestone in our commitment to preserving our city’s rich history while providing modern amenities and ensuring our parks remain valuable resources for recreation, education, and natural beauty for all residents to enjoy,” said Fulop.
Renovations include a one-mile walking path loop around the park, the construction of a new bridge to create continuity coupled with the path-widening to meet ADA compliance standards, and new lighting.
Critics, including members of the reservoir preservation alliance, have said the city destroyed a hiking path when it created the walking path. They also say the city has removed too much of the vegetation in the park.
The second phase of the $6 million project will focus on remediating the soil under the lake, officials said. After that, the structures inside the reservoir’s 20-foot walls — the pumphouse and the gatehouse — will be renovated.
“Reservoir 3 is a valued asset for our community that will enhance the outdoor experience for our residents, and we encourage everyone to take full advantage of its amenities,” said Ward C Councilman Rich Boggiano.
The Hudson County Open Space Trust Fund and state Deaprtment of Environmental Protection’s Green Acres Program funded this phase of the restoration and preservation work. The Jersey City Parks Coalition aided in the preservation process for Reservoir 3.
“As the city’s nonprofit partner for expanding access to parks and public spaces, preserving Reservoir 3 was imperative for enhancing public green spaces in The Heights,” Jersey City Parks Coalition President Paula Mahayosnand said. “Working with the community, the Department of Infrastructure, and the Reservoir Alliance, this was a collaborative effort to honor the reservoir’s rich history and improve the overall experience for the community.”