Hudson County is pushing forward with an ambitious vision to expand its outdoor spaces. County Executive Craig Guy has been working with Governor Phil Murphy’s administration to advance the Essex-Hudson Greenway project, a nine-mile trail corridor that will add more than 135 acres of new green space.
This effort ties directly into the Hackensack River Greenway, which will eventually stretch for 19 miles through Hudson County. The two projects will meet on the eastern side of the Hackensack River, helping to build a stronger and more connected county trail system.
- Hudson County Executive Craig Guy introduced new Hackensack River Greenway signs at Stephen R. Gregg Park in Bayonne.
- The project is part of a 19-mile countywide plan, with an updated draft expected before the Hudson County Planning Board next month.
- The greenway will connect to the Essex-Hudson Greenway, a nine-mile trail project that will add more than 135 acres of open space.
Hudson County’s 19-Mile Greenway Plan
The county’s progress became visible in Bayonne, where new Hackensack River Greenway signs were installed along the waterfront walkway of Stephen R. Gregg Park. County Executive Craig Guy led the announcement and described the event as the start of a 19-mile greenway plan that will serve residents both now and in the years ahead.
Craig Guy said the signs symbolize opportunities for current and future residents to enjoy the natural setting of the Hackensack River. He explained that the county is focused on providing more recreational choices, with support from District 1 Commissioner Kenny Kopacz. Guy added that the signs will be placed in other county parks as the greenway expands.
A revised draft of the Hackensack River Greenway Plan is expected to be considered by the Hudson County Planning Board for adoption next month.
Officials and Community Leaders Show Support
The announcement drew a group of county and state leaders. Hudson County Commissioners Anthony Romano of District 5, who serves as board chair, Bill O’Dea of District 2, and Yraida Aponte-Lipski of District 4 attended the event. They were joined by Assemblywoman Barbara McCann Stamato of District 31, Bayonne Councilman-at-Large Loyad Booker, and Hackensack Riverkeeper Capt. Bill Sheehan.
Romano said that once complete, the Hackensack River Greenway will give residents of all ages a safe 19-mile space for walking, biking, and other activities. He said he was proud to support the county executive’s effort to expand parks and connect families with Hudson County’s natural environment.
The Hackensack River is the County’s “Green Coast”
Capt. Bill Sheehan described the Hackensack River as Hudson County’s “Green Coast.” He explained that the river already includes three waterfront county parks, numerous municipal parks, boat launches, restored areas, and protected wetlands. Sheehan said the new designation in Bayonne will inspire more people to enjoy the riverfront, whether by exercising outdoors or exploring local wildlife.
