North Hudson County Dog Park (James L Braddock Park)

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Bergenline Ave. And 81St North Bergen, New Jersey

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North Hudson County Dog Park (James L Braddock Park) in North Bergen, New Jersey - Main Image

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North Hudson County Dog Park – James L. Braddock Park: A Unique Urban Oasis Located at 9003 Bergenline Ave, North Bergen, NJ 07047, the North Hudson County Dog Park – James L. Braddock Park offers a surprisingly accessible and historically significant space for dog owners in North Bergen, New Jersey.

This park represents a blend of urban recreation and a fascinating, albeit somewhat complicated, local history.

While it may not boast the sprawling acreage of some regional parks, its central location and dedicated design make it a valued asset for canine companions and their humans. **A Historical Context** The park’s story begins in the early 20th century when the land was part of the larger Franklin D. Roosevelt State Park.

Over time, a section of the park, known as French Hill, was earmarked as a potential dog park.

The evolution of the area reflects the changing landscape of North Bergen, with demolition of buildings and streams like the French Hill Brook and Dogwood Creek.

This transformation involved a lengthy process, marked by fluctuating intentions and ultimately, a closure due to budget cuts in February 2010, a decision that initially threatened a donation from Donald Trump.

Despite these challenges, the park's current state represents ongoing efforts to improve and maintain this valuable urban space. **Key Features and Amenities** Despite its somewhat weathered appearance, the North Hudson County Dog Park offers essential amenities for dog owners.

The park is fully fenced, providing a secure environment for dogs to run and play off-leash.

While it doesn’t feature elaborate water features or specialized agility courses, the open space allows for ample exercise and socialization opportunities.

The park’s design prioritizes a practical and accessible space, reflecting its role as a central recreation area for the neighborhood.

Ongoing improvements, including a driveway, parking lot, fencing, and planting of native trees and shrubs, continue to enhance the park’s functionality and aesthetic appeal. **Important Considerations & Rules** As with any dog park, responsible dog ownership is paramount.

Dog owners are required to follow New York State laws regarding vaccinations and licenses, ensuring the health and safety of all dogs and visitors.

While the park doesn’t have strict rules beyond basic responsible dog behavior, maintaining a respectful environment is crucial.

The park's current state reflects a mix of abandonment, old infrastructure, and overgrown areas, marked by graffiti and weed growth, highlighting the ongoing need for community involvement and maintenance. **Resources and Contact Information** For more information about the North Hudson County Dog Park, you can find relevant details at the following resources: New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation: [https://www.nycgovparks.org/parks/robert-moses-playground/](https://www.nycgovparks.org/parks/robert-moses-playground/) Hoboken NJ Government – Church Square Park: [https://www.hobokennj.gov/location/church-square-park](https://www.hobokennj.gov/location/church-square-park) **Conclusion** The North Hudson County Dog Park – James L. Braddock Park is a testament to the resourcefulness of the North Bergen community.

Despite its past challenges and current state of ongoing maintenance, it remains a valued space for dog owners seeking a convenient and accessible location for their pets to exercise, socialize, and enjoy the outdoors.

It’s a reminder that even in densely populated urban areas, dedicated spaces for recreation and community engagement can thrive.

History

**History of the North Hudson County Dog Park (James L. Braddock Park)** The James L. Braddock Park Dog Park in North Bergen, New Jersey, boasts a surprisingly complex history, evolving over decades from a potential urban dog park to its current state.

Initially conceived as part of the larger Franklin D. Roosevelt State Park, the area known as French Hill was designated as a space for dogs as early as the early 20th century.

However, the park’s development was disrupted by budget cuts in February 2010, leading to the park’s closure.

New York State, which controls the land through the Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation, implemented these cuts.

Donald Trump briefly threatened to revoke a donation to the park after its closure in 2010.

The park’s original French Hill section, intended as a dog park, was significantly impacted by demolition of buildings including the French Hill Brook and Dogwood Creek streams.

Over time, the area experienced a period of neglect and disrepair, marked by graffiti, weed growth, and remnants of abandoned infrastructure.

Throughout its history, the park underwent several name changes, reflecting community efforts to revitalize the space.

A proposal in 2018 aimed to revert the park’s name to “Pete Seeger,” highlighting a significant local figure.

Ongoing improvements, including the construction of a driveway, parking lot, fencing, and planting of native trees and shrubs, have been undertaken to enhance the park's usability and appeal.

Despite these efforts, the park remains a dynamic space, balancing a history of abandonment with ongoing maintenance and community investment.

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