Mountain Avenue Field

Overview

At a January 28, 2025, public meeting, the North Caldwell Borough Council presented preliminary concepts for an $8 million improvement to the Mountain Avenue Facility. The proposed enhancements—funded entirely by Essex County—were aimed at enriching our community’s recreational amenities without increasing the financial burden on taxpayers.

The Council, led by the Mayor and Borough Administrator, initiated discussions with Essex County in good faith to revitalize this underutilized asset while preserving community values and ensuring transparency through public engagement.

Proposal Highlights

Essex County presented two visionary design concepts for the Mountain Avenue site, which could have included:

• A football/lacrosse field

• A playground

• A baseball/softball diamond

• A walking path or track

• Renovated restrooms and snack bar

• Improved parking, drainage, and lighting infrastructure

The goal of the January meeting was to introduce these preliminary ideas and solicit public feedback to help shape the final proposal.

Community Concerns and Council Response

As with any large-scale project, resident concerns emerged, particularly around issues of:

• Facility ownership and long-term control

• Maintenance and operational responsibilities

• Traffic and safety impacts

• The scope and use of athletic fields, including fears about increased outside usage

The Council planned to use resident feedback to negotiate terms with the County that prioritized North Caldwell’s interests—balancing community needs, safety, and long-term sustainability.

Unrealized Potential

Unfortunately, before the Borough could fully engage in dialogue with Essex County, a vocal minority circulated misinformation and raised speculative fears about the proposal. Claims about unchecked outside usage, compromised safety, and burdensome obligations were amplified and contributed to Essex County’s decision to withdraw the $8 million offer. This decision was deeply disappointing to the majority of the Council, which had hoped to work with residents and the County to refine and responsibly implement the project.

Moving Forward

Our commitment to progress has not wavered. PrioritizeNC remains steadfast in our mission to pursue fiscally responsible enhancements that benefit all residents of North Caldwell. We also reaffirm our commitment to open, constructive dialogue and partnership with Essex County Executive Joseph N. DiVincenzo, Jr. and his team. North Caldwell is a community worthy of investment, and we hope individuals with negative intentions will not derail future partnership opportunities.

Conclusion

This experience reminds us of the importance of measured discussion, fact-based decision-making, and unified vision in local governance. The Prioritize North Caldwell team remains dedicated to seeking out opportunities that make our Borough an even better place to live—without compromising transparency, values, or fiscal responsibility.