We’re Excited
Bordentown Township is excited for warmer weather to arrive.
That’s because improvements to Northern Community Park and Joseph Lawrence Park are taking shape and expected to be competed in the spring and summer.
Fred Turek of Turek Consulting, LLC, the township’s planning engineer, shared updates on exciting park improvements – designed with families, accessibility, and community in mind – at a Township Committee meeting on Feb. 24.
“Thank you to Fred Turek for all of your hard work, thoughtful planning, and for keeping our community informed every step of the way,” township officials said in a Facebook post. “We’re excited to see these projects come to life.”
Northern Community Park — Ongoing Improvements
The enhancements are underway thanks to an $82,000 state grant, supporting:
- Path extensions with new benches
- Upgraded lighting for safety and evening use
- Fresh views and enhancements around Crosswicks Creek
- Revamped picnic grove
- New tree plantings throughout the park
- New and enhanced multi-use field
Target completion: Spring 2026
Northern Community Park is over 88 acres and is located on the north side of Groveville Road between Routes 206 and 130. It is the home of Hanna Dog Park, according to the township website.
The pond is the site of the annual Fishing Derby that is held near Independence Day each July. The State Fishery stocks the pond with fish and prizes are given the children who hook the biggest fish Fishing is also permitted throughout the year. There are numerous picnic tables and grilling stations within a shade picnic grove around the pond.
There are three softball/baseball fields with bleachers for spectators to enjoy Bordentown Little League games. Two of the fields are lighted. In addition there are two lit half basketball courts and six pickleball courts also under the lights. There are two play structures–one is especially designed for 2- to 5-year-olds.
A multi-use paved trail provides access to two scenic overlook and connects to the Abbott Marshlands trail system.
The annual Egg Hunt is also held at Northern Community Park each spring. This year marks 11 years and is scheduled for 10 a.m. on April 4.
Joseph Lawrence Park — New Splash Pad and Play Areas
Designed to be inclusive, connected, and easy for families to enjoy together:
- Two playgrounds: ages 2 to 5 and 5 to 12
- Fully Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)-accessible design throughout
- New splash pad positioned so kids can easily move between play areas and water features
- Covered, enclosed shady pavilion with picnic tables — allowing caregivers a clear view of all three activity areas while relaxing nearby
- Poured-in-place safety surfacing and accessible pathways
Funding for this project includes:
- Playground funding from Lennar
- $200,000 in state funding secured through Sen. Troy Singleton supporting the new splash pad and play features
Target completion: Summer 2026
Joseph Lawrence Park at over 110 acres has amenities for everyone, according to the township website. It is located off of Ward Avenue adjacent to Peter Muschal Elementary School.
The park is mostly dedicated to sports including five baseball/softball fields, several soccer fields and a multi-purpose field that can be used for field hockey, lacrosse and more. There are also two basketball courts. There is a large picnic pavilion which include restrooms and a concession stand. Parking is available adjacent to the school as well as along Hogback Road.
There are walking and biking trails that extend around the park and connect to the overall Township trail network.
The park is the site of the annual fireworks display sponsored by The Foundation of Bordentown Traditions.