Woodbridge Waterfront Park Awaits State Approval for 2026 Opening

Woodbridge Waterfront Park might open in 2026. But first, the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection must approve cleanup work at the old brownfield site. Mayor John McCormac predicted two years back that gates would swing open in 2025. State sign-off delays changed that.

Township spokesman John Hagerty said the state agency hasn't finished reviewing cleanup work. The property was contaminated before crews started transforming it.

According to Patch, this 185-acre park will grant Woodbridge its first public access to the Raritan River in over a century. Most of the site contains wetlands and marsh, though workers built walking trails, an elevated boardwalk, and spots for picnics.

Animals make their homes in the marsh. Some call it Woodbridge Wetlands Park.

Pine Barrens Pond sits in one section. Pollution once filled its waters. Officials want to stock it with fish so people can drop a line.

Years of planning went into the project. McCormac announced in 2024 that visitors could come in 2025, but required approvals shuffled the schedule.

The township finished cleaning up contamination. State officials must now verify the work meets standards before letting anyone in.

Regulatory approval causes the holdup, not construction problems. Workers installed all amenities. Everything waits for clearance.

After approval comes, residents can walk trails, cross boardwalks, and picnic along the water. The fishing pond will pull in more visitors.

An old industrial site becomes a place for recreation. The township paid for cleanup and construction to bring the land back.

No exact opening date exists yet. When state environmental officials finish their review and grant approval, the clock starts.