Monmouth County Park System Acquires Parcel F-3 from FMERA

The Monmouth County Park System will be expanding its presence on Fort Monmouth following the February 23rd purchase of Parcel F-3 in Tinton Falls from the Fort Monmouth Economic Revitalization Authority (FMERA). The approximately 3.5-acre property contains the 1,335-square-foot former Shopette Building and Gas Station, constructed in 1970, as well as the accompanying paved and parking areas.

The Monmouth County Park System offers 15,940 acres of open space, park and recreation areas. As part of its recreation initiatives, Monmouth County has operated the Fort Monmouth Recreation Center, which is adjacent to Parcel F-3, since 2013. The County intends to use the newly-purchased parcel as additional open space for the community, as well as facilities to enhance the recreation area. Specifically, plans are in the works to expand parking facilities for the Recreation Center, adding additional storage facilities for events, creating a dedicated maintenance facility to service the area, and restoring wetlands on-site with an elevated boardwalk to allow for an outdoor classroom.

The Monmouth County Park System has noted that the project will result in the creation of 38 full-time, part-time, and seasonal jobs at Fort Monmouth within the next 36 months.

“The recreational opportunities the Monmouth County Park System provides on the Fort are an asset for both local residents and out-of-town visitors,” FMERA Executive Director Bruce Steadman said. “Purchasing the Parcel F-3 property will enable the Park System to enhance its offerings while simultaneously attracting people to visit the Fort.”