Funding Boost For Loop Trail Around Reservoir In Parsippany

PARSIPPANY, NJ — A lengthy process to create public open space around the Boonton Reservoir took a big step forward last month, thanks to a new round of federal funding from Congresswoman Mikie Sherrill's Community Projects.

The $600,000 grant was presented to Mayor James Barberio on behalf of the Township of Parsippany during a recent ceremony. The funding will be going to the Morris County Park Commission.

The effort to revamp the 700-acre reservoir Jersey City owns in Morris County goes back over two years. The facility, located within the towns of Boonton and Parsippany-Troy Hills, has operated for Jersey City as a utility and its primary water supply since 1904.

The project was announced in 2018 and will be constructed in four phases. The project's centerpiece is a 7.7-mile hiking trail made of natural materials, complete with trail signage, three parking areas, and a new pedestrian bridge trail across the reservoir's massive dam outfall.

This Community Project funding would be used to build key security improvements such as 3,100 linear feet of site fencing, three new vehicle gates, three pedestrian gates, 18 close circuit cameras, and extensive lighting in two areas.

“This project has been in the works for some time, and it is very near and dear to my heart,” Barberio said. “The opening of this recreation area will be enjoyed by so many of our residents and those of other towns for years to come. I appreciate the dedication of all those who worked to see this come to fruition.”

When the overall project is completed, officials claim that the Boonton Reservoir will be more secure for all residents. The additional green infrastructure is intended to reduce stormwater runoff, and the loop trail will become a regionally significant recreational destination for the Parsippany community.

"Once completed, this ambitious, but attainable project will provide safe and managed trail access to the site, while also securing the source of clean drinking water for almost 320,000 people,” said Kim Elliman, president and CEO of the Open Space Institute.