$5.5 Million Union County Recreation Project Complete: See What's New

MOUNTAINSIDE, NJ — The historic Watchung Stables in Mountainside has been upgraded with $5.5 million of renovations.

The Union County Improvement Authority (UCIA) unveiled the changes to the century-old landmark on Dec. 18 at a ceremony attended by local commissioners. The upgrades are designed to enhance safety, accessibility, and the overall functionality of the facility.

One of the main new features on the grounds is an adaptive riding ring. This area provides equine-assisted therapy and other activities for those with physical, emotional, and cognitive obstacles.

This is the first adaptive ring at Watchung Stables. The space also caters to those who are on the spectrum, veterans, and others with PTSD.

According to the UCIA, equine-assisted therapy and adaptive riding programs improve balance, flexibility, confidence, and social skills in people.

Dr. Bibi Taylor, Director at the UCIA, described the new undertaking as "an inclusive, accessible resource for all Union County residents for generations to come...(that) will provide residents with diverse needs."

Also included in the $5.5 million project were drainage and riding surface improvements, makeovers to the staff locker and restroom areas, enhancements to waste containment, upgrades to workplace safety areas, and additional parking.

The project, which broke ground in September 2024, is an advancement on the last major upgrade to the Stables in 2016. This included a new energy-efficient indoor riding ring, renovated and new outdoor rings and paddocks, new fencing and landscaping, and new barn doors.

"There is no doubt that the benefits of being around horses go far beyond recreation," added Brigid Robertshaw, President of the Watchung Stable Auxiliary, "they foster confidence, connection, and healing."

The source of funding for the latest upgrades to the facility was not immediately available.

The UCIA organization works to better the lives of Union County residents through planning developments and overseeing different parts of the operations along the way. These tasks include contract administration, infrastructure construction, and post-construction assessment.

MORE FROM PATCH: Union County Man Killed After Fight At Country Club, Police Say