(Cherry Hill, N.J.) – The Township is moving forward with two open space and recreation projects, with Council approving contracts for the construction of a pedestrian connector in the Kenilworth neighborhood, and the creation of two multi-use athletic fields at historic Croft Farm at its July 27 meeting.
Both projects will benefit a significant number of residents in the Township, including more than 150 homes in the Kenilworth neighborhood, as well as the growing membership of Cherry Hill’s youth sports leagues, several of which currently use the grounds at Croft as practice fields.
“These projects represent a significant investment in our open space and recreational facilities in Cherry Hill, and will benefit our residents and youth sports leagues for years to come,” Mayor Chuck Cahn said.
The Kenilworth Connector Trail project calls for the construction of a lit, paved walking and biking path directly from the Kenilworth neighborhood to a grocery store and other amenities on Route 70. The path will span approximately one half-mile, from Kenilworth Playground to the New Jersey Transit train station and nearby Garden State Pavilions shopping center on Route 70.
“The Kenilworth Connector formalizes a route that we know is already heavily used by residents, and makes it safer and more accessible for everyone to use, while also promoting bike and pedestrian traffic and reducing our reliance on motorized transportation,” Mayor Cahn said.
Construction is expected to begin in the fall of 2015, pending approvals by New Jersey Transit.
Separately, the Croft Farm project will establish two full-size multi-use grass playing fields for youth soccer, lacrosse and rugby leagues in the Township. Work will include installation of new top soil, seeding and fertilizing of the playing surface, irrigation and drainage improvements, and fence installation.
The project is expected to begin this fall, with construction and a field-establishment period expected to take about a year to complete.
“Council and I remain committed to investing in open space and recreation in every corner of our community,” Mayor Cahn said. “I am eager to see both of these much-needed projects completed, and moving forward, will continue looking for ways to promote active, healthy, sustainability living while improving the quality of life in each of our neighborhoods.”