Sitting under a shade tree reading a book is just what the doctor ordered this summer season. A terrific place to sit back and relax is Church Square Park. One of Hoboken’s oldest parks, it is also referred to as the city’s town square, according to the city’s director of environmental services, Cassandra Wilday.It encompasses two city blocks and includes a dog run, two basketball courts, a large gazebo in its center, and a playground with tall trees around it. It borders a church, the public library, and an elementary school.
In the early ’80s it was redesigned by landscape architect Alan Goodheart, and he has been called back by the city to oversee the park’s future facelift scheduled for next year. A small water park for children is in the works, said Wilday.
"A dozen schools use the park as a playground, and it is a very welcoming place," Wilday said.
While walking her dog last week, Shannon Bayer took some time to talk about the park: "I come here often because it’s relaxing. The people do not bother you, and my dog loves it."
Bayer has lived in Hoboken for almost a year, and she prefers Church Square for its community feeling.
On the other side of the dog run, several teens enjoyed a game of basketball. The trees keep the courts cool and breezy, which is ideal when playing during the hot summer days.
"We just like it here, that’s all," said Nestor Ramirez, 13, from Union City, who was in Hoboken visiting family. "It’s not like we think this place is so special. It’s here and we use it."
Church Square remains a secluded haven amidst the ever-growing development and fast-paced experience in Hoboken. A small gem in a busy parking-less city, people of all ages have a place at the park.
The Current will be visiting a different Hudson County park each week throughout the summer. Do you have a favorite park in Hudson County? Let us know by writing to current@hudsonreporter.com. q