To the Editor:
This past December, I had the opportunity to address a group of residents and organizations during a holiday event at Marist High School who were simply seeking a soccer field for their children and players to use. After talking to many members from those groups, I strongly believe having a soccer field in Bayonne would be beneficial for everyone. Not only does it allow Bayonne’s youth to play, but it also invites people from all around the state to visit Bayonne. It’s a win-win situation for everyone and adds to the quality of the city—something we need to improve.
If one takes a trip around town, they will notice that Bayonne has a lot of empty areas that are not being used, primarily downtown. Our city has a lot of potential and can very well be the gem of New Jersey, but only if we do the right thing for our residents. One may argue that 16th Street Park is a great place, which it is, but the problem is that it is not an official soccer field. One of the leaders from the organization I met with at the holiday event told me that the condition of the goal posts was so bad that they had to tape the goal post together in order to play.
Having an official soccer field would bring money into Bayonne without raising taxes. People from all over the state would travel here to play on a field and to watch a tournament. The very same people would most likely go out to eat after a game, which would generate money for our city and would support our local businesses.
I support a soccer field and urge the city council to act on it. If not, it would be something that I would work for once elected to office.
DANIEL HERRERA
First-Ward Candidate