Passaic County Advances Major Outdoor Recreation Project: Dundee Island Park Pedestrian Bridge Reconstruction
Post Date:07/15/2026 10:00 AMPATERSON, N.J. — The Passaic County Board of County Commissioners are advancing the conversion of an abandoned railroad bridge to a pedestrian bridge over the Passaic River at Dundee Island in the City of Passaic. This project reflects the county's continued commitment to connecting residents to the outdoors, improving public access and building lasting recreational assets without additional burden on the county tax levy.
"This project tells the same story: Passaic County invests in its people and its places. Dundee Island Park was built from the ground up by listening to the Passaic City community and this bridge reconstruction makes sure that investment endures. We build things here that last," said Commissioner Director Sandi Lazzara.
The Board awarded a contract to Rencor, Inc., for the conversion of an abandoned railroad bridge to a pedestrian bridge at Dundee Island Park, which spans the Passaic River in the City of Passaic. The bridge serves as a critical connection within Dundee Island Park, the county's first riverfront park and first new addition to the Passaic County Park System in more than 50 years, linking residents to walking trails, boat launches, a spray park, playground, amphitheater and waterfront access.
“Dundee Island Park continues to be a blessing to the residents of the City of Passaic and to all those who visit from surrounding communities to enjoy everything it has to offer. The Passaic River has always been central to who we are as a community. We are grateful to work alongside Passaic County on projects like this one, which restore that connection and remind our residents that their waterfront is open, safe, and built for them," said City of Passaic Mayor Hector C. Lora.
"Passaic County has shown what smart, community-centered investment looks like,” says Assemblyman Gary Schaer. “Dundee Island Park stands as proof that when government listens and acts, the results endure. This project reflects the county and city’s continued commitment to protecting that legacy and keeping the door open for every family, every neighbor and every future visitor who comes to the riverfront.”
Originally completed in 2019 as part of a $12 million community-driven transformation of a long-neglected riverfront property, Dundee Island Park was built in partnership with the Trust for Public Land, the City of Passaic, and the County and was funded through the Passaic County Open Space, Farmland, and Historic Preservation Trust Fund, the County Capital Budget and a $5 million NJDEP Natural Resource Restoration grant. The pedestrian bridge reconstruction ensures the park remains safe and fully accessible for the diverse communities of the City of Passaic and surrounding area for generations to come.
Media Contact:
Lindsay Reed
Public Information Officer, Passaic County
Lindsayr@passaiccountynj.org Return to full list >>
