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Ridgewood seeks Bergen County grants to renovate Citizens Park upper field and restore train‑station pedestrian tunnel

Village of Ridgewood Village Council · April 23, 2026

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Summary

The council authorized applications for Bergen County Open Space ($134,640 project; village match $67,320) to renovate Upper Citizens Park and for a $541,880 Bergen County Historic Preservation grant to rehabilitate the 1916 train‑station pedestrian tunnel, including ADA and lighting improvements.

The Village of Ridgewood authorized grant applications Tuesday to fund two capital projects: a phase‑2 renovation of the upper field at Citizens Park and a preservation‑focused rehabilitation of the Ridgewood Train Station pedestrian tunnel.

Nancy Bigos, director of Parks and Recreation, asked the council to approve a Bergen County Open Space Trust Fund application for Upper Citizens Park. The total project estimate is $134,640; the county program requires a 50‑50 match, so the village would seek $67,320 in county funds and plan the matching amount in the 2027 capital budget if awarded. The work would include grading and laser‑leveling, new infield material, portable outfield fencing, player and spectator benches, irrigation and landscaping. Bigos said the county reviews applications in the summer with awards announced in the fall.

The council also authorized an application for a Bergen County Historic Preservation Trust Fund grant to address deterioration in the 1916 pedestrian tunnel under the Ridgewood Train Station. Carol Balkowsky, director of communications, said a recent condition survey by preservation architects Barton Ross and Partners found moisture‑related wall, ceiling and floor deterioration; the recommended scope includes better drainage, improved lighting and security, slip‑resistant concrete finishes, and illuminated handrails to improve accessibility for people with mobility devices. The village plans to request $541,880 from the county and noted that prior capital appropriations and potential state grants may reduce the local share.

Council members emphasized public‑safety and accessibility benefits for the tunnel project. Evan said the tunnel ‘needs some love,’ and staff confirmed there are no immediate collapse hazards but several high‑priority repair items. The applications were adopted by consent; if grants are awarded this fall, council intends to include matching funds in the 2027 capital budget.