Reservoir #3 Reopens in Jersey City Heights

Jersey City’s Reservoir #3 has been the subject of much discussion and consternation among neighbors and community leaders. The reservoir dates back to the 1870s and is listed on the state and national Register of Historic Places. But this piece of beauty and history started decaying in the late 1990s. In 2021, Jersey City leaders committed to restoring the reservoir and the surrounding park. Now, following comprehensive restoration to the site, the reservoir has officially reopened as of Tuesday, September 17th. Read on for more about the latest updates on Jersey City Reservoir #3.

reservoir number 3 jersey city

Photo Credit: City of Jersey City

About the Reservoir

The Reservoir was built in the 1870s and $6 million has gone into this project to maintain the historic pumphouse and to provide for the renovations. The goal of the renovations is for Jersey City residents and visitors to be able to access this beautiful place.

Reservoir 3 is a local treasure, according to the State and National Registers of Historic Places. If the reservoir was not saved, per the Jersey City Reservoir Preservation Alliance (JCRPA), the 13 acres it currently takes up could have been sold off, destined to become yet another parking garage, high-rise, school, or another unnecessary space. The JCRPA is a citizen-led advocacy group working on behalf of the reservoir. Over the years, the group identified several historically significant architectural elements in the now-ruined buildings, in addition to working with the City to rehabilitate the park.

The Construction Process

Construction began on April 17th, 2021 to create safe public access, expand the reservoir perimeter trail, and include new fencing and lighting for safety. Since Berry Lane Park, Reservoir 3 is the biggest park investment in Jersey City.

At the start of the project in 2021, Mayor Fulop shared: “After nearly 30 years of discussion with no one taking necessary action, today we are committing the necessary resources to bring us to this critical turning point.” He went on to promise, “We will restore this one-of-a-kind local treasure to its fullest potential for residents and visitors to enjoy while properly preserving its rich history and environmental assets.”

Photo Credit: City of Jersey City

To get the project underway, Jersey City contributed $3 million to the cost of the construction. The first $1 million was provided by the Jersey City Open Space Trust Fund and $2 million in grants was given to Jersey City by the Hudson County Open Space Trust Fund, New Jersey Historic Trust Grant, and Green Acres Grant to provide funding for the preservation and modernization project.

Restoration of the reservoir and the land around it involved preserving the original pumphouses that haven’t operated for the past thirty years. After the site’s safety improvements were made, the restoration phase began.

These improvements fit in with Jersey City’s overall attempt to develop inclusive, open space for its residents, as well as residents who use motorized mobility devices and people using strollers. These devices couldn’t be used on the previously existing trails, but widening the trail from eighteen to 48 inches increases access.

2024 Update

In March 2024, construction began on one of the most wished-for improvements in the park, the Jefferson Avenue walkway bridge. Per the Jersey City Times, improvement and expansion of the walking path is key to accessibility for visitors. And, it will allow for park maintenance vehicles to more easily access parts of the park. At the time, the forecasted time frame for opening the bridge was 30 to 60 days.

Ward D Councilman Yusuf Saleh shared an update via his Facebook page, highlighting the work that’s been completed this spring.” After a few more safety improvements, making the area accessible to all residents, this amazing space will be ready for the public to enjoy in early June,” the caption read.

While June came and went without a word, Jersey City Mayor Steven Fulop announced on September 13th that the reservoir would be officially reopening to the public on Tuesday, September 17th. In a press release sent out on September 13th, the City of Jersey City said:

“Mayor Steven Fulop will join members from the City Council, Department of Infrastructure, Jersey City Parks Coalition, Reservoir Alliance, and the community to officially reopen the historic Reservoir 3 following comprehensive construction to preserve and upgrade the historic gem.

After three decades of little action, the 14-acre site has been revived at the community’s request, enhancing public accessibility and safety while preserving the reservoir’s unique historical significance. Initially built in the 1870s, Reservoir 3 is listed on the State and National Registers of Historic Places.”

See More: 24 New Jersey Parks You Must Visit

The opening ceremony took place at 10AM on Tuesday, where Mayor Fulop was joined by the Department of Infrastructure, the Jersey City Parks Coalition, and the Reservoir Alliance.

jersey city reservoir 3