This Abandoned New Jersey Rail Line May Be Home To The Next State Park
Raymond Goldfield
Author
New Jersey is one of the busiest states in the nation for trains, but not all of the state’s rail lines are being put to good use. Many are abandoned – including a segment of the Norfolk Southern Railway, a freight line that is still operating in the area. Well, this abandoned railroad in New Jersey might be put back to work transporting people soon – but in a very different way. In one of the biggest public infrastructure projects in New Jersey in a long time, the railway is in the process of being transformed into the Essex-Hudson Greenway, a nine-mile corridor that will combine bike and hiking trails with green spaces. Not only will it be a safe and beautiful spot for outdoor recreation, but it will allow easy travel between some of New Jersey’s busiest areas without a car. While an opening date isn’t firm yet, development on this abandoned rail line in New Jersey is happening now – and fans of the outdoors can’t wait to see the newest park in New Jersey open!
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The Essex-Hudson Greenway is still under active development and New Jersey authorities have urged people not to explore it currently – it’s old, run-down infrastructure that could be dangerous in its current condition. It’s in the process of being transformed, but if you want a close look at its current state, YouTube account 911 Trail took this drone footage of the area two years ago.
Are you excited about the Essex-Hudson Greenway? Tell us what you’re looking forward to seeing at this new park in New Jersey in the comments section. You can find out more about the plans on the Essex-Hudson Greenway website on NJ.Gov. For another major new development coming to New Jersey, check out this indoor waterpark. If you’re looking forward to hitting the Essex-Hudson Greenway when it opens, make sure you’re fueled up with Only In Your State’s ultimate guide to the best on-the-go snacks.
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More to Explore
Abandoned Places In New Jersey
Where Are The Most Unique Abandoned Places In New Jersey?
The Essex-Hudson Greenway is being transformed from an abandoned railroad in New Jersey into a unique public green space - but these long-abandoned locations may not be so lucky.
- The Brooksbrae Brick Factory was a major industrial spot in the Pine Barrens, operating until a raging fire tore through the building in 1915. Now located on the edge of the Brendan T. Byrne State Forest, all that remains is a collection of stone ruins. However, that's not what draws people to this unique site. It has been completely covered in colorful graffiti, turning it into one of the most bizarre and unconventional displays of public art in the Garden State.
- Sea Breeze was once a thriving beach town, similar to the ones that dot the shore today and host countless visitors each summer. But something went wrong with this little haven after decades of success. It had been operating from the 1880s until 1985 - when Hurricane Gloria came rampaging through the area, destroying many of the homes. After more damaging storms, the residents chose to sell their properties to the Department of Environmental Protection, and today the once-thriving beach town is a wildlife refuge still boasting a beautiful beach.
- The Central Railroad of New Jersey Terminal was one of the most impressive buildings in Jersey City's history, serving as the town's primary railroad hub until 1967 - 78 years of service. It was an impressive abandoned structure in Liberty State Park - until 2012 when Hurricane Sandy's floodwaters devastated it. Over the years, it became overgrown with plants, turning into a strange greenhouse. Restoration efforts helped the depot open to the public once more in 2016.