Mollicone Park

For families and sports enthusiasts in New Jersey, particularly those in the welcoming borough of Closter, having access to well-maintained and community-focused outdoor spaces is invaluable. Mollicone Park stands as a significant and cherished resource, deeply rooted in the town’s history and dedicated to providing excellent recreational opportunities. It’s more than just a park; it's a place where young athletes learn teamwork, neighbors gather for outdoor activities, and the community can enjoy active pursuits in a dedicated environment.

Mollicone Park, located on Knickerbocker Road and Eckerson Place, holds a special place in Closter’s heart. It was first dedicated on July 20, 1966, and later rededicated on May 29, 2016, in memory of Donald Mollicone, a local hero who made the ultimate sacrifice during the defense of our country in Vietnam, killed in action on December 20, 1964. This dedication imbues the park with a sense of reverence and community pride, making it a place of both recreation and remembrance. For those seeking a well-equipped venue for baseball games, multi-purpose field activities, or simply a convenient spot for outdoor play, Mollicone Park serves as an essential part of the Closter landscape here in Bergen County.

Mollicone Park is conveniently situated at 301 Knickerbocker Rd, Closter, NJ 07624, USA. Its location in Closter makes it highly accessible for residents across the borough and neighboring towns in Bergen County. The park is positioned at the intersection of Knickerbocker Road and Eckerson Place, making it relatively easy to locate.

The park typically offers on-site parking, ensuring convenient access for visitors arriving by car. This is a significant advantage for families bringing sports equipment or simply looking for hassle-free access to the park's amenities. As a municipal park, Mollicone Park is designed to be welcoming and accessible for a range of users. It also shares a crucial safety feature with other Closter parks: lightning detectors. When a lightning strike is detected within a 5-mile radius, a siren will sound for 30 seconds, and a strobe light will flash, signaling that all individuals should immediately clear the fields and seek shelter. This proactive measure ensures the safety of all park-goers. While the park itself is open year-round, it’s important to note that the restroom facilities at Mollicone Park, like those in other Closter parks, are typically locked for the winter months (November through April). This is a standard practice to prevent pipes from bursting in freezing temperatures, with water service restored in the spring when the ground thaws. Despite this seasonal closure for restrooms, the park grounds remain open for public enjoyment.

• Full-Size Little League Baseball Field: Mollicone Park is primarily known for its excellent baseball facilities. It features a full-size Little League field, specifically set up for baseball games with a home run fence encircling the playing area. This makes it a prime location for youth baseball leagues and practices.

• Multi-Purpose Field: In addition to the dedicated baseball diamond, the park also includes a general multi-purpose field. This area can be used for various informal sports activities, general play, or community events that require open grassy space.

• Restroom Facilities: The park provides a restroom facility for the convenience of visitors. As noted in public information, the combination for the bathrooms is Closter's "zip code." However, it is essential to remember that these restrooms are typically closed from November to April due to water shut-off to prevent pipe damage during cold weather.

• Community Dedication: The park serves as a place of remembrance and honor, being dedicated to Donald Mollicone, a local hero who made the ultimate sacrifice in Vietnam. This dedication fosters community pride and a sense of shared history.

• Lightning Detection System: For the safety of all park users, Mollicone Park is equipped with a lightning detection system. A siren and strobe light activate when lightning is detected within a 5-mile radius, alerting everyone to seek immediate shelter.

• Premier Baseball Venue: The standout feature of Mollicone Park is its well-equipped full-size Little League baseball field. For young athletes and baseball fans in Closter, this field provides a fantastic venue for games and practice, complete with a home run fence that adds to the authentic baseball experience.

• Commemorative Significance: The park's dedication to Donald Mollicone, a local Vietnam veteran, is a profound highlight. This adds a layer of historical and civic importance to the park, making it a place of quiet reflection as well as active play.

• Multi-functional Space: Beyond baseball, the presence of a multi-purpose field ensures that the park can accommodate a variety of other recreational activities, from casual games of soccer to open play, making it versatile for different community needs.

• Seasonal Restrooms: While seasonal, the availability of restrooms is a key convenience for park users during the warmer months, making longer visits more comfortable, especially for families.

• Emphasis on Safety: The installation of a lightning detection system highlights the borough's commitment to visitor safety, providing a crucial warning system during thunderstorms.

• Community Hub: Mollicone Park, like other parks in Closter, functions as a local gathering point. It’s a place where families can meet, children can play, and community spirit thrives around shared recreational pursuits.

As a cherished municipal park, Mollicone Park's primary "promotion" is the consistent provision of free, public recreational facilities to the residents of Closter and Bergen County. The ability to use the full-size Little League baseball field and the multi-purpose field without charge offers significant value to local families, youth sports organizations, and individuals seeking outdoor activities.

While Mollicone Park itself does not run commercial promotions, the Closter Recreation Commission, which oversees the park, is the best source for information on any free community events, youth sports leagues, or summer programs that might utilize the park's facilities. These programs, while sometimes having registration fees for organized leagues or camps, are designed to be accessible and beneficial for local children and adults. Residents interested in playing baseball, joining local teams, or participating in general park activities should regularly check the official Closter Recreation Commission website or local community calendars for announcements. These offerings, while not "discounts" in the retail sense, are invaluable contributions to the well-being and recreational opportunities available to New Jersey locals.

Address: 301 Knickerbocker Rd, Closter, NJ 07624, USA

For inquiries regarding Mollicone Park, including field usage, maintenance, or information on specific events, it is best to contact the Closter Recreation Commission. While a direct phone number for Mollicone Park is not typically listed, the general contact for Closter's recreation department is usually (201) 750-9507.

Phone: (201) 750-9507 (This is the Closter Recreation Commission hotline, which oversees Mollicone Park)

Mollicone Park is an outstanding and highly suitable local resource for residents of Closter and the broader New Jersey region, particularly those in Bergen County. Its suitability stems from its focused amenities, community dedication, and role in fostering active lifestyles.

For families with children involved in sports, especially baseball, Mollicone Park is indispensable. The full-size Little League field provides a fantastic, dedicated space for practices and games, nurturing young talent and promoting healthy physical activity. This is a major benefit for parents seeking organized and safe environments for their children’s athletic development. The presence of a multi-purpose field also allows for varied activities beyond baseball, catering to general play and informal sports, ensuring flexibility for all ages.

Beyond recreation, the park holds significant civic importance. Its dedication in memory of Donald Mollicone provides a meaningful connection to local history and serves as a powerful reminder of sacrifice, enriching the community's sense of identity and shared values. The availability of restrooms (albeit seasonal) and convenient parking further enhance the park's usability for families and groups. Moreover, the borough's commitment to safety, demonstrated by the lightning detection system, offers peace of mind for all visitors. In essence, Mollicone Park is more than just a place to play; it's a testament to community spirit, a venue for nurturing young athletes, and a valuable, accessible outdoor space that significantly contributes to the quality of life for New Jersey locals.

Mollicone Park

301 Knickerbocker Rd, Closter, NJ 07624, USA