Zimmerman Park

For us, the residents of New Jersey, finding accessible and well-maintained green spaces for recreation and relaxation is a vital part of enjoying our local communities. Zimmerman Park, officially known as John S. Zimmerman Recreation Park, located in Union Township, is precisely one such essential amenity. As a valued component of the expansive Elizabeth River Parkway, a Union County park, Zimmerman Park provides a much-needed outlet for outdoor activities right here in our backyard. It's a place where families can enjoy a sunny afternoon, athletes can practice their skills, and nature lovers can find a peaceful escape along walking paths.

This park isn't just a patch of grass; it's a dedicated recreational area that serves the active needs of both Union and neighboring Hillside, NJ. Its inclusion within the larger Elizabeth River Parkway system means it benefits from the broader network of trails and greenways that stretch across the county. For locals, this means having direct access to a fantastic resource for everything from a brisk morning run to a relaxing evening stroll. While there have been community discussions regarding development impacts, the core purpose of Zimmerman Park remains clear: to provide valuable, accessible outdoor space for the enjoyment and well-being of New Jersey residents.

Zimmerman Park, or John S. Zimmerman Recreation Park, is situated in Union, NJ 07083, along Morris Avenue in Union Township. It forms the southernmost section of the Elizabeth River Parkway, which is a significant county park maintained by Union County. This parkway system extends across both Union and Hillside, NJ, making Zimmerman Park a conveniently located asset for residents of both townships.

Its location on Morris Avenue, a fairly prominent thoroughfare in Union Township, ensures good accessibility. For those driving, there is likely dedicated or street parking available, making it easy to bring sports equipment or picnic supplies. Public transportation options, particularly NJ Transit bus routes that operate along Morris Avenue and connecting streets, would also provide convenient access for residents relying on public transit. The park's integration into the Elizabeth River Parkway means that, for those who enjoy walking or biking, it can potentially be accessed via interconnected trails from other sections of the parkway. This seamless connectivity enhances its usability for a wide range of residents, whether they are coming from within Union Township or the adjacent communities in Union County. The emphasis on being a "recreational area" positioned on a well-known road like Morris Avenue highlights its role as an easy-to-reach destination for local outdoor activities.

As a key recreational area within the Union County Parks system, Zimmerman Park offers a range of facilities designed to support various outdoor activities for the local community. While it doesn't provide commercial "services," its amenities serve the recreational needs of residents.

• Baseball/Softball Fields: The park features a pair of dedicated fields suitable for both baseball and softball. These are essential for local leagues, school sports, and informal games, providing structured spaces for team sports.
• Soccer Field: A designated soccer field offers ample space for soccer matches, practices, and casual play, catering to one of the most popular sports in the region.
• Walking/Hiking Paths: The park includes a couple of walking or hiking paths, providing opportunities for leisurely strolls, jogging, or more vigorous exercise amidst green surroundings. These paths are part of the larger Elizabeth River Parkway system, potentially offering extended routes.
• General Green Space: Beyond the designated sports fields, the park provides open green areas that can be used for various informal activities such as picnicking, relaxing, or enjoying nature.
• Public Restrooms: (Likely, though not explicitly stated for smaller parks) Given its designation as a recreational area, it is highly probable that basic public restroom facilities are available for visitors, particularly considering its use for sports.
• Parking Facilities: (Likely) To accommodate visitors participating in sports or using the paths, there would typically be dedicated parking areas, making the park easily accessible by car.
• Maintenance and Upkeep: As a Union County park, it benefits from regular maintenance and upkeep from the county park department, ensuring the fields, paths, and general grounds are well-maintained for public use.

Zimmerman Park, while a local community resource, offers several notable features and highlights that make it a valuable destination for residents of Union and Hillside, NJ.

• Integrated into Elizabeth River Parkway: A significant highlight is its status as the southernmost section of the Elizabeth River Parkway, a Union County park. This integration means it's part of a larger network of green spaces and trails, offering connectivity and contributing to the county's broader environmental and recreational efforts.
• Dedicated Sports Facilities: The presence of a pair of baseball/softball fields and a soccer field is a major draw. These well-maintained spaces provide essential venues for organized sports leagues, school teams, and casual play, supporting athletic development and community engagement.
• Accessible Walking/Hiking Paths: The inclusion of walking and hiking paths offers opportunities for passive recreation and exercise. These paths are perfect for individuals looking for a quiet stroll, a brisk walk, or even a short run, contributing to the health and well-being of local residents.
• Recreational Focus: The park is clearly designed as a "recreational area," emphasizing active use and providing structured spaces for various outdoor activities. This focus makes it a go-to spot for families, youth groups, and sports enthusiasts.
• Community Value: Despite occasional discussions about development, the park consistently serves as a crucial green lung and recreational hub for the immediate community. It provides a vital space for outdoor activity in a developed urban and suburban environment.
• County Park Status: Being a Union County park implies a certain level of consistent management and funding for maintenance and improvements, ensuring the park's longevity and quality for public use. This status often means better resources than smaller municipal parks.

As a public park operated by Union County, Zimmerman Park does not typically offer "promotions" or "special offers" in the commercial sense. Access to the park and its public amenities is free for all residents and visitors.

However, the "promotions" for a county park usually come in the form of free or low-cost community events, programs, and opportunities that are organized by the Union County Parks Department, local recreation departments, or affiliated community groups. While specific recurring events at Zimmerman Park aren't detailed in the provided information, similar county parks often host:

• Youth Sports Leagues: The baseball, softball, and soccer fields are regularly utilized by local youth and adult sports leagues. While participation in these leagues may have fees, the use of the park facilities for games and practices is part of the community service.
• Free Outdoor Fitness Programs: Occasionally, county parks host free yoga, tai chi, or other fitness classes, especially during warmer months.
• Community Days & Festivals: Larger county parks often serve as venues for community festivals, health fairs, or environmental awareness events. It is possible Zimmerman Park, or a section of the larger Elizabeth River Parkway, participates in these.
• Nature Walks or Educational Programs: The walking paths could be utilized for guided nature walks or environmental education programs organized by the county.

To stay informed about any upcoming events, specific league schedules, or general programming at Zimmerman Park or within the broader Elizabeth River Parkway, residents should consult the official website of the Union County Parks and Recreation Department. Local municipal recreation departments in Union and Hillside townships may also provide information on activities planned for the park. Additionally, community bulletin boards and local social media groups are good resources for real-time updates on local events.

While a specific direct phone number for Zimmerman Park itself isn't commonly provided as it's a part of a larger county system, general inquiries related to the park, its facilities, or the Elizabeth River Parkway would typically be directed to the Union County Parks and Recreation Department.

Address: The park is located in Union, NJ 07083, along Morris Avenue. The provided address is a general location: Union, NJ 07083, USA. For more precise navigation, using "John S. Zimmerman Recreation Park" or "Morris Avenue, Union NJ" in mapping services would be advisable.

Phone: For general inquiries regarding Union County Parks, including Zimmerman Park, you would typically contact the main Union County Parks Department. While a direct phone number for Zimmerman Park specifically isn't provided, you can reach the main Union County Parks & Recreation office at (908) 527-4900.

It is always recommended to check the official Union County Parks website for the most up-to-date contact information, park rules, and any notices regarding facility use or closures.

For us, the residents of New Jersey, particularly those in Union and Hillside townships, Zimmerman Park stands as a prime example of a suitable and essential local green space. Its value for locals is multifaceted, deeply integrated into our daily lives and recreational needs.

Firstly, its strategic location on Morris Avenue in Union Township, as the southernmost section of the Elizabeth River Parkway, makes it incredibly accessible. Whether we're looking for a quick outdoor break, a structured sports activity, or a place for a leisurely walk, Zimmerman Park is conveniently situated. Its integration into the larger county park system also means it's connected to broader green infrastructure, offering extended opportunities for exploration and connectivity right from our neighborhood. This ease of access encourages regular use and promotes an active lifestyle without requiring extensive travel.

Secondly, the dedicated recreational facilities are a major draw for various age groups and interests. The presence of both baseball/softball fields and a soccer field means that youth leagues, school teams, and informal groups have crucial spaces for practice and games. For families, this translates to nearby options for children to engage in organized sports or simply play outdoors. Beyond team sports, the walking and hiking paths provide a vital avenue for individual exercise, dog walking, or simply enjoying the natural surroundings. This diverse offering ensures that the park serves a wide range of recreational preferences within the community.

Finally, as a Union County park, Zimmerman Park benefits from the county's commitment to maintaining quality public spaces. This assures us that the park will remain a well-kept and functional asset for years to come. Despite any localized concerns about development impacts, the park's core purpose of providing active and passive recreation for the community remains steadfast. It’s a place where we can unwind, exercise, socialize, and connect with nature, contributing significantly to the overall quality of life here in Union and neighboring areas. Zimmerman Park isn't just a park; it's a vital part of our local identity, offering a space where we can gather, play, and thrive right here in our New Jersey community.

Zimmerman Park

Union, NJ 07083, USA