County Open Space Board Recommends $582,000 for Recreation Site

COURT HOUSE — The Cape May County Open Space Program has recommended to the Board of Chosen Freeholders that Middle Township receives amounts not to exceed $582,000 for the development of the Ockie Wisting Recreation Complex in Rio Grande (formerly known as Fort Apache). The project was chosen for it regional appeal and the fact that it would contribute to the diversity of our County’s open space and recreational resources, according to a letter from Cape May County Open Space Board Chairperson Peter Lomax.
“This is great news for Middle Township. I want to thank the County Open Space Board for carefully considering our plan and recognizing the value of this project, not just for Middle Township, but for the County as a whole.” Deputy Mayor Tim Donohue said. “These funds, along with the existing dollars found in an audit of the project and our plans for public/private partnerships on the site, will go a long way towards finally realizing the vision for a first class recreation destination in Rio Grande. Best of all, we will be doing it at minimal additional costs to Middle Township taxpayers.”
Mayor Dan Lockwood lauded the collaborative nature of the Township’s effort at securing these funds.
“By seeking quality private partners, aggressively pursuing grant funding and making a top notch presentation to the County Board, we are finally making this plan a reality.” Lockwood said. “I want to thank our Planner, ElizabethTerenik, the members of our various boards and all those who worked so hard to make this happen.”
A site plan has been developed by the Township which includes the following amenities:
• Wildlife observation deck, boardwalk and fishing pier at pond area
• Gazebo and picnic area
• Playground
• A series of trails with an approximate length of two miles
• 1,600 square foot building with restrooms, concession area, and storage
• Stage for concerts and performances
• Partnership with Cape Express Soccer Club to construct five fields, parking and lighting
• Partnership with Cape May County Disc Golf Association for regulation size course
• Partnership with a health organization for fitness stations
• Partnership with environmental organization for interpretive signs highlighting site’s plant- and wild-life
• Partnership with environmental organization for demonstration/butterfly garden with native and drought tolerant species
The Township has recently completed a comprehensive Open Space and Recreation Plan, available at www.MiddleTownship.com. As part of the extensive public input, interviews with 25 sports and environmental groups were conducted, 188 public surveys were completed, and two well-attended public meetings were held. Overwhelmingly, the public requested the development of the Ockie Wisting site.
“Due to a lack of funds and political will, the development of this site has been on the back burner for far too long.” Donohue explained. “We refused to accept that premise. Instead, with the help many dedicated professionals and volunteers; we have crafted a creative and innovative plan that will bring unique, new recreation opportunities, as well as increased economic activity to the Rio Grande area and beyond.”