ENGLEWOOD CLIFFS, N.J.—More than 150 residents, officials, and visitors gathered on May 3 for the grand opening of Johnson Park Field at the Fred H. Witte Recreation Complex in Englewood Cliffs, celebrating the completion of a $4 million revitalization of one of the borough’s signature parks.
Witte Field and Johnson Avenue Park had been closed since June 1, 2024 (except for the children’s playground, on the north side of the park, which remained open until that Aug. 31), as part of a comprehensive improvement initiative unanimously approved by the council. Upgrades include a new playground with a rubberized surface, an all-turf Little League field with lighting, new sod and clay softball/baseball fields, a dog park, basketball courts, a walking track, new batting cages, and free public Wi-Fi throughout the park—courtesy of LG Corporation, headquartered in Englewood Cliffs.
Mayor Mark M. Park was joined at the ribbon-cutting ceremony by councilmembers Tim Koutroubas, Zhi Liang, Rashid Patel, and Rivka Biegacz; Police Chief William Henkelman; members of the police, fire, and public works departments; North New Jersey Chamber of Commerce President Carol Rauscher; and Stephanie Jang, interim director of recreation.
The event began with performances of the national anthem and “God Bless America,” followed by remarks from Koutroubas, the day’s emcee. “This project was built on partnership and persistence,” Koutroubas said. “Thank you to the mayor, council, the Department of Public Works, and every resident who believed in this vision.”
(Indeed, in many remarks, the DPW emerged as the project’s most valuable player.).
Park called the renovation, completed just in time for baseball season, a home run. “This was not just the work of one person, but an entire team,” he said. “It’s a win for every family in Englewood Cliffs.”
Adding to the excitement, former Major League Baseball player John Flaherty—who played for the Yankees, Red Sox, Tigers, Padres, and Devil Rays—delivered motivational words to young athletes: “Step up to the plate, make a hit, and enjoy a championship season.”
Englewood Cliffs Little League President Billy Theodorakos also spoke, encouraging families to “make memories and grow stronger—together—on and off the field.”
Food trucks lined Johnson Avenue, and attendees relaxed on lawn chairs and blankets to enjoy lunch, desserts, and snacks. Games and activities for all ages added to the family-friendly atmosphere.
Baseball games continued on the newly renovated Little League field through 2 p.m., capping a day of celebration. With new LED lighting and Wi-Fi-supported scoreboards and screens near the snack bar, evening games are now part of the experience.
The grand opening was supported by the North New Jersey Chamber of Commerce in collaboration with Krosskeys Communications LLC.
