JACKSON – Several years ago the township purchased the historic Rova Farms parcel as a means of protecting it from development and to repurpose it as a public recreation area.
An advisory committee that includes citizens had been formed to make recommendations about how the property could best be utilized by the public. Recently, Business Administrator Terence Wall announced some upgrades for Rova Farms that will transform the open space area.
“Rova Farms, a cherished lakefront property preserved for the Jackson community, is about to undergo a remarkable metamorphosis with an array of improvements that promise to elevate the overall recreation experience for residents and visitors alike,” Wall said in a statement.
Passive recreation such as picnic areas and benches are planned. A new sign is also included in these phase one priorities for the site.
Decorative aluminum fences and gates, a pre-fab fishing dock, and a concrete kayak launch will be added.
Nature-inspired trails and green spaces will include a crushed stone trail that winds through the park.
This sign provides some history on the Russian culture that came to Jackson and which is linked to the Rova Farms property. (Photo courtesy Rova Farms Historic District Association)
There will also be pedestrian-friendly features that involve promoting accessibility and safety. The site will boast a network of concrete sidewalks (4” thick) and reinforced concrete pads (6” thick).
There will be inclusive accessibility with public sidewalk curb ramps with detectable warnings, truncated domes, and composite tile.
Guidance and safety measures will also be focused on through regulatory and warning signs, 4” and 12” traffic stripes, and traffic symbols for both vehicular and pedestrian safety within the premises.
On an engineering standpoint, a stormwater system will ensure a sustainable management of water resources.
In late October, the Jackson Township Council approved the Administration’s recommendation to award a contract to Remington and Vernick to perform services at the property including Phase 1 field surveys, base map preparation, Phase II Preliminary and Final Engineering and Design, Phase III Advertisement and Bidding Support and Phase IV Contract Administration and Construction Observation.
The amount of the agreement is $125,950. The work of this agreement will tie to various improvements such clearing the site and earthwork with new landscaping.
“These improvements were the result of ongoing collaborative efforts with input from the community,” Wall said noting that Mayor Michael Reina’s administration, Township Council and Rova Farms Advisory Board, “ensuring that Rova Farms becomes a space that truly reflects the aspirations and needs of all its residents.”
A grand unveiling is being planned. Wall said, “the phased grand unveiling of Rova Farms is scheduled to begin in the spring of 2024, marking the beginning of a new era for this beloved community space. We invite everyone to join us in celebrating these enhancements that will undoubtedly enrich the lives of all who call Jackson Township home.”
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