Essex County Upgrades Irvington Park Softball Fields

Essex County Executive Joseph N. DiVincenzo Jr. announced plans Wednesday to modernize two softball fields at Irvington Park with synthetic infields and natural grass outfields.

The synthetic surfaces will drain faster after rain and reduce maintenance costs. DiVincenzo said the upgrades will "maximize use of the facility, reduce maintenance and get young athletes back on the field sooner after it rains."

The two fields are among the last in the Essex County Parks System with all-dirt infields. DiVincenzo has already modernized fields in Brookdale Park and Yanticaw Park using the same hybrid approach.

The project includes new drainage and irrigation systems, backstop and sideline fencing, player benches, covered dugouts, spectator seating, landscaping, pathway repairs and trash receptacles. The county will install sports lighting on the adjacent soccer field.

Jenna Weiss, head coach of the Irvington High School softball team, said the investment "will have a lasting impact on our softball program and demonstrates to our players that their hard work is appreciated."

French and Parello from Wall designed the improvements for $129,350. Thomas and Sons Builders LLC from Hackensack won the construction contract for $2,221,746. The New Jersey Green Acres program is funding the project, which the county expects to complete by the end of 2026.

The upgrades continue improvements to the park. Essex County opened the Bilal Beasley Community Center in 2024, resurfaced tennis courts, added pickleball courts and installed a synthetic grass soccer field in 2023.