Petition for State and Federal Funding to Repair Caven Point Athletic Fields
The unsafe and dangerous conditions of the Caven Point fields in our neighborhood are unacceptable and funds must come from state or federal funding to repair and upgrade this vital community resource. Caven Point serves thousands of local athletes, teams, and recreational users however, the current state of the facility has become a safety concern and is preventing full and equitable access for the community.
The last significant work done on Caven Point’s main field was in 2008. Since then, the field has deteriorated considerably. The following must be fixed in order to restore and revitalize Caven Point’s athletic fields:
- Artificial turf must be replaced. As it stands now those fields are unsafe because they offer no shock absorption, which puts athletes at a higher risk for injury.
- The field’s dimensions are also improper and must be fixed to line up with game regulations. For example, the soccer field is undersized which limits its use by local teams and leagues, including youth and high school programs that need regulation-sized fields for competition.
- Dugouts for all of the fields need repair, as they are now being constantly flooded and covered in overgrowth from the lack of maintenance.
Challenges outside of the athletic fields also exist.
- The parking lot is inadequate. There are no designated spots creating accessibility issues.
- The electrical system is outdated and in need of a complete overhaul.
- Bathrooms and locker rooms are in serious need of renovation, making the facility less inviting and functional for both players and spectators.
- Concession stands and clubhouses are also not in use because they need extensive repair.
As Jersey City continues to grow, our demand for quality recreational spaces increases. Caven Point spans about 15 acres and has the potential to be a premier athletic facility in the region, but it needs immediate attention to fulfill this role. Without proper investment, we risk losing this key asset, as athletes and teams are forced to seek alternative venues, often outside Jersey City. This also impacts local youth who deserve access to safe, well-maintained spaces for sports and recreation.
By investing in the repair and modernization of Caven Point, we can create a safe, accessible, and high-quality facility that serves our diverse community and keeps up with the growing demands for recreational space in Jersey City.
We must shine a light on this issue and urge our state and local representatives to allocate the necessary state and federal funds to make this happen. Jersey City deserves a first-class athletic facility that reflects the vibrancy and potential of our city.
Sponsored by
Mayoral Candidate Bill O’Dea
Ward A Council Candidate Pam Johnson
Council At-Large Candidate Kristen Zadroga-Hart
