13 Mar ESSEX COUNTY EXECUTIVE DIVINCENZO HAS CONTINUED INTEREST TO PRESERVE ROCK SPRING GOLF COURSE
Published on March 13, 2023
Essex County, NJ – Essex County Executive Joseph N. DiVincenzo, Jr. released the following statement regarding the Rock Spring Golf Club in West Orange:
“Over the last several weeks, there has been serious discussion in West Orange about the future of the Rock Spring Golf Club on Northfield Avenue. During recent Township Council meetings and community gatherings – as well as from the phone calls and emails received at my office – the idea of Essex County purchasing and operating the golf course has been mentioned as an alternative to development and as a means to preserve open space.”
“Three years ago, when the property became available, I expressed interest in purchasing the property and making it part of the historic Essex County Parks System. Since then, I have made it clear of my continued desire to purchase the parcel and made my interest known to West Orange’s leadership.”
“The 138-acre parcel is ideally located next to Essex County South Mountain Reservation, would complement the three champion-caliber public golf courses we already operate and would be a welcome addition to the recreation opportunities already offered at our South Mountain Recreation Complex. The golf course already is a gem and, with the same investment level we have made at our three golf courses, it would continue to grow and evolve into an even greater recreation destination. In addition, we also would determine how the clubhouse could be transformed into a facility that would complement the course, benefit the community and produce recurring revenue.”
“Essex is one of the most densely populated and developed counties in New Jersey. Protecting a tract of land as large as Rock Spring from being developed is a rare opportunity. West Orange officials should not believe that development of Rock Spring is their only alternative. The option of having Essex County purchase the property is still on the table and I am ready to meet with them at any time. As always, working together we will continue Putting Essex County First.”