New Park is Coming to Cape May County – County Park East
Cape May County officials have finalized a revised development plan for County Park East that significantly reduces project costs while preserving the vision of a modern, high quality recreational destination for residents and visitors.
At their December 9 meeting, the Cape May County Board of Commissioners reviewed updates to the project that cut approximately $10 million from the overall budget.
The savings come after the County secured countywide access to a new indoor recreation facility planned at the Cape May County Airport.
With indoor space now guaranteed through that partnership, the originally proposed indoor facility at County Park East has been removed from the plan, eliminating the need for duplicative construction.
New Park is Coming to Cape May County
A Shift Toward Cost Effective Planning
Commission Director Leonard Desiderio said the revised plan reflects responsible financial stewardship and strategic decision making.
According to Desiderio, by leveraging access to the Airport’s indoor facility, the County avoided unnecessary costs while still ensuring residents have access to high quality recreational opportunities. He emphasized that the approach benefits both taxpayers and families who rely on county facilities.
Also See: Help Preserve One of Wildwood’s Most Iconic Tram Cars
County Administrator Kevin Lare presented the revised budget and updated site plans during the December 9 Commissioners Caucus meeting. The redesign maintains the long term vision for County Park East while aligning it with current recreational needs and fiscal realities.
Two Phase Development Plan
Under the revised proposal, County Park East will be developed in two phases, both submitted under a single CAFRA application. The CAFRA review process will determine what future improvements may be permitted on Lot 7, the undeveloped parcel located north of the existing park.
Representatives from the County Technical School, including the Athletic Director and students, attended the caucus meeting to show support for the updated design.
Phase 1 Details for Existing Park East Lot 8
Phase 1 focuses on the current Park East site and carries an estimated cost of $12 million, with bidding targeted for spring 2026.
Planned Phase 1 improvements, pending final Board approval, include:
- A regulation size multi purpose synthetic turf field
- Two basketball courts
- Six pickleball courts
- Five tennis courts
- A concession building with storage and restrooms
- A playground and spectator viewing area
- A half mile walking path
- 122 parking spaces
- LED lighting for the turf field and all 13 courts
- Site enhancements to the Public Safety Memorial
Phase 2 Plans for Future Development on Lot 7
Phase 2 is projected to cost approximately $4 million, with bidding anticipated within five years of CAFRA approval.
Phase 2 elements include:
- An additional all purpose natural grass field
- 30 additional parking spaces
- A walking path connection linking Lot 7 and Lot 8
County Leaders Emphasize Value Without Compromise
Vice Director Andrew Bulakowski, who oversees County Parks and the Zoo and serves on the County’s Recreation ADHOC Committee, said the revised plan delivers strong recreational value without sacrificing quality.
Bulakowski noted that the updated design provides diverse and inclusive recreational amenities while prioritizing cost efficiency.
He added that saving millions while still delivering modern facilities reflects the type of leadership residents expect.
Next Steps and Timeline
Following the Board’s action, Cape May County will submit the CAFRA application to the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection and move Phase 1 into final design.
Project bid documents are expected to be completed in the second quarter of 2026.
Melillo Bauer and Carman will continue as the lead design and planning firm, working closely with County Administration to guide the project through the regulatory approval process and into construction.
Once completed, the reimagined County Park East is expected to serve as a cornerstone recreational asset for Cape May County, balancing modern amenities with responsible use of taxpayer dollars.