Mercer County Park

Across the sprawling 2,500 acres of Mercer County Park, a fascinating story unfolds. Mercer County Park isn’t just a place for recreation. It’s a testament to resourceful planning and a tribute to a dedicated public servant. Originally simply known as Mercer County Park, it was renamed in 2009 to honor State Senator Richard J. Coffee. The park’s creation story is intertwined with the construction of Interstate 95 and Interstate 295 in the late 1960s and early 1970s. The land, composed of over 50 different properties, many of which were former farms, was acquired during this period. Imagine the transformation! Instead of simply incurring the cost of excavating the basin for what would become Lake Mercer, the county ingeniously sold the gravel to the highway contractors. This clever arrangement not only funded the lake’s creation but also provided the contractors with the necessary materials for the highways. Today, Lake Mercer serves as a training center for the US Olympic Rowing Team. Mercer County Park offers a remarkable array of facilities. From 36 holes of golf at Mercer Oaks East and West to an ice-skating center and a tennis center with 24 courts, the park caters to a wide range of interests. Sports enthusiasts can enjoy seventeen athletic fields, a cross-country course, and even cricket pitches. Nature lovers can explore the nature trail, mountain biking area, and wildlife center. There are also picnic areas, dog parks, and a 9/11 memorial featuring a steel beam from the World Trade Center. Mercer County Park is a vibrant hub for the community, hosting events year-round, including the Mercer County Summer Concert Series and the Special Olympics fall games. So, next time you visit Mercer County Park, remember its rich history and appreciate the ingenuity that brought it to life. It’s more than just a park; it’s a living testament to community vision and resourcefulness.