Dear Fellow Resident,
Recently, the Recreation Commission presented a recap of their 2025 initiatives at a Township Committee meeting, and their outstanding work deserves a shout-out to the community.
In 2025, the Recreation Commission focused heavily on improving park aesthetics, accessibility, and overall usability. At Ella Harris Park, projects included a new restroom mural created in partnership with the Clearview National Art Honor Society, shade structures at the Chess Park and Inclusive Playground, new playground equipment and play surface for the Inclusive Playground, upgraded Little Free Library, and new signage for park trails and field layouts. At William Wilt Park, Recreation added a Little Free Library and new trail and field signage, and Pleasant Valley Park received a new Little Free Library as well. These enhancements reflect a thoughtful investment in spaces that bring people together and serve residents of all ages.
Beyond park improvements, Recreation once again delivered an outstanding calendar of events and activities for our community. Highlights included our Best of Gloucester County event, Lights on Main, along with the Easter Egg Hunt, Harrison Township Day, Cinco de Mayo celebration for our seniors, Movies in the Park, and the Boogie Walk Halloween Celebration. The Commission also continued to offer low-cost summer camps and seasonal programs such as swimming, tennis, and pickleball clinics, ensuring residents have opportunities to stay active and connected.
Looking ahead to 2026, the Recreation Commission is excited to build on this momentum. The 2026 Calendar will include all of the favorites from 2025, plus a brand-new event, Designer Bag Bingo, in partnership with The Exchange Club. In addition, the Commission will be working on several important initiatives, including a pavilion covering at the William Wilt Complex (a project carried over from 2025 and supported by the Harrison Soccer Club and the Township), a proposed walking path extension at Ella Harris Park through the Local Recreational Improvement Grant program, an “All Sports” mural at the William Wilt Complex in collaboration with local students, and exploring a safer replacement for the current playground surface at William Wilt Park.
As you know, 2026 marks the 250th anniversary of the founding of our country. Our Recreation team members, along with a dedicated group of volunteers, are planning a celebration of America’s 250th birthday. While July 4th is our official Independence Day, the primary celebration will take place during Harrison Township Day, June 6, at Ella Harris Park, where special tributes are being planned to mark this historic milestone. If you are interested in volunteering with this effort, I encourage you to reach out to me at tcoakley@harrisontwp.us. Many hands truly do make light work.
Here’s a point of pride many residents may not realize: the Harrison Township Recreation Commission operates at no cost to taxpayers. All Recreation events are 100% self-funded, made possible through donations, fundraising, sponsorships, and the dedication of volunteers who generously give their time and talents
On behalf of the Township Committee, I want to extend sincere thanks to Recreation Coordinator Sharon Chew, the Recreation Commission board members led by Chairperson Alyse Dvorak, the many volunteers who make these programs possible, and our local business sponsors whose support plays a vital role in Recreation’s success. Your collective efforts make Recreation an essential and cherished part of our community.
Our Recreation Commission is a great example of how working together strengthens our community and reinforces why Harrison Township is such a special place.
Warm Regards,
TJ Coakley
Deputy Mayor, Harrison Township
