The Town Crier - Legislative Backgrounder

The Borough of Stone Harbor officially unveiled its state-of-the-art 97th?Street Recreation Complex with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Friday, June 14. Mayor Tim Carney, Borough Council members, the Tourism & Recreation Committee, and the citizen-led Recreation Advisory Committee joined dozens of families to celebrate the milestone.

“Today’s opening is the product of true collaboration between our residents, professional partners, and Cape May County,” said Mayor Tim Carney “This complex delivers on our promise to create safe, modern, and inclusive spaces where our community can play, gather, and grow.”

Since the complex’s soft opening on Memorial Day weekend, an average of 50 children and their families have enjoyed the amenities each day.

Project Highlights

• Brand-new, inclusive playground designed for multiple age groups and abilities
• Regulation-size basketball court with professional-grade surfacing and adjustable hoops
• Renovated bocce courts offering upgraded playing surfaces and seating
• Shaded seating areas and new sidewalks for improved comfort and accessibility

Phase II of the project will add a new recreation building featuring ADA-accessible public restrooms, further enhancing the site’s year-round usability.

Community-Driven Design

The Recreation Advisory Committee—comprised of engaged Stone Harbor residents—worked hand-in-hand with Recreation Director Jenny Olson and engineering firm DeBlasio & Associates to shape the project, ensuring the final design met the community’s needs. The $1.1?million upgrade was made possible through a Cape May County Open Space grant. DeBlasio & Associates served as the lead partner for funding, design, and implementation. Opening-day refreshments were generously provided by The Reeds at Shelter Haven and Springer’s Homemade Ice Cream.

Upcoming Opening

Additional recreation improvements are already on the horizon: a new playground at 82nd Street is entering the design phase thanks to an $800,000 NJ?DEP Green Acres grant.

Stone Harbor Mayor Tim Carney predicted heavy use of both refurbished playgrounds. “Residents and visitors alike value Stone Harbor’s recreation opportunities including those beyond our pristine beaches.  These playground improvements will help to meet the recreation needs of families and people of all ages and physical abilities.” He acknowledged County and State financial support and thanked the borough council for their commitment to the borough’s recreation facilities.