HUNTERDON COUNTY, N.J. — County officials, project partners and community members gathered Tuesday at Echo Hill Park to mark the groundbreaking of the Echo Hill Dam Restoration Project, a long-anticipated initiative aimed at improving safety, accessibility and ecological health at one of the county’s most popular recreational areas.
Commissioner Director John E. Lanza praised the efforts of county staff, contractors and engineers whose work brought the project to this point.
“This dam restoration shows the benefits of smart investments in our infrastructure and natural resources,” Lanza said. “Echo Hill Park is an important part of our community, and these improvements will enhance water management, environmental sustainability, and recreational opportunities for residents and visitors.”
The project is being led by French & Parrello Associates and Kalogridis Contracting LLC, with Kyle Taylor, PE, of FPA serving as project engineer. Completion is scheduled for February 2026, pending weather and supply conditions.
Planned upgrades include a new sluiceway gate, a pedestrian walk bridge, and an ADA-accessible dock designed for fishing, paddling, and safe entry and exit from kayaks and canoes. The dock will also support safe-paddling training sessions and expanded programming by the county’s Division of Parks & Recreation.
Additional improvements will bring long-term environmental benefits. A new power panel will provide electricity for pond aeration, and air diffusers will be installed to improve aquatic health. After completion, New Jersey Fish and Wildlife will stock the pond with warmwater game species to expand fishing opportunities.
“We are grateful to all our partners and community members for their support,” Lanza said. “This project improves both outdoor fun and the environment in Hunterdon County. We look forward to celebrating the completion of the dam improvements with a ribbon-cutting in 2026.”
