Hunterdon Parks and Rec celebrates project more than 20 years in the making

Hunterdon County Parks and Recreation opened the Prescott Bridge at Echo Hill Park earlier this month, a project more than 20 years in the making.

The aluminum pedestrian bridge in Clinton Township spans 60 feet over the Prescott Brook, a tributary of the South Branch of the Raritan River, and connects the trail systems of the Hunterdon County Arboretum and the park, making a hike of more than two miles possible.

“We are so proud of our staff and employees from Parks and Recreation for all their hard work,” said county Commissioner Shaun Van Doren. “The planning for this bridge has been ongoing since approximately 2001, and it is exciting to see this project come to final fruition. We are all very proud to be here today celebrating the opening of this bridge.”

“This bridge was made possible by a great deal of teamwork and is the best example of utilizing open space for the benefit of Hunterdon County residents,” added county Parks and Recreation Director Dan Bush. “This footbridge will provide for access and easy travel between both parks and is a gateway of opportunity for the public to further enjoy the outdoors. I am thankful to the Commissioners for all of their support throughout the duration of this project. It has been a long time in coming!”

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To access the bridge, residents can park at the Arboretum north parking lot, go through the tunnel under the highway and follow the service road. Alternately, they may park at Echo Hill and walk down the service road behind the lodge.

This article originally appeared on MyCentralJersey.com: Hunterdon County Parks and Recreation opens Echo Hill Park bridge