HOBOKEN, N.J. — Hoboken is set to gain a major recreational upgrade with the development of a new skatepark at Maritime Park, part of the former Union Dry Dock site along the city’s waterfront. The first phase of the project was recently unveiled, featuring a modern design that includes a range of eco-conscious elements and amenities for skateboarders of all levels.
According to city officials, the skatepark will be built with both street-style and bowl-style skating in mind. The project comes after extensive public engagement, which included surveys, community meetings, and a dedicated skatepark planning session. Feedback from these efforts helped shape the final concept.
More than 250 people responded to an online survey about the skatepark, with 63 percent identifying as skateboarders.
Their input played a key role in determining the park’s layout and features. Planned elements include a 6-foot half-pipe pocket, a 3- to 4-foot flow bowl, a 3-foot mini ramp, a Euro-gap, a flat rail, and a four-stair set with a handrail. Additional features such as a tech pad and beginner-friendly ledges will make the space accessible to newcomers while still offering challenges for more experienced skaters.
Beyond skateboarding, Phase I of the Maritime Park project will include broader community benefits. A public plaza inspired by the nearby Palisade Cliffs will offer gathering spaces, while a living shoreline featuring natural marshes and tide pools will support environmental education and ecosystem restoration.
A key component of this shoreline feature is the “Hudson Step Down,” a stepped seating and access area designed to encourage public interaction with the waterfront. It will also serve as a space for outdoor learning. The shoreline will include wave-reducing structures, rock sills, seawalls, and areas planted with native vegetation aimed at enhancing local biodiversity and preventing erosion.
Other environmental additions to the park include a temporary nursery and tree staging area. These features reflect Hoboken’s commitment to sustainable urban development and preserving the ecological health of its riverfront.
The skatepark and park design were made public through a collaborative effort between city officials, engineers, landscape designers, and community stakeholders. As Hoboken continues to transform its waterfront into a vibrant and environmentally responsible public space, the addition of this skatepark marks a significant step forward in recreational planning for the area.
City leaders have not yet announced a construction start date, but the unveiling of the design marks a milestone in the development process. When completed, the new skatepark is expected to become a major attraction for local skateboarders, as well as families, outdoor enthusiasts, and visitors from nearby New York City.
With its mix of athletic, recreational, and environmental features, Maritime Park is poised to become a standout destination on the Hudson River waterfront—bringing together community, culture, and conservation in one cohesive public space.