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Aware of the need for recreational facilities for Mercer County residents, the Board of Freeholders on April 15, 1958 enacted a resolution establishing a Board of Recreation Commissioners consisting of five members.
Appointment of the Commissioners had been motivated by a National Recreation Association survey completed in 1956. Upon reviewing the results it was determined that Mercer County was deficient in recreational land holdings and facilities. The group strongly recommended that a master plan of open space and development be established via consultation with various county subdivisions.
In the following years the Commission soon acquired the land for the Mountain View Golf Course opened in 1958, Rosedale Park (1960), Valley Road Picnic Area (1960) and the Belle Mountain Ski area (1961).
As the facilities grew and the recreational needs of county residents increased, so did the need for a more formal County Park System which was adopted by public resolution and passed on November 6, 1962.
Under the leadership of Richard J. Coffee the Park System flourished and was subsequently voted as the Mercer County Park Commission on March 6, 1963. Written into the constitution of the Commission was the following Preamble:
“Parks and park systems are recognized as functions of government. The electorate of Mercer County , having voted in favor of the passage of the Referendum, authorized the establishment of the Mercer County Park Commission. The aims of the MCPC shall be to provide recreation for all persons of all ages and creeds; to meet the recreational need as it exists and as it changes with the times; to serve, promote, encourage, and stimulate interests in leisure time activities for the benefit of the common weal; to satisfy the general public at minimal cost with maximum recreational facilities, in keeping with the governmental functions; to preserve open space for the conservation of natural, historic, and scenic areas; to assist in programs dedicated to the preservation of wildlife; to participate in soil and water conservation projects; and to provide areas, facilities, personnel, finance, program, administration, and leadership to the betterment of man (and woman).”
In subsequent years President Coffee proved to be a true visionary in his field, acquiring the space for Mercer County Park and developing the plan that hundreds of thousands of people enjoy every year.
The Commission holds public meetings the last Wednesday of every month. Residents are encouraged to attend to hear the latest news or to provide valuable feedback to ensure that the offerings are reflecting the needs of the public.
