10-18-2024 2:11pm

Morris County Inaugurates New Cricket Fields, Honors First Park Director

Morris County officially dedicated two new cricket fields at Lewis Morris Park, honoring the legacy of Russell W. Myers, the county's first park director.

MORRISTOWN, NJ - Yesterday’s ribbon-cutting at Lewis Morris County Park drew a noteworthy crowd, including the Morris County Board of County Commissioners, the Morris County Park Commission, and local leaders, to unveil the Russell W. Myers Recreation Area. The event also featured state senators Joe Pennachio (Morris-26) and Anthony Bucco (Morris-25), Mayor James Barberio of Parsippany-Troy Hills, and Sheriff James M. Gannon.

The dedication of the cricket fields comes as a response to the growing demand for cricket facilities, spurred by the increasing Indian American population in Parsippany Township. For years, local cricketers had improvised with picnic grounds for games, leading community leaders to advocate for dedicated spaces.

The project began last year when the County Commissioners approved funding to develop two dedicated cricket fields in an area of Lewis Morris Park previously utilized for overflow parking. The fields are specifically designed for softball cricket and are conveniently located near essential amenities, including parking and restrooms.

“I thank my fellow Commissioners for supporting this project, which started in 2023 when the board passed a resolution to fund the fields,” said Commissioner John Krickus, who served as Commissioner Director when planning for the fields began.

“Developing plans for this site and learning more about the sport of cricket by collaborating with Amin Khatri, Trustee of the New Jersey Soft Ball Cricket League, was a rewarding experience. We’re thrilled to provide a space where our local teams can play and grow,” said Helmer, who emphasized the teamwork involved in the project.

The development of the fields, carried out by Aspen Landscaping of Bridgewater, NJ, cost $225,140, involving the grading and shaping of approximately four acres, installation of cricket pitches, and landscaping. The fields are set to open for play in spring 2025.

“These new cricket fields reflect our commitment to providing a myriad of recreational opportunities for all Morris County residents,” said Commissioner Doug Cabana, liaison to the Morris County Park Commission.

Russell W. Myers, whom the recreation area is named after, served as the Director of the Morris County Park Commission from 1957 to 1983 and was instrumental in expanding the park system. His contributions have left a lasting impact on the county’s recreational landscape.

“We ask our immigrant friends to assimilate, but it’s a two-way street. Your culture, traditions and recreation enrich the American experience. Enjoy these wonderful fields that have been created,” said Sen. Pennachio, who is a first-generation Italian American.

“I want to thank Jigar Shah, Parsippany’s liaison to the Indian community, and I want to thank Commissioner Krickus and the County Commissioners. In Parsippany, we have the largest Indian population in the county and now players from all municipalities will have a place to play. This field is going to be amazing. The county kept their promise to get it done, and they got it done,” said Mayor Barberio.

The event also saw participation from the New Jersey Softball Cricket League, with players demonstrating their cricket skills. The fields will be available for scheduling through the Park Commission starting next spring, accommodating the growing local interest in cricket.

Lewis Morris County Park, established in 1958 and now the second-largest in the county’s system, continues to expand its offerings, ensuring diverse recreational opportunities for Morris County residents. For more details on park facilities, visit the Morris County Park Commission website.