Stephen R. Gregg Park | Bayonne

Stephen R. Gregg Park is a significant and expansive recreational area located in Bayonne, New Jersey, along the scenic waterfront of Newark Bay. Covering approximately 97.5 acres, it serves as one of Hudson County’s largest and most versatile parks, offering a wide range of facilities and green spaces for community enjoyment, sports, leisure, and cultural remembrance.

Originally established in the early 20th century as Bayonne Park, the site was renamed in 1995 to honor Stephen Raymond Gregg Sr., a native of Bayonne and a decorated World War II hero. Gregg earned the Medal of Honor, the United States’ highest military decoration, for his extraordinary bravery during combat in France in 1944. His legacy is commemorated in the park by a bronze statue unveiled in 2021, which stands as a tribute to his valor and service both during the war and later in his long career with the Hudson County Sheriff's Department.

The park’s design balances active recreational amenities with natural beauty and open space. It features seven baseball and softball fields that accommodate organized leagues and casual play, along with eight soccer fields that support local youth and adult soccer activities. The park also offers ten tennis courts and two lighted basketball courts, enabling year-round sports opportunities. Other facilities include a football field, bocce courts, horseshoe pits, and a dedicated exercise and cross-country running course, making it a hub for varied physical activities.

Families and children benefit from a large, well-equipped playground with diverse play structures catering to different age groups and abilities. Adjacent to the playground is a spray park, which is especially popular during the summer months for cooling off and water play. The park’s infrastructure promotes accessibility and community use, with well-maintained walking paths and a half-mile-long waterfront promenade that provides stunning views of Newark Bay. This promenade encourages visitors to enjoy leisurely strolls, bird watching, or simply relaxing by the water’s edge.

In addition to active recreation, Stephen R. Gregg Park includes several picnic areas and a gazebo that serve as gathering points for social events, family outings, and community functions. Anglers are drawn to the park’s fishing pier, which offers direct access to Newark Bay’s waters. The park regularly hosts seasonal events such as concerts, festivals, and cultural activities, contributing to its role as a vibrant community focal point.

Historically, Stephen R. Gregg's story is deeply intertwined with the park’s identity. His courageous actions during World War II, where he provided covering fire to save wounded soldiers and escaped enemy capture, exemplify valor and dedication. After returning from the war, Gregg served Hudson County for over fifty years in law enforcement, culminating in a leadership role as chief of court officers before his retirement in 1996.

Visitors to Stephen R. Gregg Park find it easily accessible via Kennedy Boulevard, stretching between 27th and 48th Streets in Bayonne. The park is open daily with no admission fee, and parking is available nearby. Public transportation options also connect the park to surrounding communities, making it an accessible green space for residents and visitors alike.

Overall, Stephen R. Gregg Park stands as a multifaceted landmark combining recreational amenities, natural beauty, historical commemoration, and community engagement. It embodies the spirit of Bayonne by honoring local heritage while providing a welcoming space that supports physical activity, relaxation, and social connection.