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--> Interpretive Plan Presentation for Mercer Meadows [PDF 7.62M]

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  • History and Establishment
    Mercer Meadows is located in Hopewell and Lawrence Township, central to the western side of the County. The total area is over 1600 acres and consists of five separate open space acquisitions. With the exception of Rosedale Park, all of these parcels have been acquired within the last decade as a result of an extremely successful and aggressive open space preservation program. The largest parcel contains 812 acres of undeveloped land known as the AT&T tract. It contains open fields, early succession forest, and wetlands. North of this tract is Rosedale Park. West is the Old Mill Road Greenway, which is adjacent to 92 acres of preserved farmland to the north. Further west of the Greenway is additional is additional preserved open space, purchased to continue the greenway along the Stony Brook, which fronts along Pennington-Rocky Hill Road. Across East Delaware Avenue is Curlis Lake Woods which fronts along Curlis Lake.

    Known as the “Pole Farm,” there is major historical significance to the AT&T tract as it relates to the technological progression of the telephone. In the 1920s AT&T purchased the land to erect a short wave radio transmission station and become the location for the first trans-Atlantic communication.  It evolved into the sole location for trans-Atlantic communication during WWII providing a means for the U.S. and to communicate with its European Allies. By 1965 it was the largest radio-telephone station in the world. By 1975 it was shut down and disassembled leaving one lone pole that still stands today.

    A bid has been awarded to a highly acclaimed engineering and landscape architectural firm by the Mercer County Park Commission to design a comprehensive plan for this park, keeping true to the passive recreation opportunities and natural elements of the area.  The development of this parkland will preserve the rustic and rural appearance of the area, establish environmentally sensitive areas, while providing the less-obtrusive minimal amenities to accommodate all visitors. Early concept plans show that Mercer Meadows will be connected via trails to the Equestrian Center, Rosedale Park, Curlis Lake and the Lawrence-Hopewell Trail.
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  • Facilities
    • The Mercer Meadows facilities and opportunities are extremely passive and involve natural trails, viewing areas, and limited amenities.

    • Areas include: walking, bike and horse trails, scenic nature photography areas, cross country skiing trail, environmental education areas, current farm land, fishing in designated areas, and acres and acres of wildlife observation.
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  • Programs and Activities
    Many groups and organizations use Mercer Meadows for educational field trips and tours. Residents are welcome to contact them if interested:

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  • Hours and General Information
    Hours of Operation: Dawn to Dusk
    Time of Year Open-365 days a year
    Cost: Free to public
    Reservations: For special events and group use, please call (609) 448-1947.
    Telephone: MCPC (609) 303-0700, Events and Recreation (609)448-1947.
    Location/Address:  The two main access roads into the park are located 1.  corner of Keefe Road and Cold Soil Road and 2.  Federal City Road
    Special rules and regulations:  All general park relations are strictly enforced and are posted.
    Handicapped Accessibility:  Fully accessible, weather and conditions permitted.
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