On Thursday, December 11, UCIA officials participated in a ribbon-cutting to celebrate the completion of the $10.7 million renovation of Lightning Brook Park. The project reimagined the once-vacant lot and delivered upgraded amenities designed to serve residents and families for years to come. Photos courtesy of the County of Union.

Union, New Jersey – The Union County Improvement Authority (UCIA) held a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Thursday, December 11 to unveil the newly renovated Lightning Brook Park in Union. The ceremony marked the completion of a transformational $10.7 million project that turned a previously vacant 5.58-acre lot into a vibrant, multi-use community space for residents and families across Union County.

 “After months of hard work, we are proud to open Lightning Brook Park to the public,” said Bibi Taylor, Ed.D., Director, UCIA. “This reimagined space will benefit residents across Union County, ensuring that Lightning Brook Park remains a place of community and recreation for all in the region – from neighboring Franklin Elementary School to families visiting from Plainfield.”

The project underscores the UCIA’s $10.7 million investment in the community. The renovation adds a variety of new and enhanced amenities, including a synthetic turf field, basketball court with bleachers and lighting, restroom facility, 50-space parking lot, and additional amenities such as a playground, splash pad, and open and shaded play areas. UCIA broke ground on the project in April 2025.

“We are grateful for UCIA’s continued investment in our county,” said Union County Commissioner Sergio Granados, liaison to the UCIA. “I championed this project because Lightning Brook Park had the potential to be more than just green space—it can be a cornerstone of community life. With today’s improvements, we’re creating a welcoming, accessible, and dynamic park that will serve our residents and future generations.”

The ribbon cutting was attended by Union Township Mayor James Bowser, Jr., Union County Commissioner Chairwoman Lourdes M. Leon, Commissioner Granados, as well as other UCIA Commissioners, Union County Commissioners and representatives from the Township of Union, Colliers Engineering and Design, architects from DIGroup, MAST Construction, and general contractor Brockwell & Carrington.

About the Union County Improvement Authority

The Union County Improvement Authority (UCIA) plans, develops and manages public improvements in Union County. The UCIA’s role varies from project to project and includes planning and permitting, selection and oversight of design/development teams, requests for proposal and contract administration, contractor oversight and coordination, infrastructure construction and post-construction monitoring. The UCIA is unique because of its financing capabilities and extensive project management experience. This distinctive combination enables the UCIA to provide assistance to ensure public projects are completed in a cost-effective and professional manner. For more information about the UCIA, visit https://ucimprovementauthority.org/.