New landmark adds over 10 acres of parkland, anchoring future statuary park and Audubon-certified bird sanctuary; Wandell students are first to cross as “future stewards” of the borough.
SADDLE RIVER, N.J., Oct. 14, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — The Borough of Saddle River dedicated the Walsh Family Bridge, the first covered bridge built in New Jersey in more than a century. Over 150 residents, dignitaries, and guests joined Mayor Albert J. Kurpis and the Borough Council to celebrate this milestone that unites Saddle River’s heritage, community spirit, and vision for the future.
Saddle River Walsh Family Bridge
The red-timbered bridge, designed in classic New England style, connects 18-acre Rindlaub Park with 10 acres of previously inaccessible wetlands preserved for passive recreation and open space—significantly enhancing Saddle River’s parkland.
The project’s journey was marked by perseverance—through pandemic delays, rising costs, and material shortages—and was ultimately realized through a matching grant from the Bergen County Open Space Trust Fund and the extraordinary generosity of the Walsh family. Mayor Kurpis, with the support of the Borough Council, brought his vision to life—transforming it into a signature covered bridge that embodies Saddle River’s timeless charm and natural beauty.
Chairwoman Commissioner Mary Amoroso, representing County Executive Jim Tedesco, highlighted Bergen County’s steadfast commitment to Open Space initiatives.
The bridge will also serve as the anchor for a developing statuary and ecological park—featuring works by world-renowned sculptor Carolyn Palmer, future sculptures donated by the Walsh family, and student art from Wandell Elementary—uniting education, art, and nature in one harmonious setting.
In collaboration with Carolyn Palmer and the Bergen County Audubon Society, the Borough is advancing a vision that celebrates conservation, creativity, and community. Saddle River is actively seeking partnerships and collaborations with associations, foundations, and organizations that share this mission, and such initiatives will be duly recognized nationwide.
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Media Contact: Ravi Sachdev
[email protected]
Officials of Record
Mayor Albert J. Kurpis | Councilmen Dr. Duncan Carpenter, Christopher DiGirolamo, Esq., Ravi Sachdev, Dr. Jeff Liva, and Jonathan Kurpis | Administrator Rich Molinari and Staff
About the Borough of Saddle River
Saddle River is a historic New Jersey community dedicated to open-space preservation, cultural enrichment, and environmental stewardship. The Borough’s master plan emphasizes partnerships among residents, philanthropists, and public institutions to create projects that honor art, nature, and heritage.
SOURCE SADDLE RIVER BOROUGH
