State Funds For Walker Home In North Caldwell May Be In Pipeline

NORTH CALDWELL, NJ — Could a half-million dollar windfall be headed North Caldwell’s way? That’s the proposal from three state lawmakers, who want New Jersey to pony up $500,000 to restore a local landmark: the Walker family home at Walker’s Park.

On Wednesday, Sen. Kristin Corrado and Assemblymen Christopher DePhillips and Al Barlas – each of the 40th District – announced that they are introducing bills that would give the restoration project a big financial boost.

Here’s the situation, according to a joint statement from the three Republican lawmakers:

“Following the passing of cherished North Caldwell resident Elwood Walker, the Walker family sold the 17-acre Mountain Avenue property to the borough in 2016 to prevent future development of the site and preserve the family legacy. The borough now offers passive recreation at the property and fishing at the pond. Future use of the ranch-style home is currently under consideration.”

If the lawmakers’ proposed legislation crosses the finish line, North Caldwell would receive $500,000 in state aid from the property tax relief fund to restore the home.

• See Related: What Should Go In Walker's Park In North Caldwell?
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DePhillips called the North Caldwell landmark a “piece of Americana.”

“The treasured pastimes enjoyed here are embedded in the community’s culture,” the assemblyman said. “It has also brought joy to an entirely new generation, which we know fulfills the wishes of the Walker family.”

“With this investment, the borough can move forward with its plan to restore the home,” DePhillips added.

“Walker’s Park is a landmark of the North Caldwell community where many have shared long-lasting memories,” agreed Corrado.

“The Walkers opened their doors to all of us and this investment to restore the historic family home is returning that dedication so friends and family can continue enjoying the park for decades to come,” the senator said.

“We know how much the property means to the people who have cherished ice skating or tree lightings here with their families,” Barlas said. “Restoring the home is the next step in preserving the property and it deserves support from the state.”

The 40th District includes the following municipalities:

• Essex County – Caldwell, Essex Fells, Fairfield, North Caldwell, Verona and West Caldwell
• Bergen County – Franklin Lakes, Ridgewood and Wyckoff
• Passaic County – Hawthorne, Little Falls, Totowa, Wayne and Woodland Park

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