A Century in the Making! See the Covered Bridge Just Built in Wealthy NJ Suburb Thanks to a $750K Family Gift
photos courtesy of the Borough of Saddle River
the staff of the Ridgewood blog
SADDLE RIVER, NJ – It was a day for the history books in Saddle River as the community gathered to inaugurate the magnificent Walsh Family Bridge, marking the completion of the first covered bridge built in New Jersey in over a century.
This new landmark is more than just a crossing; it’s a stunning realization of a decade-long vision to enhance the borough’s unique, historic charm and expand its beloved open spaces.
From Dream to Reality: A Monument to Community Generosity
The idea began simply: connecting the 12 acres of Rindlaub Park with an additional 11 acres of landlocked open space across the Saddle River. Former Mayor Al Kurpis transformed that practical idea into a grand, covered bridge project—a beautiful, old New England-style structure perfectly suited for the borough known as an “oasis in the middle of the suburbs.”
The project, which swelled to a total cost of $1.5 million, was made possible through a powerful public-private partnership:
- The Walsh Family’s Extraordinary Gift: Resident Francis Walsh, CEO of National Retail Systems (NRS), committed an estimated $750,000 of his family’s fortune to the cause, ensuring the project could move forward despite soaring inflation.
- Bergen County Support: A crucial matching grant from Bergen County, championed by County Executive Jim Tedesco’s office and Commissioner Mary Amoroso, secured the remaining funds.
The Walsh Family Bridge now stands as a powerful symbol of how local government and community philanthropy can work together to create lasting beauty.
Fun Fact: The 80-foot long covered bridge was built in Texas and shipped in pieces to Saddle River to minimize the environmental impact on the nature reserve—a truly unique construction feat for Bergen County!
A Ceremony Marking Continuity and Hope
The bridge inauguration was a beautiful community affair, attended by over 150 residents and local dignitaries, including Mayor Kurpis, members of the Borough Council, Senator Holly Schepisi, and Assemblymen Robert Auth and John Azzariti.
- The event featured blessings from local Catholic priests.
- Wandell School students led the Pledge of Allegiance and had the honor of being the first to officially cross the bridge, symbolizing the continuity of community for future generations.
- An internationally renowned violinist provided a graceful musical backdrop.
The celebration concluded with a delightful breakfast spread and a non-alcoholic champagne toast sponsored by the Walsh Family, truly capturing the spirit of this milestone moment.
The Walsh Family Bridge now connects residents to greater nature trails and preserves the historic architecture that draws people to Saddle River, ensuring this bucolic Bergen County town maintains its unique character for decades to come.
Ridgewood in 2025 does not have that kind of private donor pool.
No, residents would rather get elected to the council and get their names on plaques for free.
Kudos and thanks to the Walsh family for their generous gift to SR. Truly!👏👏👏
That said, Saddle River is a town that has no library nor any access to BCCLS. The town has funded (and taken off the tax rolls) several essentially useless “historic” building restorations with continuing maintenance that are seldom used, but no library. Where will the new low income students get library access? When/where will any Saddle River student and resident get library access? Another lawsuit coming?
OK to have a bridge across the Saddle River but it pretty much goes nowhere. From near a rear corner of the softball field, crossing the “river” and winding up in the parking lot behind the Fitz’s Fish Ponds business.