Brick Mayor Recognized with Public Service Award for Park Services

Mayor John G. Ducey was named the recipient of the New Jersey Recreation and Parks Association’s Public Service Award. Mayor Ducey received the award at the NJRPA’s Annual Conference in Atlantic City on March 6.

“I am honored to have been chose recipient of this award. I thank the New Jersey Recreation and Parks Association for both this recognition and the work that the entire organization does to better our communities through recreation­,” said Mayor Ducey. “I would also like to thank the staff of Brick Township, particularly our Recreation Department. While my name is on this award, I humbly share it with the people who work every day to keep our Recreation programs and facilities running for the residents of our community.”

Mayor Ducey was nominated for the award by Brick Township Recreation Director Daniel Santaniello.

Mayor Ducey’s nomination highlighted his commitment to improving the quality of life through the provision of excellent recreational facilities, events and programs. These efforts include the renovation of Herbertsville (formerly Colorado) Park, Lake Riviera Park, Angela Hibbard Park and Hank Waltonowski Park, the construction of new playgrounds at Windward Beach Park, the creation of Brick Township’s first dog parks, the renovation of the Forge Pond Tennis Courts, the construction of the town’s first dedicated pickleball courts, the enhancements to the SummerFest series, the creation of the FallFest event and the creation of the township’s first teen center, Lounge 270.

“I can’t think of anyone who deserves this award more than Mayor Ducey. He has a great appreciation for the importance of Recreation and has been a great supporter of our Department and has given us the resources we need to make Brick Township better,” said Mr. Santaniello who has served as Director since 2014 and has been a part of the Recreation Department since 1992. “Mayor Ducey always has an open door and an open mind for our suggestions and requests and I can’t understate how important that is.”

Mayor Ducey and the Council will continue their Parks Improvement Program with the renovations of the Bernard Cooke and Bayside Parks which will be followed by the improvement of Cedar Bridge Manor Park.

The NJRPA Public Service Award is given to elected or appointed individuals at any level of government serving at time of nomination and has provided dedicated service for at least three years on behalf of area residents in the interest of parks, recreation, conservation or leisure activities.

The New Jersey Recreation and Park Association (NJRPA) is dedicated to enhancing the lives of all New Jersey residents by supporting outstanding park, recreation, and natural resources management programs. Since 1928, the efforts initiated by NJRPA and its membership have resulted in tangible benefits for communities throughout the state.