Neighborhood Preservation Program (NPP)

What is the Gateway District?

The Hawthorne Gateway District is a vibrant mixed-use neighborhood featuring shops, homes, public spaces, and key facilities such as the municipal building, library, and NJ Transit station.

Together with Mayor John V. Lane, the NPP Stakeholders are committed to revitalizing the Hawthorne Gateway-transforming it into a more walkable, welcoming, and prosperous community.

Join us in reimagining the Gateway, where community spirit drives economic renewal and every storefront tells a story of resilience and growth.

Where is the Gateway District?

Our Gateway District begins at Wagaraw Road, at the south corner of the Hawthorne Memorial Pool and Recreation Complex, and stretches up past Lincoln Street. It includes

• Lafayette Avenue up to Vreeland Avenue
• Diamond Bridge Avenue, from May Street to Forest Avenue.

Notable Landmarks:

• The 8-Acre Woods,
• The Boro Bandshell
• The Louis Bay Library and surrounding grounds
• Open spaces that connect the district

📍 See our Gateway District Map for a detailed view

Accomplishments in Years 1 through 3

Hawthorne Memorial Pool & Recreation Complex

• Major facelift for the grounds
• A mural was painted on the outside pool wall. Although it was unfortunately damaged by chlorine seepage, it still stands as a symbol of our creative spirit! 🎨💦

Bandshell Area

• New benches were added to enhance the bandshell area.
• A favorite gathering spot for music and community vibes. 🎶

Library Outdoor Plaza

• Upgraded with new walkways, benches, and tables
• Brought to life with the launch of a Downtown Music Series featuring live music.

8-Acre Woods

• Improved access and usability
• A natural retreat for families and nature lovers

The Downtown Music Series

• Launched in Year 3
• Live music, great food and community spirit
• Returning this fall- don't miss out on the fun with family, friends, and neighbors! 🍔🎵

The Borough Bandshell Summer Series

• Supported by our local merchants, residents, and NPP
• The heart and soul of the summer season.

Year 4 - We're Taking It Up a Notch!

This is just the beginning - we are creating a more vibrant, connected, and beautiful Gateway District. With continued support from Mayor John V. Lane and our incredible community, we're heading into Year 4 with big dreams-and even bigger plans.

Let's keep making Hawthorne a place we're proud to call home!

View the Implementation Plan for Year 4 (PDF).

Signage & Façade Program Expansion

• We're going BIG in Year 4.
• Expand beyond downtown to revamp even more storefronts throughout the Gateway District
• Our goal: 5-6 new businesses revitalized
• Building a standout Main Street destination.

Seasonal Beautification

• Seasonal plants, lights, and decorative touches: bringing vibrant energy to the Gateway District.
• In partnership with our local greenhouses, the area will truly shine.
• A new Streetscape grant will extend decorative street lighting along Lafayette Avenue🌸🌷

Community Engagement

• The Downtown Music Series kicks off on September 6^th. 🍂🍕
• Continued partnering with local eateries to create an even more dynamic community- driven events!

Recreation, Reimagined

• Exploring fun outdoor activities such as cornhole, ping- pong, and chess
• Bringing new energy to public spaces and keeping residents of all ages engaged and active. 🏓