City officials and community leaders gathered in Elizabeth, New Jersey, on December 5, 2025, to celebrate the rededication of L. Ron Hubbard Park, marking the 75th anniversary of the publication of Dianetics: The Modern Science of Mental Health. The park, located at the corner of North Broad Street and Salem Avenue, underwent significant renovations sponsored by the L. Ron Hubbard Foundation, with support from the City of Elizabeth and Groundwork Elizabeth.
The City of Elizabeth, known as a city of firsts, holds a unique place in the history of Dianetics. The book, published on May 9, 1950, spent 28 weeks on the New York Times Best Seller List and quickly went to reprint. L. Ron Hubbard opened the first Dianetics Foundation in his home on Aberdeen Road in Elizabeth, drawing crowds from across the country. Today, Dianetics remains the all-time bestselling book on the human mind, with over 20 million copies sold in more than 50 languages across 206 nations.
Renovations to the park included replacing the worn park front, installing new pavers, and restoring the sixteen-foot-tall clock and plaque that have been a city landmark for 25 years. Groundwork Elizabeth contributed by planting new rosebushes and azaleas, while the city planted new trees for long-term environmental benefits.
During the event, Mayor J. Christian Bollwage commended the work and the value of community engagement. Jennifer Costa, President and CEO of the Greater Elizabeth Chamber of Commerce, noted, "This park and the historic clock behind us serves as more than just a landmark. They truly have become a global destination meeting point." She added, "Today is not just a moment we honor the past but it's about looking forward to the future."
Rev. Massimo Parrino of the L. Ron Hubbard Foundation described the renovations as "just the start of a project to renew the park once more." He emphasized the collaborative effort, stating, "Working together with the City of Elizabeth, great organizations such as Groundwork Elizabeth, many wonderful friends and neighbors – we not only commemorate the history of this park, but celebrate its renovation and what it represents: the power of community, the spirit of service, and the enduring belief that we can make the world around us better through care, commitment, and cooperation."
The celebration concluded with an official ribbon cutting led by Mayor Bollwage, Ms. Costa, members of the Elizabeth City Council, and representatives from the L. Ron Hubbard Foundation. Further improvements are planned, including additional plantings and walking paths.
For more information about the L. Ron Hubbard Foundation, visit https://www.lronhubbard.org.
