Elizabeth Celebrates L. Ron Hubbard Park Renovation and 75th Anniversary of Dianetics

The renovation of L. Ron Hubbard Park in Elizabeth, New Jersey, was celebrated by city officials, community leaders, and residents, marking the 75th anniversary of the publication of Dianetics: The Modern Science of Mental Health. The event highlighted the park's historical significance as the birthplace of the global Dianetics movement, which began when the book achieved an unprecedented 28-week run on the New York Times Best Seller List shortly after its release on May 9, 1950. Today, the book remains the all-time bestselling work on the human mind, with over 20 million copies sold in more than 50 languages across 206 nations.

The park improvements resulted from a collaborative effort involving the L. Ron Hubbard Foundation, city departments, and community organizations. The foundation sponsored the replacement of the worn park front, installation of new pavers, and restoration of the sixteen-foot-tall clock and plaque that have served as a city landmark for 25 years. Groundwork Elizabeth contributed by planting new rosebushes and azaleas, while the City of Elizabeth planted new trees to provide long-term environmental and community benefits. Further improvements are planned, including additional plantings and walking paths.

During the celebration, Mayor J. Christian Bollwage commended the work completed and emphasized the value of community engagement. Jennifer Costa, President and CEO of the Greater Elizabeth Chamber of Commerce, noted that the park and historic clock have become a global destination meeting point, serving to inspire both residents and travelers to reflect and choose actions that uplift the community. The L. Ron Hubbard Foundation, a nonprofit public benefit organization that preserves and presents the accurate historical record of L. Ron Hubbard's research, views the renovation as part of a broader mission to address social and scientific challenges and uplift cultures of all backgrounds.

Rev. Massimo Parrino of the L. Ron Hubbard Foundation stated that the renovation represents more than just physical improvements, symbolizing the power of community, the spirit of service, and the belief that collective care and cooperation can improve the world. The event concluded with an official ribbon-cutting ceremony led by Mayor Bollwage, Ms. Costa, members of the Elizabeth City Council, and foundation representatives. The celebration underscores Elizabeth's legacy as a city of firsts, now enhanced by a renewed public space that honors both local history and ongoing community collaboration.