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

The renovation and rededication 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 emphasized the park's historical significance to the city and the global Dianetics movement, which began locally when the book launched in 1950. Dianetics: The Modern Science of Mental Health remains the all-time bestselling book on the human mind, with over 20 million copies sold in over 50 languages. It first gained prominence from its unprecedented 28-week run on the New York Times Best Seller List shortly after its release on May 9, 1950.

The renovation project was a collaborative effort involving the L. Ron Hubbard Foundation, city departments, and local organizations. The foundation sponsored the replacement of the worn park front, the installation of new pavers, and the 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, including additional plantings and walking paths, are still planned.

During the ceremony, Mayor J. Christian Bollwage commended the work done and emphasized the value of community engagement. Jennifer Costa, President and CEO of the Greater Elizabeth Chamber of Commerce, noted the park's role as a global destination meeting point. She stated that the dedication was about looking forward to the future, inspiring residents and travelers to pause, reflect, and choose actions that uplift the community. Rev. Massimo Parrino of the L. Ron Hubbard Foundation described the renovation as a start of a project to renew the park further, celebrating the power of community, the spirit of service, and the belief that collaborative efforts can improve the world.

The event concluded with an official ribbon-cutting led by Mayor Bollwage, Costa, members of the Elizabeth City Council, and the L. Ron Hubbard Foundation. The L. Ron Hubbard Foundation is a nonprofit public benefit organization that preserves the historical record of L. Ron Hubbard's research into the human mind and spirit. More information about the foundation and its work can be found at https://www.lronhubbard.org. This renovation underscores the enduring legacy of Dianetics, which originated in Elizabeth and has since influenced millions worldwide, while reinforcing the importance of local landmarks in fostering community pride and international recognition.