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The return of Johnson Park will have to wait for another weekend for Rutgers football fans.
The Scarlet Knights faithful are now 0-for-2 when it comes to tailgating at Johnson Park, a location right across from SHI Stadium that was announced to be re-opened to fans for this season. The lot, right across from River Road, had been closed to tailgating the last few years but was announced as returning for this year.
On Thursday, Rutgers announced that Johnson Park is closed for this Saturday’s game at SHI Stadium against Delaware. The athletic department, in a statement released via social media, did note that “Buses will still drop off and pick up at Johnson Park as part of their routes.”
Game day parking will not be available at Johnson Park Saturday for @RFootball‘s game versus Delaware. Fans are encouraged to arrive early to avoid congestion around SHI Stadium, as well as download their parking and tickets before leaving. https://t.co/maTUwtZN89
— Rutgers Scarlet Knights (@RUAthletics) September 16, 2021
No reason was given as to why Johnson Park will not be open for Rutgers second home game of the year.
Two weeks ago, Johnson Park was closed due to heavy flooding throughout the area when the remnants of Hurricane Ida hammered the surrounding area. River Road, near the stadium, was underwater. The season opener against Temple, scheduled for Thursday, September 2, was moved back to that Saturday to accommodate the clean-up from the flooding.
The park, given its proximity to the flooding, was not suitable for tailgating and the decision was wisely made to close the venue for the Temple game.
Johnson Park, given its proximity to the stadium, has been a popular tailgating venue for many years. Its return this year was celebrated by many fans although circumstances seem to be delaying a return to the location.