SOMERVILLE, NJ - It's not often that a “Thank You” letter crosses the desk of Mayor Brian Gallagher.
In over 20 years as an elected official, Gallagher has taken his fair share of complaints and nastygrams; the negatives far outweigh the positives.
That's why he took extra time to savor the stack of letters that were delivered to Borough Hall written by students at Van Derveer School and Somerville Middle School, thanking him and members of the Borough Council and other Somerville officials who spend their work day - and nights - serving the community.
Written in pencil, the “Thank You” letters were accompanied by a cover letter from the Somerville PreK-8 PTO.
It reads:
"Thank YOU!
This year, as a community service project initiated by Somerville NJ PreK-8 PTO, in honor of MLK Jr. National Day of Service, Somerville students at Van Derveer Elementary School and
Somerville Middle School (Pre-Kindergarten through 8 th Grade) wrote thank you notes to members serving our community… including you!
Enclosed, please find notes of appreciation for all you do, from the youngest members of the Somerville community."
Gallagher shared a few of the letters from his young admirers:
1. "Thank you for keeping our schools and community safe. Thank you for the movie nights and the parades on Main Street. I also love the parks and the tennis court, pickle ball court and the soccer fields. Thank you for keeping the supermarket (ShopRite) to keep families healthy."
2. "Mr. Mayor, I think you should either add a mall in Somerville or a Sephora near the YMCA park because there is a bunch of grass over there and while moms are looking the kids could go on the playground. Thank you."
3. "Dear Somerville Council Thank you for all that you do. Specifically, planting trees, funding police, fixing sidewalks and making our town better every day. Also, shout out to Officer Kyle, his smiles brighten our days."
4. "Dear Somerville Council, Thank you for all that you do. Specifically, making plans for things to be made and make better. You are very inspiring to learn from. You might be surprised that you have a letter saying thank you, but you deserve to be thanked for everything you do. I know that you work very hard to improve this community to make Somerville a more liveable community."
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SOMERVILLE, NJ - The project manager overseeing construction of the Somerville Public Safety complex on Gaston Avenue expects that hard hats and subcontractors will complete their work at the 46,000 square-foot facility by the end of June, at which time they will hand over the project to the Borough for installation of communications systems, furniture and other infrastructure.
The building will consolidate the borough's four fire companies and the police department under one roof, with additional room for the borough's first aid squad.
Colin Driver, the borough's Director of Economic Development, expects the facility could be operational by fall of this year.
Conner Clark, assistant project manager, project manager for general contractor Harvey Cleary of Bethesda, Md. said work has progressed on or ahead of schedule since crews began working on the site at the corner of Gaston Avenue and East Cliff Street in October, 2022.
The pace picked up in October and November as concrete blocks were cemented into place before steel beams the length of a flatbed truck were swung overhead by a crane and dropped into place.
Groundbreaking ceremonies were held in October, 2022.
Site work began a few weeks later. There were a few derelict buildings on the 1.77 acre site that were demolished, including a bank, pizzeria, ice cream stand and the Gaston Avenue Bakery,
The vision for the complex goes back 20 years, when forme Mayor David Hollod created the Somerville Emergency Service Facilities Committee.
All borough firefighting apparatus and its four fire companies are now stationed at three firehouses throughout the 2.5-square mile borough. Somerville Police headquarters are located in a makeshift facility at 24 So. Bridge St., according to Kevin Sluka, borough clerk/administrator.
The first floor of the building will include bays for the borough's four fire trucks and a secure entrance for the police department, which will be located on the second floor.
The borough has been working for over two years with FD Stonewater - a Virginia design and financing firm that specializes in government buildings - on specifications, design and cost.
Stonewater will finance the cost of the project, according to Driver.
Somerville expects to repay Stonewater with revenue it receives each year from PILOT funds - Payment in Lieu of Taxes - collected from developers and owners of multi-unit residences.
PILOT agreements between the borough and developers of several apartment complexes signed in recent years provide revenue for the town at a reduced rate for upwards of 20-25 years before converting to regular tax payments. Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital/Somerset also pays the borough $300,000 annually in lieu of taxes; as a non-profit entity, the hospital is tax-exempt.
The property was purchased by the borough in 2018 for $1.3 million, according to Sluka.
]]>New Jersey American Water to Start Annual Spring Cleaning
Water main flushing begins this month and continues through the fall
CAMDEN, N.J. – MARCH 5, 2024 – Beginning this week and into the fall months, New
Jersey American Water will perform the annual flushing of its water distribution system
to continue to provide customers with high-quality, reliable water service.
“Flushing our system is an important, routine process that helps us clean out any
mineral deposits or sediment that may have built up over time inside the pipes,” said
New Jersey American Water President Mark McDonough. “While we’re flushing, we
also take the opportunity to check our water pressure and fire flows in the system and
confirm our hydrants are operational.”
Flushing involves simultaneously opening fire hydrants in a specific area to create
increased water flows. This routine flushing program also includes flushing blowoff
valves on dead-end water mains throughout the system. While water mains are being
cleaned, customers may notice short periods of low water pressure or discolored water.
If customers experience temporary water discoloration, New Jersey American Water
recommends running the cold water until it is clear. The following steps are also
encouraged:
Sign up and opt-in for general alerts to be notified when flushing takes place.
Draw water for cooking prior to the flushing period.
Store a large bottle of water in the refrigerator for drinking.
Check for discolored water before using the washing machine or dishwasher.
If water pressure or water volume seems low after flushing has been completed,
check faucet screens for trapped particles.
“In addition to continuously investing in our infrastructure, essential maintenance
activities such as our hydrant flushing program are key to providing our customers with
high-quality drinking water, and it is an annual requirement of the Water Quality
Accountability Act,” McDonough added.
New Jersey American Water will notify customers when flushing takes place in their
area through its mass notification system and asks customers to take a few moments to
update their contact information and preferences in their MyWater account. Customers
must opt-in for general alerts to receive local flushing and other non-emergency
notifications via phone call, text or email. Individuals who are not New Jersey American
Water account holders but would like to receive alerts and notifications from the
company can also sign up by visiting awcodered.com or by texting WATER to 99411.
To learn more about New Jersey American Water’s 2024 hydrant flushing program, visit
the Alerts page at www.newjerseyamwater.com.
About New Jersey American Water
New Jersey American Water, a subsidiary of American Water (NYSE: AWK), is the
largest regulated water utility in the state, providing high-quality and reliable water
and/or wastewater services to approximately 2.9 million people. For more information,
visit www.newjerseyamwater.com and follow New Jersey American Water on
Facebook, X, Instagram and LinkedIn.
About American Water
American Water is the largest regulated water and wastewater utility company in the
United States. With a history dating back to 1886, We Keep Life Flowing® by providing
safe, clean, reliable and affordable drinking water and wastewater services to more than
14 million people with regulated operations in 14 states and on 18 military installations.
American Water’s 6,500 talented professionals leverage their significant expertise and
the company’s national size and scale to achieve excellent outcomes for the benefit of
customers, employees, investors and other stakeholders. For more information, visit
amwater.com and join American Water on LinkedIn, Facebook, X and Instagram.
###
Media Contact:
Erin Banes
SOMERVILLE, NJ - The Somerset County Regional Farmers Market has a new name and will be set up at a new location after eight years at Duke Farms in Hillsborough.
Many of the same vendors who were regulars at the Duke Farms Farmers' Market will be making the move to the new location at the Somerville Middle School. The Grand Opening scheduled for May 5/ The season will run every Sunday through Nov. 29, according to Jamie Kraska, chairman of the Somerville Alliance for Food Education.
SAFE is operating the farmers' market in conjunction with the Somerville Board of Education and the borough's Environmental Commission.
The SAFE Vendor Selection Committee has finalized the list of 32 farmers and other fresh food vendors; most are committed to selling each week, with a few coming every other week, according to Kraska. Hours are 10 a.m.-1 p.m. every Sunday.
All products to be sold at the market are from New Jersey, from vegetables, fruit and maple sugar to fresh meat, flowers and goat milk. Other products include pickles, olives, soups, wine, butters, jams and jelly, vinegar, pies snd more.
The farmers market will be located at the rear of the school, at the corner of West High Street and Davenport Street.
SAFE, which advocates healthy eating habits and nutrition, plans to feature as many theme weeks as possible, focusing on those vegetables and fruits that are in season, including blueberries, strawberries, peaches, apples, corn, beans, pumpkins and others.
]]>SOMERVILLE, NJ - It's time to get dirty for a good cause.
Volunteers are needed March 16 and March 23 tfrom 9-11 a.m. each of the two days to help dig up garden beds and move soil as the Somerville Community Garden undergoes a redesign that will expand the number of garden beds from 11 to 20, helping to meet increased demand, according to Rebecca Reitman, chair of the Green Team, which works with the borough's Environmental Commission.
"The want is there, and the will is there," she said.
Volunteers should be in good physical shape, as they will be asked to dig, lift and bend as part of their chores. Bring work gloves, wear a hat and sturdy shoes, and bring a shovel.
The Community Garden plot is behind the Somerville Fire Department building at the corner of East Main Street and Veterans Memorial Drive.
To help with the expansion and improvements, the Green Team has applied to the Somerset Hills Gardem Club for a $1,000 grant, according to Reitman.
"That won't cover everything, but it would be a good catalyst to get us going," she said.
Brendan Nally a retired Somerset County employee with an engineering background helped the Green Team assess the layout of the garden, and without expanding its footprint, almost doubled its capacity.
"The momentum is growing, and it's becoming what we hoped it to be and more," Reitman said. "Our goal is to have community gardens throughout town within the next two years."
Somerville residents are only eligible to apply for a garden plot. Information is available online at www.somervillenj.org/environmentalcommission.com or via email at environmentalcommission@somervillenj.org.
The Green Team expects to announce the names of those selected in a lottery to receive a plot in the garden by the end of April.
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SOMERVILLE, NJ - All are welcomed to St. John’s Episcopal Church for Holy Week and Easter services and activities. This year, Easter is celebrated on March 31.
St. John’s Episcopal Church, under the spiritual direction of the Rev. Canon Ronald Pollock, is located at 158 West High St. A ramp provides accessibility to all. Ample free parking is available in the church lot behind the church or on the street. St. John’s offers a special Looping Service for those with hearing challenges.
Online services are available on the St. John’s YouTube channel here: https://www.youtube.com/@st.johnsepiscopalchurch2063/streams
For more information contact 908-722-1250. www.stjohnsomerville.org
- Palm Sunday, March 24: Blessing and distribution of the palms at both the 8 am and 10:15 am Holy Eucharists. Music at 10:15 am. Online: 10:15 a.m. service;
- Monday, March 25: 7 p.m. Holy Eucharist;
- Tuesday, March 26: 7 p.m. Holy Eucharist;
- Wednesday, March 27: 7 p.m. Holy Eucharist;
- Maundy Thursday, March 28: 10 a.m. Holy Eucharist; 7 p.m. Holy Eucharist with feet washing and stripping of the altar;
- Good Friday, March 29: Noon: Liturgy of the Day with the Reception of Reserved Sacrament; 7 p.m. The Last Seven Words of Christ. The Parish Choir will sing music by Richard Farrant, Maurice Greene, John Stainer, and more on Good Friday evening;
- Holy Saturday, March 30: 7 p.m., the Great Easter Vigil;
- Easter Sunday, March 31: 8 a.m. and 10:15 a.m. Eucharists with celebratory music. The Festal Choral Eucharist will include a brass quartet and timpani, with music by Gwyneth Walker, Handel, and more. An Easter Egg Hunt will immediately follow the 10:15 am service on the front lawn of St. John’s. Online: 10:15 am service.
More information is availbe by calling St. John’s at 908-722-1250 or online at www.stjohnsomerville.org.
]]>BRIDGEWATER, NJ - The Somerset Patriots, the New York Yankees Double-A affiliate, will honor baseball legend and Hall of Famer Joe Torre at two games at TD Bank Ballpark during the 2024 season.
Torre will be appearing at the Tuesday, July 23 game to meet fans in an exclusive pre-game meet and greet on the Party Deck and sign pre-purchased autographs on the main concourse during the game. Torre will participate in an on-field Q&A session about his career and throw out a ceremonial first pitch before the 7:05 pm game versus the Portland Sea Dogs (Boston Red Sox). The game is presented by Somerset County Library System.
Tickets for the meet and greet event are $250 and includes a picture with Torre and one autographed item per person. In addition, the meet and greet includes the ticket to the game on the Party Deck featuring an all-you-can-eat buffet with fountain drinks included. A cash bar will also be available for participants.
Autograph tickets on the concourse are $50 and will be available for purchase in the coming weeks. A portion of the sales for the meet and greet and autograph tickets will benefit the Joe Torre Safe At Home Foundation. Founded in 2002 by Ali and Joe Torre, Safe At Home provides services in schools to children exposed to violence in order to help them heal from trauma. Their mission is to educate to end the cycle of domestic violence and save lives.
On Wednesday, August 28, the first 1,000 fans attending the 7:05 pm game against the Reading Fightin Phils (Philadelphia Phillies) will receive a Joe Torre Bobblehead Doll courtesy of Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey. The Patriots will celebrate Torre’s career and raise money at the event for the Safe At Home Foundation.
“I am looking forward to being out at the ballpark and working with the Somerset Patriots this season,” said Torre. “The team and the Kalafer family have always done such a tremendous job and they’ve taken it to the next level since becoming the Yankees Double-A affiliate. I’m excited to take part in these special events to meet some great fans while raising money for Safe At Home.”
Torre’s illustrious baseball career includes being the only major leaguer to achieve 2,000 hits as a player and 2,000 wins as a manager. After a playing career that included nine All-Star appearances and the National League MVP Award in 1971, Torre embarked on a managerial career that spanned 29 seasons and his 2,326 wins as a manager are fifth all-time in MLB history.
From 1996 to 2007, Torre guided the New York Yankees to four World Series Championships (1996,1998-2000), six American League pennants and appeared in the playoffs every season at the helm. In 1996 and 1998, he was named the AL Manager of the Year.
Torre was elected to the National Baseball Hall of Fame in 2014. He currently serves as a special assistant to the Commissioner of Baseball after previously holding the position of MLB’s Chief Baseball Officer from 2011 to 2020.
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BRIDGEWATER, NJ - The Somerset Patriots front office staff is headed to the New York Yankees Spring Training complex in Tampa, Fla. March 14-18 to get a first-hand look at their top prospects.
Many of the players will break camp and head north to play for the New Jersey AA team, including outfielder Spencer Jones, who had been turning heads with his all-around play for several weeks before he was sent off to the minor league camp a few weeks ago for more seasoning.
Jones, the Yankees' No. 2 prospect, had six hits in 13 at-bats with a home run and four RBI.
Prior to their departure for Florida, the Patriots reached out to Operation Shoebox New Jersey to expand the non-profit organization's participation in events at TD Bank Ballpark.
Operation Shoebox New Jersey, an all-volunteer 501C3 non-profit corporation founded in 2005, ships personal care packages to US troops deployed around the world.
OPSHBX NJ received the following letter this week:
"I want to say thank you again for supporting the Soldiers of 2ABCT 3ID in Poland. Even though we have been away for six months your organization has not forgotten us. Our soldiers appreciate your generosity.
Major Brady Frederick, Chaplain, 2ABCT 3ID, Zagan Poland
OPSHBX NJ will again sponsor the Independence Day fireworks show on July 3 in conjunction with the auction of game-worn uniforms.
Fans will also have the opportunity to assemble care packages at the ballpark with Patriot players and coaches prior to the Aug. 10 game.
Finally, OPSHBX NJ volunteers will be at the ballpark Sunday, May 19th for the Veterans of America Day celebration collecting donations for its care packages.
Operation Shoebox New Jersey has scheduled closed packing events at Mount St. Mary Academy, Watchung, in April; the Somerville Middle School wrestling team in June, and the Clinton Schools in Hunterdon County, also in June.
Opening Day for the Patriots 2024 season is on April 5 against the Richmond Flying Squirrels, AA affiliate of the San Francisco Giants.
EDITOR'S NOTE: Rod Hirsch, founder and executive director of Operation Shoebox New Jersey, is the owner and publisher of TAPinto Somerville and TAPinto Hillsborough.
]]>SOMERVILLE, NJ - Construction is more than 75 percent complete on Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital/Somerset’s 76,000-square-foot vertical expansion project, the most significant construction project on the hospital’s campus since 2007.
The two-story addition will include its Orthopedic Center of Excellence, a 35-bed inpatient unit featuring all-private rooms and a rehabilitation gym. It will also house a 10-room Rapid Decision Unit for Emergency Department patients who require additional observation.
About 100 hospital community supporters, donors, physicians and employees got a sneak peek
at the progress on the project during a recent hard hat tour and open house coordinated by
Somerset Health Care Foundation, the hospital’s fundraising arm.
“This expansion will transform the care that we are able to provide to our patients,” said Patrick
Delaney, chief administrative officer, RWJUH/Somerset. “Moving our orthopedic unit to this new
facility will enable us to make more of our patient rooms throughout the hospital private, which
will enhance patient satisfaction and promote healing. The Rapid Decision Unit will help reduce
wait times in our Emergency Department and offer greater comfort for our patients and their
families.”
Construction began on the vertical expansion with the raising of the first steel beam in
December 2022. The final steel beam for the framework of the structure was raised in February
2023. The structure is now fully enclosed as work continues on the interior. A bridge connecting
the new pavilion to the main hospital building is also two-thirds complete. Construction work is
expected to finish this fall and the facility will open to patients by early 2025.
“We are extremely grateful for the continued support of our community which enables us to
provide the latest medical technologies and advanced treatments in state-of-the-art facilities
such as this,” said Donna Castronovo, vice president, Somerset Health Care Foundation.
“Together, we are making a difference in the health of Somerset County.”
For more information about RWJUH/Somerset, visit www.rwjbh.org/somerset.
About Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital/Somerset
Located in Somerville, Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital/Somerset, an
RWJBarnabas Health facility, is a nationally accredited, 339-bed regional hospital providing
comprehensive emergency, medical/surgical, behavioral health and rehabilitative services to
central New Jersey residents.
As a designated teaching hospital of Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, the hospital maintains a family medicine residency program with 21 residents.
RWJUH/Somerset has earned significant national recognition for clinical quality and patient
safety including the prestigious Magnet® Award for Nursing Excellence. As the first hospital in
New Jersey to offer primary health care services for the LGBTQIA community, RWJUH/Somerset has been honored as a Leader in LGBT Healthcare Equality by the Human Rights
Campaign.
The Steeplechase Cancer Center at RWJUH/Somerset has been designated as a Comprehensive Community Cancer Center by the American College of Surgeons’ Commission on Cancer. RWJBarnabas Health and RWJUH/Somerset in partnership with Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey - the state's only NCI-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center - bring a world class team of researchers and specialists to fight alongside you, providing close-to-home access to the latest treatment and clinical trials.
Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital/Somerset is a TAPinto marketing partner
SOMERVILLE, NJ - Thousands of spectators lined Main Street for the borough's 31st annual St. Patrick's Parade. led by Grand Marshal Leigh McLachlan. Mayor Brian Gallagher and members of the Borough Council.
The line of march included several pipe and drum bands, the Somerville High School marching band and Immaculata High School marching band, young Irish step dancers, Irish-American civic groups, Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts and other civic and fraternal organizations, the Somerset County Sheriffs Office Color Guard accompanied by K9s, Somerville firefighters and veterans.
See the accompanying photo gallery contributed by Somerville resident Mary Ellen Day.
]]>Somerville, NJ - The Downtown Somerville Alliance is accepting proposals for its 2024 Clean and Safe Program, with a March 15 deadline for submissions.
This contract is to be considered a two-year commitment, aimed at maintaining and enhancing the cleanliness and safety of Downtown Somerville.
The DSA Clean & Safe program is a dedicated team comprising maintenance ambassadors, safety ambassadors, beautification experts, and support staff. These individuals work tirelessly to ensure that Downtown Somerville remains a welcoming and secure environment for residents, visitors, and businesses alike.
"We are inviting qualified individuals and organizations to submit their proposals for the 2024 Clean and Safe Program," said Natalie Pineiro, Downtown Managing Consultant of the Downtown Somerville Alliance. "We are seeking innovative ideas and proven strategies to continue our mission of making Downtown cleaner and safer for everyone."
Proposals will be accepted through March 15, 2024. Interested parties are encouraged to review the Request for Proposals (RFP) document, which outlines the scope of work, requirements, and evaluation criteria. The RFP document can be accessed on the Downtown Somerville Alliance website or by contacting the DSA office directly.
"We recognize the importance of maintaining a clean and safe environment in our vibrant downtown district," Pineiro said. "The Clean and Safe Program plays a crucial role in preserving the charm and vitality of Downtown Somerville, and we look forward to reviewing proposals from qualified candidates."
The DSA Clean & Safe program has been instrumental in fostering a sense of community pride and enhancing the overall experience for residents, visitors, and businesses in Downtown Somerville. Through initiatives such as street cleaning, graffiti removal, safety patrols, and beautification projects, the program continues to make a positive impact on the local community.
For more information about the 2024 Clean and Safe Program or to submit a proposal, please visit the Downtown Somerville Alliance website at https://bit.ly/DSACleanSafe or contact the DSA office at downtownsomervillealliance@gmail.com.
About the Downtown Somerville Alliance
The Downtown Somerville Alliance is a 501(c)(3) charitable corporation. They are the District Management Corporation for Downtown Somerville, NJ - one of New Jersey's premiere downtowns. The district has become known for its colorful dining scene, flourishing retail, and up-and-coming arts and culture scene.
The DSA promotes balanced and progressive economic development and leverages the art of creating experiences that continue to bring a new and diverse population to Somerville. The DSA oversees infrastructure and beautification projects and work with historians and environmentalists alike to maintain and promote the historic charm that is unique to the district.
Visit them online at DowntownSomerville.com or follow them on social media @DowntownSomerville (instagram) and @DowntownSomervilleAlliance (Facebook).
The Downtown Somerville Alliance is a TAPinto marketing partner
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SOMERVILLE, NJ - The 31st annual St. Patrick's Parade on Main Street begins at 1:30 p.m. Sunday, March 10, with several dozen marching bands highlighting the line of march in one of the largest St. Patrick's celebrations in New Jersey.
Parade organizers expect a crowd of 15,000 to line Main Street.
Over 200 groups will march in the parade, which begins on East Main Street and heads west down Main Street to Borough Hall. The Immaculata High School Marching Band and Color Guard, along with the Somerville High School Marching Band and Color Guard, Girl Scouts and Boy Scouts, and a variety of civic groups will march in the parade; eight pipe and drum units are also included.
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WASHINGTON - The House of Representatives on Wednesday approved $21,815,414 with passage of the bipartisan Consolidated Appropriations Act that will bring nearly $22,000,000 in Community Project Funding to New Jersey’s 7th Congressional District, including $3,794,414 for renovations at the Somerville YMCA.
"We are funding vital community projects that are going to make a very positive difference in people’s lives," said Rep. Tom Kean, Jr., R-7th. I urge the US Senate to swiftly pass this legislation and get it on the President’s desk."
Kean had toured the Somerville YMCA in July, 2023 and heard first-hand how the facility plans to spend almost $3.8M in federal funds to expand and build classrooms to help ease a space crunch in local schools.
David M. Carcieri, president and CEO of the Greater Somerset YMCA, and Kelly Castro, senior vice president and chief Philanthropy Officer, met Kean and detailed how the facility, built in 1960 and since expanded, will be renovated once the $3,794,414 in funding is secured; the federal money will cover more than two-thirds of the estimated $5M renovation, which will reconfigure much of the existing facilities, according to Carcieri.
Carcieri and Castro told Kean that school officials in Somerville and Manville have reached out to the YMCA to help secure additional classroom space. Carcieri said the expansion plans include space for six classrooms, compliant with NJ Department of Education standards; each classroom would have a capacity of 15 students.
Kean announced last June that 13 Community Project Funding requests made by his office totaling over $24 million were included in key House funding bills for the upcoming fiscal year. All six counties in New Jersey’s Seventh Congressional District are represented.
“I have made it a priority to get more money back from Washington, DC that can go to work for New Jerseyans,” Kean said. “More than $24 million in funding will ensure that vital local projects receive the support they need and advocated for. From enhancing our infrastructure to improving public safety and more, this funding will make great strides in addressing the unique needs of our communities and make a real difference in people’s lives.”
Community Project Funding is a process that allows members of Congress to request direct funding for projects that benefit the communities they represent. Each member may submit up to 15 projects. This process includes robust eligibility, ethics, and transparency guidelines and is only available to state, local, tribal, and territorial governments, as well as some non-profits.
Additionally, only projects with evidence of strong support from the community were considered by the House Appropriations Committee, and evidence of this support and community need is required as part of the submission.
In April Kean's office submitted 15 Community Project Funding requests to the House Appropriations Committee for consideration in five of this year’s must-pass funding bills. The next step is for these bills to pass the House.
Other projects in Somerset County in line for funding include:
- Bridgewater, $4M for the rehabilitation of the Camp Cromwell facility. The project will repair the roads, paths, and vegetation. Additionally, new lights will be installed along the main causeways to ensure safe travels. Finally, buildings will be repaired, such as a small welcome center, dining hall facility, and recreation building.
- Raritan, $2,275,000 to renovate the existing municipal building on First Street to be utilized solely by the Borough Police Department and Court System. The current building has reached its useable lifespan and as a shared building and requires renovations to meet current Department of Justice standards and police department standards. The improvements will include an overhaul of an existing elevator system, HVAC replacement, window replacement, ADA barrier free space, sally port, holding cells, evidence rooms and court facilities and community policing outreach space.
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SOMERVILLE, NJ - Jason Kraska, who coordinates the annual volunteer clean-up of the borough's streets, parks and neighborhoods was somewhat pessimistic that the volunteers who had signed up for last Sunday's clean-up would be discouraged by the forecast for rain, saying as much in an email that he sent to those who had signed up the day before the event.
He need not have been worried, as 60 adults and children bundled up in foul weather gear fanned out mid-morning to gather trash throughout the 2.5-square-mile borough for two hours.
A representative from each of the volunteer teams will meet with Kraska at Exchange Field to pick up disposable gloves and heavy-duty trash bags for members of the individual groups.
The borough's Department of Public Works "Green Team" provided the bags and gloves, according to Kraska, who heads the borough's Office of Emergency Management. He is a former member of the Borough Council and member of the borough's Recreation Commission.
Kraska and a crew from the DPW circulated through the clean-up zones to pick up trash, which was transported to the DPW yard on South Fifth Street for disposal.
The designated clean-up areas included:
- Carol Pager Park;
- Lepp Park/Firehouse Field;
- Chambres Park;
- Walnut Park;
- Veterans Memorial Drive along the NJ TRANSIT railroad tracks;
- South Bridge Street, Second and Third streets;;
-- West End Avenue and Somerset Street.
In addition to individuals, families, neighbors and Scout troops, Kraska singled out volunteers from the Somerville chapter of Maeve - Motherhood | Alliance | Equity | Village | Empowerment; Mayor Brian Gallagher, Borough Council member Gina Stravic and members of the Environmental Commission for their help.
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GREEN BROOK, NJ - More than 250 bowlers were on hand for the Somerville Elks 2024 Bowling fundraiser for Jack's Kids at the Bowlero lanes on Route 22 last weekend.
Young and old, exhibiting polished and not-so-skilled ball handling, they took aim and knocked down pins for three hours; each bowler paid $50 for three hours of bowling, pizza and soft drinks.
Now in its 13th year, the annual event is the primary fundraiser for Jack's Kids, according to Hank Werner, chairman.
The Jack’s Kids organization is committed to making a difference in the lives of families dealing with serious childhood illnesses and/or disabilities.
Money was also raised through lane sponsors, individual bowler sponsorships, and a tricky tray raffle.
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SOMERVILLE, NJ - You'll need more than the legendary Luck o' the Irish to find a parking space in downtown Somerville on Sunday, March 10, when thousands of spectators and parade participants are expected to jam Main Street for the 31st annual St. Patrick's Day Parade.
The parade begins at 1:30 p.m. on East Main Street at the intersection of Grove Street in front of the Somerset Hotel and will proceed westbound through downtown Somerville and bear right at the Borough Hall flag poles on West Avenue, concluding near the Church of the Immaculate Conception.
Expect limited parking and traffic detours, as noted below.
There will be no parking from 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. on:
- East Main Street, between Grove Street and Veterans Memorial Drive East;
- Park Avenue;
- Mechanic Street;
- Meadow Street;
- Hamilton Street.
From 11:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. there will be no parking on:
- East Main Street, from Grove Street to Bridge Street;
- West Main Street, from Bridge to West End Avenue;
West End Avenue to Mountain Avenue.
Detours
You will find road closures and detour signs at:
- West End Avenue, at the Mountain Avenue intersection;
- Somerset Street, between Mountain Avenue and Urban Drive;
- East Main Street and Park Avenue.
Parking will be available at county parking decks on Veterans Memorial Drive and at the county government complex off High Street and parking decks at the Edge II apartments on West Main Street, accessible from Veterans Memorial Drive, and at the Avalon Apartments parking deck off Paul Robeson Avenue in the Somerville Station complex along the NJTRANSIT Raritan Valley line.
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SOMERVILLE, NJ - The Borough Council Monday night by unanimous vote rescinded the redevelopment agreements for two properties on South Bridge Street approved in July 2020, which will require the owners to resubmit their plans for a high-end steakhouse and five-story apartment building across the street from police headquarters.
"Both parties are in default of certain conditions," said Colin Driver, the borough's director of Economic Development. "We're back to square one," he added. "When they're ready to move forward, they'll have to come to us again and renegotiate their agreements."
Jack Cust. Jr., a former Major League baseball player and graduate of Immaculata High School, has proposed building a three-story steakhouse and food emporium at the corner of South Bridge Street and East Main Street. Existing businesses, including Minuteman Press and Sunrise Diner, would be demolished along with other storefronts along South Bridge Street, most of which have been closed for more than a year.
Cust has described his vision for the steakhouse as similar to The Oak steakhouse in Easton, Pa., located next to the Easton Public Market and an integral part of that city's downtown revitalization.
The kitchen would be on the second story of the building, with bars and dining on the second and third floors with open areas overlooking a food hall on the first floor.
The third story would offer rooftop dining with a retractable roof.
Further south of Cust's property, Somerville Multi-Family LLC had proposed a five-story apartment building that would be built on five lots between 23 and 37 South Bridge Street. Existing structures, some vacant, some containing rental units, would have to be demolished, including the former Lip's Lounge tavern.
The conceptual plan calls for a parking deck on the first two floors with 26 one-bedroom apartments and 35 two-bedroom apartments on the upper three floors.
Several variances would be required - lot size, lot depth, parking spaces (62 proposed when 117 are required) and sidewalk width (6.5 feet proposed; 8 feet is required).
The principal in Somerville Multi-Family LLC is Sudhakar Perkiari, the owner of Path Liquors on West Main Street.
Both developers own their respective properties.
"They've not done anything," Driver said. "They haven't applied for demolition or construction permits, and they haven't maintained the buildings. We entered into an agreement that included conditions and timelines. Members of the Borough Council over the past 12 months have been very vocal about the appearance of the properties.
"I called them last week and explained the situation," he added, saying that neither owner gave any indication as to their near- or long-term plans.
"I agree with the council," Driver added. "You can't have people sitting on properties when we've given them the ability to do something good."
Driver conceded that the increase in interest rates has affected developers' plans for building across New Jersey.
The resolutions approved by the Borough Council:
RESOLUTION 24-0304-083 REQUESTING TO HOLD REDEVELOPER IN DEFAULT OF THE REDEVELOPMENT AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE BOROUGH OF SOMERVILLE AND SPARTAN, URBAN RENEWAL LLC FOR NOT COMPLETING CERTAIN TASKS IN EXHIBIT 1 OF THE REDEVELOPMENT AGREEMENT TITLED REDEVELOPMENT PROJECT SCHEDULE:
WHEREAS, On July 6, 2020, the Borough of Somerville designated Oak Somerville, LLC, as conditional redeveloper of Tax Block 62, Lot 1(the property); and
WHEREAS, Spartan, Urban Renewal LLC, (the developer) was created as the redevelopment entity for this project and properties; and
WHEREAS, the Borough entered into a Redevelopment Agreement (RDA) with Spartan, Urban Renewal LLC to redevelop the property located in the East Central Business District Redevelopment Area, located at 2 - 10 East Main Street; and
WHEREAS, the borough has determined that the developer is in default of the redevelopment agreement for not completing certain tasks on time as stated in exhibit 1 or the redevelopment agreement; and
WHEREAS, the RDA states in section 13.01 (a) On or before twelve (12) months from the Effective Date, the Redeveloper has not received the Governmental Approvals necessary to Commence Construction of the Project Improvements; (b) On or before twelve (12) months from the Effective Date, the Redeveloper has not Commenced Construction on the Project Improvements; and
WHEREAS, the developer has not received the governmental approvals necessary, nor has it requested amendments to the redevelopment schedule or the timing of the project nor commenced construction on the improvements.
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, the Borough of Somerville finds the developer in default of their redevelopment agreement. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, The Borough will consider the redevelopment agreement terminated if the redeveloper fails to cure its default within 30 days.
RESOLUTION 24-0304-084 REQUESTING TO HOLD REDEVELOPER IN DEFAULT OF THE REDEVELOPMENT AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE BOROUGH OF SOMERVILLE AND SOMERVILLE MULTI FAMILY, URBAN RENEWAL LLC FOR NOT COMPLETING CERTAIN TASKS IN EXHIBIT 1 OF THE REDEVELOPMENT AGREEMENT TITLED REDEVELOPMENT PROJECT SCHEDULE
WHEREAS, On July 6, 2020, the Borough of Somerville designated Somerville Mult Family, LLC, as conditional redeveloper of Tax Block 62, Lots 2, 3, 4 and 5 (the properties); and
WHEREAS, Somerville Mult Family, Urban Renewal LLC, (the developer) was created as the redevelopment entity for this project and properties; and
WHEREAS, the Borough entered into a Redevelopment Agreement (RDA) with Somerville Mult Family, Urban Renewal LLC to redevelop the property located in the East Central Business District Redevelopment Area, located at 23 - 37 South Bridge Street; and
WHEREAS, the borough has found that the developer is in default of the redevelopment agreement for not completing certain tasks on time as stated in exhibit 1 or the redevelopment agreement; and
WHEREAS, the RDA states in section 13.01 (a) On or before twelve (12) months from the Effective Date, the Redeveloper has not received the Governmental Approvals necessary to Commence Construction of the Project Improvements; (b) On or before twelve (12) months from the Effective Date, the Redeveloper has not Commenced Construction on the Project Improvements; and
WHEREAS, the developer has not received the governmental approvals necessary, nor has it requested amendments to the redevelopment schedule or the timing of the project, nor commenced construction on the improvements.
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, the Borough of Somerville finds the developer in default of their redevelopment agreement. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, the Borough will consider the redevelopment agreement terminated if the redeveloper fails to cure its default within 30 days.
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