Garwood Planning Board Advances South Avenue Land Swap

Overview: The Garwood Planning Board’s recent meeting on December 21, 2023, resulted in advancements for two land swap applications presented by Russo Development on behalf of South Avenue Urban Renewal LLC and South Avenue Urban Renewal II LLC. These applications, aimed at reshaping the local urban landscape, were part of a larger discussion on various civic improvements, including the review of a new stormwater ordinance and a development assistance package.

Garwood Council Addresses Community Concerns, Honors Local Heroes

Overview: The Garwood Borough Council recently convened to tackle a variety of community concerns, from public safety to local infrastructure. In a recent session, council honored police officers and a dispatcher for saving a resident’s life. The meeting also involved discussions on implementing a new system for crossing guards, aimed at increasing efficiency and allowing police officers to focus on their primary law enforcement duties. Moreover, the council addressed residents’ concerns regarding parking regulations, noise complaints, and traffic safety.

Union County Honors Heroic Sergeant for Saving Lives from Bus Fire

Overview: In a recent Union County Board of County Commissioners meeting, the most significant event was the honoring of Sergeant Jorge Vasquez of the Union County Sheriff’s Office for his heroic actions in saving eight children and a bus driver from a burning school bus. On May 14, 2024, in Sayreville, New Jersey, Sergeant Vasquez’s quick response and bravery ensured the safety of all passengers moments before the vehicle was engulfed in flames. The Commissioners presented a resolution commending Sergeant Vasquez, who is not only a dedicated public servant but also a Navy veteran.

Union County Residents Divided Over Clark Reservoir Park Plans

Overview: During a recent Union County Board of Commissioners meeting, community members expressed marked divisions over the proposed plan for the Clark Reservoir. The proposed development by the Middlesex Water Company, including the dredging of the reservoir, the construction of a walkway, and a recreational train, was met with both support and strong opposition from residents. Concerns centered on the potential ecological impact, resident privacy, safety, noise pollution, and effects on property values. Furthermore, a demoted sergeant at the jail raised the issue of correction officers’ layoffs, emphasizing the consequences for affected families.

Garwood Council Tackles Infrastructure and Community Initiatives

Overview: In a recent gathering of the Garwood Borough Council, the emphasis was placed on addressing infrastructure concerns, notably the drainage issues on Gallows Hill and Third Avenue, while concurrently managing community events and initiatives. Among the key points, the council discussed the progress on road improvement projects, the potential for obtaining grant funding for various infrastructure needs, and the hiring of temporary workers for the Department of Public Works (DPW). Additionally, the council covered upcoming community events, including the Garwood Rock Street Fair and the library’s summer reading program.