Bridgewater Residents Voice Concerns Over Financial Transparency and Development Agreements

Overview: The Bridgewater Town Council meeting on October 6, 2025, was marked by significant resident concerns over financial transparency, the handling of development agreements, and the use of Payment in Lieu of Taxes (PILOT) programs. The meeting, which delved into various community issues, also recognized October as Breast Cancer Awareness Month and discussed the increased use of e-bikes in the township.

Bridgewater-Raritan School Board Faces Community Divisions Over Proposed School Start Time Changes

Overview: The Bridgewater-Raritan School Board meeting covered a range of issues, with the proposed changes to school start times taking center stage. The community expressed mixed reactions, with some parents and students opposing the shifts due to potential scheduling conflicts and perceived negative impacts on family routines and student activities. Additionally, the meeting addressed topics like labor contract negotiations, ongoing construction projects, and the integration of artificial intelligence in education.

Bridgewater Master Plan Unveiled: A Comprehensive Vision for Future Growth and Community Development

Overview: The Bridgewater Planning Board convened on September 30, 2025, for a special meeting focusing primarily on the township’s master plan, a comprehensive guiding document aimed at steering future community development. The meeting was marked by discussions on the master plan’s implications, its detailed components, and the collaborative efforts that shaped its creation. Residents, board members, and officials addressed various concerns, including infrastructure challenges, housing diversity, transportation issues, and community engagement, highlighting the plan’s role in fostering a sustainable and inclusive Bridgewater.

Bridgewater Residents Rally Against Cornell Boulevard Rezoning, Raising Concerns Over Safety and Flooding

Overview: During the recent Bridgewater Town Council meeting, a proposed housing development near Cornell Boulevard drew sharp criticism from residents who voiced concerns over safety, flooding, and the impact on the neighborhood’s character. Residents expressed their dissatisfaction with the rezoning process, arguing that it lacked transparency and adequate public notification. Jerry Edwards, a resident of West Summit Street, highlighted the historical charm of the area and the absence of proper notice regarding the project. He emphasized the unique civic engagement spurred by the development proposal, noting his own transition from a “longtime taxpayer” to a “first-time activist.”

Bridgewater-Raritan School Board Debates Later Start Times and Bus Route Efficiency

Overview: The Bridgewater-Raritan School Board meeting featured an intensive discussion on optimizing school start times and transportation logistics, with a strong focus on revising current schedules to enhance student well-being and operational efficiency. The debate centered on two proposals, with a preference emerging for starting the high school day later to align better with students’ sleep needs and improve alertness.