LAUTENBERG, MENENDEZ ANNOUNCE MORE THAN $600K FOR DOWNTOWN NEWARK DEVELOPMENT

LAUTENBERG, MENENDEZ ANNOUNCE MORE THAN $600K FOR DOWNTOWN NEWARK DEVELOPMENT
Grant Will Help Improve Access and Safety Around the City’s Downtown Area

NEWARK, N.J. – Today, U.S. Sens. Frank R. Lautenberg (D-NJ) and Robert Menendez (D-NJ) announced that the U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) has awarded more than $600,000 in federal funds for the development of downtown Newark.

"By helping Newark make critical improvements to its streets and sidewalks, we will make it easier and safer to get around the city,” Sen. Lautenberg said.  “We must continue to support the development of Newark to strengthen its economy and improve the lives of the people who live and work there.”

“Newark is not only our largest city, but it continues to grow at a fast pace as a progressive cultural hub.  These are timely funds to help ensure public roads and pedestrian areas are updated and safe,” said Sen. Menendez.  “I look forward to seeing these improvements for a city filled with opportunities for its diverse population and major attractions that bring thousands of visitors to its streets and walkways.”

The $604,729 in federal funds will be used to make improvements for:

* Pedestrian Safety: by installing crosswalk countdown signals, new speed limit signs, speed bumps and flashing beacons within school zones;

* Roadways: by paving deteriorated street surfaces and repairing all pot holes and cracks; and

* Walkway Access: by repairing all sidewalks and curbs along city-owned property and installing handicap ramps.

This announcement is part of a series of grants Sens. Lautenberg and Menendez have announced for Newark.  Earlier this month, the New Jersey Sens. announced $1.5 million for the development of the University Heights Science Park.  And at the beginning of July, Sen. Lautenberg announced nearly $3 million for the continued revitalization of Minish Park.

These redevelopment projects are part of the larger Newark Riverfront Project, which is vital to Newark’s rebirth.  Once complete, the Riverfront will be a thriving center of new commerce and mixed-use development, and will link the New Jersey Performing Arts Center, Newark Penn Station and the city’s downtown area.

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