Development News for Readington, New Jersey

E. coli Contamination Persists in Rockaway Creek; Sewer Plant Failure Requires Major Repairs

Concerns were raised regarding E. coli contamination in the south branch of Rockaway Creek, identified as having human fecal matter. Despite two and a half years of testing and narrowing down the geographic area, no public agency has provided solutions, with Lake Cushiotung currently contaminated. New Jersey American Water and the county have stated they are not concerned, and the DEP lacks funds for further search. On a separate note, the DEP has allocated funds to test several town sites for PFAS in their water. The Reddington-Lebanon Sewer Authority (RLSA) reported a significant plant failure requiring over half a million dollars for repair, prompting a discussion on the need for adequate funds in the sewer trust fund. The RLSA is also planning improvements to reduce phosphorus and nitrogen content in discharged water, which will exceed capital expenditure budgets.

Township Accepts $67,107 Clean Communities Grant for Fiscal Year 2026

The township committee approved a resolution authorizing the acceptance of the Clean Communities entitlement for fiscal year 2026, amounting to $67,107.22. This funding is provided by a state tax on litter-producing products and is dispersed to municipalities, counties, and parks for various environmental and community improvement projects.

Significant Tree Planting Initiatives Underway; Trail Work and Open Space Acquisition Discussed

The Environmental Commission and Open Space committee reported on significant tree planting initiatives, with 1,000 trees and over 100 blueberry bushes planted over the last three weeks on the Drayo property, involving various organizations and volunteers. The committee anticipates planting several thousand more trees in the fall. Additionally, the Open Space Advisory Board is planning additional trail work, aiming to complete a trail at Cornhuskers within the next two to three months. A site visit to the Scravolo property (approximately 65 acres) was discussed, and members were invited to participate in a future site visit.

Police Department Reports Triple Increase in Vehicle Stops; Mayor Commends First Responders' Resilience

Committeeman Vincent Panico highlighted a significant increase in motor vehicle stops by the police department, attributing it to a shift in scheduling for the traffic safety unit to focus on peak traffic hours. The number of stops more than tripled from February to May, with a corresponding dramatic increase in warnings issued, indicating a focus on both education and enforcement for road safety. The mayor also reflected on the immense stress and trauma first responders face, citing an average of seven traumatic events per month, and commended their dedication.