By Mike Morsch, Executive editor
Hightstown is in need of some help for streetscape improvements and borough officials are reaching out to residents.
The borough is in the process of applying for a federal and New Jersey Department of Transportation Alternatives Grant, which will consist of the North Main Street and Mercer Street streetscape projects, and is in need of letters of support for the grant application.
Last year, Hightstown sought a $341,050 grant through the federal Transportation Alternatives Program, administered by the state for projects improving pedestrian transportation and residents’ mobility. That grant was awarded by the Delaware Valley Regional Planning Commission, with an invitation to join its “Classic Town” program.
“The borough received more than $1 million in grants last year for projects. Grants are an important source of funding and save taxpayers dollars,” said Councilman Connor Montferrat.
This year, the borough wants to make proposed improvements to North Main Street, West Ward Street, and Mercer Street. According to borough engineer Carmela Roberts, that includes:
— North Main Street, from Bank Street to the borough limits to the north, to improve existing curb, sidewalk, and curb ramps where they are deteriorated and do not meet current standards and regulations. Much of the existing curb will remain as it is in fair condition and because of restrictions set by Mercer County. A proposed crosswalk with flashing beacons allowing pedestrians to safely cross North Main Street north of Bank Street will also be included in the application. The grass strip between the curb and sidewalk will be restored with topsoil, seed, and fertilizer.
— West Ward Street, from Mercer Street to South Main Street, to extend streetscape improvements previously constructed on Mercer Street. Improvements will include new curbs, concrete sidewalks, paver sidewalks where appropriate, and curb ramps. These improvements will address sidewalk slopes and alignment.
— Mercer Street, from West Ward to Summit Street, to improve existing curb, sidewalk, and curb ramps where they are deteriorated and do not meet current standards and regulations. In addition, sidewalk and curb will be proposed in areas where they are not currently present in order to extend the sidewalk network through the southern portion of the borough.
To help secure the grant to make these improvements, the borough is seeking letters of support for the grant application from residents. Those that choose to write letters of support can deliver them to the borough clerk no later than Tuesday, Nov, 1, 2016. Each letter of support must have an original signature and complete address of the writer.
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