Dear neighbor:
In this newsletter, I reflect on President Biden’s selfless decision to step back from his remarkable career in public service. I’m also pleased to share some exciting updates for New Jersey: we’ve secured $72 million for coastal resilience projects to help New Jersey communities prepare for climate change; $500,000 for enhancing Elberon in Long Branch, with plans for a bike path, park, and more. Additionally, new biomedical guidelines have been adopted to protect horseshoe crabs and our ecosystem. And the Perth Amboy Fire Department will receive $90,909 in federal funding for essential training.
Reflecting on President Biden's Decision to Step Back
President Biden’s announcement that he will end his long career in public service reflects his selflessness as a leader and his dedication to putting our country first throughout his fifty years of public service. I am deeply grateful for his calm leadership during some of our nation’s most challenging times, especially after the division and turmoil of the previous administration. Now, it’s imperative that we come together as a nation to ensure the endurance of American democracy.
New Bike Path to Improve Elberon, Linking Train Station to Beach
Elberon is set for some major improvements with a $500,000 grant I've secured. This funding will transform the area between the Elberon library and train station, making it safer and more connected with a bike path along historic Lincoln Avenue. We’ll also resurface the train station parking lot and create a lovely park next to the library with benches, swings, bike racks, and new lighting. Plus, the historic Garfield Tea House will be moved to the park, adding some important history to the area.
New Guidelines to Protect Horseshoe Crabs and Ecosystems
After years of my persistent advocacy, new guidelines for synthetic alternatives to horseshoe crab blood in medical testing have been adopted. This decision is crucial for reducing the reliance on horseshoe crabs, which are vital to New Jersey’s ecosystem. I've worked hard to support these new standards. This move ensures we continue to safeguard both public health and our precious coastal wildlife.
New Federal Funding for Perth Amboy Fire Department
$90,909 in federal funding has been awarded to the Perth Amboy Fire Department via the Assistance to Firefighter Grants (AFG) Program. This grant will provide essential training for our firefighters and fire officers, ensuring they are well-prepared to handle emergencies and save lives. Our first responders do incredible work every day, and this funding supports their ongoing efforts to keep our community safe and healthy. I remain committed to bringing federal resources to New Jersey to support our local heroes. Together, we can ensure that our fire professionals have the tools and training they need to protect us all.
$72 Million Secured for NJ Coastal Flood Resilience Projects
In a major win for New Jersey, I’ve secured a $72 million investment from NOAA to bolster our coastal resilience projects. This funding will support the Building a Climate Ready NJ initiative, which includes natural flood barriers, rain gardens, green roofs, and permeable pavements to reduce flood risks and boost sustainability. I pushed for this through the Inflation Reduction Act and led the NJ Congressional delegation to make it happen. These efforts will help our communities be better prepared for climate change while creating job opportunities and advancing many important projects.
Tackling Lead Contamination on the Beach in Keyport
Today I teamed up with NJDEP Commissioner Shawn LaTourette to roll out an action plan to address lead contamination at Keyport's beach. This robust plan includes immediate removal of the contaminated material, rigorous toxicity testing, a thorough investigation into the lead's origin, and continuous monitoring to ensure no further exposure. With NJDEP's action plan and EPA's backing, I'm confident we will clean up the lead waste discovered by Baykeeper Greg Remaud and protect Keyport's residents. I'm fully committed to seeing this effort through to the end.
Prioritizing Critical Repairs on Amtrak’s Northeast Corridor
Today, I, along with the New Jersey Congressional Delegation, wrote to Transportation Secretary Buttigieg and urged him to prioritize essential repairs on Amtrak’s Northeast Corridor due to recent significant disruptions affecting New Jersey commuters. Over the past month, extensive delays and cancellations have highlighted the urgent need for infrastructure improvements. We’ve called for immediate repair and maintenance work, and Amtrak and NJ TRANSIT have committed to a comprehensive investigation to improve reliability. We're pushing for the Department of Transportation to prioritize grant applications for modernizing our rail infrastructure and to ensure Amtrak provides a clear spending schedule. I’ve been holding weekly calls with Amtrak’s CEO to demand transparency and accountability for a more reliable rail service.
Click here to visit my website or call my offices directly if you have questions or need help with a federal agency:
Middlesex County: 732-249-8892
Monmouth County: 732-571-1140
Sincerely,
Congressman Pallone
