Dear Neighbor,
With Congress in August recess, I've been on the move, meeting with folks across our district and tackling some big projects. In this newsletter, you'll get updates on the $750,000 I’ve secured for Matawan's Lead Pipes Removal Project and $188,000 I’ve helped to secure for Edison’s Fire Department. I'll also share highlights from my recent community engagements, including the final Youth Advisory Council meeting and the Art for Sea Fair in Neptune. Additionally, I'll update you on efforts to improve train service reliability for New Jersey commuters and my support for the Access to Family Building Act to protect IVF treatment.
$750,000 Replace All Lead Pipes from Matawan
I’ve secured $750,000 in community project funding for the Matawan Lead Pipes Removal Project. This funding will help identify and remove all lead service lines within the Borough, covering the costs of investigations, removal procedures, and public notifications. Matawan began prioritizing this project in 2021 and has identified 150 lead service lines so far. This multi-year plan aims to eliminate potential sources of lead contamination, safeguarding community health. By addressing this issue, we’re ensuring clean, safe drinking water for all residents.
$188,000 for Edison Fire Department
I’m excited to announce that I have helped secure $188,407 in federal funding for Edison’s Fire Department. This funding, through the Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program (AFG), will enhance our fire and emergency response capabilities. Our firefighters are the backbone of our community, and this grant is a commitment to their safety and effectiveness. The funds will support training, wellness programs, and essential equipment for the Edison Fire Department.
Youth Advisory Council Meeting
I recently attended the final meeting of the 2024 Youth Advisory Council at the Piscataway Community Center. It was inspiring to see 58 students present their legislative agenda and engage in thoughtful discussions. We had a productive panel discussion with representatives from the Governor's office, the NJ General Assembly, and Rutgers University. I also had the honor of presenting certificates to the students for their hard work and dedication. It’s always rewarding to support the next generation of leaders.
4th Annual Art for Sea Fair
On Saturday, I enjoyed visiting the 4th Annual Art for Sea Fair in Neptune. The event featured a variety of arts and crafts vendors, music, and food, celebrating ocean conservation through art. I had the opportunity to connect with the Shark River Clean Up Coalition. Supporting ocean and river conservation is vital for New Jersey’s future. Thank you to all who contribute to these important efforts!
Reliable Service for NJ Commuters
This week, I had a productive conversation with the head of Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) about preventing delays and improving service for commuters along Amtrak’s Northeast Corridor and the North Jersey Coast Rail Line. It is imperative the FRA approve the federal grants recently submitted by Amtrak and NJ TRANSIT for equipment upgrades. Additionally, I have strongly urged the FRA to swiftly direct $6 billion from the federal infrastructure law to address critical repairs. These actions are essential for improving our transit system and providing the dependable service our commuters deserve.
Protecting In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) Treatment
Last week, I signed the Democrats’ discharge petition to force a vote on the Access to Family Building Act because it is imperative that we protect the right to IVF and other assisted reproductive technologies. This legislation is about giving aspiring parents the freedom to build their families without fear of legal repercussions. We must act to ensure that no state can restrict access to IVF. Every family deserves the chance to pursue their dreams of parenthood, and this bill is a critical step in making that possible.
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
