Somerset Times

Congressman Tom Kean, Jr. has expressed his satisfaction with the bipartisan passage of the Consolidated Appropriations Act for FY24, which will bring nearly $22 million in Community Project Funding to New Jersey's 7th Congressional District. Kean stated, "I am proud that the House came together today to approve the funding for New Jersey I have been fighting for. We are funding vital community projects that are going to make a very positive difference in people’s lives. I urge the US Senate to swiftly pass this legislation and get it on the President’s desk."

The funding allocated through the appropriations bill covers various important projects in NJ-07, including the installation of a water tower in Stanhope, improvements to emergency services training in Hunterdon County, security enhancements in Mount Arlington, lead service line replacements in Rahway, sewer and stormwater improvements in Berkeley Heights, stormwater management in Budd Lake, and more. These projects aim to enhance infrastructure, public safety, and community services across the district.

One significant project included in the funding is the Abilities Incredible People Training Project by Abilities of Northwest Jersey, Inc., which will increase training and employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities. This project will offer distance learning programs focusing on soft skills, professional growth, and pre-employment services, as well as training in coding, technology, and website development.

Furthermore, the funding will support the renovation of the Somerville YMCA to provide universal access to Pre-K education in Somerset, as well as the implementation of a new community senior bus in Linden to assist senior and disabled populations with transportation needs.

Overall, the Consolidated Appropriations Act for FY24 will bring a total of $21,815,414 in Community Project Funding to NJ-07, demonstrating a commitment to improving infrastructure, public services, and community resources in the region.