In Tribute to Firefighter Marques Hudson

Dear Jazz,

As the Mayor of Plainfield, I write to you today under the shadow of a profound tragedy that has befallen our beloved city. We have lost one of our bravest, Firefighter Marques Hudson, in a harrowing incident that will forever be etched in our collective memory. Firefighter Hudson, a dedicated member of our fire department, responded valiantly to a fire on Emerson Avenue. In the course of this catastrophic event, he was taken to the hospital, where he tragically was pronounced dead despite the valiant efforts of the medical staff to save his life.

This loss is not just a line in a report or a momentary headline; it is a deep, personal wound in the heart of our community. Firefighter Hudson was more than a public servant; he was a son of Plainfield, a courageous guardian who dedicated his life to ensuring our safety. His untimely passing is a stark reminder of the grave risks our first responders undertake daily in their noble duty of protecting us.

To the family of Firefighter Hudson, I extend, both personally and on behalf of our city, our deepest and most heartfelt sympathies. Your grief is unimaginable, and it is shared by each one of us in Plainfield. In these moments of profound sorrow, we stand united with you, offering our support and understanding as you navigate through this dark valley of loss.

At this juncture, while a full investigation into the incident is underway, we refrain from speculating on the cause of Firefighter Hudson's death. I appeal to the citizens of Plainfield and the media to respect the privacy of Firefighter Hudson's family. They deserve the space and peace to mourn, to remember, and to make arrangements for their beloved.

Firefighter Hudson's passing has left an indelible mark on our community. His bravery, his selfless service, and his unwavering commitment to our city will be forever remembered. As we mourn his loss, let us also remember and honor the courage of all our firefighters and first responders who, like Marques, risk everything to keep us safe.

In these trying times, I call upon our community to come together in solidarity. Let us support each other, let us share in the grief, and let us collectively find strength. It is in these moments of tragedy that the true spirit of our community is tested and revealed. Let us honor Firefighter Hudson's memory by embodying the values he lived by - courage, sacrifice, and an unwavering commitment to the well-being of others.

To Marques Hudson, a hero in the truest sense, we owe a debt of gratitude that can never be repaid. His legacy will continue to inspire and guide us in the days to come.

#LovePlainfield #AmoPlainfield

Creating One Plainfield. One Future.

Sincerely,

Mayor Adrian O. Mapp

City of Plainfield

En Homenaje al Bombero

Marques Hudson

Querido(a) Jazz,

Como alcalde de Plainfield, les escribo hoy bajo la sombra de una profunda tragedia que ha azotado a nuestra querida ciudad. Hemos perdido a uno de nuestros más valientes, el bombero Marques Hudson, en un incidente desgarrador que quedará grabado para siempre en nuestra memoria colectiva. El bombero Hudson, un miembro dedicado de nuestro departamento de bomberos, respondió valientemente a un incendio en Emerson Avenue. En el transcurso de este catastrófico suceso, fue trasladado al hospital, donde trágicamente fue declarado muerto a pesar de los valientes esfuerzos del personal médico por salvarle la vida.

Esta pérdida no es sólo una línea en un informe o un titular momentáneo; es una herida profunda y personal en el corazón de nuestra comunidad. El bombero Hudson era más que un servidor público; era hijo de Plainfield, un guardián valiente que dedicó su vida a garantizar nuestra seguridad. Su prematuro fallecimiento es un claro recordatorio de los graves riesgos que corren a diario nuestros socorristas en su noble deber de protegernos.

A la familia del bombero Hudson, le extiendo, tanto personalmente como en nombre de nuestra ciudad, nuestro más sentido pésame. Su dolor es inimaginable y lo compartimos cada uno de nosotros en Plainfield. En estos momentos de profundo dolor, estamos unidos a usted, ofreciéndole nuestro apoyo y comprensión mientras navega por este oscuro valle de pérdida.

En este momento, mientras se lleva a cabo una investigación completa sobre el incidente, nos abstenemos de especular sobre la causa de la muerte del bombero Hudson. Hago un llamamiento a los ciudadanos de Plainfield y a los medios de comunicación para que respeten la privacidad de la familia del bombero Hudson. Merecen el espacio y la paz para llorar, recordar y hacer arreglos para su amado.

El fallecimiento del bombero Hudson ha dejado una marca imborrable en nuestra comunidad. Su valentía, su servicio desinteresado y su compromiso inquebrantable con nuestra ciudad serán recordados para siempre. Mientras lamentamos su pérdida, recordemos y honremos también la valentía de todos nuestros bomberos y socorristas que, como Marques, arriesgan todo para mantenernos a salvo.

En estos tiempos difíciles, hago un llamado a nuestra comunidad a unirse en solidaridad. Apoyémonos unos a otros, compartamos el dolor y encontremos fuerza colectivamente. Es en estos momentos de tragedia que se pone a prueba y se revela el verdadero espíritu de nuestra comunidad. Honremos la memoria del bombero Hudson encarnando los valores por los que vivió: coraje, sacrificio y un compromiso inquebrantable con el bienestar de los demás.

Con Marques Hudson, un héroe en el sentido más auténtico, tenemos una deuda de gratitud que nunca podrá pagarse. Su legado seguirá inspirándonos y guiándonos en los días venideros.

#LovePlainfield #AmoPlainfield

Creando Un Plainfield. Un Futuro.

Alcalde Adrian O. Mapp

Ciudad de Plainfield

Royal M's Ribbon Cutting:

Royal M's Inauguration Marks Plainfield's Continued Evolution!

PLAINFIELD, NJ – January 23, 2024 – The City of Plainfield celebrated the exhilarating grand opening of Royal M, its second legal cannabis store, with Mayor Adrian O. Mapp expressing his excitement about the positive impact on the city's socio-economic system. Mayor Mapp enthusiastically commended Royal M's commitment to economic growth, job creation, and community development.

A particularly exciting aspect of Royal M's dedication to community welfare is the allocation of 2% of all proceeds to tax incentives, mandated by the City and Council. This groundbreaking initiative aims to support local infrastructure, education, and public services, showcasing Royal M's adherence to responsible business practices.

During the event, Mayor Mapp passionately shared insights into how legalizing marijuana and welcoming legal cannabis dispensaries have positively impacted Plainfield. He highlighted the role these initiatives have played in minimizing illegal drug trafficking, creating additional sources of job opportunities, and assisting in the development of Plainfield’s reputation. As a result, more people feel comfortable coming to Plainfield to live, work, and play.

The grand opening, attended by key figures including Mayor Adrian O. Mapp, local officials, and representatives from various departments, was marked by Council President Steve Hockaday bringing his father. Steve Hockaday shared the potential benefits his father, dealing with chronic pain due to old age, could derive from medicinal herbs, underscoring the personal and positive impact of the cannabis industry.

Steve Hockaday also shared insights into the socially responsible brand "Vibes," emphasizing the initiative "Release Papers by Vibes." These rolling papers are designed to help smokers advocate on behalf of Americans still unjustly incarcerated. This unique aspect further highlights Royal M's commitment to addressing social issues and contributing positively to the community.

About Royal M

Royal M is Plainfield's second legal cannabis store, focused on high-quality products and positive community impact. Committed to responsible business practices, Royal M aims to contribute to the city's economic and social development. Royal M is located at 102A E Front St, Plainfield, NJ 07060, Visit their website at royalmcannabis.com.

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For more information about the Financial Opportunity Center, please call 908-558-8000 or visit www.ucnj.org/ajc.

Union County Parks Seek Trail Steward Volunteers

Do you like to hike? Are you interested in spending more time outdoors? Looking for a way to give back through volunteering? Think about becoming a Trail Steward!

The Union County Board of County Commissioners and the Union County Department of Parks & Recreation are looking for volunteers to bolster the ranks of its Adopt-A-Trail Program. Each Trail Steward adopts a section of trail in the Watchung Reservation or any other Union County park.

“Walking or hiking on trails in the Union County Park System has been the most popular activity in our parks since they were built over a hundred years ago,” said Commissioner Chairwoman Kimberly Palmieri-Mouded. “Changes in lifestyle since the pandemic have resulted in a dramatic increase in trail use and trail users of every kind – including hikers, joggers, dog walkers, and nature enthusiasts – visit our parks by the thousands every day. Though our park and trail maintenance staff work hard to keep trails and paths in good condition, it is an overwhelming task. The Watchung Reservation alone has over sixty miles of trails. Volunteer Trail Stewards help the County keep the trails safe and clean for use by others.”

Trail Stewards walk their adopted trail at least four times each year, picking up litter and fallen branches, clearing leaves from storm culverts, and cutting back vegetation. They report larger problems, such as erosion or downed trees, to be dealt with by County staff or the volunteer Chain Saw Crew.

Anyone 18 or older who is interested in becoming or continuing as a Trail Steward is invited to an orientation meeting on Saturday, January 27, from 9:00 am to noon, at Trailside Nature & Science Center, 452 New Providence Road, Mountainside. A simple online registration for the meeting is available at the Trail Stewards tab at: https://secure.rec1.com/NJ/union-county-nj/catalog.

The Adopt-A-Trail Program is administered by the Union County Department of Parks and Recreation. For additional information, contact the Division of Park Environmental Services at 908-789-3683 or email park.env.services@ucnj.org.

Quick links to all Union County environmental programs and activities, such as the Adopt-a-Trail and Adopt-a-Park programs and the popular Peregrine Falcon Cam, are available at The Green Connection, www.ucnj.org/green-connection/.

ICYMI: Murphy Administration Announces $75 Million for Emergent and Capital Needs Projects in School Districts

01/23/2024

TRENTON – The New Jersey Department of Education (NJDOE) and the New Jersey Schools Development Authority (SDA) today announced $75 million to provide funding for emergent construction and capital needs in school districts throughout the state.

Districts can use these funds for emergent or capital maintenance projects or to offset eligible project or maintenance costs incurred this fiscal year. Funding may be directed toward projects such as addressing site upgrades, HVAC repairs or replacement, renovations to the building envelope (masonry, roofing, etc.), safety and security needs, as well as building maintenance activities.

“Today’s announcement builds on our work to improve education outcomes for all New Jersey students. Providing our students with a top-notch education means ensuring their classroom environments are safe and conducive to learning,” said Governor Phil Murphy. “This funding will go toward critical school infrastructure projects throughout the state, bolstering our school communities and ensuring districts are able to meet the needs of their students.”

Of the total amount, $50 million will be provided for projects in the SDA Districts, which are the 31 districts where the SDA oversees school construction. The remaining $25 million will be available for all other districts, i.e., regular operating districts.

“Continuing Governor Murphy’s staunch support of public education, and partnership with the School Development Authority, the funding announced today will provide necessary renovations and facility upgrades to school buildings across the state,” said Dr. Angelica Allen-McMillan, Acting Commissioner of the Department of Education. “Every New Jersey student and school staff member deserves a space for learning that is safe, secure, and supportive of the highest educational outcomes.”

“The steadfast support of Governor Murphy to provide New Jersey students with quality learning environments allows the SDA to disburse this State funding to maintain and improve the state’s educational infrastructure,” said Manuel Da Silva, SDA Chief Executive Officer. “The SDA is ready to expeditiously distribute these funds to help Districts offset costs associated with addressing important and necessary repairs in their schools.”

The NJDOE website provides a chart that identifies the funding available to local school districts for eligible project costs through this current round of funding.

FACT SHEET: President Biden Announces Nearly $5 Billion for Major Transportation Projects Nationwide

01/25/2024

Washington, D.C - Today, President Biden will visit Superior, Wisconsin, where the Blatnik Bridge connects Wisconsin and Minnesota, to announce nearly $5 billion in funding for major transportation projects across the country as part of his Investing in America agenda. A key pillar of Bidenomics, the President’s Investing in America agenda—including the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, the CHIPS and Science Act, and the Inflation Reduction Act—is making long overdue investments in infrastructure, unleashing a clean energy and manufacturing boom, and creating good-paying jobs, many of which do not require a college degree.

To date, the Administration has announced over $400 billion in Bipartisan Infrastructure Law funding for over 40,000 infrastructure projects across the nation, and has mobilized over $640 billion in private sector manufacturing and clean energy investments in the United States. And, since day one of the Biden Administration, over 670,000 construction jobs and 210,000 clean energy jobs have been created in communities across the country.

Two years ago, after he signed the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, President Biden visited the Blatnik Bridge and highlighted the vital yet deteriorating bridge as the type of infrastructure that he would rebuild across the country. Today’s announcement—a transformative $5 billion investment that includes $1 billion to replace the Blatnik Bridge itself—is a key example of the President following through on that commitment. Due to its poor condition, the current Blatnik Bridge is predicted to close by 2030, and this new investment will change that by expanding weight capacity to accommodate freight, building wider shoulders to improve safety, and increasing accessibility for pedestrians and cyclists.

During his visit to Wisconsin, President Biden will highlight the impact of the Blatnik Bridge investment on people in the community—including small business owners who rely on timely orders, deliveries, and commutes for their customers and employees; families that need to cross the bridge safely and with less traffic; truck drivers whose loads are too heavy for the current bridge; workers who will be hired on the project, and more.

The President will meet with a small business owner who says his local business—and the downtown community in Superior—will benefit from the new Blatnik Bridge.

In addition to the Blatnik Bridge, key projects from today’s announcement include: replacing the I-5

Bridge over the Columbia River between Vancouver, Washington, and Portland, Oregon, which carries over 143,000 vehicles per day and no longer meets the needs of commerce and travel; improving 10 miles of I-10 through the Gila River Indian Community and Pinal County in Arizona; making multimodal improvements in the I-376 corridor of Pittsburgh; and reconnecting communities divided by the Cross Bronx Expressway in New York, which displaced residents and separated communities when constructed in the mid-1900’s. These historic projects will create good-paying jobs, make our transportation systems safer and more resilient, and unlock economic opportunity for communities across in every corner of the country. Overall, half of the funding announced today – nearly $2.8 billion – is going to projects in rural areas. These investments also build on historic funding that President

Biden has announced over the past year—including $1.7 billion through the Mega and INFRA programs early last year, $2.1 billion through the Bridge Investment Program, and major rail announcements at the end of 2023—$16.4 billion to modernize Amtrak’s Northeast Corridor and $8.2 billion for world-class rail, including the country’s first high speed rail projects.

Already, the projects funded by previous announcements are hitting major milestones. For example, thanks to $1.6 billion in funding, construction to upgrade the existing Brent-Spence Bridge and build a new bridge along this critical freight corridor is expected to begin this year. In addition, thanks to the $11 billion investment from the Biden-Harris Administration, construction is now underway to replace the over 100-year-old Hudson River Tunnel between New York and New Jersey, which serves 200,000 passengers daily and is a source of frequent delays.

Early work is now underway to replace the 150-year-old Frederick Douglass Tunnel in Baltimore, thanks to $4.7 billion from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. Work is also underway to construct the 10.3-mile St. Paul Gold Line Bus Rapid Transit system that will serve nearly 2 million passengers annually thanks to $240 million in funding. Thanks to $198 million in Bipartisan Infrastructure Law funding, construction is also ongoing to extend the Phoenix

Northwest Light Rail which will serve about 2 million passengers per year. Finally, due to a $84.5 million investment, upgrades to Boston Logan Airport’s Terminal E are now complete, with increased capacity, improved energy efficiency, and new passenger waiting areas.

Funding announced today will support 37 projects across the country, including:

$1.06 billion to replace the Blatnik Bridge connecting Superior, Wisconsin with Duluth, Minnesota. The Blatnik Bridge is a 1.5-mile-long bridge that connects Duluth, MN, and Superior, WI, often referred to as the “Twin Ports”. The current bridge is weight restricted and cannot carry large or heavy trucks, causing lengthy detours for regional freight. The replacement bridge will increase capacity and create a new shared-use path for pedestrians and bicyclists.

$600 million to replace the over 100-year-old I-5 Bridge—a critical connection linking Oregon and Washington across the Columbia River as part of a vital regional, national and international trade route. This project will replace the aging bridge with a modern, earthquake-resilient, multimodal bridge. It will also add safety shoulders and auxiliary lanes, include add transit improvements, and create safe and accessible shared use paths.

$427 million for the Humboldt Offshore Wind project in California. The project will establish the first offshore wind terminal on the Pacific Coast. The terminal will support the transport, assembly, launch, and maintenance of floating offshore wind turbines.

$372 million to replace the 80-year-old Sagamore Bridge, one of the Cape Cod Bridges that spans the Cape Cod Canal and provides the only vehicle access to the Massachusetts mainland from Cape Cod.

$300 million for the Louisiana International Terminal Project to construct a new container terminal on the Gulf Coast for the Port of New Orleans. The new terminal will be a new alternative for larger vessels compared to inland terminals that have height restrictions.

$200 million for the Hood River White Salmon Bridge in Oregon and Washington. The project will replace the bridge between Hood River, OR, and White Salmon, WA, which serves as a critical link for freight and provides hospital access and a wildfire evacuation route. The current bridge is structurally deficient, and the replacement will have higher clearance, wider lanes, seismic improvements, and a separate bicycle and pedestrian pathway.

$150 million to reconnect communities divided by the Cross Bronx Expressway between the Harlem River and the Hutchinson River Parkway in New York—one of the most congested stretches of interstate in the U.S. with some of the highest rates of traffic and collisions. The project will improve pedestrian, bicycle, and transit connections across the highway and along parallel routes, expand open space, increase safety on local routes along the corridor, and improve traffic management, especially for freight vehicles. The Expressway was constructed between 1948 and 1972 and divided the borough, displacing residents and separating communities.

$95 million for the Gila River Indian Community I-10 Project in Arizona. The project will widen approximately 10 miles of I-10 in Pinal County from two lanes to three lanes, make interchange improvements and build a new interchange, and remove or replace low-clearance bridges along the route. The project will improve safety, increase capacity, and provide job opportunities for the Gila River Indian Community.

$66 million for the Mineral County I-90 Improvement Project in Montana. The project will reconstruct almost six miles of I-90, making resilience, drainage, and safety improvements, and replacing three bridges on westbound I-90.

$28 million for the Elko Nevada Rail Corridor Enhancement project in Nevada. The project will make improvements on the Union Pacific Railroad at the Elko Yard. Track improvements, infrastructure upgrades, and enhanced signal infrastructure will reduce an average of 2.5 hours of delay per freight train using the corridor.

$15 million for the East River Terminal Berth Replacement project in Georgia. The project will replace three berths at the Port of Brunswick’s East River Terminal, as well as support growing export of wood pellets at the port.

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