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Mayor's Message:
Distracted Driving Awareness Month
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Dear Jazz,
Brian Ralls was a young, bright recent college graduate. On October 28, 2009, his mother, Pat, saw him walk out of the house at seven (7) in the morning and looked forward to seeing him again for dinner. Instead, just a few hours later, two state troopers knocked on her door to bring news that would crush her heart and change her life forever – her son was dead. While driving to work, a young woman driving in the opposite direction became distracted with a text message and hit Brian’s vehicle head-on, killing him instantly. A text had cost Pat her son's life. No text is ever worth this loss, but this story is heartbreakingly too common in our country. The names and locations may be different, but what remains constant is that drivers allow themselves to be distracted, and a grieving family is left to clean up the pieces.
All it takes is one text, one phone call, one notification, or one moment to ruin the life of an entire family.
When we think about road safety, one of the first things that come to mind is the danger of drinking and driving. However, you don’t have to be slurring your words and seeing double to be driving dangerously. In 2021, distracted driving killed 3,552 people. April is recognized nationally as Distracted Driving Awareness Month. Distracted driving is engaging in an activity that takes the driver’s attention away from the road and increases the chance of a motor vehicle collision. We are all guilty of it - taking our eyes off the road to inspect a phone notification, letting our minds drift with a thought we can’t get out of our head, taking our hands off the steering wheel to fidget with the radio. But what you think will only take a second of your attention could have disastrous effects on you and countless others.
According to the CDC, nine (9) people in the United States are killed every day in crashes involving distracted drivers. It’s heartbreaking to think of losing beloved family and friends because someone couldn’t wait to read a text or check their Instagram feed. Cell phone use – such as texting, talking, and social media – are the most common distractions on the road. Other actions that could result in a crash are adjusting the radio or GPS, applying makeup, and eating or drinking.
In that singular moment when you are not completely focused on the road, you are robbing yourself of seconds that can be essential in avoiding a deadly crash. You may not realize it or think a second has that much of an impact, but in reality, at 55 miles per hour, sending or reading a text is like driving the length of a football field with your eyes closed.
This month is an opportunity to renew your commitment to responsible driving and safer streets. If you need to send a text, pull over and park your car in a safe location where you do not pose a threat to yourself or other drivers. You can also designate someone else in the car as your “designated texter” to respond to calls or messages. If you are struggling to stop yourself from looking at your phone while driving, put your cell phone where it is completely out of sight and reach: the trunk, the glove box, or the back seat.
Be an active role model for the passengers in the car while you are driving. How can we expect our children to practice safe driving practices when we don’t? Remind your friends and family that when in the driver’s seat, driving is the only thing you should be doing. And when you are a passenger, hold the person driving accountable; the life you save could be your own.
Next time you consider reaching for your phone while driving, think of those who will pay the ultimate price of your own recklessness; it could be a loved one. To drive carefully is to protect not only yourself but also the members of our community. Each time we sit in the driver’s seat, let’s practice our commitment to #LovePlainfield by putting the phone down, focusing our minds on the road, and keeping our hands on the steering wheel when we drive.
#LovePlainfield #AmoPlainfield
Creating One Plainfield. One Future.
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Mayor Adrian O. Mapp
City of Plainfield
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Mensaje Del Alcalde:
Mes de Concientización Sobre la Conducción Distraída
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Queridx Jazz,
Brian Ralls era un brillante joven recién graduado de la universidad. El 28 de octubre de 2009, su madre, Pat, lo vio salir de la casa a las siete (7) de la mañana y esperaba verlo nuevamente para cenar. En cambio, solo unas horas después, dos policías estatales llegaron a su puerta para traer noticias que aplastarían su corazón y cambiarían su vida para siempre: su hijo estaba muerto. Mientras conducía al trabajo, una joven que conducía en la dirección opuesta se distrajo con un mensaje de texto y golpeó el vehículo de Brian de frente, matándolo instantáneamente. Un mensaje de texto le había costado la vida a Pat a su hijo. Ningún texto vale la pena esta pérdida, pero esta historia es desgarradoramente demasiado común en nuestro país. Los nombres y las ubicaciones pueden ser diferentes, pero lo que permanece constante es que los conductores se dejan distraer, y una familia afligida se queda para limpiar las piezas.
Todo lo que se necesita es un mensaje de texto, una llamada telefónica, una notificación, o un momento para arruinar la vida de toda una familia.
Cuando pensamos en la seguridad vial, una de las primeras cosas que nos vienen a la mente es el peligro de beber y conducir. Sin embargo, no tiene que arrastrar las palabras y ver el doble para conducir peligrosamente. En 2021, la conducción distraída mató a 3,552 personas. Abril es reconocido a nivel nacional como el Mes de Concientización sobre la Conducción Distraída. La conducción distraída es participar en una actividad que desvía la atención del conductor de la carretera y aumenta la posibilidad de una colisión de vehículos motorizados. Todos somos culpables de estp: apartar la vista de la carretera para inspeccionar una notificación telefónica, dejar que nuestras mentes se desvíen con un pensamiento que no podemos sacar de nuestra cabeza, quitar las manos del volante para juguetear con la radio. Pero lo que piensas que solo tomará un segundo de tu atención podría tener efectos desastrosos en ti y en muchos otros.
Según los CDC, nueve (9) personas en los Estados Unidos mueren todos los días en accidentes que involucran a conductores distraídos. Es desgarrador pensar en perder a familiares y amigos queridos porque alguien no podía esperar para leer un texto o revisar su feed de Instagram. El uso del teléfono celular, como enviar mensajes de texto, hablar y las redes sociales, son las distracciones más comunes en el camino. Otras acciones que podrían resultar en un accidente son ajustar la radio o el GPS, aplicar maquillaje y comer o beber.
En ese momento singular en el que no estás completamente concentrado en la carretera, te estás robando segundos que pueden ser esenciales para evitar un choque mortal. Puede que no te des cuenta o pienses que un segundo tiene tanto impacto, pero en realidad, a 55 millas por hora, enviar o leer un texto es como conducir a lo largo de un campo de fútbol con los ojos cerrados.
Este mes es una oportunidad para renovar su compromiso con la conducción responsable y las calles más seguras. Si necesita enviar un mensaje de texto, deténgase y estacione su automóvil en un lugar seguro donde no represente una amenaza para usted u otros conductores. También puede designar a otra persona en el automóvil como su "enviado de mensajes de texto designado" para responder llamadas o mensajes. Si está luchando por evitar mirar su teléfono mientras conduce, coloque su teléfono celular donde esté completamente fuera de la vista y al alcance: el maletero, la guantera o el asiento trasero.
La próxima vez que considere alcanzar su teléfono mientras conduce, piense en aquellos que pagarán el precio final de su propia imprudencia; Podría ser un ser querido. Conducir con cuidado es protegerse no solo a sí mismo, sino también a los miembros de nuestra comunidad. Cada vez que nos sentamos en el asiento del conductor, practiquemos nuestro compromiso con #AmoPlainfield dejando el teléfono, enfocando nuestras mentes en la carretera y manteniendo nuestras manos en el volante cuando conducimos.
#LovePlainfield #AmoPlainfield
Creating One Plainfield. One Future.
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Alcalde Adrian O. Mapp
Ciudad de Plainfield
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The City of Plainfield Wishes You a Blessed and Happy Easter | |
Congresswoman Bonnie Watson-Coleman
Delivers Federal Funding for Regional Mentoring Program
Thursday, April 6th
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On Thursday, April 6th, Congresswoman Bonnie Watson Coleman visited the Queen City to announce that Big Brothers Big Sisters of Essex, Hudson, & Union Counties will receive $1,000,000 in federal funding to meet the growing demand for mentoring and address the social-emotional and academic needs of the region's youth that have grown as a result of the pandemic. It was no mistake that the check was delivered on the steps of Plainfield City Hall. Although the money will be used to support the county-wide organization, a Plainfield hub will be established to provide one on one mentoring for our young people here in the Queen City.
Remarks were given by Congresswoman Bonnie Watson Coleman; Mayor Adrian O. Mapp; CEO of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Essex, Hudson, and Union County Carlos Lejnieks; and we also heard testimonials from those who had their lives changed by the organization.
City Council President Charles McRae, City Council Vice-President Terri Briggs-Jones, Councilman Barry Goode, Councilman Robert Graham, Councilman Steve Hockaday, members of the administration, and other Plainfield residents attended the ceremony.
The Big Brothers Big Sisters mission rang throughout Plainfield today:
Be Inspired... Be Inspirational
Be Part of the Solution...
Be a Big... MENTOR a child today!
To learn more about Big Brothers Big Sisters or become a mentor, Click HERE.
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Easter Ham Distribution to Seniors
Thursday, April 6th
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On Thursday, April 6, 2023, the Queen City continued to prove its dedication to supporting and providing for its residents as Mayor Mapp and members of the City Council came out early in the morning to donate hams to Plainfield seniors. Thank you to all the volunteers who ensured our seniors had something special for Easter.
We wish everyone who celebrates a joyous and happy Easter!
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Netherwood Flats
Ribbon Cutting Ceremony
Friday, March 31st
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On Friday, March 31st, 829 South Avenue was filled with excitement as the City of Plainfield and Paramount Assets hosted a ribbon-cutting ceremony to officially open the doors of its newest housing property, the Netherwood Flats.
The Netherwood Flats is a new four-story development comprising 70 one- and two-bedroom apartment units. Attendees were given the opportunity to view the landscaped, elevated courtyard, the fitness center, and the resident's lounge.
Thank you to all those who attended and showed support, including the representatives from Paramount Assets, Mayor Adrian O. Mapp, City Council President Charles McRae, City Council Vice President Terri Briggs-Jones, Councilman Barry Goode, Councilman Robert Graham, and other members of the city administration.
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Back Porch Blues Performance By Junior Mack at the P-PAC
Friday, March 31st
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On Friday, March 31st, at 7:30 PM, the Plainfield Performing Arts Center (724 Park Avenue) was packed with music enthusiasts as Junior Mack, a Grammy-nominated Blues artist, and performer in the National Blues Hall of Fame, played his original one-person show "Back Porch Blues." The special evening event marked the first time a Grammy nominee performed at the Plainfield Performing Arts Center. The Audience showed their appreciation with enthusiastic applause and calls for an encore!
Mayor Adrian O. Mapp, City Council President Charles McRae, City Council Vice-President Terri Briggs-Jones, and other city officials turned out to enjoy the musical journey. The City of Plainfield sends a special "Thank You" to Junior Mack for sharing his music and talent with us.
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Do You Know What's Happening in your City?
Click the Image below and take a look at Plainfield's Latest City Events, Community Resources, and so much more!
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Check out our City's Commercial:
"Welcome to Plainfield"
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¿ How Do You Show Love for Plainfield? | |
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Watch our 2022 Love Plainfield Commercial!
" The Queen City is Love"
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A MESSAGE FROM
UNION COUNTY:
Union County Residents with Disabilities Can Apply for Help with Personal Services
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The Union County Board of County Commissioners reminds residents that financial assistance from the State of New Jersey Personal Services Program is available for adults with permanent physical disabilities who need supportive services to live independently while they are employed, attending school, or involved in a volunteer activity of at least 20 hours per month. | |
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A MESSAGE FROM
THE STATE OF NEW JERSEY:
Governor Murphy Signs Bill Prohibiting Water and Wastewater Service Providers That Fail to Participate in Low Income Assistance Program from Shutting Off Service to Customers
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TRENTON – Governor Phil Murphy today signed S3333/A5020, prohibiting water utility providers that have not signed up to participate in the New Jersey Department of Community Affairs’ (DCA) Low Income Household Water Assistance Program (LIHWAP) from taking certain collection actions against customers with arrearages. Specifically, the bill prohibits public utilities, local authorities, and municipal utilities that provide water or wastewater services from assessing interest on arrearages, discontinuing services, or placing, selling, or enforcing a lien for unpaid balances if the utility provider has not signed the vendor contract required to receive LIHWAP payments.
“The residents of our state deserve to have access to essential utility services in their households no matter their income,” said Governor Murphy. “This Administration will continue to work in collaboration with the Legislature to prioritize the needs of hard-working New Jerseyans who should live without fear of these utilities being shut off.”
“The New Jersey Department of Community Affairs continues to urge utilities not yet participating in LIHWAP to get involved in the program so that their customers can take advantage of the available assistance,” said Lt. Governor Sheila Oliver, who serves as Commissioner of DCA, which administers the LIHWAP program. “For those utility companies that fail to participate in LIHWAP for whatever reason, the bill signed into law today protects their customers from having their water and sewer service turned off because of inability to pay. We thank Governor Murphy and those in the State Legislature who supported this bill for recognizing that people facing financial hardship shouldn’t suffer the indignity of having their water shut off.”
LIHWAP, which is funded by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and administered by DCA, provides benefits directly to water and wastewater providers on behalf of residential customers. The assistance can be used to:
- Restore services where services have been terminated and pay reconnection fees and other charges accrued due to a disconnection;
- Avoid service disruption for those residential customers who are in danger of disconnection (i.e., received shut-off notices or have past due balances) and to help them afford bill payment going forward; and
- Support those household customers who are current in their bills but might be in danger of falling behind in the near future.
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A MESSAGE FROM
THE WHITE HOUSE:
Biden-Harris Administration Announces New Clean Energy Projects to Revitalize Energy Communities, Support Coal Workers, and Reduce Reliance on Competitors Like China
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President Biden’s Investing in America Agenda is Creating Jobs, Lowering Costs, and Driving Historic Economic Growth and More Than $14 Billion in Federal Investments in Energy Communities
Today, at a White House convening with energy communities, the Biden-Harris Administration will announce historic new actions to create jobs, lower costs, and invest in the energy communities that powered this nation for generations.
President Biden came to the White House to end years of big words but little action to help energy-producing parts of the country, who for decades saw jobs exported out and products imported in, all while other countries surpassed the United States in critical sectors like infrastructure, clean energy, and semiconductors. President Biden’s Investing in America Agenda is already turning the tide, bringing manufacturing jobs back home and ensuring we rebuild our economy from the bottom-up and the middle-out, not top-down, so that no community is left behind.
The actions announced today will drive new investments in energy communities to support their economic revitalization, strengthen American supply chains, and help ensure coal, oil, and gas workers benefit from the new clean energy economy.
These investments build on the more than $14 billion from across federal agencies that the Interagency Working Group on Coal and Power Plant Communities and Economic Revitalization has driven to the hardest-hit energy communities across the country. They also build on the more than $7.4 billion that companies have invested in energy communities to spur clean energy manufacturing, steel production, and critical minerals processing.
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HELP US TAKE CARE OF OUR CITY!
DOWNLOAD THE REPORT- IT APP
Available in IOS and Android Mobile Phones
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Exercise your civic duty-- be the eyes and ears of our City! Your reports can greatly increase the quality of life in our Plainfield community. Let's work together to keep our city safe- If you see it, say it with ReportIt. | |
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Use the app, or text
reportit to 63975
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Mayor Adrian O. Mapp and the City of Plainfield are committed to making it as easy as possible to report concerns in our city. To that end, we've partnered with REPORT IT, which is now live in Plainfield and ready to be used as an important supplemental reporting tool.
Report it makes community reporting easier than ever! Residents and visitors can download the app by scanning the barcode above or by going to your phone's app store. Your reports will be submitted to the appropriate City department to be resolved.
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Sign up for our weekly newsletter and stay informed on the latest projects, and events around our Queen City!
Call us at: 908.753.3015 or
E:communications@plainfieldnj.gov
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|THE CITY OF PLAINFIELD NJ|
515 WATCHUNG AVENUE | 908-753-3310| MONDAY-FRIDAY | 9 A.M.- 5 P.M.|
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Creating One Plainfield. One Future. | | | | |
