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Union County Plans Major Upgrade for Plainfield Intersections

Union County, NJ — The Union County Board of Chosen Freeholders is pleased to announce that plans are moving forward for a group of three intersection safety improvement projects on East Front Street (County Road 620) and 7th Avenue (County Road 601) in the City of Plainfield. The work will include new traffic signals with audible pedestrian signals and push buttons.

The federally funded upgrades are designed to improve pedestrian safety while easing traffic congestion. All three projects are expected to be completed by the end of 2020.

“These three projects demonstrate the vital role that federal funding plays in the economic health of our communities. Plainfield is a center of commerce in the region, and these improvements will enable local residents, visitors, business owners and their employees to navigate the city streets with greater ease, while also improving the flow of through traffic,” said Freeholder Chairman Sergio Granados. “It’s also important to note that the upgrades will help improve access for seniors and people with disabilities.”

“By helping Plainfield to become a more walkable and bike-able city, these improvements will encourage our residents to get out and about, patronize local businesses, and contribute to a cleaner, greener environment for all,” said Freeholder Rebecca Williams, a longtime resident of Plainfield. “All together, these three projects will make a significant difference in the quality of life for residents and visitors alike.”

One project involves four intersections on East Front Street, at Sandford Avenue, Watchung Avenue, Roosevelt Avenue, and Norwood Avenue/Richmond Street. The estimated cost of construction is $1.1 million. Work on that project is expected to begin in the summer of 2020.

 

The work includes:

  • New traffic signals poles, foundation, mast arms, signal heads, video image detection, traffic controllers with battery power backup equipment, and junction boxes to improve overall operational safety.
  • New ADA compliant curb ramps with detectable warning surfaces, pedestrian push buttons and pedestrian countdown traffic signals, high visibility crosswalks, and the installation and replacement of regulatory, warning and pedestrian signs.
  • Milling and paving of the roadway surface of each intersection.

Similar improvements are slated for a second project, which will upgrade the intersection of West Seventh Street with Central Avenue, Grant Avenue, and Plainfield Avenue. This project is expected to begin work in the spring of 2019 with an estimated construction cost of $785,000.

The third project includes improvements for one additional intersection on East Front Street at Leland Avenue, and four additional intersections on West 7th Street at Leland Avenue, Woodland Avenue, Berckman Street, and Arlington Avenue, for a total estimated cost of $2.9 million. The design phase for this project is expected to begin in the spring of 2019.

The three projects were approved through the Local Safety Program, an initiative of the North Jersey Transportation Planning Authority in conjunction with the New Jersey Department of Transportation. Funding for the Local Safety Program comes from the Federal Highway Administration’s Highway Safety Improvements Program.

A public comment period on the East Front Street project involving four intersections is still open. The deadline for commenting is Friday, December 21, 2018. Written comments or requests for additional information may be sent to the Project Manager, Raymond L. Sullivan, by email to rsullivan@ucnj.org, fax to 908-789-3674, or by US Post to the Union County Engineering Building, 2325 South Avenue, Scotch Plains, NJ  07076.

 

For all Union County programs and services visit ucnj.org, call the Public Info Line, 877-424-1234, email info@ucnj.org or use the online Contact Form.

 

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Union County Awards “UC Night at the Theater” Grants, Supporting Arts in County High Schools

 

Union County, NJ – The Union County Board of Chosen Freeholders is pleased to announce the recipients of the new UC Night at the Theater grant. As part of Freeholder Chairman Sergio Granados’s “Moving UNION COUNTY Forward” initiatives, the new program aims to help cover the costs of high school theater productions and provide arts enrichment for the community at large.

“The Freeholder Board is pleased to see so many talented high school students and theater provides many avenues of endeavor to pursue, whether onstage or behind the scenes,” said Freeholder Chairman Sergio Granados. “It is our hope that these grants will assist our schools in expanding and enhancing these enriching opportunities for students, while engaging more residents in the performing arts as well.”

Over $26,000 in grants were awarded to help cover the costs of high school theater productions slated for the spring or fall of 2019. The UC Night at the Theater program is funded through Moving Union County forward in conjunction with the Union County Open Space, Historic Preservation and Kids Recreation Trust Fund.

“UC Night at the Theater grants will help youths in Union County explore their interests and share their enthusiasm with family, friends and neighbors. This program not only provides resources for high school students to pursue their creative interests but also encourages the attendance of their local communities in support of these productions,” said Freeholder Alexander Mirabella, who is Chairman of the Trust Fund.

List of awardees:

MUNICIPALITY

SCHOOL

 AWARD

Elizabeth

Alexander Hamilton Preparatory Academy

 $         1,750.00

Elizabeth

Thomas Jefferson Arts Academy

 $         1,750.00

Hillside

Hillside Public High Schools

 $         1,750.00

Hillside

Benedictine Academy

 $         1,750.00

Kenilworth

David Brearley High School

 $         1,750.00

Linden

Linden High School

 $         1,750.00

New Providence

New Providence High School

 $         1,750.00

Plainfield

Academy for the Arts & Advanced Studies

 $         1,750.00

Rahway

Rahway High School

 $         1,750.00

Roselle

Abraham Clark High School

 $         1,750.00

Scotch Plains

Academy of Performing Arts

 $         1,750.00

Scotch Plains

Scotch Plains-Fanwood High Schools

 $         1,750.00

Summit

Summit High School

 $         1,750.00

Springfield

Jonathan Dayton High School

 $         1,750.00

Westfield

Westfield High School

 $         1,750.00

 

 

 

TOTAL:

 

 $       26,250.00

 

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For all Union County programs and services visit ucnj.org, call the Public Info Line, 877-424-1234, email info@ucnj.org or use the online Contact Form.

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Just “ASK” for Information about Senior Services in Union County

Union County, NJ — Union County residents seeking information about services available for senior adults age 60 and older will have a choice of eight dates and locations in January 2019 to speak with staff from the county’s Department of Human Services Division on Aging through ASK, the Aging Services Kiosk community outreach program.

Staff will be present at public libraries in Elizabeth, Cranford, Clark, Garwood, Mountainside, Rahway, Summit, and Union. The Rahway session will have bi-lingual (Spanish speaking) staff on hand.

“The purpose of ASK is to help residents obtain information about programs and services available to seniors and their caregivers,” said Sergio Granados, Chairman of the Union County Board of Chosen Freeholders. “The ASK program brings our knowledgeable, experienced Division on Aging staff, based in Elizabeth, to locations throughout Union County to make it easier for residents to get expert assistance close to home.”

Through the ASK program, staff from the Union County Division on Aging and Disability Resource Connection have been traveling throughout Union County providing information about home delivered meals, respite care, home care, adult day care and other support services for seniors, family members and caregivers.

Assistance with completing applications and forms is also provided.

All Union County residents are welcome to attend any ASK event. The January 2019 dates and locations are:

Monday, January 7
Elizabeth Public Library – LaCorte branch
418 Palmer Street, Elizabeth, 07202
10:00 am – 12:00 noon

Wednesday, January 9
Cranford Public Library
224 Walnut Avenue, Cranford, 07016
10:00 – 12:00 noon

Thursday, January 10
Rahway Senior Center
Bi-lingual staff will be available at this site
1306 Esterbrook Avenue, Rahway, 07065
10:00 am – 12:00 noon

Monday, January 14
Clark Public Library
303 Westfield Avenue, Clark, 07066
10:00 am to 12:00 noon

Thursday, January 17
Garwood Public Library
411 Third Avenue, Garwood, 07027
10:00 – 12:00 noon

Friday, January 18
Mountainside Public Library
Constitution Plaza, Mountainside, 07092
10:00 – 12:00 noon

Monday, January 28
Summit Public Library
75 Maple Street, Summit, 07901
10:30 – 12:30

Tuesday, January 29
Union Public Library
1980 Morris Avenue, Union, 07083
11:30 am – 1:30 pm

The goal of the Union County Division on Aging and Disability Resource Connection is to promote wellness, independence, dignity and choice for seniors and their families. It is one of 670 “Area Agencies on Aging” nationwide established under the federal Older Americans Act. The division has information printed in both English and Spanish.

Check for the upcoming schedule of stops for an ASK kiosk coming near you as dates and locations are posted in local newspapers, the Senior News, Facebook, Twitter and the Union County website, ucnj.org.

For further information about the Union County Division on Aging and Disability Resource Connection, call the division’s toll-free number: 888-280-8226 or 908-527- 4870 or 4858. Spanish speakers may call 908-527-4863.  Information may be viewed on the Union County government website at ucnj.org

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For all Union County programs and services visit ucnj.org, call the Public Info Line, 877-424-1234, email info@ucnj.org or use the online Contact Form.

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Freeholder Board Awards First STEM Scholars Grants

Union County, NJ – The Union County Board of Chosen Freeholders is pleased to announce that award of grants for elementary and middle schools in 15 school districts through the new Union County STEM Scholars grant program. The program launched this year under Freeholder Chairman Granados’ “Moving Union County Forward” Plant-A-Seed initiative with the goal of enabling local school districts to enhance STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) programs for younger students.

“This year we set forth a series of “Moving Union County Forward” initiatives working together with the school districts across Union County, to help our residents excel in educational and career goals,” said Freeholder Chairman Sergio Granados. “The new STEM Scholars program helps open up more opportunities for elementary and middle school students to practice foundational STEM skills like teamwork and leadership, and prepare them to take on the challenging curriculum of high school STEM topics.”

“Providing STEM lessons in an inclusive and supportive environment helps younger students develop self-confidence, curiosity and innovative thinking,” said Freeholder Chairman Christopher Hudak. “The next generation of STEM leaders is growing up before our eyes, and we want to ensure that every child has an opportunity to explore STEM topics in their schools and communities.”

The inspiration for the grant program comes from the Freeholder Hudak’s mother, Susan L. Hudak. Ms. Hudak was a dedicated member of the educational community of Union County for many years, both as a member of the Linden Board of Education and as a volunteer. Her work included the establishment of a Monthly Friday Family Science Night, a program that ran for 25 years at School No. 6 in Linden for students and their families.

The STEM Scholars program awarded grants in the following areas of concentration:

  • Project Based Learning: Creative, STEM-integrated, educational programming.
  • Afterschool STEM: Projects and programming that focus on extra-curricular learning, including science fairs, STEM clubs, monthly labs and workshop.
  • Out-of-School STEM: Creative STEM experiences out of the classroom, to better prepare students for STEM work in the classroom, and in the workforce.

List of awardees:

TownsSchoolArea RequestedAward Granted
Berkeley HeightsWilliam Woodruff Elementary SchoolProject Based Learning$482.41
Berkeley HeightsWilliam Woodruff Elementary SchoolProject Based Learning$2,500.00
ClarkFrank K. Hehnly SchoolProject Based Learning$494.98
CranfordHillside Avenue SchoolProject Based Learning$520.00
CranfordWalnut Avenue SchoolProject Based Learning$520.00
CranfordLivingston Avenue SchoolProject Based Learning$520.00
CranfordOrange Avenue SchoolProject Based Learning$520.00
CranfordBrookside Place SchoolProject Based Learning$500.00
ElizabethGeorge Washington AcademyAfterschool STEM$1,647.80
ElizabethJ. Christian Bollwage AcademyAfterschool STEM$500.00
ElizabethTerence C. Reilly # 7Out of School STEM$500.00
ElizabethJohn E. Dwyer Technology AcademyAfterschool STEM$1,000.00
ElizabethFrank J. Cicarell Academy HSAfterschool STEM$1,235.85
HillsideHurden Looker SchoolProject Based Learning$500.00
HillsideGeorge Washington ElementaryAfterschool STEM$354.00
HillsideCalvin Coolidge Elementary SchoolProject Based Learning$440.00
HillsideWalter O. Krumbiegel Middle SchoolProject Based Learning and Afterschool STEM$438.00
HillsideA.P. Morris Early Childhood CenterProject Based Learning$1,385.70
HillsideHillside High SchoolProject Based Learning$473.60
KenilworthSaint Theresa SchoolProject Based Learning$500.00
LindenSchool 8Afterschool STEM$500.50
LindenSchool # 2Afterschool STEM$500.00
LindenSchool # 5Afterschool STEM$500.00
LindenSchool # 9Afterschool STEM$500.00
LindenSchool # 1Out of school STEM$500.00
LindenElementary School # 6Afterschool STEM$500.00
LindenHighland Avenue School # 10Afterschool STEM$500.00
LindenLinden School 4Afterschool STEM$500.00
MountainsideDeerfield SchoolProject Based Learning$1,000.00
New ProvidenceSalt Brook Elementary SchoolAfterschool STEM$480.00
New ProvidenceMorris-Union Jointure CommissionProject Based Learning$500.00
PlainfieldPlainfield Acamdemy of Arts and Advance StudiesProject Based Learning$500.00
RahwayFranklin & Madison Elementary SchoolsProject Based Learning$1,199.00
RoselleWashington Elementary SchoolProject Based Learning$500.00
Scotch PlainsPark Middle School 1Afterschool STEM$800.00
Scotch PlainsPark Middle School 2Project Based Learning$500.00
Scotch PlainsTerrill Middle SchoolProject Based Learning$500.00
SpringfieldJonathan Dayton High SchoolAfterschool STEM$500.00
SpringfieldSt. James the ApostleAfterschool STEM$800.00
SummitBrayton Elementary SchoolProject Based Learning$316.21
Total$26,628.05

Photo credit: US Department of Education.

For all Union County programs and services visit ucnj.org, call the Public Info Line, 877-424-1234, email info@ucnj.org or use the online Contact Form.

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Union County “Wraps Up” 2018 with Employee and Community Holiday Giving Drive

Union County, NJ – The new Union County Office of Community Engagement and Diversity finished its first year of activity with two Holiday Giving drives that collected more than 500 toys for children across Union County, and more than 1,000 pounds of food for the Community Foodbank of New Jersey.

“We launched the new Office of Community Engagement and Diversity this year, to increase our engagement with local non-profit and volunteer organizations, and also to support new opportunities for our employees and residents to join together and collectively make a difference for those in need,” said Freeholder Chairman Sergio Granados. “The office’s first year of coordinating the Holiday Giving toy and food drives was a success, and I would like to thank all of those who contributed to these efforts.”

The Office of Community Engagement and Diversity works with other agencies to identify volunteer opportunities, coordinate events, and create a network of volunteer organizations to build relationships with the County’s different communities. It is the heart of Chairman Granados’s 2018 “Moving Union County Forward” initiative for Union County, aimed at providing opportunities for individual empowerment and community service.

The toy drive continues a Union County tradition. In this year’s effort, Union County employees joined with residents and community partners to donate more than 500 toys. Some of the toys were delivered by County personnel to more than 120 families. Others were donated to the Coalition to House the Homeless, Children’s Specialized Hospital, the YWCA and other community partners for distribution to additional children.

The food drive was the first such effort undertaken as a Union County initiative. The Office of Community Engagement and Diversity partnered with the grassroots organization Foodstock in a broader effort to support the Community FoodBank of New Jersey during the holiday season.

The 1,000-pound donation from Union County employees was part of a total of 100,000 pounds of food donated to the Community FoodBank under the umbrella of the Foodstock holiday food drive.

For more information about the Office of Community Engagement and Diversity contact Nathalie Hernandez, Coordinator, at 908-527-4880 or nahernandez@ucnj.org.

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Photo caption: Union County Freeholder Chairman Sergio Granados and Freeholders Angel G. Estrada, Christopher Hudak, Rebecca Williams, Bruce H. Bergen and Alexander Mirabella joined Union County Deputy County Manager Amy Wagner, Union County Office of Community Engagement & Diversity Coordinator Nathalie Hernandez and Division of Strategic Planning and Intergovernmental Relations Division Director Phil Kandl in reviewing the toys donated by Union County employees and residents with the help of outside organizations during this year’s toy drive. Toys were collected to provide holiday cheer to families across Union County. For the food drive, Union County employees donated over 1,000 pounds of food to the Community Food Bank of Hillside NJ. This year’s Union County Holiday Giving Drives were organized by the Union County Office of Community Engagement & Diversity. (Photo by Jim Lowney/County of Union)

For all Union County programs and services visit ucnj.org, call the Public Info Line, 877-424-1234, email info@ucnj.org or use the online Contact Form.

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Union County Re-Dedicates WWII Memorial in Rahway River Park

Union County, NJ – Union County, NJ – The Union County Board of Chosen Freeholders is pleased to announce the restoration of the Rahway Memorial Grove, a World War II memorial located in Union County’s Rahway River Park in Rahway. A ribbon cutting ceremony to mark the restoration was held on Thursday morning, December 20.

 “With this restoration project, we honor the words engraved on the memorial: ‘May their sacrifice not be in vain,’” said Freeholder Chairman Sergio Granados. “World War II created an enormous impact on Rahway and communities like it throughout our nation. I hope that the restoration will provide visitors to our park with a new appreciation for the sacrifices made by our military and their families in the past, present and future.

The memorial was established in 1947 by the families of 58 Rahway residents who lost their lives in World War II. They planted total of 58 oak trees in various places in the park, and placed a stone memorial holding a plaque that lists the names of each of the 58 who gave their lives.

The restoration was coordinated by the Office of Veteran Services, which was established as one of Chairman Granados’s initiatives for 2018 to expand Union County’s engagement with veterans, active duty military, and military families.

A total of 34 mature oak trees remain from the original 58 plantings. As part of the restoration project, this year 24 new trees were planted to replace the missing ones.

The stone memorial was also moved to a new location in the park where it is more visible to passers-by. The new location, which also holds the David Fisher World War II memorial marker, includes landscaped features to draw the eye and a paved area to improve accessibility. Benches will also be added to provide for restful contemplation at the site.

The location of each of the original 58 trees is indicated on a historical map dated 1947. The map also assigns an individual tree to each name on the memorial plaque. An updated version of the map will be available online as part of the restoration project.

Local Boy Scout Brian Esteves has also contributed to the effort. He is installing tree markers, so that visitors can easily identify trees that belong to the memorial grove. Each marker is engraved with the corresponding name listed on the original map.

The Rahway Memorial Grove and David Fisher memorial markers are located just east of the swimming pool complex, off Rahway Park Drive in Rahway River Park.

For more information about the Union County Office of Veteran Services contact Janna Williams, Office Coordinator, at jwilliams@ucnj or 908-527-4918 or visit online at ucnj.org/uc-hero.

For all Union County programs and services visit ucnj.org, call the Public Info Line, 877-424-1234, email info@ucnj.org or use the online Contact Form.

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 Photo caption: Union County Freeholder Chairman Sergio Granados joined Union County Office of Veteran Services Coordinator Janna Williams and military veterans at the ribbon cutting marking the restoration of the Rahway Memorial Grove, a World War II memorial located in Union County’s Rahway River Park in Rahway. The restoration was coordinated by the Office of Veteran Services, which was established as one of Chairman Granados’s initiatives for 2018 to expand Union County’s engagement with veterans, active duty military, and military families. For more information about the Union County Office of Veteran Services, visit www.ucnj.org/uc-hero. (Photo by Jim Lowney/County of Union)

 

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Protect Yourself from Fraud this Holiday Season

Union County, NJ — As the seasonal holidays draw near, the hectic rush of shopping, traveling and preparing for visitors can put consumers at greater risk for scams, fraud and theft. The Union County Board of Chosen Freeholders reminds residents that they can take a few simple steps to protect themselves.

“During the holiday season fraud increases by 20 percent,” said Freeholder Chairman Sergio Granados. “It is crucial that residents are informed of the different precautions that they can take to avoid becoming victims of fraud and theft.”

Union County residents should be aware that telephones are still a weapon of choice for scammers.

Phone scammers can take advantage of the holiday rush and catch residents off guard with a phone call. It is important to know that a legitimate government office, such as Social Security or the IRS, will never ask for personal information by phone.

Never give out Social Security numbers or other personal information over the telephone unless the caller’s identity can be verified.

Law enforcement and consumer professionals recommend that in-store shoppers prepare a list ahead of time, only carry the credit cards and ID that they need, and plan their excursions to avoid carrying too many bags at once.

When checking out of a store, shoppers should remain at the register long enough to get their receipt, put their change or credit card back in place, organize their shopping bags and ensure that their wallet or purse is secured on their person.

Shoppers are advised to never leave a purse or wallet in a shopping cart, or in an easily accessible pocket.

Thieves are known to scout parking lots, looking for vehicles with open trunks or visible packages. Shoppers should use caution when loading goods into their vehicle. Packages left in a parked car should be covered or kept in the trunk, and all doors should be checked to ensure they are locked.

Another area of risk has emerged with the growing popularity of online shopping. Theft of unattended packages from doorways and porches is becoming more common.

Online shoppers who are not home for long periods should make alternate plans for package delivery. For example, depending on the sender some packages can be directed for pickup at a local post office or delivery service.

Online scammers can also do a great amount of damage if shoppers are not careful. Home computer users should ensure that their security settings are up to date, and be on the lookout for any alerts or messages regarding possible compromises.

To help consumers avoid scams and frauds, the New Jersey Division of Consumer Affairs has developed an Anti-Fraud Toolkit.

To view the Toolkit online or to download the Toolkit in English or Spanish, visit fightingfraud.nj.gov.

Consumers in need of assistance in Union County can call the Union County Office of Consumer Affairs at 908-654-9840 or use the online fraud reporting form on the County website, ucnj.org.

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For all Union County programs and services visit ucnj.org, call the Public Info Line, 877-424-1234, email info@ucnj.org or use the online Contact Form.

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Rahway Fire and EMS Join Union County Dispatch Center

Union County, NJ— The Union County Board of Chosen Freeholders is pleased to announce that the Union County Regional Dispatch Center will now handle fire and emergency medical service calls for the City of Rahway.

“The Union County Dispatch Center is a shared services success story. It enables county and local governments to come together and manage their resources more efficiently, for the greater good of the communities we serve,” said Freeholder Chairman Sergio Granados. “We are excited that the City of Rahway has joined the growing list of municipalities taking part in this County service.”

The Union County Regional Dispatch Center is a state-of-the-art emergency dispatch facility located in the County’s Ralph J. Froehlich Public Safety Building in Westfield. It opened in October 2012.

The $1.2 million facility replaced the County’s previous operation located at the same site, which only managed county public safety operations.

“We are very happy to be entering into this partnership with the County of Union.  This will provide for both improved delivery of critical services as well as cost savings for our residents.  In Rahway we always welcome these types of relationships that help protect our community and we thank the Freeholders for their support,” said Rahway Mayor Raymond Giacobbe.

In addition to providing emergency dispatch services for the Union County Police and other countywide first responders, the Dispatch Center serves a growing number of municipalities and other entities in the region including police, fire and 911 calls as well as EMS.

With the addition of Rahway, the Dispatch Center now serves 12 of Union County’s 21 municipalities and handles a total list of 24 first responder agencies.

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For all Union County programs and services visit ucnj.org, call the Public Info Line, 877-424-1234, email info@ucnj.org or use the online Contact Form.

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New Dog Park Opens at Warinanco Park in Roselle – Becomes Second County-wide facility for canines

Union County Freeholder Chairman Sergio Granados and Freeholder Alexander Mirabella cut the ribbon officially opening the new dog park in Warinanco Park in Roselle. They were joined by Deputy County Manager Amy Wagner, Parks Director Ron Zuber and council members from Elizabeth and Roselle. (Photo by Jim Lowney/County of Union)

Union County, NJ – With dozens of happy dogs—and their owners—on hand, the Union County Board of Chosen Freeholders officially cut the ribbon and opened the Warinanco Dog Park in Roselle this past Saturday.

The new dog park is located behind the Warinanco Sports Center located at 1 Park Drive in Warinanco Park, Roselle. The opening was attended by local elected officials, county freeholders and dozens of county residents and their dogs.

“This new dog park in the eastern end of the County will complement the existing dog park in western Union County,” said Freeholder Chairman Sergio Granados, who attended with his dog, Bingo. “The Freeholder Board is proud to provide this more local option for dog lovers and owners. As a dog lover myself, I am personally excited to see the county continue to flourish and offer residents diverse resources to accommodate their dogs, which like them, are part of Union County.”

Freeholder Alexander Mirabella and other municipal dignitaries from Elizabeth and Roselle, and County directors were on also on hand. The ribbon-cutting was also attended by dozens of County residents and their dogs of all sizes, ranging from St. Bernards to Chihuahuas.

Hot chocolate, coffee and donuts were on hand for dog-lovers to combat the chill in in the air as the county’s furriest residents became acquainted with the newest dog park. Gift bags filled with treats and other goodies provided by Kong and Earth Rated were given to each canine attendee.

“When Freeholder Sergio Granados became Chairman, I asked to meet with him in January to discuss the option on building a dog park in my hometown,” said Ruby Contreras from the Elizabeth Public Information Office. “We then decided that Warinanco Park was the perfect location as it allows other dog owners from the surrounding towns to come together as well. As a dog mom, I am proud to say that I helped make this happen not only for dogs, but for dog parents everywhere.”

The Warinanco Dog Park is a newly constructed public facility. It features separate large and small dog areas. Each area is equipped with agility equipment, dog-waste stations, pet-friendly water fountains and seating for dog owners.  The Warinanco Dog Park will operate on the same schedule as all Union County parks, with access available year-round from dawn to dusk on a daily basis.

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For all Union County programs and services visit ucnj.org, call the Public Info Line, 877-424-1234, email info@ucnj.org or use the online Contact Form.

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New Dog Park, Model Trains, Ice Skating and More in Union County Parks this Weekend

A celebratory opening for the new Warinanco Dog Park is just one of the many ways to enjoy Union County parks this weekend.

 Chilly but bright and dry weather is expected to draw many visitors to Union County parks this weekend. As always there is something for everyone to enjoy, highlighted by the celebratory opening of Union County’s new Warinanco Dog Park.

“We are constantly looking for new opportunities for our residents and visitors to participate in community recreation, and the new Warinanco Dog Park is a great example of the different ways in which public parks can draw people together,” said Freeholder Chairman Sergio Granados.

Chairman Granados and other officials will cut the ribbon for the new Warinanco Dog Park on Saturday, December 8 at 1:00 p.m. Residents and visitors – and their four legged companions – are invited to come and enjoy dog treats, dog-themed vendors and more.

The new dog park is located behind the Warinanco Sports Center at 1 Park Drive in Warinanco Park, in Roselle. Union County also has another dog park at Echo Lake Park, in Mountainside.

History buffs can stroll through the Deserted Village of Feltville or follow a walking route that traces the footsteps of George Washington and the Continental Army as they marched toward the final showdown of the Revolutionary War.

Visitors to parks throughout Union County can also keep an eye out for birds while hiking along miles of rustic trails and paved pathways. Bird watchers in the New York – New Jersey area are excited by an “irruption,” or unexpected appearance, of saw-whet owls and other bird species this fall. Visitors can help protect birds in Union County parks by viewing them from a distance, not disturbing them while they are at rest, and not sharing their location on social media.

For indoor fun this weekend, the Warinanco Sports Center features an indoor ice skating rink complete with a comfortable lounge, good eats and cozy fireplace.

In Union Township, the A. Paul Mallery Model Railroad Center is hosting the final weekend of its annual holiday model train extravaganza. The Railroad Center is located in Lenape Park, behind the Home Depot off Route 22 East in Union. Shows run on Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

In Mountainside, Union County’s Trailside Nature and Science Center is open from noon to 12:00 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday, featuring interactive exhibits for all ages, an expansive reading room, and handy access to the new wheelchair-accessible Sensory Friendly Trail.

Trailside is open seven days a week with free admission to the exhibits and reading room. There is a modest fee for scheduled activities.

For more information and schedules for activities in the Union County parks system visit ucnj.org/parks-recreation.

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For all Union County programs and services visit ucnj.org, call the Public Info Line, 877-424-1234, email info@ucnj.org or use the online Contact Form.

Connect with Union County on social media.