Thursday, April 11, 2024
Roselle Kicks Off Street Smart NJ Campaign
The Borough of Roselle kicked off a Street Smart NJ pedestrian safety campaign April 10, with a focus on improving pedestrian safety along West 2nd Avenue, particularly at the intersections of Chestnut and Locust streets.
“Our administration and Borough Council is committed to safer streets as evidenced by our recent installation of four-way stop signs, speed bumps, and other traffic safety measures,” said Roselle Mayor Donald Shaw. “Our partnership with Street Smart NJ, the Roselle Board of Education, and our local Police Department elevates the importance of obeying traffic laws, resulting in safer intersections for our residents.”
Local officials announced the campaign during a news conference outside of Borough Hall. Street Smart NJ is a collaborative effort between public, private and non-profit organizations. The North Jersey Transportation Planning Authority (NJTPA) created the program in 2013 and since that time more than 250 communities and organizations across the state have participated.
“Street Smart NJ is one of many programs that can help us reach our goal of zero roadway fatalities,” said Union County Commissions Bette Jane Kowalski, who represents the County on the NJTPA Board of Trustees. “It will take all of us working together — and making smart decisions when travelling — to make our roads safer for everyone.”
The campaign reminds people of the commonsense things they can do to improve safety. Drivers must obey speed limits and stop for people crossing; people walking must use crosswalks (marked and unmarked) and cross with the signals; and everyone must avoid distractions. Cyclists are also reminded to ride with the flow of traffic and obey signals.
“As superintendent, safeguarding the well-being of our students and community is of utmost importance,” said Superintendent of Schools Dr. Nathan L. Fisher. “I am proud to say the Street Smart NJ campaign will play a pivotal role in educating both drivers and pedestrians on the safe utilization of our roadways. This initiative underscores our commitment to prioritizing student safety and fostering a secure environment for all members of our community."
EZ Ride, the Transportation Management Association serving Union County, is managing the campaign and working with the Borough, Union County, schools, and community partners to educate the public and distribute safety information. Large educational signs will be displayed at the intersections, and local and County police will enforce traffic and pedestrian laws as part of the campaign.
Anyone interested in helping to promote the Street Smart NJ campaign can contact Lisa Lee at 201-939-4242 ext. 123 or [email protected].