Mayor Gusciora allocates funds for Trenton’s American Rescue Plan
Last week, Mayor W. Reed Gusciora announced the next phase of Trenton’s American Rescue Plan (ARP), which President Biden historically signed into law in 2021. As a part of the plan, Trenton was awarded approximately $73 million in ARP funds, with $36.5 million distributed to the city in May 2021 and the second half distributed early June 2022. The first phase of Trenton’s ARP plan focused on first responder radio equipment and 911 emergency dispatch center, parks upgrade, water infrastructure and expansion of the city animal shelter. The Mayor announced that the next phase includes two funds of $2 million each, one to go toward not-for-profit projects and the other for small, for-profit businesses that operate in Trenton amongst low-income communities and people of color. The Mayor’s administration is specifically focused on building youth and neighborhood resilience, transforming aging infrastructure, and investing in local jobs and businesses. The funding is available to support projects with a minimum request of $25,000 up to $100,000 and will cover costs acquired no earlier than March 3, 2021 and no later than December 31, 2024. Click the links below for additional information and to apply for the funds.
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The City Council rejects the purchase of critical fire safety equipment
Looks like City Council President Kathy McBride and the Mayor just can’t see eye-to-eye on any city issue. The Mayor’s request to purchase self-contained breathing apparatus’ that include a harness, tank and face mask used by firefighters, was not approved by council yesterday. The Mayor’s administration’s goal was to use funding from the American Rescue Plan Act to purchase the safety equipment, which would protect firefighters against smoke inhalation and other noxious chemicals. The gear is said to be overdue for replacement and essential to the dangerous job of putting out fires. In a recent press release from the Mayor’s office, the Mayor says, “We cannot grind the business of the City to a halt, or someone is going to get hurt,” Gusciora said. “It’s one thing not to pay your bills, but it’s another to turn down federal money being used to protect our public safety workers.” However, Kenneth M. Douglas, the Department of Fire and Emergency Services Director stated that he assured firefighters that they will keep trying to get the funds for the much-needed protective equipment.
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Join in on Lead-Free NJ Trenton hub listening session
On Wednesday, July 13th, the Environmental Safety Committee will lead a discussion about environmental justice issues, community-driven solutions and resources affecting East Trenton. Joining the conversation will be Kristin Epstein, The Trenton Water Works Assistant Director of Utilities, Water, and Sewage, as well as Kareem Adeem, The Director of Newark’s Water and Sewage Department. Some of the topics discussed will be: drinking water filtration, lead and copper rule, political will, and model ordinances. The listening session will be held on Zoom from 5:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Click here to join the conversation towards making a change in your community.
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Attention all jumpers! Trenton’s double dutch tournament is on the way!
Mayor Gusciora and the Department of Recreation, National Resources & Culture Director Maria Richardson presents the City-Wide Double Dutch Tournament on July 23rd and August 20th. The tournament will be held from 1 p.m. – 4 p.m. on both days at Cadwalader Park on Parkside Avenue on the blacktop area. If you are a double dutch fanatic, you can register yourself and your team, if you have one, here. For more information call 609-989-3369.
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