East Brunswick Responding To Need Of 21st Century Economy: Mayor

EAST BRUNSWICK, NJ — On Monday evening, Mayor Brad Cohen delivered the 2025 State of the Township address.

The mayor highlighted the township's various achievements and future plans.

Cohen said East Brunswick demonstrated remarkable progress across all sectors in 2024, setting the stage for continued growth in 2025.

In 2024 the township has strengthened its position as one of New Jersey's most forward-thinking communities, Cohen said.

“There is a buzz going around the state about East Brunswick and how we are looking forward and responding to the needs of a 21st-century economy and lifestyle. Our redevelopment projects have helped to reinvigorate a commercial corridor that once laid barren, blighted and neglected,” Cohen said.

Here are some of the highlights from Monday night’s address:

Economic Development and Business Growth

The township saw remarkable business expansion in 2024, with nearly 90 new businesses or expansions under the guidance of Economic Development Officer Robert Zuckerman. Notable additions include the Asian Market, Clove Garden, Duck Donuts, and Palmeras Entertainment. The healthcare sector saw significant growth with the Robert Wood Johnson Children's Hospital outpatient facility opening at the former Kmart location. Tech companies including HCL Tech and Helix Wireless also established a presence in East Brunswic.

In 2025, residents can expect several new establishments including Cava, a swim school, and Rita's Ices at the Mid-State Mall. Chick-fil-A will join the retail offerings at Legacy Place, alongside new pizza and coffee shops.

“And the Brunswick Square Mall is also planning some very exciting changes that will be sure to meet the needs that East Brunswick residents have been requesting for years,” Cohen said.

Meanwhile, the township's economic vitality was evident in 2024, with Tax Assessor Frank Colon reporting 249 new assessments totaling $15 million in new rateables.

Public Safety and Community Protection

Under Chief Frank LaSacco's leadership, the Police Department handled over 75,000 calls in 2024, averaging 200 daily calls.

Some of the key achievements include:

• Implementation of a drone program

• Launch of the Blue Care program for drug addiction support

• Hiring of three new police officers

• Enhanced community policing initiatives

• Introduction of the "Arrive Together" program pairing officers with mental health specialists

• Creation of a special needs registry with the Middlesex County prosecutor's office

Parks and Recreation Achievements

The Parks and Recreation Department, led by Michael Reiser, received multiple professional recognitions and accomplished several major projects in 2024.

Some of them are:

• East Brunswick Ice Arena construction (ahead of schedule and under budget)

• $750,000 Green Acres grant secured for Lenape Park inclusive playground

• Establishment of the state's first fully lit cricket field

• Creation of the East Brunswick Symphony Orchestra

• Revenue generation of nearly $3 million, up $300,000 from the previous year

Infrastructure and Engineering

The Planning and Engineering Department, under Keith Kit's leadership, completed numerous vital projects:

• 5.4 miles of road repaving

• 3.2 miles of new township bike lanes

• Installation of new traffic lights at key intersections

• Water main projects on Route 18 and various township roads

• Collection of $2.7 million in permit fees

• Issuance of 20,615 certificates of occupancy

Library Services and Accessibility

The East Brunswick Public Library served 1.2 million residents in 2024 and introduced several innovative programs. They include:

• Creation of an Accessibility Librarian position

• Implementation of sensory-friendly browsing

• Introduction of dyslexia-friendly font reading lists

• Provision of color-corrective glasses

• National recognition as a finalist for the 2024 National Medal for Museum and Library Service

Future Challenges and Opportunities

The township faces several important challenges in 2025:

• Upcoming property revaluation after 40 years

• New affordable housing obligations (314 units for 2025-2035)

Cohen also spoke about the continuous collaboration between the Board of Education and the Township. He noted that one of the main reasons people chose to move to East Brunswick was for the quality of education provided by the school district.

“The council and I want nothing more than to see that reputation grow, and we want to be a partner in anything that improves the rich experience of our students and the experience that they receive in our public schools,” Cohen said.

“To achieve these results, it is imperative that we all operate from the same set of facts, that relevant information be made open and available to the public; that the Board of Education ask, demand, and make public answers to questions that can help the district move forward and, most importantly, hold the administration to the highest standards.”

Cohen said the township stands ready to assist the BOE in meeting those obligations.

In conclusion, the Mayor characterized East Brunswick as "strong, resilient, and focused," noting its unique position as a township that successfully balances diversity with unity, and tradition with innovation. He said the administration remains committed to maintaining East Brunswick's reputation for excellence while preparing for future growth and development.

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