New Community Center, Water Partnership Announced For Edison

EDISON, NJ — A new community center and the negotiation of a water and sewer system partnership were two highlights of Edison Mayor Tom Lankey's State Of The Township address Thursday night.

The financing of the water and sewer deal would finance the new community center, Lankey said.

The township plans to enter into a long-term agreement with Suez North America to manege water and wastewater from the town. Edison would retain ownership of both systems; currently, Edison manages its own wastewater, and water is contracted out to American Water Co.

The agreement is subject to community hearings, and will require approvals from Edison Town Council, the state Department of Community Affairs, the Department of Environmental Protection and the Board of Public Utilities.

"This long-term lease will have Suez operating these systems and — more importantly — relieve the Township of the financial burden of funding capital to these aging systems," Lankey said.

Lankey said the new agreement would provide improved service to customers and allow for infrastructure improvements. Over 40 years, the new deal will cost $811 million, with a $100 million upfront payment to help pay off debts and pay for the new community center.

The new community center will likely be a 10,000-square-foot building at the Edison Town Square on Route 1, near the Sam's Club and Top Golf. The new center would replace the Stelton Community Center, which was shuttered in October.

Lankey provided few additional details, but said the township was in the process of selecting an architectural firm.

The goal is to connect the new community center property with nearby Thomas H. Paterniti Park; officials anticipate refurbishing the park in connection to the overall project.