Staffing Shortage Halts Some Sidewalk Improvements In Basking Ridge

BASKING RIDGE, NJ — A staffing shortage felt in Bernards Township has caused a number of sidewalk projects to be halted.

The township committee voted to unanimously approve a resolution to decrease the amount allocated to sidewalk projects by more than 62 percent at the Sept. 13 meeting.

The original award for the project was $90,920. The resolution decreased that amount by 62.63 percent or $56,939.68 bringing the new total to $33,980.32.

"We are currently short-staffed 2 positions in engineering. As such, the overall amount of work was reduced because staff was not available to administer the contract before it expired as there were other higher priority projects," said Township Engineer Thomas Timko.

The specific locations where sidewalk improvements were to be conducted had not been identified yet, according to Timko.

Any unexpended funds will be pushed and used with the next sidewalk contract, said Timko.

During the meeting, resident Josh Tolentino also spoke about sidewalks in the township.

On Friday, Sept. 9, Tolentino said he was on his scooter on the sidewalk on Mount Airy Road riding underneath the Interstate 287 overpass.

Tolentino's scooter hit a raised portion of the sidewalk which caused him to flip over and bruise two ribs.

"That portion of sidewalk underneath 287, in my opinion, has become extraordinarily neglected," said Tolentino.

He added that he wasn't able to see the raised sidewalk due to overgrown grass covering the sidewalk.

"It is a safety concern that I would like to bring to this panel’s attention," said Tolentino to Committee Members.

Township Administrator Pat Monaco said the area becomes a bit tricky since it is a state right away and falls under their jurisdiction.

However, Monaco said he would reach out to the state about the sidewalk and overgrown grass.

"We will get out there and will grind down any sidewalks that are hazards, pick up trash, and that sort of thing to clean up the area," added Monaco. "We will take care of it for you."

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