Somerville Downtown Projects Get $1.94M In Federal Funding Backed By Kean

SOMERVILLE, NJ — A proposed $1.942 million in federal funding will support two downtown Somerville capital projects aimed at improving access, safety and public space.

Congressman Tom Kean Jr. and Mayor Brian Gallagher visited downtown Somerville last week to highlight the funding, which Kean secured in a House funding bill through the Community Project Funding process.

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The money will be used for the Division Street Arts Plaza and the Giardina Walk Improvements.

The projects were described as complementary capital improvements that would remake two heavily traveled public corridors into pedestrian spaces tied to downtown Somerville's arts and cultural identity.

"Downtown Somerville is truly the heart of Somerset County, and this investment will help make it an even better place to live, work, shop, and dine," said Kean. "I fought for this funding because Somerville deserves a downtown that reflects the energy, character, and pride of this special community. This project will be transformational in supporting local businesses, improving the downtown experience for residents and visitors alike."

Gallagher said the investment would help improve conditions in the downtown.

"I'm grateful to Congressman Tom Kean, Jr. for securing nearly $1.94 million in federal funding for the Division Street Arts Plaza and Giardina Walk improvements," said Gallagher. "This investment will make our downtown safer and more accessible, strengthen Main Street as a regional destination, and benefit the entire community. Congressman Kean's persistence in advancing this funding through Washington reflects his genuine commitment to Somerville and the region, and we're thankful for his leadership and partnership."

Downtown Somerville Alliance Executive Director Dana Kessel called the work an investment in the downtown's future and economic vitality.

"The Division Street and Giardina Walkway improvements are an investment in the future and economic vitality of Downtown Somerville, the county seat," said Dana Kessel, Executive Director of the Downtown Somerville Alliance.

Kean's office said that since taking office, he has secured more than $3.4 million for accessible walkways across New Jersey's Seventh Congressional District through the Community Project Funding process.

In July, according to the announcement, Kean said 18 Community Project Funding requests made by his office totaling $17,765,906 were included in key House funding bills for the upcoming fiscal year.