Monument Display Billboard Application Is Withdrawn

BRIDGEWATER, NJ — Catalyst Experiential has withdrawn its application seeking to erect an electronic monument billboard on Bridgewater Township property, announced Mayor Matthew Monech on Friday.

"Catalyst has informed the Administration that they are withdrawing their application for the Monument Sign on Municipal property on Route 202/206. The Township will not be pursuing this issue any further at this time. Thank you to everyone for their engagement and feedback on this issue," said Moench.

The first reading of an ordinance to award a lease to 100 Commons L Bridgewater LH, LLC to construct the display on the municipal complex site visible to Route 202/206 near the Interstate 287 merge was unanimously approved by the Township Council at the March 2 meeting. Related: Electronic Monument Billboard To Be Erected In Bridgewater

The display would have had Bridgewater Township's name on the top and feature advertisements along with township messages - such as for town events, activities, etc. - as well.

The application had received backlash from some in the community over light pollution and driver distraction. Read More: 'Are We Up For Sale?' Residents Oppose Bridgewater Electronic Display

"Are we up for sale? Are we up for rent? I don't want to live in a town that rents ourselves out. I thought that we wanted to preserve our quality of life," said resident Cathy Franco at the April 20 meeting.

As a result, the hearing before Planning Board was repeatedly pushed back. Read More: Monument Display Hearing At Bridgewater Planning Board Is Postponed

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