Flood Control Project Delayed By Administrative Error In Cranford

CRANFORD, NJ — A project designed to help reduce flooding along the Rahway River has hit an unexpected delay after township officials were forced to reject construction bids because of an administrative error.

The Township Committee unanimously voted last week to reject all bids for the Rahway River Desilting and Desnagging Project, requiring the work to be put back out for bid before construction can move forward.

Township officials said two bids were received after they were opened July 2. The lowest bid, submitted by T.R. Weniger, Inc., totaled $249,656.

However, officials said a procedural error prevented the township from moving ahead with awarding the contract, making it necessary to reject all bids and restart the bidding process.

Despite the setback, township leaders emphasized that the project remains a top priority because of its role in reducing flood risks.

"This is an incredibly important project to us," Commissioner Brian Andrews said during the July 7 Township Committee meeting.

Andrews said he wants the township to move quickly so the delay is kept to a minimum.

"My advice and my request to my colleagues is we move as quickly as possible to get it done and get it done right," Andrews said. "My suggestion will be we have a special meeting specifically to move this forward before our next meeting."

The Rahway River desilting and desnagging project is intended to improve the river's flow by removing accumulated sediment, fallen trees and other debris that can restrict water movement during heavy rain.

Flood mitigation has remained a major focus in Cranford, a community that has experienced repeated flooding from the Rahway River during severe storms over the years. Township officials have pursued a variety of projects aimed at reducing flood risks and improving storm resilience.

Although the current bids were rejected, the Township Committee approved the measure unanimously and indicated it intends to rebid the project as soon as possible.

The township has not yet announced when new bids will be solicited or whether a special meeting will be scheduled to advance the project.