Hillsborough Launches Patriotic Fire Hydrant Painting Program Ahead Of July 4

HILLSBOROUGH, NJ — Hillsborough Township plans to have 60 fire hydrants painted in patriotic themes by July 4 through a partnership with New Jersey American Water and Sherwin-Williams.

The project was announced as a nod to the nation’s Bicentennial in 1976 and is tied to local planning for the American Semiquincentennial.

Mayor Catherine Payne said during the May 12 Township Committee meeting that the idea grew out of community feedback.

"Earlier this year, we asked Hillsborough residents how they wanted to celebrate America’s 250th anniversary," Payne said. "Several residents recalled when towns painted fire hydrants red, white, and blue for the Bicentennial in 1976. We thought this was the perfect way to bring that spirit to our community."

According to the township, Sherwin-Williams donated materials for 60 specialized paint kits that will be distributed to the first 60 residents who register.

Each kit includes industrial paint for one of three pre-approved patriotic designs. Registration will be offered on a first-come, first-served basis.

The township said the program includes operating rules intended to keep hydrants functional and visible for emergency services.

Hydrant caps must remain white for visibility. State-required hydrant numbers and plastic unauthorized-use rings must be masked off and left free of paint.

Eligible hydrants are limited to residential areas and cannot be on busy highways or high-traffic roads.

Designs also are restricted.

Volunteers may use only three approved patriotic themes, and no figures, complex shapes, or political slogans or messages are allowed.

Approved volunteers also must sign a liability release and follow a "Volunteer Tip Sheet" on how to apply the industrial oil-based enamel.

"New Jersey American Water is proud to partner with the Hillsborough community and Sherwin-Williams to celebrate this important milestone in our nation’s history," said Roger Shaffer, Senior Manager of Field Operations for New Jersey American Water in Hillsborough. "Fire hydrants play a critical role in protecting our communities. These designs allow us to honor that essential service while showcasing our national pride."

"Sherwin-Williams is proud to support Hillsborough Township as it celebrates 250 years of history and community," according to a statement from the Hillsborough Sherwin-Williams team. "As a local store that has been serving the residents and businesses of Hillsborough, we are thrilled to donate paint and supplies to help make this milestone celebration as vibrant and colorful as the community itself. It’s our way of giving back to a township that has meant so much to us."

Paint kits will be available beginning June 1, and all painting must be completed by July 4.

"Along with our patriotic house and business decorating contest, our goal is to turn Hillsborough red, white, and blue for Independence Day," added Deputy-Mayor and 250th Anniversary Committee Liaison Shawn Lipani.

Any leftover paint will be used in a Semiquincentennial mural in one of Hillsborough’s parks.

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