NJDEP Seeks South Brunswick Input On Delaware & Raritan Canal's Future

SOUTH BRUNSWICK, NJ — South Brunswick Township is encouraging residents to take part in a public engagement process to update the Delaware & Raritan Canal State Park Master Plan for the first time since 1989.

The D&R Canal is a historic, environmental and recreational resource that passes through South Brunswick and other Central New Jersey communities, offering opportunities for walking, bicycling, fishing, paddling and wildlife observation, according to the township.

The New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection's Delaware & Raritan Canal Commission is leading the update, which will guide the future preservation and management of the park while addressing recreation, historic resources, natural resources, water quality, climate resilience and community connections.

"The Delaware & Raritan Canal is a valued resource for our community," South Brunswick Mayor Charlie Carley said. "Residents enjoy the canal and surrounding open space throughout the year, and I encourage everyone with an interest in its future to participate in this planning process and share their ideas."

The canal stretches 70 miles through 34 municipalities in central New Jersey and is one of the state's most heavily used recreational corridors, according to the NJDEP. The canal system also delivers up to 100 million gallons of drinking water daily to about 1 million people in the region.

The Delaware & Raritan Canal Commission has scheduled public engagement sessions from 6 to 8 p.m. on the following dates, according to the NJDEP:

• July 20: Phillip J. Pittore Justice Center, 25 S. Union St., Lambertville

• July 29: Franklin Township Community Center, 505 DeMott Lane, Somerset

• Aug. 11: NJDEP Public Hearing Room, 401 E. State St., Trenton

• Sept. 8: Lawrence Township Library Headquarters Branch, 2751 Brunswick Pike, Lawrence Township

Residents unable to attend a session can submit comments online through the D&R Canal Commission's website.

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