October 2, 2006

CITY PARTNERS WITH RIVER ASSOCIATION, DEP ON ORCHARD BROOK

RAHWAY – A recent partnership between the City, the Rahway River Association and the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection has restored two sections of City-owned property along Orchard Brook in the Third Ward that will lessen erosion and promote a healthier stream environment.

The Rahway River Association, a Rahway-based nonprofit agency dedicated to the health and enjoyment of the Rahway River watershed, was the recipient of the $140,000 Nonpoint source pollution control grant issued by the NJDEP Division of Watershed Management.

Designed by TRC Omni Environmental Corporation of Princeton, the project is intended to combat erosion of the banks of the Orchard Brook as it winds its way through public and private properties in Colonia and Rahway.  Erosion along the brook has been exacerbated over the years due to the installation of hard channels (stone, concrete, wood, etc.) by property owners along the brook as well as additional storm water runoff from paved surfaces like streets, patios and driveways.

The project included the planting of native vegetation, geotextile fabric and river rock that are designed to stabilize the soil along the Orchard Brook, especially following periods of heavy rain.

“Quite often, these small waterways are forgotten because they are hidden by backyards or channeled under streets,” said Rahway River Association President James Lynch.  “This project, while small, will hopefully inspire other communities to invest in their neighborhood streams”

“I have already heard from several residents who have spoken positively about the changes along Plainfield Avenue,” said Mayor James Kennedy.  “Councilman Jerry Scaturo was also able to monitor the progress of this project through to completion.  I’m hopeful that it will improve the health of the Orchard Brook and our watershed for generations to come.”

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