“This allocation was made possible because of your municipality’s commitment to revitalization and redevelopment to encourage the use of your transit facility which resulted in your designation as a Transit Village,” said DOT Commissioner Jack Lettiere in awarding the funds.

Rahway was one of a handful of New Jersey municipalities in 2002 that were designated Transit Villages by the DOT for promoting sustainable economic development around the Rahway train station.

The city has already earmarked nearly $2.5 million in federal and state funds to improve pedestrian and bicycle access in and around the central business district. This project will include improvements along Main Street from East Milton to Elm Avenues. Phase I, which will start this Spring, makes roadway improvements surrounding the train station. When completed, the streetscape project will feature decorative sidewalks, new period lighting, new street trees and pedestrian-friendly crosswalks.

“For Rahway to attract private, ratable-producing development, we have to be serious about improving our infrastructure and creating a safe and comfortable environment downtown,” said Kennedy. “These funds are a significant help in making this important project a reality.”