Plainsboro Reporter A Quarterly Township Newsletter

Winter 2015-2016

Continuing Capital Improvement Upgrades for Plainsboro

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Plainsboro Road Improvements – The section of Plainsboro Road from Sullivan Street to Parkway Avenue is scheduled for asphalt base repairs, milling and paving, storm drain improvements, curb repairs and ADA curb cuts. This project is scheduled to begin in the spring of 2016 and is partially funded by a $300,000 New Jersey Department of Transportation Local Aid Grant.

lainsboro Township’s Capital Improvement Program is a combination of infrastructure improvements and projects that are designed to improve Plainsboro Township. “Plainsboro’s capital projects provide an opportunity for us to enhance the overall quality of life within our community,” states Township Committeeman David Bander. The following is an update of some of our current and upcoming capital projects:

Plainsboro Park Cricket Field – A regulation size cricket field is scheduled for construction in Plainsboro Park during 2016. The project involves the installation of an artificial turf pitch, irrigation and a landscaping buffer. Staff from the Public Works Department will maintain the field while the Recreation Department will manage access. A $72,000 grant was received from Middlesex County for this project.

Plainsboro Road Traffic Island Tree Planting – The three traffic islands located on Plainsboro Road from Morris Davison Park to Wyndhurst Drive received new tree plantings. The previous shrubs and ground cover were replaced with 68 trees and river rock. Road Maintenance Program – In 2015, the majority of Seminary Drive, Linden Lane South, Trumbull Road, Wethersfield Drive, Quick Lane and half of Parker Road were repaved. These streets also underwent catch basin and curb repairs and ADA curb cuts. Additional road and drainage improvements are scheduled for 2016.

Recreation/Cultural Center Generator – The Township’s Recreation and Cultural Center has been used in the past to provide temporary shelter to displaced residents. To provide a more effective shelter, a generator is required to maintain the building’s electricity and HVAC system. The Township received a $142,000 grant through the State of New Jersey’s Hazard Mitigation Grant Program for this project.

Schalks Crossing Road/Parkway Intersection Improvements – This work involves a slight increase in the overall size of the intersection, installation of new curbs and sidewalks, a new traffic signal and the milling and paving of Plainsboro Road from the limits of the intersection to Sullivan Street. Construction began in 2015 and is scheduled for completion by the spring of 2016. Plainsboro Road Tree Replacement – Recently, public works staff removed 18 dead and dying trees from Plainsboro Road directly across from the Firmenich complex. In 2016, additional trees will be planted in this area. Cranbury Neck Road Shoulder Improvements – The eastbound shoulder of Cranbury Neck near the old Bulk Farm entrance is slowly eroding. To fix this problem, a new headwall and guiderail will be installed; the underground drain will be repaired and the adjacent asphalt will be milled and paved. Construction will begin in 2015 and will be completed in 2016. Plainsboro Reporter

Trees were planted on the Plainsboro Road traffic island. 1

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Summer Camp Jobs Available

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ummer employment applications and job descriptions for the 2016 season will be available on the Township website or for pick-up at the Recreation & Cultural Center starting December 15, 2015. A variety of positions are available including teachers, counselors, and volunteers for full and half day commitments. The minimum age for paid employment is sixteen and the minimum age for a

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volunteer position is fourteen. Interviews will be scheduled with qualified applicants until all positions are filled. The eight week summer camp season runs from Monday, June 20 through Friday, August 12. Paid applicants should be available for the full duration of the camp. For additional information, contact the Program Coordinator, Karin Poveromo at [email protected] or 609-799-0909 x1704.

Holiday Wishes Giving Tree and Food Drive

n 2014, the Plainsboro Food Pantry, in cooperation with Queenship of Mary Church, and the Plainsboro Public Library provided over 250 gifts to help those less fortunate enjoy the holidays through the Holiday Wishes campaign. It is expected that this year’s wish list will be even longer. Families served by this program also rely on the support of the community year round to provide food assistance. Some are young, some elderly, some single parent households, and some have been challenged by illness or job loss.

submitted to the Recreation and Community Services Department by December 14th. Cash donations or gift cards will also be gladly accepted and used to purchase unfulfilled gift requests. Local businesses can offer to take wish tags for their employees to fulfill or take up a gift card collection. Giving trees will be displayed in the Recreation and Cultural Center, the Municipal Building and the Plainsboro Library. In addition to the gift drive, the Township is also sponsoring a holiday food drive in November and December. Donations of non-perishable holiday fare will be accepted at the Plainsboro Municipal Building, Plainsboro Recreation and Cultural Center and Plainsboro Public Library. For additional details about any of the holiday giving projects, contact the Department of Recreation & Community Services office at 609-799-0909 x1712 or visit our website www.plainsboronj.com.

The Department of Recreation & Community Services will have wish tags available for anyone who wants to fulfill one of the many holiday wishes. “Each wish tag represents something that will make the holiday season a little brighter for someone,” says Township Committeeman Nuran Nabi. Donors will be able to select a wish throughout the latter part of November and early December. All gifts must be

Second Ski Trip Planned for February

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n a blustery, cold morning in early 2015, over 50 Plainsboro residents boarded a bus and trekked to the beautiful Pocono Mountains to hit the ski slopes and snow tubing trails of Shawnee Mountain. Both novice and intermediate skiers alike enjoyed the mountain blanketed with freshly fallen snow, while others enjoyed the tubing park.

Information about this and other programs will be posted on our website, or you can call the Department of Recreation & Community Services office at 609-799-0909 x1719 for more information.

“It was a wonderful trip and a great idea! We were so happy that the Township organized such an event for the community. My eight year old son, Kenny, had a blast tubing with me and the rest of the kids. We loved the experience and look forward to going again this season,” said Plainsboro resident, Mira Balteanu. Since the event was such a hit, another trip has been planned for February 28, 2016. Children and adults are encouraged to register early as this trip will surely fill up quickly. What a perfect opportunity to try something new or sharpen your ski skills. Lessons and rentals are available, or you can bring your own equipment if you prefer. Plainsboro Reporter

Mira and Kenny Balteanu enjoy some family fun in the snow at Shawnee Mountain in the Poconos. 2

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Volunteer Spotlight on: Maureen Rice-Tucci

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and through the community. Maureen has exhibited the upmost dedication throughout the years while serving as a member of the Plainsboro DVRT. As a volunteer, she is selflessly available on a 24-hour on call basis to assist victims in need.

uring the past 19 years, Maureen Rice-Tucci has been a dedicated member of the Plainsboro community. She currently works as a Purchasing Specialist in the Township’s Finance Department. In addition, Maureen volunteers with the Plainsboro Township Domestic Violence Response Team (DVRT) and Citizen Emergency Response Team (CERT).

As a member of CERT since 2005, Maureen has been trained for community disaster preparedness, fire safety, disaster medical operations, search and rescue, disaster psychology and terrorism. She has responded to numerous call outs from the Plainsboro Township Office of Emergency Management, including Hurricane Irene in August, 2011 and Hurricane Sandy in October, 2012.

Since 2004, Maureen has served as a member of the DVRT and has helped countless victims of domestic violence and abuse. Maureen has provided victims with an opportunity to express their emotions during a crisis; has educated victims on the dynamics of domestic violence and has advised them of what options are available to them, both legally

Chief Armour of the Plainsboro Township Police Department stated, “Maureen is a dedicated and committed community volunteer. Her passion and desire to provide assistance to the residents of our community during times of crisis is truly remarkable.”

Plainsboro Business Partnership Promotes Plainsboro!

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re you a business owner or have a nonprofit organization in Plainsboro? Would you like to get more recognition and visibility for your business, or simply network with other local businesses? If the answer to any of these is ‘yes’, then you should read on to learn more about the Plainsboro Business Partnership (PBP) and how you can get involved!

The PBP was founded in 2009 and became an affiliate of the Princeton Regional Chamber of Commerce in 2011. We offer four or five networking events per year, including our Breakfast with Mayor Cantu in April and our After Business Meet & Greet at the 1st Constitution Bank in March. Our largest event is the Plainsboro Business Showcase, held at the municipal grounds in June. The Showcase combines musical entertainment, a variety of food from local restaurants and food trucks, and over 40 business vendors showcasing their products and services. The event is free and open to the community. PBP events are geared towards local business people and are open to the public. To learn more about our events, or how to get involved, visit www.plainsborobusinesspartnership.com.

The PBP is a group of local business owners and nonprofit leaders who work together with Plainsboro Township, local residents, and other organizations to promote Plainsboro as a great place to live, work and play. We do this largely through events held throughout the year, and with the publication of the Plainsboro Business Directory.

Give Us A Shout with Your Suggestions!

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he Township government is always looking for ways to be more effective in our operations and better serve our residents, at the lowest possible cost. Getting your feedback is one way we can be responsive to your concerns and suggestions. While we cannot guarantee we can satisfy all your requests, we still would like to hear from you. Tell us your suggestions, advice and what is important to you. Give us a shout at [email protected]

Plainsboro Reporter

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www.plainsboronj.com

NJ Transit 600 line revamped as 655 is eliminated

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n September 5th, NJTransit ceased operation of the 655 bus route due to a lack of ridership. The so-called Health-Line provided service to Plainsboro residents for trips to the hospital and various stops in Princeton. Projected ridership numbers where never realized so NJ Transit chose to discontinue service even though funding partners like the hospital pledged money to help sustain the line.

NJTransit analyzed the current 600 service and performed minor route and timing modifications to help pick up some of the slack created by the discontinued 655 bus route. Plainsboro residents wishing to travel into the center of Princeton can make the connection from the 600 to Princeton University’s Tiger Transit at the hospital. Riding on Tiger Transit is free and open to the public. Schedules for the 600 bus line are available in the municipal and recreation buildings. A description of all the transit options available to Plainsboro residents is available on the Township website www.plainsboronj.com.

“We were elated some three years ago when the publicprivate partnership brought the 655 into existence, and it’s a sad day to see it terminate”, said Mayor Cantu. The Township will continue to explore all options to provide better transit service to the residents of Plainsboro.

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Plainsboro’s Snow Removal Practices

lainsboro Township’s main objective during a winter storm is to effectively and efficiently clear the roads of snow and ice. To complete that objective, primary and secondary roads are cleared prior to residential neighborhoods. Standard practice for any storm is to pretreat the roads and begin plowing at approximately three (3) inches. However, since each storm is unique in its length, type and intensity, Plainsboro alters its operations based on the storm.

Keeping them clear is essential in order to allow emergency vehicles to travel through town. Once the primary and secondary roads are clear, DPW staff begins working on residential roads. A storm that is lengthy and/or has heavy accumulation often requires DPW crews to leave the residential roads and return to the primary and secondary roads. Once all of the roads are clear, DPW staff clears the bus stops and certain walkways.

Plainsboro is divided into two sections: primary/secondary roads and residential roads. Primary and secondary roads provide access through Plainsboro, are more heavily travelled and connect the town’s neighborhoods and commercial areas. Residential roads provide access within their subdivisions. The exceptions are Dey Road, Scudders Mill Road and Schalks Crossing Road; they are maintained and plowed by Middlesex County.

Residents are required to clear snow and ice from the sidewalks abutting their property within 24 hours of the storm’s completion. The snow cannot be placed in the paved portion of any street where it can hinder the passage of pedestrians, bicyclists or vehicles. “Keeping our roads clear during a winter storm is no easy task, but our dedication allows us to consistently provide the best service possible,” states Township Committeeman David Bander.

During a winter storm, Plainsboro’s Department of Public Works (DPW) maintains the primary and secondary roads.

Code Enforcement Department Extends Wednesday Morning Hours

Boards and Committees Need Volunteers

As a customer service enhancement, through the end of the year, the Plainsboro Code Enforcement Department will open its counter at 8:00am, instead of 8:30am every Wednesday.

The Township Committee is accepting applications from citizens who would like to serve on a wide range of Township boards and committees. For more information contact the Township Clerk’s Office at 609-799-0909, extension 2547.

Plainsboro Reporter

Staff will be available to assist customers in applying for and issuing construction permits, scheduling inspections and answering general questions. 4

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Emergency Preparedness Drill

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n October 18th, Plainsboro Township’s emergency response agencies conducted an emergency rescue drill at the Plainsboro Preserve. Participating departments included: Plainsboro Police, Plainsboro Fire Department, Plainsboro Rescue Squad, Kingston Fire Department, Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) members, Plainsboro Park Rangers and the Plainsboro Office of Emergency Management. Air support was provided by the New Jersey State Police.

“We are only as good as we train, and this is a great opportunity for these professionals to interface and share their expertise” said Deputy Mayor, Neil Lewis. By conducting these training scenarios, Township responders are better prepared to assist our residents and visitors in the event of an actual emergency. With new recruitment within our volunteer agencies, it gives us the opportunity to familiarize our responders with the diverse surroundings offered here in Plainsboro.

Replacing Your Furnace?

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hat do you do when you wake up on a cold winter morning and realize that something’s wrong…it’s cold in the house and your furnace has stopped working? After the initial panic, you set out to find someone to either fix or replace your old furnace. If repairing your furnace is no longer an option and a replacement unit is needed, there are several things that you need to consider when undertaking this emergency.

is registered,” suggested Township Committeeman Ed Yates. Under the provisions of the State’s Uniform Construction Code, furnace replacement is considered “emergency or minor work”. This means that the furnace can be replaced prior to obtaining a construction permit. However, the contractor is required to provide notification of the pending work to the Township prior to actually starting the job. If the Township is not open at that time, a message should be left at (609) 799-0909 Ext. 2545. In addition to the verbal notification, a permit application is required to be filed within five business days from the date of the verbal notification.

First, you should always obtain at least three estimates from reputable contractors. This will allow you to compare similar units, with different contractors, to see which one would best suit your needs.

Permit applications may be obtained by visiting the Code Enforcement Office at 641 Plainsboro Road.

“You should also call the New Jersey Division of Consumer Affairs at 973-504-6200 to be sure that the contractor you select

Plainsboro Chinese Calligraphy Reception

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he Department of Recreation and Community Services hosted a reception this summer to exhibit Chinese calligraphy created by students enrolled in the Plainsboro Chinese Calligraphy class taught by well-known calligrapher, Michael Shiue. Shiue’s extraordinary work was on display the evening of the reception and throughout the month of August in the Plainsboro Recreation and Cultural Center. “This is a wonderful opportunity to share the Chinese culture through this display of an ancient visual art of writing”, said Mr. Shiue. The class is offered through the Department of Recreation and Community Services and is held on Tuesdays from 7-9 pm throughout the year. Those interested in participating should register online at www.plainsboronj.com or in person at the Plainsboro Recreation and Cultural Center. For more information, call 609-799-0909 x1719.

Plainsboro Reporter

Xiufang Cheng and her daughter Rachael Song pose for a picture at the reception.  Xiufang is a student in the Plainsboro Chinese Calligraphy class taught by well-known calligrapher, Michael Shiue. 5

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Plainsboro Police Citizen Online Reporting System

he Plainsboro Township Police Department would like to encourage its citizens to use its online police reporting system which opened to the public in October of 2013.

it to the police department. All reports will be reviewed by police personnel and once they are approved, an e-mail with a copy of the official report will be sent at no cost to the person filing.  Approved reports will then transfer into the police department’s system for follow-up.

This web-based system allows the public to file reports on a variety of incidents from their home or office, eliminating the need to call an officer or visit the police department.

“This web-based reporting option allows officers additional time to address community needs while keeping pace with the public’s expectations for police services”, stated Deputy Mayor Neil Lewis.

Online reports can be filed for lost property, damaged property, theft, identity theft, vandalism and traffic complaints.  The traditional approach of filing reports directly with a police officer is still available to those who would prefer that option. 

The department has also instituted the implementation of “eticketing”, a paperless citation system. This technology allows officers to complete and file citations via computer. Citations are electronically entered into police and court computer systems, eliminating the need for cumbersome paper files while improving the efficiency and reliability of the process.

Those who wish to file an online report can visit www.plainsboronj.com, scroll down and choose the option ‘File a Police Report’. After completing the report, they will then be able to print out a temporary copy of the report prior to submitting

Driving Safely in Winter Weather

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inter weather creates unique challenges for motorists. Knowing how to handle these challenging conditions can assure that you arrive at your destination safely. If you must drive, try not to go out on the roads until the snow plows and sanding trucks have had a chance to do their work. Allow extra time to reach your destination. Be sure your car is prepared with all season or snow tires, working windshield wipers with windshield cleaning fluid, and enough gas to complete your trip.

use a shovel to clear snow away from the wheels and the underside of the car, or pour sand, kitty litter, or gravel in the path of the wheels to help get traction. Deputy Mayor Neil Lewis notes, “The key to safe winter driving is to leave a few minutes early for your destination, to follow safe winter driving practices and learn what to do when things don’t go as planned.”

When driving on icy roads, slow down and leave plenty of room to stop. When braking, do so gently to avoid skidding. If your rear wheels skid take your foot off the accelerator and steer in the direction you want the front wheels to go. If your rear wheels are sliding left, steer left. If they’re sliding right, steer right. Turn your lights on to increase your visibility to other motorists. Never use cruise control on icy roads and be especially careful on bridges, overpasses and infrequently traveled roads which will be the first to freeze. Do not pass snow plows and sanding trucks. The drivers have limited visibility, and you’re likely to find the road in front of them worse than the road behind. If you get stuck, do not spin your wheels. This will only dig you in deeper. Instead, try turning your wheels from side to side a few times to push snow out of the way. Then, using a light touch on the gas, try to ease your car out. You can also Plainsboro Reporter

Members of the Plainsboro Police Department, Plainsboro Volunteer Fire Company and Plainsboro Rescue Squad joined Township Officials (not pictured) on September 11th for a memorial ceremony on the grounds of the municipal center. 6

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At your service . . . Township Clerk’s Office 799-0909, extension 2547 Elections Voter Registration forms are now available in the following languages Cantonese Chinese, Mandarin Chinese, Korean and Gujarati.

2016 Election Schedule Election Date Location Polling Hours Close of Registration Last Day to Apply (21 days prior) for Mail-In Ballot FIRE 02/20/16 Firehouse 2:00– 9:00

02/18/16 (2 days prior to election)

Pet Licenses

02/12/16

Last day to apply for a mail-in ballot in person to County Clerk (by 3:00pm) 02/19/16

Spayed/Neutered Non-Spayed/ Non-Neutered January $13.20 $16.20 February $18.20 $21.20 March $23.20 $26.20 April $28.20 $31.20 May $33.20 $36.20 June $38.20 $41.20 July $43.20 $46.20 August $48.20 $51.20 September $53.20 $56.20 October $58.20 $61.20 November $63.20 $66.20 December $68.20 $71.20

NJ State Law mandates that all dogs six months and older must be licensed annually by the Township. Licenses are due for renewal by January 31st with penalty charges beginning on February 1st. Applications for dogs and cats are available from the Township Clerk’s Office and the township website. Failure to license pets is in violation of Plainsboro Township’s Ordinance 59-1 and can result in a summons. According to state regulation N.J.A.C. 8:23A, when licensing, the rabies vaccination immunity must extend through at least ten (10) months of the 12-month licensing period. Licenses cannot be issued if the rabies vaccination expires before November 1st of each year. If for any medical reason the animal cannot be vaccinated in the required time, form VPH-28 must be completed by the veterinarian and submitted with the renewal form.

Vital Records The local registrar is responsible for maintaining vital records of births, marriages/civil unions, domestic partnerships and deaths that occurred in Plainsboro Township. The municipality that holds the original record is the only registrar, besides the State Registrar, that can issue a certified copy.

as identified in the Governor’s Executive Order 18, and provided that the requestor is able to identify the vital record and can provide proof of his identity and relationship. For more information regarding requirements and fees, call the office or visit the township website.

A Certified Copy of a vital record is issued to those individuals who have a direct link to the individual(s) named on the vital record,

Public Works Department 799-0099 Recycling & Conservation Center

Hours of Operation Through December 13th, the center will be open Monday and Thursday from 5:30pm–7:30pm and on Saturday 10:00am–5:00pm.

Trees may also be taken to the Conservation Center for drop-off during regular hours. For safety reasons, trees containing ornaments, wire, metal or nails will not be accepted.

Winter hours for the center begin on December 14th. From December 14, 2015 through April 1, 2016 the center will be open only on Saturdays from 10:00am-2:00pm.

Next Bulk Waste Day – April 2nd, from 8:00am-5:00pm at the conservation centerLeaves should be raked to the curb, no closer than ten (10) feet from storm drain inlet and must be free of debris.

Curbside Recycling Scheduled pickup dates are December 14th, 28th; January 11th, 25th; February 8th, 22nd

Middlesex County Programs Paint, household hazardous waste and consumer electronics disposal services are provided by the county. For more information, please visit the township’s website at www.plainsboronj.com under Departments/ Public Works for schedules and information or contact Middlesex County Solid Waste at 732-745-4170.

Christmas Tree Pickup Christmas trees will be picked up at curbside throughout the township each Monday in January.  Apartment and condo residents must contact their management office for disposal instructions. Plainsboro Reporter

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Presorted Standard US Postage PAID Princeton, NJ Permit No. 240

Plainsboro Township of Plainsboro 641 Plainsboro Road Plainsboro, NJ 08536

ECRWSS POSTAL CUSTOMER PLAINSBORO, NJ 08536

TOWNSHIP COMMITTEE Peter A. Cantu, Mayor Neil J. Lewis, Deputy Mayor David Bander Nuran Nabi Edmund C. Yates TOWNSHIP ADMINISTRATOR Anthony Cancro NEWSLETTER COORDINATOR Teresa Carson

Township Directory and Information Plainsboro Township Municipal Offices

Plainsboro Police Department

Location: 641 Plainsboro Road Phone: General 609-799-0909 Court 609-799-0863 Hours of Operation: Monday-Friday 8:30am-4:30pm Website: www.plainsboronj.com

Location: Phone: Website:

Like us on Facebook at Facebook.com/PlainsboroTwpNJ

Location: 641 Plainsboro Road Phone: General 609-799-0909, press 6 Email [email protected]

Register at: http://www.plainsboronj.com to receive notifications from township officials and to request services online.

Plainsboro Public Library Location: 9 Van Doren Street Phone: 609-275-2897 Hours of Operation: Monday – Thursday 10:00am-8:30pm Friday – Sunday 10:00am-5:00pm Website: www.lmxac.org/plainsboro

641 Plainsboro Road Non-Emergency 609-799-2333 Emergencies 9 1 1 www.plainsboropolice.com

Plainsboro Recreation and Cultural Center

Plainsboro Public Works Department Location: Scotts Corner Road at 20 Woodland Drive Phone: 609-799-0099

Township Meetings All meetings are held at 7:30pm in the Municipal Building, 641 Plainsboro Road, unless otherwise noted. Development Review Committee 3rd Tuesday, 7:00pm Recreation and Cultural Center Meeting Room #1 Environmental Advisory Committee 4th Monday, 7:00pm or as needed Recreation and Cultural Center Meeting Room #1 Call 609-799-0909, x1502 for more information Fire Commissioners 2nd Tuesday, 7:00pm at firehouse

Recycling Center, Bulk Waste See Page 7 for details or visit website

Shade Tree Advisory Committee 2nd Monday

School District Information 609-716-5000

Township Committee Regular Mtg. 2nd Wednesday Agenda Mtg. 4th Wednesday

Report Street Light Out to PSE&G 1-800-436-7734 Report Potholes to Public Works 799-0099

Planning Board 1st & 3rd Monday Zoning Board 1st Wednesday