HOBOKEN – The City of Hoboken is entering the final lap in obtaining approximately $8.1 million in state aid to bolster the water mains and green infrastructure of Washington Street.
The city says engineers estimate the water main replacement will likely cost $4.1 million and green infrastructure $2 million. But the city is applying to the New Jersey Environmental Infrastructure Financing Program (NJEIFP) for $5.5 million for the water main work and $2.6 for green infrastructure in order to be in a better position should bids go beyond estimated costs, city spokesperson Juan Melli told the Hoboken Reporter on Wednesday.
As part of the process, the city will hear from the public on the proposals on Thursday, April 14. The city will provide details on the proposed improvements, which include replacing the century-old water mains, restore existing fire hydrants, add 24 new fire hydrants, construct as much as 15 curb extension rain gardens, and drainage improvements “to reduce storm water run-off and localized flooding.”
“The proposed drinking water main improvements include replacement of the existing 12-inch diameter cast iron drinking water main with new 12-inch diameter ductile iron drinking water mains,” the city detailed in an announcement on Wednesday, March 23.
According to the city’s municipal budget $12 million is being allocated for Washington Street.
The redesign for Washington Street, approved in February, will replace the 100-year-old water mains, repave the entire roadway, add new safety measures, and implement bike lanes in portions of the roadway.
The meeting will be held from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Multi-Service Center at 124 Grand St. Comments can be submitted to smarks@hobokennj.gov. – Steven Rodas
Hoboken in final leg for $8.1 million in state aid for Washington Street improvements
