By: Brian Shappell
The desire to have a true “walking village” in Cranbury is just a few steps away.
A plan to develop sidewalks on the east side of North Main Street was presented Monday to the Township Committee.
“I think we’ve needed it for a long time,” committee member Tom Gambino said. “People of North Main Street seem to be excited about it. It’s hard to push a stroller though a gravel swale.”
Township Engineer Cathleen Marcelli outlined a plan that could be completed by Labor Day.
“(The plan) meets the need of the township to have the pedestrian paths,” said Ms. Marcelli. “It fits with the township goal of a ‘walking village.’ People should be provided that pedestrian access.”
The project will be funded through a $72,000 grant the township received last year from the state Department of Transportation. The project will connect deadend sidewalks stretching 300 feet south of Plainsboro Road and 1,600 feet north of the road to 148 North Main Street.
The committee wants to put out bids on the project next month, award a contract in July and complete the work in August.
However, there will be a meeting schedule with those neighbors who will be impacted prior to the final project plans said Ms. Marcelli.
“I’ve long been a supporter of pedestrian access whether it is greenways or developed sidewalks,” said Mr. Gambino. “This has long been an issue. I’m glad we’re making progress.”
The township intends to submit similar sidewalk funding proposals for sections of Cranbury Neck and Plainsboro roads by the end of June.
Township officials are eager to “connect the town,” said Mr. Gambino. “We’re long overdue. We need to provide for safe passage around the town on foot.”
