Community Pool: Remnants of Hurricane Ida

Hot showers will be open to the public again this week

The Pool showers are open to anyone who has been affected by the flood waters, regardless of being a Member, non-member, resident and non-resident. – The Middlesex Community Pool

• Wednesday, September 15 from 6PM-8PM

• Thursday, September 16 from 4PM-8PM

• Saturday, September 18 from 2PM-8PM.

---

SEPTEMBER 8, 2021

Hot showers will be open to the public

The Middlesex Community Pool would like to help the residents in town who have been affected by the flood. We are opening our doors to anyone that would need a nice hot shower. On Wednesday and Thursday the pool will open its door from 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm. On Saturday we will also have hot showers for residents from 1:00-8:00 pm down at the pool. 

We would like to bring light to all who are affected during this dark time.

UPDATE: The Pool showers are open to anyone who has been affected by the flood waters, regardless of being a Member, non-member, resident and no-resident. – The Middlesex Community Pool

Our Borough Needs Dedicated Volunteers for the Environmental Commission

DEADLINE EXTENDED: Middlesex Borough is Re-Establishing the Environmental Commission and is seeking interested residents who are willing to serve on this important public board. 

The desire to be of beneficial service to the community is paramount to this position, but a background in landscape design, landscaping, biology or another life science, wildlife management, hydrology, forestry, or open space preservation would be welcome. 

It is required by law that all appointees to this Commission be residents of Middlesex Borough. Interested persons should send a letter of interest and/or resume to Mayor John L. Madden, 1200 Mountain Avenue, Middlesex, NJ 08846 or drop it off in the lock box outside of Borough Hall no later than Monday, September 20th.  

Message from Mayor John L. Madden: Twenty Year Anniversary of 9/11

Among the most horrific events in the history of the United States which forever indelibly changed the collective psyche of all citizens, the 9/11 events showed the world the breadth of the magnitude of carnage and destruction which subsequently unfolded. We were unprepared for what was unleashed upon our nation. 

As many of us vividly remember the assassination of President John F. Kennedy on November 22, 1963, the 9/11 terror attacks will always be in our thoughts, our hearts and our prayers. 

In solemn reflection, so many of our heros’ lives have gone before us all of whom never thought that they would give their last full measure of devotion, compassion and love. 

As we commemorate those heros with their unyielding sacrifice, and also those who fell victim to these acts of terror on domestic soil, we pledge that they will always be honored and remembered. 

Our Country is unique in that we have always rallied around the stars and stripes in consummate solidarity during these times. It is in our innate proud spirit that Americans can revere the honor of those victims we have never met. 

To date, the number of First Responders and Emergency Personnel who immediately interrupted their family activities to provide vital assistance from the many calls for help have far exceeded the number of victims from the towers (2,977). 

Human Nature reminds us that languishing in the aftermath of a shocking event such as this is difficult for many to deal with as we must move ahead and channel our core sense of compassion and goodwill with a renewed purpose of family and country. 

Twenty precious years have passed now but many may yet be assiduously tethered to what could have been and why it all happened. 

Let’s embrace our vigorous spirit of unity, kindness and benevolence which by the Grace of God will always endure. 

Thank you. 
Mayor John L. Madden 

Twentieth Year Remembrance Candlelight Memorial Service: September 11th

Middlesex Borough will hold its annual September 11th Remembrance Ceremony on Saturday, September 11th at 7:00 pm in Victor Crowell Park at the Memorial. The public is invited to attend this ceremony to remember all those who lost their lives and all those who served on September 11, 2001.

Names of all Borough families and friends who know of any one in active Military service may submit their name, rank, branch of military and to where they are stationed (optional) to Sherley Penrose smpenrose@aol.com no later than September 1. These names will be announced during the ceremony.

Candles will be provided by the Borough.

* In case of inclement weather, the ceremony will be postponed to the next day, September 12 (same time, same location at Victor Crowell Park).

PLEASE NOTE

The ceremony will have to comply to whatever the current phase of dealing with the Coronavirus and the restrictions that are, or may be, imposed by the Governor at the time of this event. That information will NOT come from the Committee but through the town and local News.

Weekly Messsage from Mayor Madden: An Unwelcome Visit from Ida

Many weeks I try to think of some substantive public service information that may be beneficial to our residents. Along the way an EF-3 storm came to visit unleashing all its fury and destruction the likes of which we have not seen in recent memory. In fact, the swiftness and sudden effect caught many people off guard. Judging by the numbers of vehicles that got swept up in the floodwaters bespeaks of the ferocity and severity of this weather event. It is just amazing to think of how so much water that was released from the clouds was able to be airborne to begin with. 

The 2021 Atlantic hurricane season running from June 1 to November 30 is on track to have the highest number of hurricane/tropical storms with the highest composite total of rainfall. 

More and more, we are experiencing these very dangerous storms with significant storm surge and an already saturated land. Over 9 inches of rain was recorded in our area. Due to the swiftness of the current, those seasoned storm “survivors” were completely caught off guard in the later portion of the night when the bulk of the damage and rain surged so quickly. Most unfortunate is the loss of life which occurred as people drowned in their vehicles while others attempted to get through the storm on foot. 

We all heard with increasing frequency those storm alerts on our cell phones. Many residents had water in their basements for the first time. Still others had significant damage to their residences many of which were deemed uninhabitable as documented from officials. 

Governor Murphy announced that $10 million in financial relief will be available for small businesses (50 employees or less) impacted by the storm. This program will be administered by the New Jersey Economic Development Authority. The program will provide short term, immediate rent/ mortgage reimbursement for storm-impacted businesses and non-profits. 

In addition, FEMA officials visited our town yesterday to document those residential properties to potentially provide relief (grants) for those damaged properties. The focus is only on owner-occupied properties as of now. 

Post-Storm Safety Tips

Many injuries occur right after any storm especially when there is wind damage, power outages and flooding. 

1. Avoid wading or driving through floodwaters. Children should also stay away. The swiftness of the water flow can easily be underestimated. Debris, logs or dangerous solid objects can cause injury unseen just below the surface. 

2. Generators must be strictly used outdoors and in areas far enough from indoor exposure of the exhaust being drawn inside. 

3. During cleanup, wear protective clothing and gloves. Gas furnaces and hot water heaters require unimpeded exhaust flow through venting to the outside of the house. Blockages may cause carbon monoxide from lingering within the house. This colorless and odorless gas can be deadly. 

4. This safety precaution is extremely important as many of us may be unaware. During a flood event, gas pilots may go out allowing gas to collect. Damaged house foundations may cause gas leaks in the gas lines to discharge. 

Ignition may be caused by turning on a light switch, a ringing doorbell, starting your car in the garage, static electricity, turning on an electrical appliance, an overheated electrical transformer, lighting a cigarette even the use of a cell phone can trigger an explosion. We have already had several structures (homes and commercial buildings) that exploded, caught fire and were leveled. Fortunately there was no loss of life. 

Lastly, I would like to personally thank Chief Geist who keep me advised throughout and provided a detailed Situation Report (number 4) of emergencies, The entire Police Department who were handling the enormous number of calls, Jack Costa and the OEM team for their emergency services ( and also for opening up the facility at the Rec. center for displaced residents), Chief Bird and our dedicated Fire Department including their boat rescues, The Rescue Squad, Mr. Lenny Vidal and the entire DPW crew many of whom worked all night. In addition, I wish to thank Dan Erickson and the Elks for their hospitality, providing a shelter along with John Ellery for providing food for our displaced residents. Food was also provided to our First Responders as well. Food was also provided from Sal’s Deli. To all our volunteers who devoted their time and energy in this most difficult situation- I appreciate all that you do. Thank you to those Council members who provided so much of themselves. I truly apologize if I have neglected to mention anybody here. 

On a good note, perhaps this storm has also gotten rid of those pesky spotted lanternflies. 

Be safe and please extend a helping hand to those in need. 
Mayor John L. Madden 

Elimination Project: Port Reading Secondary South Main Street Grade Crossing

The Port Reading Secondary South Main Street Grade Crossing Elimination Project is in the Borough of Bound Brook, Somerset County, NJ. The North Jersey Transportation Planning Authority (NJTPA) in partnership with Somerset County Department of Public Works/Planning Division is conducting a study to investigate options to eliminate the at-grade crossing on South Main Street in the Borough of Bound Brook, while maintaining freight rail access to existing and future customers along the Port Reading Secondary Line. The intent of the study is to alleviate traffic congestion that occurs during gate closures in Downtown Bound Brook as well as South Bound Brook and Middlesex Borough.

Virtual Meeting for all interested residents and businesses

Somerset County and the North Jersey Transportation Planning Authority (NJTPA) will be hosting a virtual public meeting to inform local residents, officials, businesses, and the general public about the Freight Concept Development (FCD) study to explore potential options to eliminate the Port Reading Secondary South Main Street Grade Crossing.

• Monday, September 13, 2021

• Virtual Meeting: 6:30 – 8:00 pm

• (Presentations at 6:30 and 7:15)

• For meeting information, visit southmainstreetgradecrossing.com.

---

Please also refer to these flyers for information about the project and the virtual meeting:

For more information, please visit southmainstreetgradecrossing.com.

Message from Mayor Madden: An Important Primer on Biking Safety

A recent motor vehicle incident occurred which involved a juvenile on a bicycle NOT wearing a helmet. The juvenile was transported to the hospital with non-life threatening injuries. The driver of the vehicle was not injured, the bicyclist was very lucky. I am always concerned about the outcome of such an event especially when mandatory safety measures are often largely ignored or unrealized. Our society has experienced so many “distractions” with having to undertake new considerations and consequential decisions on living, learning, socialization and the list goes on.   

Yes, we are still in the throes of waves of the Covid-19 variants, masking policies for our school – age children and teachers, vaccinations for the younger groups and the unvaccinated as a start. Let’s throw into this mix some environmental “gems” like the ecological problems at our Lake, the poor air quality due to the hot and steamy weather the past weeks and now the spotted lanternfly which have invaded our gardens, plants and trees. So one may ask, “what would life be without challenges?” 

Despite all these challenges, we must always keep in mind important safety laws that have been on the books for decades. Unfortunately when I was growing up we never had such laws. Many lives would have been saved with these safety laws. The take away here is the idea of awareness and some common sense. 

Title 39:4-10.1. The Helmet Law of New Jersey 

This State Statute deals specifically with bicycling in conjunction with traffic regulations. 

• Any two wheeled vehicle having a rear drive and strictly human powered including a minimum seat height of 26 inches (in the lowest adjustable position) is the statutory definition of a “bicycle.” Interesting enough is that the bicycle must be equipped with a bell or other audible devise that can be heard at least 100 feet away ( a siren or whistle are not allowed).  

• A brake must be equipped that can make wheels skid while stopping on dry, level and clean pavement. 

• Bicyclists must drive with feet on both pedals, while hands must be secured upon the handlebars (no “tricks or fancy driving” is allowed). 

• The number of passengers allowed is according to the number that the bicycle is designed and equipped to carry. (the number of seats).  

• Nighttime driving requires a bicycle to be equipped with (1) a front headlight emitting a white light visible from at least a distance of 600 feet to the rear (2) a red lamp with a red reflector may be mounted on the rear. 

• A bicyclist is granted all the rights of a motor vehicle driver. In addition said bicyclist is also subject to all duties of a motor vehicle driver. 

• The bicyclist must ride in the same direction as a motor vehicle. 

• Traveling two abreast when traffic is not impeded is allowed otherwise single file traveling must be observed. 

• The helmet law in New Jersey states that anyone under the age of 17 that rides a bicycle or is a passenger ( or towed as a passenger) must wear a safety helmet.  

• The Statute also is extended to include roller/inline skates and Skateboards.  

• All helmets must be properly fitted and fastened. The best head protection with a strong chin strap must be utilized. In addition, all helmets must meet the federal standards developed by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) or the Snell Memorial Foundation’s Standard for Protection Headgear. 

By observing all the safety regulations will greatly diminish the incidence of injury or death. With the increase of traffic and the unfortunate distraction of cell phones and earphones we all must be fully aware of our surroundings and anticipate any potential accidents. Please take an extra interest and be cautious of our bicycling public. Remember school is starting soon so take heed of the rules of the road. 

Thank you. 
Mayor John L. Madden 

Mayor's Message: Lincoln Statue Park - Our Enduring Legacy

The improbable scenario became the possible which became the dominant unheralded sweeping victory for Middlesex Borough. In light of the recent devastating damage to the Creighton Lake, the ongoing Covid mess, and all the related mandatory lifestyle changes, we can now celebrate the victory that the Borough won with an arduous legal defense to keep a five-story apartment building from encroaching into our revered park. The redeveloper included and maintained plans for utilizing a portion of our park all along for their purposes to construct the apartment building. No compromise on this point was put forth by them. Not only was this infringement an unacceptable action in an attempt to acquire a portion of the park, but this redevelopment area is part of the “Town Center Focus Area.“ 

In the Beginning: Application Denied

Borough Officials and residents spoke assertively and unambiguously to prevent this mixed-use project – which would have added another 63 apartments with ROR (residential over retail) – from becoming a reality. The original plan by said redeveloper called for preliminary and major site plan and subdivision approvals including many deviations and design waivers. In other words, they wanted to construct the building but wanted their changes to be approved that our Joint Land Use Board (JLUB) and Borough Professionals would not allow many of their changes. The application was summarily denied. Since there was a significant portion of the park (also called Lincoln Monument Park ) that would have been permanently lost to the redeveloper including the paper street, (Cronk Place,) our JLUB through the attorney, Mr. William P. Robertson mounted a very comprehensive defense which challenged the redeveloper on many points. 

The initial meetings started on October 26, 2017 and continued until February 16, 2021 where the lawsuit, initiated by the redeveloper, was settled in Superior Court. Finally, on June 17, 2021, the court adjudged and ordered the dismissal of the Plaintiff’s (redeveloper) application. 

Holding Our Breath

We were holding our breath while sweating it out awaiting for their next move that allowed the Plaintiff a 45 day appeal period to challenge the said decision. The Plaintiff repudiated the denial but ultimately terminated any further action for an appeal. 

Reflecting on this lengthy process in which Middlesex Borough prevailed, speaks volumes of the dedication, perseverance, and professional collaboration of which all parties participated in this important victory. At least the legacy of the Lincoln Statue Park will thrive and continue perhaps until the next challenge. Middlesex Borough will be ready in the future and this experience will greatly give us the wisdom and direction as we soon prepare for the revision of our Master Plan. Thank you all for the opportunity to be part of this wonderful team including our staff and professionals at Borough Hall. 

Mayor John L. Madden 

Mosquito Spray Notification: Aug. 24

Weather conditions permitting, the Middlesex County Mosquito Extermination Commission will be conducting a truck ULV spray mission for nuisance adult mosquitoes and/or vector control.

Municipality: Middlesex
Date and Time: August 23, 2021, 6:00 PM to 11:59 PM

Rain Date: Tuesday, August 24, 2021
Location: B/t Greenbrook Rd, NJ-28, Mountain Ave, RR tracks, Dunellen and Union County borders
A map of the spray zone can be viewed here.

1. The adult mosquito control treatment being conducted is in compliance with section 9.10 and 9.15 of the New Jersey Pesticide Control Code (N.J.A.C. Title 7, Chapter 30). The mosquito control products used will be those recommended by the New Jersey Agricultural Experiment Station (NJAES), Rutgers University for the control of adult mosquitoes which include: Malathion (Fyfanon ULV®, Atrapa®, or MicroFloMalathion® EPA# 67760-34); Etofenprox (Zenivex®E20, requiring dilution or Zenivex ®E4, RTU, EPA# 2724-807); Prallethrin - Sumithrin (Duet™ EPA# 1021-1795-8329); Deltamethrin (DeltaGard® EPA# 432-1534). All applications will be according to product labeling. For additional information on mosquitoes and adulticiding, contact Dr. Deepak Matadha, Superintendent (NJDEP CPA License #50245B), Middlesex County Mosquito Extermination Commission at 200 Parsonage Rd Edison NJ 08837 at 732-549-0665.

2. For routine pesticide-related health inquiries, please contact the National Pesticide Information Center, at 1-800-858-7378. For information on pesticide regulations, pesticide complaints and health referrals, contact the New Jersey Pesticide Control Program at 1-609-984-6507. In the case of any pesticide emergency, please contact the New Jersey Poison Information and Education System at 1-800-222-1222. Upon request, the pesticide applicator or applicator business shall provide a resident with notification at least 12 hours prior to the application, except for Quarantine and Disease Vector Control only, when conditions necessitate pesticide applications sooner than that time. The Commission's website (link here) provides updated information on time and location of application(s).

3. Residents can take following precautions to reduce exposure: (1) Pay attention to notices about mosquito insecticide treatments found through newspapers, websites, automated telephone messages or notices distributed by municipal, county or state agencies, (2) Plan your activities to limit time spent outside during times of possible insecticide treatments. Move your pets, their food, and water dishes inside during ULV applications. Also bring clothing and children’s toys inside. Stay back from application equipment, whether in use or not, (3) Whenever possible, remain indoors with windows closed and with window air conditioners on non-vent (closed to the outside air) and window fans turned off during spraying, (4) Avoid direct contact with surfaces that are still wet from pesticide spraying. Do not allow children to play in areas that have been sprayed until they have completely dried (approximately one hour), (5) If you must remain outdoors, avoid eye and skin contact with the spray. If you get spray in your eyes or on your skin, immediately flush and rinse with water, (6) Consult your doctor if you think you are experiencing health effects from the spraying. People who suffer from chemical sensitivities or feel spraying may aggravate a preexisting health condition may consult their physician or local health department.

Community Pool: Water Wrats Swim Team

Congratulations to our Water Wrats Swim Team on a great season! 

Thank you to all of the coaches that worked so hard with the swimmers!

• 1st Place
  2021 New Jersey Swim & Dive Conference
  Dual Meet Season | B League Red Division

• and 2nd Place
  2021 New Jersey Swim & Dive Conference
  B League Championships

Message from Mayor John L. Madden: The Aftermath of the Perfect Storm

As a follow up to my report last week, “The Crossroads of the Perfect Storm,” I wanted to provide an update on the situation at Creighton Lake. 

The Situation

As you are aware by now, a NJ American Water Company water main broke, affecting 5 towns and about 150,000 residents. To make matters worse here, the water backfilled a sewer main, flushing out an overwhelming surcharge of untreated raw sewage, both domestic and industrial, from the manhole onto Cedar Avenue also discharging next to a Borough Chemical facility.  This chemical facility was legally discharging a surfactant which is their process effluent, into that same sanitary main. This sewage overload then entered the storm water basins which flowed into the Ambrose Brook which directly feeds into the Creighton Lake. The distance between all the service lines are within very close proximity to one another- probably within 500 feet. 

Almost immediately, thousands of fish started dying including tadpoles, crayfish, minnows, catfish, sunnies, bass, carp and eel.  To date, our Department of Public Works has removed more than 11,000 dead fish from the Lake. 

The Responsibility

For the record I want to state this clearly: we have full assurances made by the President of N.J.  American Water that they are taking full responsibility for the cleanup of our Lake and restoring the water quality.  The President has stated this to me personally in front of high-ranking staff of the NJ Department of Environmental Protection, Middlesex County Haz Mat and our Environmental Joint Insurance Fund (EJIF). Failure of N.J. American Water to take care of the expenses incurred by the Borough as a result of the service main rupture will result in our Joint Insurance Fund subrogating on our behalf against N.J.  American Water’s insurance company for damages. The Borough carries substantial insurance, including environmental insurance.  We also have an environmental attorney, just in case – however, our environmental insurance fund will take the lead on this on the Borough’s behalf. Any related legal fees are covered by the EJIF. 

The Plan

The Borough was given assurances that N.J. American Water would follow the requirements of the NJ DEP to ensure the water quality entering into the Lake.  The priority for all parties is to make sure what was spilled upstream in Piscataway and into the Ambrose Brook is scrubbed and cleaned so it doesn’t end up in the Lake as well. The goal of this first phase (as well as all subsequent remediation activities) of the cleanup is to ensure that the water quality will meet NJ State Statutory Surface Water Quality Standards (N.J.A.C. 7: 9B). The important take away here is that this Statute identifies water quality based effluent limitations for discharging into waters in New Jersey thereby protecting our waterways. 

The Next Steps

To repeat what I wrote last week:  the NJ DEP requested patience. They believe that, after a couple of heavy rainstorms, the existing water column will clear out through dilution and the water quality is anticipated to be restored in the Lake.  Until that time, the aerators and bubbler are remaining off as they are simply churning around soapy surfactants in the water. Once we have some good rain, we will turn on the aerators and see if we still get foam coming up. If not, then the water is clear; if there is foam, the NJ DEP will address, along with N.J. American Water, the possibility of draining the Lake to clean off anything that may have sunk to the bottom, causing a continuing problem.  It is a “wait and see” matter according to the NJ DEP. The significant discharge from the Ambrose Brook caused much sediment and silt to also carry into the Lake, unfortunately. This is called “sediment load.” 

The Costs

The Borough is keeping track of all costs incurred and will make sure that our taxpayers do not bear those costs.  Furthermore, our Environmental Insurance representatives and the County Board of Health are monitoring the Lake and the County is testing the water on the Borough’s behalf at no charge to the Borough. All water quality water tests will be reviewed in the event of any further action necessary. 

We continue to ask residents to not go near the Lake or allow your pets to until further notice.  Please know that the restoration to Creighton Lake is going to take time and that many organizations are working diligently on our behalf. 

Regards, 
Mayor John L. Madden 

"Homes of the Month" August Selected by Beautification Committee

This month the committee selected five homes for August. Everywhere you look around town you see beautiful homes! It is difficult for the Beautification Committee to decide which to choose. Look for the ‘Homes of the Month’ sign on the front lawns of the homes pictured below!

The Middlesex Beautification Committee drives around town and nominates homes. For more information, visit the Beatification Committee page here.

Message from Mayor Madden: The Crossroads of The Perfect Storm

While our town has experienced terrible flooding with a force from Mother Nature, we never thought possible, Monday, August 2, 2021 provided us with a new problem that I believe Middlesex Borough never experienced and with such immediate environmental ferocity.

That morning it was reported that a substantial water main, owned and operated by NJ American Water Company (NJAM), broke affecting 5 towns and about 150,000 residents. To make matters worse here, a series of unlikely events unfolded like a domino effect causing an environmental disaster in the Creighton Lake at Victor Crowell Park of which no one was prepared. There was no advance warning and certainly no indication that three major factors were to contribute to this perfect storm.

A Domino Effect

A domestic water main, identified by NJAM as a transmission water main on Cedar Avenue in Piscataway, suddenly ruptured causing multiple collateral damage thereafter. As I recently learned, only one domestic water main was involved- not two as originally reported. A transmission water main typically is a larger diameter service main which will deliver a larger volume of water to smaller service mains. The water main was a 60-inch main reduced to a 48-inch main further reduced to a 24-inch main. The pressure behind the water coming out of the 24-inch main being pushed from two larger mains caused a tremendous velocity force which started the domino effect. One does not have to be an expert in the physics of fluid dynamics to understand such a force.

Science Alert

Please feel free to skip over the next paragraph if fluid mechanics does not interest you. Seriously.

Think of a pressure washer that one may use on their residence. The water volume goes through a larger diameter line to a smaller diameter line (and eventually through a pump). Therefore, the speed of the water will accelerate from a slow speed in a larger diameter to a faster speed in a narrow diameter of a fluid line. So, what factor will cause the flow to accelerate? That factor is pressure. In other words, when a water line reduces, the flow of water is restricted which reduces the pressure loss resulting in more pressure and the velocity of water increases. Therefore, the pressure must be higher behind the fluid and lower in front of it to cause the acceleration.

And Then, The Backup

This tremendous force of water overwhelmed and damaged a nearby sanitary sewer force main owned and maintained by Piscataway. In addition, the domestic water main break caused a significant backup into the Piscataway sewer force main which then caused an overwhelming surcharge of untreated raw sewage, both domestic and industrial, from the manholes onto Cedar Avenue discharging next to a Borough Chemical facility. This chemical facility was legally discharging a surfactant which is their process effluent, into that same sanitary main. This sewage overload then entered the storm water basins which flowed into the Ambrose Brook.

So now we are dealing with sanitary (sewage) discharge, comingling with domestic city water and comingling lastly with the surfactant discharge. This is the perfect storm meeting at the Bermuda Triangle.

The Ambrose Brook directly feeds into the Creighton Lake. This tremendous surge of the combined outfall also carried away large sections of Possumtown Road which may eventually enter the Lake causing damage to our bubbler and aerators in the next storm.

A Terrible Event

The general assay of the surfactant which is the most significant issue is that it acts as an oxygen scavenger. In other words, when put into a vibrant water body like Creighton Lake, it removes life-giving precious oxygen to all aquatic life in the lake. This terrible event occurred almost immediately as thousands of fish started dying including tadpoles, crayfish, minnows, catfish, sunnies, bass, carp and eel. It was very sad to watch them coming to the surface to gulp air only to die quickly. Prior to this ecological disaster, Creighton Lake was a robust and extremely healthy body of water which attracted all kinds of wonderful wildlife including some rare species of birds, deer and Blue Herons. During the height of Covid, many residents utilized the park as a respite and stress reliever for families to cope with this life- altering scourge.

On Thursday, I met with officials from the NJ Department of Environmental Protection (NJ DEP), Middlesex County Haz Mat, our insurance company, and the President and Vice President of Operations of American Water. The Borough was given assurances that American Water would follow the requirements of the NJ DEP to ensure the water quality of the Lake. The priority for all parties is to make sure what was spilled up stream in Piscataway and into the Ambrose Brook is scrubbed and cleaned so it doesn’t end up in the Lake as well. An environmental company charged with the clean up is working from the top of the Ambrose down.

A Warning… Patience Needed

The NJ DEP requested patience. They believe that, once there are a couple of heavy rainstorms, the water column will clear out through dilution and the water quality will be restored in the Lake. Until that time, the aerators are remaining off as they are simply churning around soapy surfactants in the water. Once we have some good rain, we will turn on the aerators and see if we still get foam coming up. If not, then the water is clear; if there is foam, the NJ DEP will address, along with American Water, the possibility of draining the Lake to clean off anything that may have sunk to the bottom, causing a continuing problem. It is a “wait and see” matter according to the NJ DEP.

In the meantime, we ask residents to not go near the Lake or allow your pets to until further notice. Middlesex County is rigorously testing the water for nitrogen, dissolved oxygen, e-coli, and other compounds that should tell us the health of the water and when it is clean. Dead fish are still coming onto the banks and our Department of Public Works is diligently cleaning them up daily, including both Saturday and Sunday this weekend. We expect full reimbursement by the responsible party for the costs the Borough has incurred.

Please know that the Borough is working diligently with the County, the State and American Water to restore the beauty and quality of what we once had at Victor Crowell Park. It will take time, but we are committed to stay the course. Thank you for your understanding and your patience.

Regards,
Mayor John L. Madden

Community Heath Survey

Community Heath Needs

Borough residents are encouraged to complete the RWJBarnabas Health’s 2021 Community Health Needs Assessment (CHNA) resident survey. The CHNA survey gives us comprehensive information and data to develop strategies and a plan to improve the health needs of our local communities.

All responses are kept anonymous and confidential. Your feedback will provide insights that will influence future health care programs and services for your community..

The survey takes about 10 minutes; it’s an anonymous and confidential questionnaire (English, Chinese, Portuguese, Spanish or Arabic).

BOIL WATER ADVISORY from NJ American Water

UPDATE: 8:30 PM Wed. 8/4

New Jersey American Water has LIFTED the mandatory boil water advisory that was issued Monday. Customers should flush household pipes, ice makers, water fountains, etc, prior to drinking or cooking. READ MORE below.

Analytical results from bacteriological samples taken from the water system met all state and federal water quality standards from samples collected on Tuesday, August 3rd. The advisory was issued on Monday, August 2 as a precautionary measure due to a loss of pressure from a transmission main leak along Possumtown Road in Piscataway, N.J.  

Customers no longer need to boil their water, but they should flush household pipes, ice makers, water fountains, etc. prior to using for drinking or cooking using these guidelines: 

• Run all cold-water faucets in your home for 3-5 minutes at one time at the highest flow rate that you can without causing splashing or flooding of drains to flush your service connection and interior plumbing with water from the water service main. 

• To flush automatic ice makers, make three batches of ice and discard. 

• Run water softeners/cartridge filters through a regeneration cycle. Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines specified in the owner’s manual.  

• Run drinking water fountains for one minute at the highest flow rate possible.   

• Drain and refill your hot water heater if the temperature is set below 113 degrees Fahrenheit. 

• Water reservoirs in tall buildings should be drained and refilled (as applicable). 

Additionally, as the system has fully recovered from the issue, customers in these communities and surrounding towns no longer need to conserve their non-essential water use and may resume using water as usual. New Jersey American Water thanks its customers for their patience and cooperation while crews worked quickly and safely to restore service to customers. 

Because the Boil Water Advisory has been lifted, the bottled water distribution locations will not be open on Thursday, August 5, 2021. 

---

UPDATE: 10:00 AM Wed. 8/4

Water available today at Dunellen Train Station from noon to 9 pm.

FROM: NJ American Water - UPDATE to Piscataway main leak and Boil Water Advisory for impacted towns in Middlesex, Union and Somerset Counties: The leaking transmission main has been isolated and crews are beginning the repair process. Water pressure has been restored in the system. Customers in these towns may have discolored water as our crews continue to work to repair the main. If this occurs, customers should allow a cold water tap in the lowest part of their home to run until water is clear before collecting it to boil for consumption.

The company has coordinated with local and county officials to provide bottled water. The bottled distribution locations are open today from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. as follows:

• 495 Sidney Road, Piscataway

• 4000 Hadley Road, South Plainfield

• 100 New Market Road, Dunellen

• Warinanco Park @ the Ice-Skating Center, 1 Park Dr, Roselle

• 136 Oak Ridge Road, Clark

---

UPDATE: 9:30 PM Tuesday 8/3

FROM: NJ American Water

All the bottled water distribution sites will be open tomorrow, Wednesday, August 3, from 9 AM to 10 PM:

• 495 Sidney Rd, Piscataway

• 4000 Hadley Rd, South Plainfield

• 100 New Market Rd, Dunellen

• Warinanco Park @ the Ice Skating Center, 1 Park Dr, Roselle

• 136 Oak Ridge Rd, Clark

UPDATE: 5:00 PM Tuesday 8/3

FROM: NJ American Water - UPDATE to Piscataway main leak and Boil Water Advisory for impacted towns in Middlesex, Union and Somerset Counties

The leaking transmission main has been mostly isolated and water pressure is being restored in the system. As water pressure begins to return to customers’ homes, it may be discolored. If this occurs, customers should allow a cold water tap in the lowest part of their home to run until water is clear before collecting it to boil for consumption. The company is coordinating with local and county officials to provide bottled water today. So far, the following sites will be provided:

• NEW: 100 New Market Road, Dunellen from 12:30 p.m. to 9 p.m.

• NEW: Warinanco Park @ the Ice Skating Center, 1 Park Dr, Roselle from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m.

• NEW: 136 Oak Ridge Road, Clark from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m.

• 495 Sidney Road, Piscataway from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m.

• 4000 Hadley Road, South Plainfield from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m.

---

Joint Statement from Mayor Jason F. Cilento of Dunellen Borough
and Mayor John Madden of Middlesex Borough 

Water Distribution by New Jersey American Water

In response to the recent water main break in the Possumtown section of Piscataway that has resulted in lower water pressure and the need to boil water for at least one-minute to make it suitable for drinking, New Jersey American Water will bring bottled water to be distributed from the New Jersey Railroad Station, Skinner Plaza, Dunellen. Distribution will begin approximately this afternoon around 1:00PM and will be available until 9:00 pm tonight and then again tomorrow. Residents of Dunellen and Middlesex may receive one case of water per household. This distribution is in coordination with the Dunellen and Middlesex Offices of Emergency Management. Those who are Seniors and/or disabled may contact the Dunellen Borough Clerk’s Office for assistance. The Clerk’s Office telephone is: 732-968-3033. Entrance to Skinner Plaza parking lot will be from New Market Road with exiting on Prospect Avenue. 

UPDATE 4:00PM 08/03/2021: The South Plainfield water distribution site on 4000 Hadley Road is open until 10pm today. Stop by for a contactless water pickup. For more information, additional water distribution sites, and updates, please visit the NJ American Water web page here.

---

For the latest updates to the Piscataway main leak and Boil Water Advisory,

…follow the most recent posts at New Jersey American Water’s Facebook page.

---

BOIL WATER ADVISORY from NJ American Water

Tuesday, Aug. 3, 2021 at 9:00 AM

https://www.amwater.com/.../mandatory-boil-water-advisory....
NJ American Water has issued a Mandatory Boil Water Advisory for Middlesex Borough, until further notice due to the water main break in Piscataway. NJ American water notified HQ at 7:02 pm of the Mandatory Boil Water Advisory, dispatch sent out a Nixle advising the residents of the mandatory boil water advisory. NjA has not yet provided an estimated time that the advisory will be lifted.

Weekly Message from Mayor Madden: Severe Weather In Middlesex Borough

Due to multiple tornado sightings recently in New Jersey coupled with the high heat, humidity and precipitation, this public service message is a continuation of vital information of which residents should be prepared. We often wind up relying on ourselves, our family and or neighbors to safely get through these difficult times when emergency services are not immediately available (through no fault of said services). 

Climatologists wrestle with providing daily accurate weather information predictions which, based on this information will determine how we dress, shop even attend sporting, religious and entertainment events. Many even attempt to plan shore and vacation trips based on weather forecasts well in advance. Unfortunately, due to unpredictable tracking, accuracy sometimes takes a back seat. 

However, with more extreme and severe weather events such as tornados, more tools are available to improve tracking and also with more accuracy. 

Tornado Watch 

Typically issued hours in advance by NOAA’s (National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration) Storm Prediction Center (SPC) indicates that atmospheric conditions are ideal for a tornado to form. This does NOT mean that a tornado is imminent. Since watches are far more common than warnings, many of us may not place as much importance as we should. 

Upon issuing a watch it is very important to prepare and act in the event of a tornado sighting. Since a watch covers a much larger area such as counties or even states, a tornado warning covers a smaller and more specific area. 

Tornado Warning 

The Local National Weather Service will provide issuances of local watches and warnings. A tornado warning is issued if one has been spotted or is picked up on radar. A warning in your area means you must act immediately and decisively. This means getting to a storm shelter or if you do not have one, go to the basement preferably a corner or to a bathroom. Stay away from windows and doors. 

Sightings of a tornado will include dark greenish clouds, large hail stones and a sustained loud noise like a freight train. You may also feel a significant drop in temperature. Preparation in advance is crucial for surviving such a storm event. Unfortunately, history has shown that most fatalities could have been prevented with prudent planning.  

When driving as a tornado is spotted do not attempt to outrun it which can touch down within seconds. Try to drive at a 90 degree angle away from the twister. Remember, the path of a tornado is not always linear. In other words its path can change at any moment from a straight track. Also, do not seek shelter under an underpass during a tornado. Winds from the twister can increase and accelerate through small spaces. 

THE EF SCALE 

Often it is difficult to measure the actual strength of a tornado for multiple reasons. The EF-Scale (The Enhanced Fujita Scale) was developed by looking at the damage potential to measure its strength and intensity. The scale ranges from 0 to 5. Tornado categories correspond to the EF number. 

• EF-1 causes light to moderate damage (i.e., breaking of branches and windows ). Sustained winds are 86 to 110 mph. 

• EF-2 causes small structures and buildings to be damaged or destroyed. Farm animals and wildlife are at particular risk. Sustained winds are 111-135 mph. 

• EF-3 causes roofs to be torn off houses and mobile homes and trailers damaged and scattered. Sustained winds are from 136-165 mph. 

• EF-4 causes small homes and buildings to be leveled and completely destroyed. Sustained winds are from 166-200 mph. 

• EF-5 are the most violent and damaging causing entire neighborhoods to be leveled. Cars and trains can be thrown hundreds of feet. Sustained wind speeds are over 200 mph. 

Please be safe and prepare early.  

Regards, 
Mayor John L. Madden 

National Night Out Returns

The Middlesex Borough Police Department is excited to announce the return of National Night Out, which will be held at Mountain View Park on Tuesday, August 17th, 2021, from 6:00pm-8:30pm.

National Night Out is an annual community-building campaign that promotes police-community partnerships and camaraderie to make our neighborhoods safer, more caring places. All are welcome to attend this free event! Those interested in participating or requiring more information can contact Officer Joleen Auricchio at (732) 356-1900 ext. 346 or jauricchio@middlesexpd.com.

Third Quarter Tax Bills Due Soon

Tax bills will be mailed by August 2, 2021. The due date for 3rd Quarter 2021 is August 31, 2021 by 4:00 PM. For more information, visit the Finance page here.

Mayor's Weekly Message: Emergency Disaster Preparedness

Although we are still in the final stages (hopefully) of the pandemic we must be cognizant of the harsh weather events that have plagued us within the last month. Such severe storms from an unsettled atmosphere have already caused damage and destruction in our area. Additionally we have seen a dramatic increase in tornado activities and sightings. It is therefore prudent that we shift our focus to address these concerns and prepare for the worst case scenario. 

Hurricane season 

June 1 starts the hurricane season in our area. This season runs until November 30. Have you made any plans to prepare your family in the event of a natural disaster such as an imminent flood , a sudden earthquake , a lightning strike or any other natural phenomenon which may hit us ? My guess is that many of us are underprepared to face these threats. Therefore I would like to provide you with some well-tested ideas in which to consider. 

Plan ahead  

Write down all emergency phone numbers and put them on the refrigerator and keep near your phones. Also, you may want to program these numbers into your cell phones. In the event of severe weather, plan on making sure your phones are fully charged. This is important because in case of an imminent evacuation most of us will focus on access to food, water and safety and not think about securing the phones. In my experience living through Floyd, Sandy and Irene and living in the flood zone in town I received a last minute tip to put the cell phones in some type of waterproof wrap ( i.e. a sealable sandwich bag ) which I never even considered. 

Collect emergency items and supplies and create a “go kit“ for the family. Stock up on disinfectants, wipes and spray, hand sanitizer which has at least 60 % alcohol, bar or liquid soaps and multiple clean masks for everyone at least 2 years of age. Also in a supply kit have plenty of water, personal items, blankets, clothing, toiletries, non-perishable foods, medicines, spare batteries and flashlights, cash and other important items you feel may come in handy. 

In another kit you may want to put in important documents such as wills, insurance policies, medical documents, passports, etc.  

Plan early 

Make sure your vehicle is ready. Top off fluids, fill the gas tank, check the tire pressure and store what you may need in an extended emergency. Please visit Ready.gov on how to prepare your vehicle including a travel kit. If you do not have a vehicle, call a family member, friend, neighbor or the local authorities to get a ride if needed. 

Remember your neighbors 

Find ways to support your neighbors while taking steps to protect yourself and others. Make sure your pets are safely accounted for and arrange transport if necessary. Run essential errands for those who need assistance including older people and the infirm. Be mindful of those with mobility issues including those who are at increased risk for severe illness. 

Before leaving your residence, secure the exterior of the house and move fixtures and wall hangings inside and away from windows and skylights. Turn off all power and utilities and lock all windows and doors. Move all other vehicles to higher ground. 

Reliable sources 

For up to date information follow NOAA (National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration) weather radio or the NWSHC (National Weather Service Hurricane Center). 

Have a safe and enjoyable summer. 
Mayor John L. Madden 

The Tower Gets a Makeover with Blue Jay Style

Visitors to Mountain View Park may remember seeing the odd-shaped, decrepit structure known as the Tower. The years have not been kind to this storage structure, and it had become a bit of an eyesore. If the Tower were hidden from view, it may have been left to flounder in disrepair, but given its prominent visibility, a few community leaders decided to step in.

It’s a Success

This revitalization would not have been possible without the hard work of local resident, Michael Conahan, who, along with DPW Superintendent Lenny Vidal, raised and donated funds for the project as well as secured local artist, Drake Berry. Superintendent Vidal also helped to coordinate the transformation of the Tower from grim to gorgeous.

Thanks to Mr. Berry, Mr. Conahan, Mr. Vidal and the great staff at the DPW, the tower now stands as a beacon of town spirit as it is decorated in blue and white with local mascot, the Blue Jay, as a central theme.

Last month when graduating students took to the adjacent football field to celebrate their graduation, they enjoyed a spruced-up tribute to their school perched in the background!