Trails committee eyes StoryWalk signs, County Route 518 trail and signage replacements in 2026 budget

Tara, staff for the Trails Advisory Committee, told members that finance provided the projected Open Space Trust Fund lines for 2026 and that the committee must submit budget recommendations to the township manager by December. Committee members proposed prioritizing a small set of projects for inclusion in the open space budget request rather than a long wish list.

Projects members identified for the 2026 recommendation included: permanent StoryWalk signage (proposed at Middlebush Park to link to the public library), development work on the County Route 518 trail (blazing, signs and basic amenities given existing parking), replacement of deteriorated interpretive signage at John Clyde and Negri, additional printed maps and brochures and modest equipment such as benches or kiosks. Tara said the bird‑blind funding from last year’s budget is already covered and that ramp and fence work for the bird blind were funded in the prior cycle.

The committee also approved contracting New Jersey Audubon for five guided nature walks at a total cost of $1,150; the purchase order has been signed and Audubon will supply dates and walk titles for publicity. Members discussed potential grant matches via a rolling Somerset County trails grant once Catalpa’s plan is clarified.

Some project details remain to be costed; Tara said approximate or “ballpark” figures are sufficient for the December submission and that staff can follow up with more precise estimates as needed.