Township readies World Cup street fair and launches pedestrian-safety campaign

Bernards Township officials outlined large community events and a safety campaign during the June 9 meeting.

Committee members described a free June street fair and World Cup viewing event the committee billed as the "Battle of Basking Ridge" (Brazil vs. Morocco). The soccer village and street fair are scheduled from 3 to 6 p.m., with the watch party beginning at 6:00 p.m. Organizers said the event will include ethnic food vendors, live entertainment (Brazilian and Moroccan performances), a kids'zone, professional soccer tricksters, a meet-and-greet with three-time Olympic gold medalist Christy Ramp and a raffle by the Ridge Booster Club. The township said accessible viewing areas will be available and Somerset County will provide shuttle service with additional parking lots on Mount Airy Road.

Committee member Jen urged residents to support the Welcome World Rewards program for participating local businesses, explaining visitors who check in at participating merchants can collect rewards points.

On safety, Deputy Mayor Tomkins announced a monthlong pedestrian-safety campaign in partnership with the police department and the Street Smart New Jersey program, managed and funded by the North Jersey Transportation Planning Authority. Two community education days are planned: Monday, June 15 at Harry Dunham Park (3'5 p.m.) and Friday, June 18 at Oak Street School (1:30':30 p.m.). The campaign was timed to coincide with school summer schedules and increased walking and biking activity.

Officials asked residents to consult the township website for updated event information, transportation options and accessible viewing details.