Paterson seeks $1.235 million in UEZ funds for corridor lighting and security; council approves request

The Paterson Municipal Council on June 23 voted to authorize submission of a funding request to the New Jersey Urban Enterprise Zone Authority for a corridor lighting and security project, not to exceed $1,235,197. The administration described a phased plan that will begin downtown and target replacement of damaged 24-foot “green architectural” poles first.

Director Rosado told the council the project will replace 310 poles across identified corridors and listed the initial corridors under consideration as Main Street (Crooks Avenue to Lower Main), Market Street (Mill to Summer), Broadway (Main to Memorial Drive), Ellison (Main to Memorial Drive), Ward Street (Main to Clark) and Memorial Drive (Market Street to Broadway). Mr. Washington, speaking for the project team, said, “we're gonna start off with the downtown area … the initial stage will be conducted downtown and it will be guided through DPW,” and said the technical team will recommend which lamps to replace first.

Several members sought greater clarity on scope and boundaries. Council members pressed for a map, a phasing schedule and confirmation that other wards included in the city’s UEZ would be considered in subsequent phases; Director Rosado agreed to provide an overview of the project’s four phases to council members.

The resolution was approved on roll call (six yes, three absent). Council members emphasized safety concerns tied to visibly damaged poles and said they welcome coordination with PSE&G and DPW on prioritization and trimming of trees that can block new fixtures.

Next steps: staff will circulate maps and a phased schedule to council members and submit the UEZ funding request.