At Stevens, inevitably, the school works closely with the city of Hoboken. Hoboken policy ultimately impacts Stevens campus and students. On September 21, the city council of Hoboken proposed a $27.5 million bond ordinance to fund projects to improve the community in the upcoming years. These projects include parks, transportation, sustainability, and infrastructure. A vote will need six out of nine members to approve the system. Most of the money will directly benefit the citizens of Hoboken and the students of Stevens.
The first bond will consist of $6,025,660. The first aspect of that money will be $1,298,000, given to purchase an electric rear loader with the needed charging system. The vehicle’s primary use will be in improving the many parks in the city of Hoboken. Additionally, $1,195,000 will go into said improvements. $1,382,660 is set aside to renovate Hoboken’s town hall and to create art exhibits around Hoboken. The rest of the first bond is aside for paving, primarily Madison Street, 9th Street, and 11th Street.
The second bond would be for paving and art around the city. The main focus of the paving would be at Sinatra Drive, Court Street, and Castle Point Terrace.
Much like the previous bond, the third bond would be devoted to infrastructure; this includes a restoration of the water mains, drainage systems, and the general efficiency of the systems. Most of this would be on Madison Street, 9th Street, 11th Street, and Castle Point Terrace. The rest of the money from the third bond would be used on art.
The fourth bond is a total of $1,288,760 and is designated toward transportation. Some will go to purchase transit vehicles, the development of new parking lots, parking permitting systems, and other transportation advancements.
This bond program comes amid Hoboken’s advancements in the civil aspects of the city. Mayor Ravi Bhalla’s proposal to reduce pedestrian deaths and other initiatives regarding public safety fuel the development of safer and more efficient roadways. Additionally, as global warming becomes more of a threat, the city’s push for more environmentally friendly and green initiatives is increasing.
A hidden benefit of these new bond projects is the continuation of the city’s work to put money back into the citizens. Better roads and infrastructure help those who use the systems, and public art encourages the humanities and offers jobs for artists. These projects also benefit the students of Stevens. Many students find themselves on Castle Point Terrace and 9th Street often, while many use the public transportation system and the public parks.
Although these projects may increase traffic during construction periods or close some parks during the renovation process, the long-term benefits of these projects will outlast the small inconveniences without question. The city will likely continue its work on the betterment of the quality of life for its citizens. The future of Hoboken will continue to improve and benefit both citizens of the city and the students of Stevens.
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