High Bridge awarded $430K for Commons Park pedestrian upgrades as Murphy announces $1.7M in Transit Village grants
TRENTON, N.J. — High Bridge is among six New Jersey municipalities receiving a share of $1.7 million in Fiscal Year 2026 Transit Village grants, with the borough awarded $430,000 for pedestrian improvements at Commons Park, Gov. Phil Murphy announced Thursday.
The funding is part of the state’s Transit Village Program, a multi-agency smart growth initiative that supports redevelopment projects within a half-mile of transit facilities. High Bridge, a designated Transit Village community, will apply the grant toward upgrades intended to make Commons Park safer, more accessible and more pedestrian-friendly.
“The Transit Village program will further promote walkable neighborhoods and generate economic growth for surrounding communities,” Governor Murphy said. “Investing in transit-oriented development revitalizes commuter hubs, creates job opportunities, and makes neighborhoods stronger and safer.”
NJDOT Commissioner and NJ TRANSIT Chair Fran O’Connor said the program strengthens the long-term vitality of public transportation corridors.
“The New Jersey Department of Transportation and NJ TRANSIT are committed to developing public transportation that enhances our communities for decades to come,” O’Connor said. “Under Governor Murphy and the Legislature’s leadership, the extra funds allocated to the Transit Village program will help redevelop pedestrian-friendly infrastructure near our transit facilities to make them more accessible and safer for everyone.”
Traditionally, the program includes $1 million annually, but this year’s budget added $8 million for Grants-in-Aid programs, including Transit Village, Safe Streets to Transit, and Bicycle & Pedestrian Facilities/Accommodations. Of that amount, $707,000 was added to the Transit Village Program, bringing this year’s total pool to $1.7 million.
In total, 37 municipalities are designated Transit Villages and receive priority for grant funding and technical assistance. Each may submit one project per funding cycle, with awards based on proximity to transit, walkability, bicycling, project need and equity considerations for low-income and minority populations.
High Bridge’s Commons Park pedestrian improvements are among six projects statewide selected for FY2026 funding. The upgrades are intended to enhance safety and accessibility in the borough’s downtown and transit-adjacent area, supporting local revitalization efforts.
State transportation officials said the Transit Village Program helps reduce reliance on local property taxes by providing state-funded support for municipal infrastructure improvements.
A full list of FY2026 Transit Village grant recipients is available on NJDOT’s website.
