Monroe Announces New Trail System in Southern Section of Town 

Monroe Township DPW workers carefully clear brush from the existing path along the Tranquility Trail where a canopy of mature trees provides a welcoming, shaded pathway for future visitors.

Monroe Township has announced the development of a new trail that will expand recreational opportunities in the southern part of town. Tranquility Trail aims to enhance access to nature and open space for residents in the area.

“This new trail responds directly to the feedback we’ve received from residents asking for more recreational options on the south side of town,” said Mayor Stephen Dalina. “This trail offers residents a chance to experience the native wooded areas that define Monroe’s character. It’s another step forward in our commitment to preserving natural beauty while making it accessible to the community.”

The Tranquility Trail will span a scenic area between Perrineville Road and England Road. The out-and-back trail will stretch approximately 2.66 miles, winding through some of Monroe’s most serene and untouched landscapes.

The Township’s Department of Public Works and the Parks and Recreation Department have been working in collaboration to ensure the trail is both safe and respectful to the environment. The design prioritizes minimal disruption to existing habitats while creating a clean, walkable path for residents of all ages to enjoy.

The trail is anticipated to open to the public in June. 

Monroe Township Awarded $132K Clean Communities Grant from DEP

Monroe Township has been awarded a $132,975.68 Clean Communities grant from the state Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP), through its Solid Waste Division.

Clean Communities grant program supports municipalities and counties across New Jersey in reducing litter through a combination of clean-up events, equipment purchases, enforcement efforts and educational initiatives.

“In Monroe Township, we take great pride in maintaining a clean and welcoming environment. Our Department of Public Works staff works tirelessly year-round to keep our community litter-free,” said Mayor Stephen Dalina. “Grants like this from the NJDEP allow us to continue our efforts to keep our streets, open spaces, recreation areas and public spaces clean and safe.”

Mayor Dalina extended his gratitude to township residents for their continued involvement, particularly in the Clean Sweep Monroe litter clean-up events. Nonprofit groups and organizations in Monroe Township that are interested in organizing a cleanup event with 15 or more participants may apply for a Clean Communities mini-grant by contacting Clean Communities Coordinator, Carolyn Barna at 732-656-4575 or cbarna@monroetwp.com.

With this latest award, Monroe Township ranks as the fourth-largest recipient in Middlesex County and among the top 30 grant recipients statewide. The funding will enhance local community engagement and further expand the Township’s anti-litter education efforts.

The Clean Communities grant program funds a variety of activities in the Township, including volunteer cleanups of public spaces; cleanups of stormwater systems that can disperse trash into waterways; educational outreach campaigns; enforcement of local anti-littering ordinances; and purchases of trash receptacles and hauling equipment, recycling bins and anti-litter signs.

This year, the NJDEP is distributing $24.1 million to municipalities and $3 million to counties across the state. Grant amounts are determined using data such as housing unit totals and municipally-owned roadway mileage. Funding for the Clean Communities program comes from a legislated user-fee on companies that manufacture or distribute litter-generating products.

For a complete list of 2025 municipal and county grant awards, visit www.njclean.org/coordinators/grant-funding.

Monroe Township Parks & Recreation Youth Fishing Derby: Saturday, June 4 – Register by May 30th

The Monroe Township Chorus Presents Up, Up and Away! Songs That Take Us Places: Sunday, June 1

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