September 30, 2025

Congratulations to the Borough of Garwood for launching a temporary demonstration project designed to show how redesigned streets can improve pedestrian safety and reduce speeding.

Under the leadership of Mayor Jennifer Blumenstock, Garwood held a design contest this spring at the Elementary School to gather ideas. The winning theme—flowers—became the centerpiece of the project.

On June 21, Borough leaders, community volunteers, and EZ Ride partnered to create colorful, temporary curb extensions at Center Street and Willow Avenue. Local police closed the street to traffic while two five-foot curb extensions were installed with the approval of the Borough engineer. Reflective foil tape marked the new extensions, and stencils were used to paint bright purple, orange, yellow, and pink flowers on a sky-blue background. The vibrant designs, along with traffic delineators, now help slow turning vehicles, prevent illegal corner parking, and shorten crossing distances for pedestrians—making the intersection safer for everyone.

“The curb extension demonstration project was a tangible way to show our residents how we can improve safety by just slightly changing our street infrastructure. It allowed us to really elevate the idea that these types of measures can make a difference in the lives of pedestrians and cyclists,” said Mayor Jen Blumenstock.

Project supplies were provided by the North Jersey Transportation Planning Authority (NJTPA) and the Borough of Garwood, while EZ Ride coordinated the effort. A community survey is underway to gather feedback.

EZ Ride congratulates the Borough of Garwood for its successful implementation and commitment to safer streets for people walking, biking, and riding. If your community is interested in a demonstration project, EZ Ride can help—at no cost. Contact us at [email protected] or call 201-939-4242, option 3.