Wishing Earl Martin a happy 102nd birthday
Today, families in Jersey City, like in so many other cities all across the country, are facing tough economic times. Thankfully, in President Obama, we're fortunate to have a partner in the White House who understands the particular issues and needs facing urban America. In fact, this is one of the main reasons I endorsed Barack Obama during the primary election. When my good friend Cory Booker and I became two of the first - and only - elected officials in New Jersey to get behind our future president, I knew I wasn't going to make many friends in state politics. I made the endorsement simply because I thought Barack Obama had the best vision for moving the United States forward and delivering real change for our cities.
I was proud to stand with Barack Obama on the campaign trail, and I'm even prouder to see the investments he's making in our urban centers. President Obama has set forth a plan that will put more Jersey City residents to work, update our aging infrastructure, and give our children more educational and recreational opportunities. He is giving us the resources to bring even more change to Jersey City so we can help our middle-class and protect the most vulnerable among us. Most of all, President Obama is helping us build upon our success to keep moving forward. He's helping us deliver even more change we can see all throughout our community.
Here in Jersey City, President Obama has already invested over $20 million dollars in grants and funds to be distributed for various projects benefiting our residents. These projects will assist Jersey City's families in so many ways and play a vital role in improving the quality of life for everyone who lives, works and visits our city. One especially important line item will be a $2.6 million dollar Emergency Shelter Grant for homeless prevention that will be distributed to non-profits across the city. This grant will ensure that we are able to move homeless residents in Jersey City off the streets and begin the process of helping them transition back into society as productive citizens.
Other projects that are already underway in Jersey City include $7.8 million for the Jersey City Housing Authority to create and improve affordable housing in our city, $4.6 million for street improvement projects on Newark and Sip Avenues, and $1.83 million from the Department of Justice to help us maintain the present level of police officers. In addition, we have submitted an application to the DOJ to hire 40 more police officers - this grant will pay for their full salaries and benefits for 3 years. But this is just the beginning. We have developed a list of close to 100 shovel-ready projects right here in Jersey City to improve our infrastructure, update our schools, and create more affordable housing opportunities throughout the city.
Yes, these are tough times, and I understand the struggles of my neighbors.
But, as my friend Earl can tell you, Jersey City has faced difficult challenges before, and our city has always come out on top. With a strong partner in President Obama, we're going to get through these tough times, as well. Together, we'll deliver more change we can see - in Jersey City, throughout the state and all across the country. |
