About
The first phase of the Downtown Cranford Streetscape project—a Capital Improvement Plan—was completed in 2023. Building upon the legacy already created, the Capital Improvement Plan lays out a vision for the continued evolution of the downtown area. We are now entering the second phase, where the community is invited to review and provide input and comment on the vision plan that was done as part of the Capital Improvement Plan.
As we work to create a safer, more vibrant downtown, pedestrian safety will remain a top priority. The design process will also consider traffic flow, access to transit, walkability, parking, and support for a thriving local economy.
Community involvement is essential to the success of this project. Please explore the sections of this website to learn how you can participate and share your feedback.
Project Timeline
Our Team.
Meet the companies and organizations involved with the project.
FAQs
What is the streetscape project?
In 2023, the Downtown Management Corp (DMC) moved forward on long time plans to develop concepts for expanding public gathering spaces while improving pedestrian safety and vehicle traffic flow throughout the downtown.
If approved, this would be the first major investment in the business district since 1985 when the current sidewalks, planters and benches were installed. That initial investment set downtown Cranford on a path to being recognized as a successful downtown. Retail and consumer trends, vehicle and pedestrian traffic flow, and the public's interest have all changed in the past 40 years. We need to keep up with those changes to ensure Cranford remains competitive and an attractive place for business for many more years.
What is the purpose of a new Streetscape and are plans available for viewing?
These improvements, based on public suggestions through the years, are an opportunity to make pedestrian movement safer and more accessible, improve traffic flow, redesign public gathering spaces, address flooding, use sustainable materials for hard surfaces, versatile street furniture and plantings appropriate for a busy downtown.
The initial concept plans, done by the planning firm Arterial, were presented to the DMC and the Township Committee starting in 2023. The concept plans will soon be available here and on he Township website www.cranfordnj.org.
Will there be an opportunity for the public to ask questions or comment?
Yes. Arterial is working with the Township and DMC to hold two Public Information Open Houses in May. The information can be found on the Events Page.
The input from these public sessions, as well as from continued meetings with downtown property and business owners, will help shape the final plans. Review and input from Cranford Police, Fire, Engineering and public Works along with the Environmental Commission, Complete Streets, Shade Tree Commission are also key to the final design.
Township and DMC officials have already met with NJ Transit and NJ Department of Transportation (NJDOT) regarding possible street redesign.
What is the funding source for this project?
In 2024, the Township was awarded a $2.7 million grant from the State of New Jersey for the public plazas portion of the Streetscape project. In 2024, the Township approved $600,000 for surveying, design, engineering and other soft costs associated with the project. If approved, funding for remaining portions of the project would be divided between the Township and the property owners of the Special Business Improvement District (downtown).
Why did the Township introduce an Ordinance to close Eastman Street if the plans are not yet finalized?
One option in the current concept plan includes converting Eastman Street into public plazas. The Township has not yet decided whether to pursue that option. However, for the closure of Eastman Street to even remain an option, the Township must inform the NJ DOT now, via adoption of an ordinance, that closure of Eastman Street is an option being considered. This is required by law because Eastman Street is adjacent to North Avenue, a State highway, and the Township needs approval from NJ DOT for changes in the area. We are seeking NJ DOT approval for this option now so that the Township avoids spending time and resources exploring a concept that may not be approved. No final project decision will be made until the Township receives public and stakeholder input, and after the NJ DOT completes the review.
What impact will these changes have on parking downtown?
We recognize how important accessible parking is for the enjoyment and success of our downtown. That is why a significant objective of the Streetscape project is to improve both pedestrian and vehicle traffic flow, including how and where parking is utilized. This is one of the topics where we will solicit feedback during the public input process.
How will the Streetscape Project improve traffic downtown?
Traffic is a major concern in Cranford and our region. In order to facilitate NJ Department of Transportation review of this potential project, the Township undertook a traffic study of the area in 2024. The traffic study found that several potential changes would ease traffic flow in our downtown, such as the relocation of traffic signals. These potential improvements could be incorporated into the project.
What is the timeframe to start this project?
Following the public input sessions and reviews by Township professionals, final designs will be prepared so the project could go out to bid as early as the end of this year. We could break ground as early as Spring 2026.
How can the public keep up to date on the progress?
Updates will be posted here, on the Township website, and on social media.