Your Middlesex Magazine is a 16-page publication produced three times a year and mailed to every household in Middlesex County, NJ. The magazine shares the latest news and events from around Middlesex County. It also features information on programs, initiatives, and capital projects spearheaded by County offices for the benefit of residents and the business community -- to ensure Middlesex County is the best place to live, work, and play. This magazine is produced on behalf of the Middlesex County Board of County Commissioners.
2025 ISSUE 3 YOUR MIDDLESEX Ma g a z i n e
CONTENTS 02 AROUND THE COUNTY News and updates from County elected officials 04 MAKING A DIFFERENCE
BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
Shanti Narra, Deputy Director Chair, Public Safety & Health Committee Claribel A. Azcona-Barber Chair, Community Services Committee Charles Kenny Chair, Transportation Committee Ronald G. Rios, Director Chair, Administration; Ex-Officio Chair of All Committees
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06 GAME CHANGER
Middlesex County is improving residents’ access to recreational athletics, enhancing quality of life 08 MORE THAN A WALK IN THE PARK The recreational and cultural activities available in the County's 21 parks offer something for everyone 10 INVESTING IN THE FUTURE The County is building a talent pipeline from classroom to career — one student at a time 12 A RECIPE FOR FOOD SECURITY How Middlesex County is working to make healthy food more accessible for all residents
Jobs that make a dierence
Leslie Koppel Chair, Finance Committee
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Chanelle Scott McCullum Chair, Economic Development Committee
careers.middlesexcountynj.gov
Charles E. Tomaro Chair, Infrastructure Committee
THE COVER
CONSTITUTIONAL OFFICERS
SCAN TO VIEW MAGAZINE OR CONNECT WITH US ONLINE, OR CALL 732-745-3000
THE RED, WHITE, AND BLUE. During the American Revolution, many of the colonists who served in the Continental Army wore this style uniform while fighting for America’s independence. In addition to adding a decorative touch, the red heart on the lower portion of the uniform also served a functional purpose, providing support for an eyelet and loop that holds back the tails of the uniform. 2026 marks the 250th anniversary of American independence, and Middlesex County is celebrating this milestone in a big way! From historic exhibits at the Cornelius Low House and living history tours at the Revolutionary War-era East Jersey Old Town Village in Piscataway to the interactive Middlesex County History Guide and much more — there are so many ways to join the celebration! Visit middlesexcountynj.gov/250 for details on all the family fun.
Nancy J. Pinkin County Clerk
Mildred S. Scott Sheriff
ABOUT THE MAGAZINE Your Middlesex Magazine is a 16-page publication produced three times a year and mailed to every household in Middlesex County, NJ. The magazine shares the latest news and events from around Middlesex County. It also features information on programs, initiatives, and capital projects spearheaded by County offices for the benefit of residents and the business community — to ensure Middlesex County is the best place to live, work, and play. This magazine is produced on behalf of the Middlesex County Board of County Commissioners.
Claribel Cortes Surrogate
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Around the County
AROUND THE
and Pow Wow, this year's FolkLIVE series showcased the rich cultural diversity of Middlesex County through music, dance, and community celebration. NEW BRUNSWICK TRAIN STATION ENTERS CONSTRUCTION PHASE On September 9, Middlesex County and NJ TRANSIT welcomed state and local leaders to the New Brunswick Train Station to mark the next phase in revitalizing the more than 100-year- old landmark. The modernization project will expand accessibility, improve the rider experience, and support the County’s economic development goals. “Our planned upgrades to the New Brunswick Train Station will improve safety, efficiency, and accessibility for all.” County Commissioner Charles Kenny, Chair, Transportation Committee
COUNTY
STEP INTO OUR REVOLUTIONARY STORY As part of the celebration of America’s 250th anniversary, Middlesex County has created the History Guide! Explore the people, places, and pivotal moments that shaped America’s fight for independence. Visit middlesexcountynj.gov/250 for information.
Kendall Park, the winner of this year’s hunger awareness cooking competition. Visit middlesexcountynj.gov/ replenish for details. COUNTY BRINGS JAZZ AGE TO LIFE On September 14, the Middlesex County Roaring ’20s Jazz Party returned to East Jersey Old Town Village, filling the historic site
CIO TOUR AND STEEL BEAM SIGNING As part of the Community, Innovation, and Opportunity (CIO) Strategic Investment Plan, County officials and partners toured key project sites and marked progress with a ceremonial steel beam signing on August 13 — celebrating milestones that will drive growth, innovation, and opportunity across Middlesex County. FOLKLIVE SERIES CELEBRATES CULTURE THROUGH MUSIC AND DANCE From soulful harmonies at the Gospel Music Festival, to vibrant performances at the NJ Folk Festival, to colorful celebrations of heritage at the Mexican Folkloric Festival and the Raritan Native American Festival
County, state, and federal representatives celebrate this milestone moment of the County’s CIO Strategic Investment Plan
NOKIA BREAKS GROUND AT HELIX County leaders and corporate partners joined Nokia to break ground on its future 370,000-square- foot East Coast research and development headquarters at the HELIX in New Brunswick. The facility will serve as a hub for next- generation innovation and solidify Middlesex County's role as a leader in global technology and research. COUNTY HOSTS FOOD INSECURITY POLICY SUMMIT In honor of Hunger Action Month, Middlesex County and the Human Services Advisory Council (HSAC) convened community leaders, government partners, and nonprofits on September 22 to discuss strategies to combat food insecurity and ensure equitable access to healthy food for all residents.
FLAG RAISINGS CELEBRATE COMMUNITY AND CULTURE Throughout the year, Middlesex County honored its vibrant diversity with flag raisings recognizing the histories and heritages of countries including Poland, Mexico, Jamaica, and many more — strengthening community pride and connection.
GET YOUR HISTORY GUIDE TODAY
with the sounds of Michael Arenella & His Dreamland Orchestra and the timeless energy of the Jazz Age.
FUN FACT Streptomycin, the first antibiotic to cure tuberculosis, was developed at Rutgers University– New Brunswick.
REPLENISH HOSTS 2025 DINE BELOW THE LINE Celebrity guest judge Tariq the Corn Kid and County leadership crowned Maricel
Gentile of Maricel's Kitchen, representing Grace for Dinner of
(L-R) County Commissioners McCullum and Koppel, REPLENISH Director Jennifer Apostol, County Commissioner Deputy Director Narra, and County Commissioners Azcona-Barber and Tomaro at the 2025 Dine Below the Line
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2 Your Middlesex | 2025 Issue 3
AMY FREAD GIS Manager, Office of Information Technology
Giving Back
MAKING A DIFFERENCE
Fread’s work in the GIS industry began in 2010, when she interned with the New Jersey National Guard, mapping real property assets at its facilities. Before joining Middlesex County in 2018, she worked as a contractor for the U.S. Department of Defense on Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst, providing mapping for soldiers, civilian staff, and field specialists in the 99th Readiness Division, which spans 13 states. Fread holds an associate degree in liberal studies from Ocean County College and a bachelor’s degree in environmental studies with a certificate in cartography (the precursor to GIS degrees) from Rowan University.
“Working for County government has been so rewarding,
transformative, and fulfilling in ways I didn’t initially expect.”
Middlesex County’s approximately 1,900 employees do the critical work of keeping the County’s programs, services, and facilities running. From skilled tradespeople with extensive training and technical certifications to employees who hold advanced academic degrees and professional certifications, every County employee makes vital contributions that help make Middlesex County the best place to live, work, and play. What inspires these individuals to work in public service?
Fread says her work with the County provides her with a real sense of purpose. “The opportunity to solve problems, particularly the type of problems that can have an exponential ripple effect amongst staff and the greater public, is the most meaningful and fulfilling part of my job,” says Fread, who also appreciates the opportunity to work alongside her colleagues on the GIS team. “They impress me daily with their intellect and their determination to create user-friendly, visually compelling products that have been positively embraced by the organization.”
SALVATORE MANETTO Senior Engineer, Office of Engineering
Working in the public sector was always the goal for Athanasopoulos, who initially planned to work in the U.S. Attorney’s Office prosecuting sex crimes cases. With years of volunteer experience and externships in victim and child advocacy, she was on her way to achieving that goal — until she discovered a new one. The opportunity in County Counsel “presented itself like kismet,” says Athanasopoulos, who originally joined the office as Deputy Counsel in 2003. More than 20 years later, she still relishes the challenges of the job — despite the day-to-day pressures. (The Office of County Counsel serves as chief legal counsel to the Board of County Commissioners, the Constitutional and statutory officers, the County administrator, and County department heads and office directors.)
NIKI ATHANASOPOULOS , ESQ. First Deputy County Counsel, Office of County Counsel “Representing Middlesex County
Currently the lead engineer overseeing the County’s Community, Investment, and Opportunity (CIO) Strategic Investment Plan, Manetto interned in the Office of Engineering in 2017 before joining the County as a full-time engineer from 2018 to 2022. He then spent nearly three years as operations assistant traffic engineer at the NJ Turnpike Authority before returning to the County in 2024. A graduate of Rutgers University with a BS degree in civil and environmental engineering, Manetto is a licensed professional engineer and holds a professional traffic operations engineer certification.
“The most meaningful part of my job is creating solutions that truly make a difference in the community.”
and making a difference in advocating for the public is such a rewarding career.”
He says he found his stride at Middlesex County working on capital improvement projects that enhance residents’ quality of life. “Every project begins as a need expressed by the people of Middlesex County,” says Manetto. “From there, we develop and refine ideas through thoughtful design and bring them to life through construction. The reward comes when that solution becomes more than just a completed project — it becomes a lasting resource for the community.”
“I continue to fulfill my dreams of serving the public with purpose,” she says, also crediting County Counsel Thomas F. Kelso, the Board, and Administration as critical to her decision to stay with the County. “One of the most meaningful parts of my job is the respect and appreciation I get from my colleagues, which gives me a tremendous sense of pride representing Middlesex County.” Before joining the Office of County Counsel, Athanasopoulos served a judicial clerkship with two Superior Court judges of New Jersey, Criminal Division. Admitted to the U.S. Supreme Court, the New Jersey State Bar, and the U.S. District Court for the District of New Jersey, she holds a JD from Western Michigan University Cooley Law School and a BA in English and Women’s Studies from Penn State University.
“Behind every County program, service, and initiative are talented, hard-working County employees. Their contributions are invaluable.”
County Commissioner Deputy Director Shanti Narra Chair, Public Safety and Health Committee
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4 Your Middlesex | 2025 Issue 3
Game Changer
A VARIETY OF SUPPORT The County’s investments underscore its commitment to expanding recreational amenities for residents. During the height of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, the County opened a new outdoor fitness circuit in Warren Park and new pickleball courts in Thompson Park. In June 2025, the County unveiled a new sand volleyball court at Roosevelt Park in Edison. Middlesex County also helps support the improvement, maintenance, and expansion of municipal recreational sports facilities through grants from its Open Space, Recreation, and Farmland and Historic Preservation Trust Fund. In just the past five years, the County has awarded more than $3.5 million in grants to help municipalities renovate or upgrade their athletic fields and facilities. A CONTINUED DESTINATION FOR ATHLETICS Middlesex County’s Community, Innovation, and Opportunity (CIO) Strategic Investment Plan is expanding the number and variety of sports and recreational athletics facilities available to County residents and visitors alike. Two venues currently under construction as part of the CIO Plan will help transform Middlesex County into a leading destination not only for County residents and other visitors, but for local and regional recreation programs and teams.
“Participating in team or individual athletics can have lifelong health benefits that support a better quality of life. As a County, we’re proud that our strong fiscal standing enables us to invest in and support outdoor space and athletic facilities for our residents.” County Commissioner Leslie Koppel Chair, Finance Committee Destination Athletic Complex at Thomas A. Edison Park. It will feature 14 multi-sport synthetic fields, 16 tennis courts, and a state-of-the-art recreational cricket field, a fieldhouse with new comfort stations, pedestrian and bicycle paths, and enhanced playground facilities. To learn more about County parks and sports facilities, please visit middlesexcountynj.gov . The Multipurpose Community Venue is a 3,500-seat, state-of-the-art facility designed for sports such as baseball, soccer, and lacrosse and to host concerts and cultural events. Located on the Middlesex College campus, the venue will meet Big Ten, NCAA, Minor League Baseball, and FIFA standards, ensuring top-tier accommodations for athletes and spectators. Earlier this year, the County broke ground on the
From baseball to soccer and from track and field to volleyball, pickleball, and cricket — not to mention walking, jogging, and bicycling — Middlesex County has a long history of supporting athletics for all ages and at all levels. That tradition continues today. Recognizing that access to outdoor space and athletics from childhood through adulthood and into the senior years directly correlates with a higher quality of life, Middlesex County is working hard to ensure that the space and facilities exist for residents to remain active and enjoy their favorite sports throughout their lives. Across its 21 County parks and numerous open spaces, the County offers sports fields, courts, and facilities for an extensive range of athletic endeavors, and miles of pathways for walking or jogging. Middlesex County is improving residents’ access to recreational athletics Game Changer
2025 Senior Health and Fitness Walk in Roosevelt Park
TEE TIME! Middlesex County operates three golf courses: the 36-hole Tamarack Golf Course in East Brunswick, which includes the recently renovated West Course; the Meadows at Middlesex in Plainsboro; and the Raritan Landing Golf Course in Piscataway. For more information on the County’s golf courses and to book tee time, visit middlesexcountygolf.com .
MAGNET SCHOOLS All six Middlesex County Magnet Schools offer multiple athletics programs, including the Innovation Magnet School slated to open on the Middlesex College campus in fall 2026. Learn more at mcmsnj.net .
MIDDLESEX COLLEGE COLTS The College offers several athletics programs, competing at the Division II level for men’s and women’s basketball. Student athletes compete at the Division III level for men’s baseball, volleyball, outdoor track and field, soccer, and wrestling, and for women’s outdoor track and field, soccer, softball, and volleyball. Get more info at middlesexcoltsathletics.com .
Thomas Mundy Peterson Park opened in September 2021
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6 Your Middlesex | 2025 Issue 3
Year-round Beauty
“ Our County parks are beautiful in every season and I invite everyone to get out there and explore these open spaces!” County Commissioner Charles E. Tomaro , Chair, Infrastructure Committee
IN OUR PARKS
Middlesex Greenway
Middlesex County’s 21 scenic parks, encompassing over 3,000 acres, offer something for everyone — from golf courses and dog parks to fishing, skating rinks, playgrounds, athletic fields, and walking and paddling trails. The parks also host theater performances and live concerts during the summer months. Families can enjoy programs like Junior Rangers, which connects kids to nature, and Bark Rangers, which encourages outdoor fun with canine companions, year-round. Residents are often inspired to showcase park scenery in the Picture Middlesex County photo contest, with winning entries displayed at County events and in promotional materials.
Johnson Park
Davidson's Mill Pond Park
Raritan Bay Waterfront Park
Roosevelt Park
Johnson Park
John A. Phillips Open Space Preserve
Roosevelt Park
Davidson's Mill Pond Park
Middlesex Greenway
Old Bridge Waterfront Park
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8 Your Middlesex | 2025 Issue 3
Classroom to Career
MIDDLESEX COUNTY'S TALENT PIPELINE Offering educational and workforce development opportunities and support at every stage – from high school to higher education, in the classroom and beyond.
PARTNERSHIPS THAT POWER CAREERS Partnerships are at the heart of Middlesex County’s educational strategy, connecting students directly to high-demand careers. These collaborations connect schools, higher education institutions, and leading industry employers, helping ensure training aligns with workforce needs. Middlesex College’s partnerships with RWJBarnabas Health and Hackensack Meridian Health create direct pathways into healthcare careers. Students can transition seamlessly into roles such as patient care technician or medical assistant, helping to meet the urgent demand for skilled healthcare professionals. Beyond healthcare, the County’s hospitality program at the Heldrich Hotel and Conference Center provides hands-on training for Middlesex College and Middlesex County Magnet School students, preparing them for careers in one of New Jersey’s key economic sectors. FROM EDUCATION TO ECONOMIC GROWTH For Middlesex County, the message is clear: investing in students means investing in the County’s future. Whether through innovative infrastructure, strong partnerships, or cutting-edge curricula, the County’s approach is unified by a single vision: building an education-to-employment pipeline that supports residents, fuels innovation, and meets the evolving needs of business and industry. “Middlesex County is bridging education and industry in powerful ways,” said Middlesex County Commissioner Chanelle Scott McCullum, Chair of the County’s Economic Development Committee. “We’re investing in students today to build a more prosperous tomorrow for all.”
Investing in the future — one student at a time How Middlesex County is building a talent pipeline from classroom to career
In Middlesex County, education is more than a priority — it’s a strategic investment in the region’s future. The County is taking a multi- pronged approach to prepare students for real-world success while fueling long-term economic growth. From transformative projects in the Community, Innovation, and Opportunity (CIO) Strategic Investment Plan, to innovative public-private partnerships, to cutting-edge programs like artificial intelligence training, Middlesex County is building a seamless pipeline from the classroom to a thriving career. “Our investments in education aren’t just preparing students — they’re strengthening the entire County,” said Middlesex County Commissioner Director Ronald G. Rios. “Whether students pursue college, a trade, or enter the workforce, we’re making sure they have the tools they need to succeed.”
FROM CURIOSITY…
to a strong academic foundation
FROM INEXPERIENCE…
to practical, real-life expertise
To learn more about educational opportunities in Middlesex County, visit middlesexcountynj.gov/education .
SHAPING THE NEXT GENERATION OF INNOVATORS A centerpiece of the CIO Strategic Investment Plan is the new Middlesex County Innovation Magnet School, now under construction on the Middlesex College campus and set to open in fall 2026. This state-of-the-art school will be the sixth in the Middlesex County Magnet Schools system, known for blending rigorous academics with hands-on career and technical training. Programs will include robotics, energy-efficient systems, data networking, and sustainable agriculture — fields chosen to prepare students for success in emerging industries. The school will also complement and expand Middlesex College’s workforce development offerings, connecting students to industry- relevant skills and resources. Additionally, the County is introducing an artificial intelligence curriculum within the Magnet Schools, equipping students with skills in one of the fastest-growing sectors. Combined with the County’s dual-enrollment partnership with Middlesex College, high school students can earn college credits before graduation, reducing the time and cost of higher education while boosting their career readiness.
FROM COMMUNITY COLLEGE CLASSROOMS TO IVY LEAGUE HALLS
FROM ENTRY-LEVEL…
Three members of the Middlesex College Class of 2024 — Yokasti Mateo, Kyle Morgan, and Nima Sedghi — were recently accepted to Columbia University, a testament to the College’s strong academic foundation and student support. With a student-to-faculty ratio of 20:1 and programs designed to prepare students for success at major universities, Middlesex College empowers students — 42% of whom are the first in their families to attend college — to thrive in elite academic environments.
Currently under construction, the new Middlesex County Innovation Magnet School is slated to open in fall 2026
TO CAREER SUCCESS
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10 Your Middlesex | 2025 Issue 3
From Our Offices
GET TO KNOW Giving businesses what they need to succeed
The Middlesex County Office of Business Engagement
For more information about the Office of Business Engagement and how it can help your business thrive in Middlesex County, please visit middlesexcountynj.gov and search “Office of Business Engagement.”
Under the leadership of Director Sho Islam, the Middlesex County Office of Business Engagement offers critical services to entrepreneurs and businesses of all sizes operating in the County. This includes matters related to business licensing and permitting, financing and incentives, and market research as well as facilitating site selection for businesses moving to, or within, Middlesex County. As part of its core mission, the Office of Business Engagement strives to build connections and foster relationships between Middlesex County government and the business community, helping ensure businesses receive the support they need in order to help maintain the County’s robust economy. Located within the County’s Department of Economic Development, the Office of Business Engagement supports businesses across all industries, including in the County’s key business sectors of autonomous technology, food innovation, and life sciences.
their special nutritional needs. Meals are available at designated meal sites or delivered directly to homebound residents, helping ensure all older residents have access to nutritious meals. CONNECTING RESIDENTS TO RESOURCES The County’s Healthy Food Access Map is an online tool that helps residents easily locate nearby food pantries, farmers markets, grocery stores, and participants in nutrition assistance programs. It also highlights transportation options to help residents reach these resources easily. Access the map at middlesexcountynj.gov/healthyfoodsmap . For information on how to donate supplies or serve as a volunteer, please visit middlesexcountynj.gov/replenish . REPLENISH also accepts monetary donations in the form of checks payable to Feeding Middlesex County that can be mailed to P.O. Box 781, Edison, NJ 08818 or made online via its website: FeedingMiddlesexCounty.org . “Many in our community don't know when or where their next meal will come from, but help is available. We can be our neighbors’ strength by supporting our local food pantries to ensure no resident faces hunger alone.” County Commissioner Claribel A. Azcona-Barber, Chair, Community Services Committee
Hunger affects families and individuals nationwide. According to the nonprofit Feeding America, in New Jersey alone, one in nine people — more than one million — faced hunger in 2023. Middlesex County is actively working to increase food security for residents through initiatives and partnerships that expand food access for those in need. LEADING THE WAY: REPLENISH At the forefront of these efforts is REPLENISH, the County’s food distribution program, which aims to eradicate hunger in Middlesex County. REPLENISH distributes food and basic necessities to a network of more than 135 food pantries in Middlesex County. In 2024, REPLENISH distributed 5.2 million pounds of food to pantries. REPLENISH reaches residents through various outreach efforts, such as food drives, K-12 hunger education in schools, and public events, all designed to raise awareness about food insecurity, reduce the stigma associated with it, and encourage community support. “ Food insecurity can affect anyone, yet so many suffer in silence,” said REPLENISH Director Jennifer Apostol. “REPLENISH is committed to educating our communities on this critical issue to destigmatize seeking help and normalize the use of our local pantries. Our attitudes towards hunger, followed by action, can make us one step closer to ending hunger in our County.” NOURISHING OLDER RESIDENTS As a designated AARP Age-Friendly Community, Middlesex County offers various support services for older residents, including nutrition assistance. The senior meal program provides County residents who are 60 and older with an affordable, full-course meal designed to meet
(L-R) Joseph Liberato, Carla Cefalo, Kalindi Bakshi, and Director Sho Islam of the Office of Business Engagement at the 2025 Business Summit
With a theme of “Thriving Through Change: Business, Innovation, and the Future of Work,” Middlesex County brought together over 500 business leaders, entrepreneurs, and government officials from across the region for its 2025 Business Summit on Thursday, October 9. The annual event was held at the Heldrich Hotel and Conference Center in New Brunswick and included a keynote address by Rutgers University President William F. Tate, IV, who discussed how the future of Rutgers and Middlesex County are deeply connected. Experts and thought leaders from across the public and private sectors then shared their insights during two panel discussions showcasing how businesses can thrive by focusing on workforce development, building partnerships, and accessing funding.
Rutgers University President William F. Tate, IV delivers the keynote address at the 2025 Middlesex County Business Summit
The summit also offered attendees an opportunity to explore a Business Resource Area highlighting the wide range of resources offered by Middlesex County to support businesses, before choosing between breakout sessions focusing on entrepreneurial success or artificial intelligence. A networking reception hosted by the Middlesex County Chamber of Commerce rounded out the afternoon.
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12 Your Middlesex | 2025 Issue 3
Middlesex County Board of County Commissioners County Administration Building 75 Bayard Street New Brunswick, NJ 08901
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History Hppened Right in Your Bckyrd. Step Into the Past! GET THE GUIDE
HISTORY GUIDE
Exp ore the sme rods nd rivers of the Americn Revo ution. Comp ete ctivities, pick our side, nd join the fight for independence. DiscoverMiddlesex.com/HistoryGuide
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