From Our Offices
GET TO KNOW Guiding and managing long-term development in the County The Middlesex County Office of Planning
Q & A with two Middlesex County
REGIONAL PLANNING AND LOCAL ASSISTANCE . Overseeing Destination 2040, ensuring alignment with state planning policies, and supporting municipalities. The Office of Planning also oversees the County’s Network Operations Center with DataCity, the nation’s first smart- mobility living laboratory in New Brunswick, as its flagship initiative. For more information and resources from the Office of Planning, please call 732- 745-3812. “The Office of Planning performs vital services for Middlesex County, guiding growth and development in a way that helps keep our communities safe, sustainable, and prepared for the future.” County Commissioner Charles Kenny Chair, Transportation Committee
Located within the Department of Transportation and led by Planning Director Vijayant Rajvanshi, the Office of Planning specializes in Countywide planning and development oversight. It ensures sustainable and community-centered growth with five core areas: SUSTAINABILITY AND RESILIENCY. Guiding the County’s environmental and infrastructure planning work, including storm water and flood mitigation. DEVELOPMENT REVIEW. Evaluating site plans to protect County roads, property, drainage systems, and public safety. SPATIAL DATA SERVICES. Providing Geographic Information Services (GIS) mapping, demographic projections, and data analysis. TRANSPORTATION AND MOBILITY. Advancing transportation projects centered on safety, efficiency, and the County’s Vision Zero goal.
Launched in 2024, the Middlesex County Bark Rangers program has been a hit with dogs — and their humans! More than 2,000 County residents and their dogs are already participating. To learn how the County’s dogs feel about the program, Your Middlesex Magazine reached out to County Commissioner Leslie Koppel, Chair of the Finance Committee, and her two dogs: Miniature Australian Shepherd Tilly and Blue Heeler Mixed Breed Lilly. Together, the three have enjoyed numerous County parks as part of the Bark Rangers program. Tilly and Lilly graciously agreed to answer a few questions: What do you love most about the Middlesex County Bark Rangers program? Tilly: I love that Bark Rangers gives us pups another reason to spend time outdoors with our humans, having adventures in our 21 County parks! What’s your favorite Bark Rangers activity? Lilly: Definitely the sniffari! Tilly and I both love it! Our mom says that sniffing makes dogs happier and more relaxed — and we agree! What’s your favorite County park? Tilly: With so many pawsome options, it’s tough to choose just one, but probably Thompson Park. We really love the wooded paths, lake, and ski hill! In your opinion, which County park has the best sticks? Lilly: Jamesburg Park definitely has the best sticks! They all have such a nice piney flavor… often with subtle notes of squirrel. Delicious! Thanks for your time, Tilly! Is there anything else you’d like to share about the Middlesex County Bark Rangers program?
On Stage in New Brunswick
“The County’s solid financial standing allows us to maintain our parks and preserve open space, giving our residents — and their dogs — plenty of places to enjoy the outdoors. I urge every resident with a dog to participate in the Bark Rangers program. Tilly, Lilly, and I have been having a delightful time!” County Commissioner Leslie Koppel Chair, Finance Committee
At the heart of New Brunswick’s bustling downtown is the city’s thriving and growing arts and culture scene, supported by the Arts Institute of Middlesex County and anchored by the famed State Theatre New Jersey and the New Brunswick Performing Arts Center (NBPAC). State Theatre New Jersey , a historic gem, offers a spectacular array of performances and programs, while the New Brunswick Performing Arts Center is home to three dynamic performing arts groups. With so much to offer, the State Theatre and NBPAC are must-visit destinations for County residents and visitors alike.
EXPERIENCE ART AT NBPAC
Crossroads Theatre Company A Tony Award- winning theater showcases the stories of the African
American Repertory Ballet Delivers extraordinary contemporary and classical ballet performances and offers dance classes for all ages and levels. George Street Playhouse Nationally recognized, this theater presents Broadway- worthy new plays and musicals and programming for all ages.
American and African Diaspora experience.
Learn more about how to become a Bark Ranger at DiscoverMiddlesex.com/BarkRangers
Tilly: Bark Rangers is the best — I give it four paws up and so does Lilly! Every dog should get their human out to explore our County parks and earn their bandanas together!
For information about upcoming arts and cultural programming, please visit MiddlesexCountyCulture.com.
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12 Your Middlesex | 2026 Issue 1
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