Mayor Ravi Bhalla said the city intends to hold the FAA accountable for not taking action to protect Hoboken residents from what the city describes as unsafe and unnecessary air traffic. Bhalla stated that helicopters have been flying at low altitudes over the city for years, and the recent crash highlights the risks of continued inaction.

CBS News New York observed over three dozen helicopters flying above Hoboken in a single hour. According to Bhalla, many of these flights are for sightseeing purposes and are considered non-essential. He said these helicopters are not involved in emergency services, law enforcement, or other essential operations.

Concerns Over Noise, Safety, and Emissions

Hoboken residents report regular disruption from helicopter noise. The city says that low-flying helicopters create a constant disturbance that affects the quality of life. Residents have described feeling vibrations in their homes due to helicopters passing overhead, also expressing concern over the lack of current regulations on altitude and flight frequency.

The city also cited environmental concerns. According to officials, helicopters emit hundreds of pounds of carbon dioxide per hour, contributing to air pollution in densely populated neighborhoods. Hoboken leadership argues that these flights pose risks not only to safety but also to public health.

Even though there are residents who do not view helicopter noise as a major issue, the city’s leadership maintains that the flights are a significant concern. Hoboken officials have repeatedly requested changes to flight patterns from the FAA in the past, but those efforts were unsuccessful.

Volume and Flight Paths Raise Alarm

Following the April crash, the Hoboken City Council passed a resolution calling for the FAA to prohibit all non-essential helicopter flights over Hoboken and Jersey City. The resolution passed unanimously, with an 8� vote.

Councilman Phil Cohen, who co-sponsored the resolution with Councilman Paul Presinzano, said the problem is ongoing and referenced previous failed attempts to reroute helicopter traffic. Cohen noted that after the September 11 attacks, helicopter flights were banned over Disneyland due to national security concerns. He argued that similar actions are possible and necessary in Hoboken.

The resolution urges Mayor Eric Adams and the New York City Economic Development Corporation to suspend all sightseeing and commuter helicopter flights from the two city-owned heliports if the FAA does not act. It also calls for the creation of minimum flight altitudes and a ban on non-essential helicopter operations near densely populated residential areas.

Cohen said that residents have contacted him and Presinzano to express concern about the mental toll of frequent low-flying helicopter traffic. Councilwoman Tiffanie Fisher added that if the April crash had occurred over land instead of water, the outcome could have been even more devastating. She noted the risk posed by helicopters flying near buildings and potential mid-air collisions with drones.

Local Leaders Cite High Flights and Limited Oversight

Hudson County Executive Craig Guy has worked for several years to address helicopter noise. He has communicated with the tour operator at the Kearny, New Jersey, heliport in an effort to find solutions. Guy said a recent conversation with the operator may have led to some concessions, but he noted that results remain to be seen.

The advocacy organization Stop the Chop estimates that approximately 80,000 non-essential helicopter flights occur over New York City each year. The group points to the location of the Kearny heliport and its proximity to Newark Airport as a factor. Helicopters must fly at lower altitudes to avoid conflict with fixed-wing aircraft entering or exiting Newark’s airspace. This often brings them directly over Hoboken.

A flight tracker recorded a helicopter flying at 800 feet above a park in Hoboken. This corridor is frequently used by sightseeing helicopters traveling north along the Hudson River and returning south.

CBS News contacted the Kearny heliport and a high-volume sightseeing helicopter company but received no response. The FAA declined to comment, citing its policy on pending litigation.

For first-time visitors, this charming city offers a perfect mix of activities. Take a walk along the waterfront, explore its historic museums, indulge in iconic dining spots, and enjoy the lively streets.

Here are the 7 must-see attractions in Hoboken that will make your visit unforgettable. Let’s dive in!

Best Places in Hoboken for Fun Activities

Wondering what to do in Hoboken? Here’s our list of top spots and activities that showcase the best of this vibrant city. Whether you’re after breathtaking views, unique cultural experiences, or just some good food and fun, Hoboken has something for everyone.

Walk Along the Hoboken Waterfront

• Stunning Manhattan Views: Enjoy breathtaking vistas of the Manhattan skyline, especially magical at sunset.
• Pier C Park: A small island oasis with playgrounds and a fishing pier, perfect for families.
• Lackawanna Terminal: A historic hub with beautiful architecture, now serving as a transit station with character.

This is one of the best places to go in Hoboken. The Hoboken Waterfront is a vibrant stretch where you can soak in unparalleled views of Manhattan. It’s the kind of place where every local has spent countless hours just living in the moment �and you should definitely give it a try.

The waterfront is dotted with parks and piers, each offering a unique perspective of the city across the river. Pier C Park, for instance, feels like stepping into a different world �a little island of calm amidst the urban hustle.

Then there’s the Lackawanna Terminal, which combines history with daily life. Here, the beauty of early 20th-century architecture meets modern-day commuters, creating a unique atmosphere.

Visit Pier A Park in the Heart of Hoboken

• Manhattan Skyline View: Arguably the best spot in Hoboken to gaze at New York City’s skyscrapers.
• Lush Picnic Spots: Wide open spaces perfect for spreading out a blanket and relaxing.
• Community Events: The park hosts various Hoboken activities throughout the year, from outdoor movies to fitness classes.

Pier A Park is the centerpiece of Hoboken’s outdoor scene, a spacious green space extending into the Hudson River with stunning, postcard-worthy views of Manhattan. It’s one of the most popular attractions in Hoboken.

A favorite escape for locals, the park offers a peaceful retreat with its lush lawns and hosts numerous community events that bring the area to life. It’s the perfect spot for enjoying relaxing activities in Hoboken.

Whether it’s catching an outdoor movie on a warm summer night or joining a yoga class with the skyline as your backdrop, Pier A Park is a testament to Hoboken’s sense of community and its connection to the natural environment. It’s a communal backyard where memories are made.

Explore the Hoboken Historical Museum

• Local History: Discover the rich tapestry of Hoboken’s past, from its indigenous roots to its role as a major port.
• Cultural Exhibits: The museum regularly features exhibits on the city’s diverse cultural heritage and significant moments.
• Engaging Events: With talks, walks, and workshops, the museum isn’t just about observing; it’s about participating.

Tucked inside one of Hoboken’s historic buildings, the Hoboken Historical Museum offers a rich collection of artifacts and stories that bring the city’s past to life.

Though modest in size, the museum powerfully showcases Hoboken’s industrial roots, maritime heritage, and the diverse immigrant communities that shaped its identity.

With rotating exhibits and cultural events, the museum bridges the gap between past and present, offering visitors a dynamic and meaningful experience.

Take a Stroll on Washington Street

• Boutique Shopping: From quirky bookshops to chic boutiques, shopping here is an adventure.
• Diverse Dining: Every block brings a new taste, from classic Italian to cutting-edge fusion cuisine.
• Vibrant Atmosphere: The street buzzes with energy, making it a perfect place to people-watch or soak up local vibes.

Washington Street is the lifeline of Hoboken, a full-of-life avenue where the city’s pulse is most palpable.

Here, every storefront tells a story, and every restaurant invites adventure. You’ll find everything from the morning rush at local coffee shops to the late-night chatter spilling out of cozy bars.

The diversity of dining options is staggering �here, you can travel the world one plate at a time without ever leaving Hoboken.

Pay Homage to Frank Sinatra

• Sinatra Drive: A scenic waterfront promenade named after Hoboken’s most famous son.
• Sinatra’s Birthplace: Visit 415 Monroe Street, where a star was born and a brass plaque commemorates his legacy.
• Live Music Venues: Experience the local music scene at venues celebrating Sinatra’s influence with live performances.

Frank Sinatra, Hoboken’s pride, has left an indelible mark on this city, and paying homage to Ol’ Blue Eyes here feels particularly poignant.

Sinatra Drive offers more than just a beautiful walk by the water; it’s a nod to the man whose voice became synonymous with an era.

While his childhood home no longer stands, the site at 415 Monroe Street, marked by a commemorative plaque, invites a moment of reflection on the humble beginnings of this global icon.

Enjoy the Green Space at Church Square Park

• A Community Hub: A gathering place for locals, offering a slice of tranquility amid city life.
• Children’s Playground: Safe and engaging play areas for kids, fostering a family-friendly atmosphere.
• Cultural Events: The park plays host to an array of events, including art shows, concerts, and farmersâ€?markets.

Church Square Park is the green heart of Hoboken, pulsing with life and community spirit. It strikes a perfect balance between the hustle of city life and the calm and relaxing nature, making it a favorite spot for families, dog walkers, and anyone looking to unwind �you can also attend Hoboken’s pride celebrations here!

The playgrounds are modern and well-maintained. Throughout the year, this space transforms to host cultural Hoboken events and markets. So, the next time you are thinking about what to do in Hoboken, take a walk at enjoy the greenery of Church Square Park.

Taste Italian Pastries at Carlo’s Bakery

• Decadent Treats: Famous for its delectable pastries, cakes, and desserts.
• “Cake Boss” Connection: Home of Buddy Valastro and his TV show, drawing fans from around the globe.
• Authentic Italian Flavor: Experience the rich heritage of Hoboken’s Italian community through every bite.

Carlo’s Bakery has become one of the top Hoboken attractions, not just for its appearance on the “Cake Boss” TV show but for a tradition of crafting some of the most delicious Italian pastries you’ll find anywhere.

Walking into Carlo’s is like stepping into a sweet-smelling world where every treat, from cannoli to lobster tails, promises a taste of Italy handed down through generations. It’s a bustling spot where locals and visitors mingle. If you love Italian food, this is one of the most popular places to visit in Hoboken.

Explore Hoboken’s Art Scene at Monroe Center for the Arts

• Art and Culture: A creative space where local artists, performers, and makers gather to showcase their talent.
• Interactive Workshops: Join art classes, enjoy live performances, and browse one-of-a-kind galleries.
• Excellent Community: A great spot to connect with local creatives and experience Hoboken’s artistic pulse.

The Monroe Center for the Arts is perfect for art lovers and curious visitors alike. This lively center features everything from studio exhibits to artisan markets and theater performances, giving you a taste of Hoboken’s vibrant culture.

It’s an inspiring place that invites you to dive into the local art scene and discover something new.

Unwind at Antique Bar & Bakery

• Unique Design: It is set in a former coal-oven bakery that is over 100 years old and still has its original oven in use.
• Amazing Cocktails: Enjoy expertly crafted drinks alongside gourmet comfort food.
• Live Entertainment: Experience the charm of live music and unique performances that set the scene.

Antique Bar & Bakery is more than a restaurant �it’s a piece of Hoboken history with a modern twist.

Known for its cozy, inviting vibe, this spot serves up creative cocktails and comfort dishes that keep people coming back. Add live music and quirky performances to the mix, and you’ve got one of the most unforgettable places to enjoy an evening in Hoboken.

These spots add even more variety and excitement to your Hoboken adventure, ensuring you’ll leave with great memories.

What Are the Best Things to Do Near Hoboken?

From picturesque waterfront walks to exploring rich local history and savoring iconic Italian pastries, Hoboken offers an unforgettable mix of culture and relaxation.

We hope these insider tips gave you a true sense of what makes Hoboken unique. Our goal was to showcase the city’s charm and inspire your visit. Enjoy your trip!

The park was renamed in 2019 by the Hoboken City Council to honor Teofilo “Tom�Olivieri, a prominent tenants�rights activist. Previously known as Legion Park, the park includes a playground, a water spray area, mature trees, and two murals approved by the Hoboken Arts Advisory Committee. One mural, “Flight,�was created by Rorshach, and another was painted by Tom Olivieri’s son, Teofilo Olivieri, with Ray Guzman and members of the community �both murals will remain in the renovated park.

Community Input Shapes Preliminary Concept

The City is gathering public feedback through an online survey available at http://arcg.is/qLLD11. The survey opened on Monday, June 9, and the results from this survey will be used to inform the final concept design.

The preliminary concept was developed by Arterial, the City’s design consultant, using input from nearly 400 residents who responded to a previous survey conducted in January 2025. The updated design was presented at a public meeting held on Thursday, June 5, from 6:30 to 8 p.m. at the Wallace Elementary School cafeteria at 1100 Willow Avenue. The meeting also covered proposed safety upgrades for the surrounding Willow Avenue corridor.

Design Details Include Accessibility and Cultural Elements

The proposed playground includes two connected play structures with a flat, accessible surface. The design allows children of all ages and abilities to use the space safely.

The spray area will be renovated with modern geometric spray features. The design aims to improve the overall water play experience.

A Portland Loo public restroom is included in the plan, providing year-round public access in a durable, low-maintenance structure.

New landscaping and paving will be added throughout the park. The concept preserves the existing mature tree canopy to provide natural shade. Additional seating and updated furnishings will accommodate caregivers and visitors.

The park’s color schemes and artistic design features reflect Puerto Rican heritage, in tribute to the legacy of Tom Olivieri. Arterial selected these cultural elements specifically for the project.

Project Receives State and County Support

The Tom Olivieri Park Improvement Project has received $750,000 from the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP). It is also recommended to receive another $750,000 from the Hudson County Open Space Trust Fund.

Hudson County Executive Craig Guy confirmed his support for the project and the county’s larger commitment to improving parks across all 12 municipalities. He stated that he had recommended nearly $12 million through the trust fund for park improvements, including this project in Hoboken.

Safety Upgrades Planned for Adjacent Willow Avenue

The City of Hoboken and Hudson County are also working on proposed Vision Zero safety improvements along Willow Avenue from 11th to 16th Streets. A virtual public meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, June 25, from 6 to 7 p.m. to discuss these plans and gather community input.

The improvements are targeted at a high-crash corridor identified in Hoboken’s Vision Zero data. Between 2014 and 2018, this corridor accounted for 40 percent of traffic-related injuries and fatalities citywide. Between 2019 and 2021, there were 31 injury-causing crashes along this segment of Willow Avenue, including injuries to seven pedestrians and four bicyclists.

Proposed safety measures include curb extensions, high-visibility crosswalks, pedestrian refuge islands, rapid flashing beacons, leading pedestrian intervals at signalized intersections, speed radar feedback signs, and protected bike lanes.

Funding for the Willow Avenue safety project includes $1.39 million in grants from the Federal Highway Administration and the New Jersey Department of Transportation. Construction is expected to begin in 2027.

The corridor is used by seniors at Fox Hill Gardens, students at Wallace Elementary School, families at Tom Olivieri Park, and patrons of nearby businesses. It also serves as a route for commuters from Weehawken and Union City traveling to the Lincoln Tunnel. The area includes four NJ TRANSIT bus stops and a Citi Bike station that has supported 41,000 trips since it was installed in 2021.

The complaint was filed just two weeks before the June 10 Democratic primary, in which Bhalla is competing in a six-way race for two Assembly seats in the 32nd Legislative District. It questions whether the mayor received special treatment in court and whether proper legal procedures were followed.

Court Records Show Nearly 250 Tickets Since 2005

According to court records listed on NJCourts.gov, Ravi Bhalla has been the defendant in approximately 247 municipal court cases. These cases include both parking and moving violations.

Some of the violations include:

• Parking too close to a crosswalk
• Parking at a fire hydrant
• Parking at a bus stop
• Parking in a school zone
• Parking on sidewalks
• Expired meters
• Street cleaning violations
• Driving without a license
• Driving with a suspended license
• Driving without proof of insurance
• Driving or parking an unregistered vehicle
• Failing to show license plates properly
• Speeding
• Disobeying traffic signals

There was also a DWI charge in Secaucus, but Bhalla was found not guilty in that case.

While many of the violations were minor, the high number of tickets and how some were dismissed have raised concerns.

Six Dismissed Tickets Cited in Legal Complaint

A formal complaint was sent by Georgina Giordano Pallitto, a lawyer certified by New Jersey as a criminal trial attorney.

She sent the complaint to:

• Joshua Haber, U.S. Attorney’s Office
• Theresa Hilton, New Jersey Division of Criminal Justice
• Esther Suarez, Hudson County Prosecutor

Pallitto used court records to find that Bhalla had nearly 250 violations, and she focused on six recent tickets in her letter. These six tickets were issued between November 12, 2021, and October 28, 2023, and were all dismissed between November 22, 2023, and January 24, 2024, by the Hoboken Municipal Court.

Here are the details of those six cases:

1. 847 Garden Street, prohibited parking on November 12, 2021 �dismissed November 22, 2023
2. 105 1st Street, alternate side parking violation on April 6, 2023 �dismissed January 9, 2024
3. 260 Newark Street, expired meter on May 31, 2023 �dismissed January 10, 2024
4. 58 3rd Street, expired meter on August 18, 2023 �dismissed January 17, 2024
5. 7 Newark Street, expired meter on October 20, 2023 �dismissed January 23, 2024
6. 165 9th Street, parked in a crosswalk on October 28, 2023 �dismissed January 24, 2024

The total amount of fines and fees for these six tickets came to $320. All of the tickets were connected to a gray Mazda sedan with license plate K97NZL, which has since been repossessed by the car’s lessor and is no longer in Bhalla’s possession.

Complaint Says Court Procedure Was Not Followed

In her letter, Pallitto pointed out that, by law, tickets involving local officials should be moved out of their city’s municipal court to avoid a conflict of interest. This is because the mayor oversees city departments, including the court system. But in these six cases, that did not happen. All of the tickets were handled and dismissed by the Hoboken Municipal Court.

The complaint also says that in some of these cases, the tickets were dismissed months or even years after the deadline for court action had passed. One ticket was dismissed two years after it was issued, even though the system normally requires a suspension or warrant when a person fails to appear in court.

Pallitto also wrote that if the mayor gave his tickets to court employees or officers and asked them to “take care of it,�that could count as official misconduct under New Jersey law (N.J.S.A. 2C:30-2). It might also break federal law, such as honest services fraud under 18 U.S.C. § 1346, depending on the details.

Earlier Cases Were Handled Differently

The complaint compares the current ticket dismissals to how things were done in the past. For example, in 2012, when Bhalla was a city councilman, he was given tickets for driving with a suspended license, driving without proof of insurance, driving without a license, and making an improper turn.

Those tickets were moved to the Jersey City Municipal Court—not handled in Hoboken—and later dismissed for lack of prosecution. Pallitto argues this earlier case followed the correct process, unlike the six recent tickets she highlighted.

Bhalla’s Campaign Responds and Denies Special Treatment

In response to the complaint, Bhalla’s campaign spokesperson, Rob Horowitz, denied all wrongdoing. He said that Bhalla never asked for special treatment and never received any. According to Horowitz, the COVID-19 pandemic caused the court system to fall behind, and many old tickets, including some of Bhalla’s, were dismissed because they had been pending for more than 180 days.

Horowitz also questioned the timing of the complaint. He said it was a “political stunt�because it was sent just 12 days before the primary election. He described it as part of a “dirty tricks�campaign tied to the Hudson County political machine. He also pointed out that Pallitto, the attorney who wrote the letter, worked for the Hudson County Law Department and did not name the client she was representing.

A Competitive Democratic Primary with Political Tensions

The issue comes at a critical time in a highly contested election. Bhalla is one of six Democratic candidates running for two Assembly seats in New Jersey’s 32nd District. He is campaigning with Katie Brennan, a housing advocate from Jersey City.

They face strong opposition from candidates supported by the Hudson County Democratic Organization (HCDO), including Jennie Pu, the Hoboken Library Director, and Crystal Fonseca, a Jersey City department supervisor. Two other candidates in the race are Assemblywoman Jessica Ramirez and Jersey City Councilman Yousef Saleh. Ramirez and Saleh are backed by Jersey City Mayor Steven Fulop, who is running for governor.

Over the past few months, there have been many attack ads aimed at Bhalla. One recent flyer came from the Hudson Votes Project, a political action committee that supports Pu and Fonseca. The group listed a mailbox at a UPS Store in Jersey City’s Newport area as its address. The flyer included a news image highlighting Bhalla’s ticket record.

In another past incident, in March 2023, Bhalla was seen parking at a bus stop to buy coffee from Starbucks, which sparked public criticism on social media; people called it a case of a public official not following the same rules as everyone else.

No Confirmed Investigations Yet

At this point, no law enforcement agency has confirmed whether they are investigating Bhalla. The Hudson County Prosecutor’s Office declined to comment, and the U.S. Attorney’s Office did not reply to requests for information. A spokesperson for the New Jersey Attorney General’s Office said they could not confirm or deny whether there is a criminal investigation.

Pallitto’s letter ends by urging the authorities to review the records and decide whether there was any wrongdoing. She says the public’s trust in the legal system depends on fair treatment for everyone, no matter their position.

Voters will also have the opportunity to vote in primaries for Governor, Hudson County Sheriff, and local political committee members. To participate, voters must be registered with a political party. Unaffiliated voters may choose to vote in either the Democratic or Republican primary, and doing so will affiliate them with that party.

Democratic Candidates Running in the 32nd District

Six Democratic candidates are running in this primary. They are grouped into three slates of two, and voters may choose any two Democratic candidates regardless of slate. The current Assembly representatives are Jessica Ramirez and John Allen. Allen is not seeking re-election. Ramirez is running again and has a new running mate, Yousef Saleh.

Jessica Ramirez and Yousef Saleh

Jessica Ramirez and Yousef Saleh are running together on the “Democrats for Change�slate. Ramirez is currently serving in the New Jersey Assembly. Her new running mate is Yousef Saleh, the sitting Councilman for Ward D in Jersey City since April 2020. Saleh is 36 years old and was born and raised in Jersey City. He attended P.S. 28 Christa McAuliffe School, graduated from McNair Academic High School, and went on to complete undergraduate and law degrees at Rutgers University and Rutgers Law School.

Saleh describes himself as committed to public service, having left a corporate job on Wall Street to serve during the COVID-19 pandemic. He chairs every city budget hearing and has never missed a City Council meeting or vote. He is engaged to his fiancée, Kat, and says he is focused on issues like housing affordability, public transportation, and fair investment in infrastructure. Saleh states that he is not new to government work and that he has already been delivering results to the residents of Jersey City.

Ravi Bhalla and Katie Brennan

Hoboken Mayor Ravi Bhalla is also running for Assembly. Bhalla has served as Hoboken’s mayor since 2018 and previously served on the City Council from 2010 to 2017. He earned his bachelor’s degree from the University of California at Berkeley, a master’s degree from the London School of Economics, and a J.D. from Tulane Law School. He lives in Hoboken with his wife, Bindya, and their two children, Arza (18) and Shabegh (13).

Bhalla’s running mate is Katie Brennan, a housing expert based in Jersey City. Together, they are running independently of the county political organization. Bhalla is not seeking another mayoral term and is campaigning on his local government record.

As mayor, Bhalla launched Hoboken’s Vision Zero traffic safety initiative. The city is now entering its eighth consecutive year without a single pedestrian fatality. This program has been recognized nationally, including by U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg, as a model for safer urban streets.

Bhalla has also focused on climate change mitigation. Hoboken received an “A�rating from the non-profit CDP for climate leadership. The city has increased electric vehicle charging options and built “resiliency parks�designed to manage flooding.

In the Assembly, Bhalla says he would support state-level tenant protections, including a cap on rent increases for buildings not covered by local rent control laws and legal counsel for tenants facing eviction. He also wants to expand the supply of affordable housing by streamlining the approval process, ending exclusionary zoning, and supporting development near public transit.

Bhalla is against the $10.7 billion New Jersey Turnpike expansion project and supports increasing funding for NJ Transit. He says that he and Brennan are not tied to political party leaders and will instead represent local voters.

Jennie Pu and Crystal Fonseca

The third team in the race includes Jennie Pu, Director of the Hoboken Public Library, and Crystal Fonseca, the Director of Buildings and Street Maintenance in Jersey City. This ticket is supported by the Hudson County Democratic Organization, a long-standing and well-funded political group in the region. Their campaign is not described in the same level of public detail, but their organizational backing could influence turnout.

When and Where to Vote in the Hudson County Primary

Election Day is Tuesday, June 10, 2025. On that day, voters must vote at their assigned polling locations.

Early voting started Tuesday, June 3, and is available through Sunday, June 8.

Early voting hours are:

• Tuesday, June 3 â€?Saturday, June 7: 10:00 a.m. â€?8:00 p.m.
• Sunday, June 8: 10:00 a.m. â€?6:00 p.m.

In Hoboken, early in-person voting is available at City Hall, located at 94 Washington Street. Hoboken voters may also use any early voting site in Hudson County during the early voting period.

Voting by Mail

Mail-in ballots must be postmarked no later than June 10 and must be received within six days of Election Day to be counted. Voters can check their registration, find drop-off locations, and track their mail-in ballot through the official Hudson County election website.

What Else Is on the Ballot?

In addition to the 32nd District Assembly race, Hudson County voters will also see races for:

• Governor (primary)
• Hudson County Sheriff
• Local party committee members (two per party, per district)

Sample ballots for all Hudson County districts are available on the county website. Voters are encouraged to review their sample ballots in advance to prepare for Election Day.

How to Stay Updated or Share Election Content

Anyone interested in daily updates about local politics and news can subscribe to Patch’s free daily newsletter, which is sent around 6 a.m. every morning.

Patch also allows residents to submit local event posts, letters to the editor, or campaign announcements for free. First-time users should expect a delay of up to one day for approval.

All six Democratic Assembly candidates are being profiled by Patch. To read their full responses and statements, visit the Hoboken Patch political section.

The meeting will start with presentations, followed by an open house where attendees can speak with city staff and project designers. The projects support Hoboken’s goals to eliminate traffic deaths and improve public spaces.

Willow Avenue Redesign Targets High-Injury Corridor

The Willow Avenue Vision Zero Safety Improvements Project targets a corridor with frequent crashes. Between 2019 and 2021, the area saw 31 crashes causing injuries, including seven pedestrians and four bicyclists. Hoboken’s Vision Zero Action Plan lists Willow Avenue between 14th Street and the Weehawken border as a high-crash segment. From 2014 to 2018, this section was responsible for 40% of traffic injuries and deaths citywide. The 14th Street intersection recorded ten or more crashes during that period.

The city and Hudson County secured $1.39 million in federal and state grants through the Transportation Alternatives Set-Aside Program (TAP) to fund the redesign. The goal is to make the street safer for all users, including students at Wallace Elementary, seniors at Fox Hill Gardens, and commuters using NJ Transit bus stops and Citi Bike.

Planned improvements include protected bike lanes, curb extensions, ADA curb ramps, high-visibility crosswalks, pedestrian refuge islands, and leading pedestrian intervals at traffic signals. The redesign follows standards from the Hoboken Street Design Guide, NACTO, AASHTO, NJDOT, and the ADA Access Guide.

Hudson County is also evaluating a bike lane connection to the 14th Street Viaduct as part of the county’s broader transportation network. The project ties into Hoboken’s Green Circuit, a planned network of bike- and pedestrian-friendly routes across the city.

The timeline includes:

• June 5, 2025: Public design charrette
• June 25, 2025: Virtual public information session
• Fall 2025: Complete preliminary design
• Winter 2026: Begin final design
• 2027: Start construction
• 2028: Complete construction

Tom Olivieri Park to Become Inclusive, Sensory-Friendly Space

Tom Olivieri Park, a 5,000-square-foot park at 1225 Willow Avenue, will undergo a full renovation supported by $1.5 million in grant funding. The park currently includes trees, murals, and a playground, but the redesign will make it fully accessible and improve its facilities.

Planned upgrades include a new safety surface, spray park, prefabricated restroom, new lighting, landscaping, fencing, and modern park furniture. The redesign aims to create an inclusive and sensory-rich environment for children and families.

The two existing murals will remain. One is “Flight�by Rorschach, and the other honors Tom Olivieri, a local tenants�rights advocate.

The city began collecting public input in January 2025 through an online survey. The preliminary design will be shown at the June 5 meeting. The final design will be released later this summer, following review of community feedback.

Projects Aligned with Vision Zero and Climate Goals

These efforts support Hoboken’s Vision Zero target of eliminating traffic fatalities by 2030 and its Climate Action Plan to become carbon neutral by 2050. With more than 75% of residents commuting without a car, walkable streets and accessible public spaces are essential.

The Willow Avenue redesign also supports future development near 15th and 16th Streets, where new housing and commercial projects are underway.

For details on Vision Zero, visit www.vzhoboken.com. For the Climate Action Plan, visit www.hobokennj.gov/resources/greenhouse-gas-emissions-inventory-and-climate-action-plan.

The award program, now in its 26th year, looks closely at how well schools support music. Hoboken continues to meet and exceed the national standards.

Award Based on Verified National Criteria

To qualify for the Best Communities for Music Education award, the Hoboken Public School District was required to complete a comprehensive survey that examined the following areas in detail:

• Funding specifically allocated to music education programs
• Student participation rates across grade levels and schools
• Instructional time dedicated to music classes during the academic year
• Music facilities and equipment are available to students and educators
• Community support, including parent and local organization involvement

The completed survey was verified by Hoboken school district officials, ensuring that all submitted data was accurate. After verification, the results were independently reviewed by The Music Research Institute at the University of Kansas, which partners with The NAMM Foundation to assess the validity and performance of applying school districts.

This rigorous process means that only districts that can prove a strong and consistent commitment to high-quality music instruction receive this designation.

Hoboken’s Program Matches Federal Education Law

Hoboken’s music program also follows the rules in the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA). ESSA is a federal law that replaced the No Child Left Behind Act in 2015. The law says that music and the arts are important parts of a complete education.

Because Hoboken offers music to all students and includes it in the regular school day, it meets the federal standard. This helps show why the district continues to be recognized at the national level.

Research Supports Benefits of Music Education

David Stasiak, the District Coordinator of Music and Performing Arts, explained that music helps students in many ways.

Studies show that students who take music classes:

• Develop stronger language and reasoning skills
• Score higher on standardized tests
• Are more likely to graduate high school
• Show improved cognitive processing, memory, and attention
• Learn essential social skills like teamwork, self-discipline, and confidence

These results are measurable and have been tracked across both short-term academic achievement and long-term life outcomes.

Community and School Support Make It Possible

This award also shows that Hoboken supports the arts as a full community. The school district continues to fund music programs every year. Parents attend student concerts and support music classes through fundraisers and events.

Without this support, the programs would not grow. The school board, teachers, families, and community groups all help make music part of every student’s education.

About The NAMM Foundation

The NAMM Foundation is a nonprofit group supported by the National Association of Music Merchants and its 15,000 members worldwide. The Foundation supports music education by giving grants, sharing research, and helping schools and communities start or grow music programs.

You can learn more at www.nammfoundation.org.

The project was a long, thoughtful process that brought people together across different backgrounds, ages, incomes, and beliefs. Over the course of nine months, ITP worked closely with more than 700 Hoboken residents and 15 community organizations to create something new—a play written by the people of Hoboken, for the people of Hoboken. The result is called “Recollection: A Hoboken Story.�/p>

The final performances will take place at Mile Square Theatre, located at 1400 Clinton Street, on the weekend of May 30 to June 1, 2025. And after, for a fitting ending, a community block party will be held at 14th Street Viaduct Park on Sunday, June 1, from 3:00 to 5:00 PM.

How the Project Started

In the beginning, ITP set up an informational table during the Hoboken Fall Arts + Music Festival in September 2024. From there, the team began hosting what they called “conversation salons�across the city. These weren’t formal interviews or speeches, they were rather friendly group talks held in familiar local spaces, such as:

• Hoboken Public Library
• Symposia Books
• St. Matthew Trinity Lutheran Church
• Housing Authority Community Rooms

The salons were led by two local artists, Rose Ginsberg and Namibia Donadio, with help from Róisín Goebelbecker, the national ITP program manager. At first, they invited people who were considered civic leaders. Then, those participants connected to even more local voices—students, parents, long-time residents, and newcomers.

Instead of only interviewing people and writing a script, ITP used a method called “devised theater,�meaning the script was built from scratch using the exact stories, memories, and ideas shared by the people of Hoboken. Every participant helped shape the narrative.

Why Water Was at the Center of So Many Stories

As these conversations continued, a clear theme started to emerge: water.

Many residents still remember the devastation of Superstorm Sandy in 2012, when the Hudson River flooded Hoboken, covering streets and damaging homes for days. This memory became a powerful shared experience among residents, especially those living in the low-lying western parts of Hoboken, where flooding happens more often. These neighborhoods are also home to most of Hoboken’s working-class families and communities of color, who often face worse conditions and fewer resources when it floods.

People also talked about the regular rain events that cause street flooding and how the city’s old infrastructure can’t keep up with modern development. Hoboken’s growth has brought new buildings and residents, but it’s also created challenges for those who’ve lived here for decades.

But not all water stories were negative. Many residents shared their love for Hoboken’s waterfront parks, kayaking programs, and river views. Groups like the Hoboken Cove Community Boathouse, H2Oboken, Resilience Adventures, and the Fund for a Better Waterfront work to protect the Hudson River, improve public access, and design spaces that absorb rainwater naturally, such as rooftop gardens and rain gardens around the city.

So, through joy and pain, water connected everyone. It was something that everyone had a story about, even if their experiences were very different.

What the Play Is About and Why It Matters

The final play, “Recollection: A Hoboken Story,�tells the story of a young woman trying to understand why her family might need to leave Hoboken. As she talks with her neighbors and listens to their experiences, she starts to realize that the problems go beyond her family, understanding the hardship surrounding housing, community, and the environment.

Her journey represents what hundreds of real people shared during this project. Amazingly, the voices in this play are inspired by real people who sat down at a table and told their truth.

One of those voices is Rio the Messenger, a Hoboken singer-songwriter who joined one of the conversation salons. Her song, “Down by the River,�was based on what she shared and heard in the group. It became part of the script and now serves as one of the emotional highlights of the play. Her lyrics describe both the pain of losing everything in a flood and the peace she finds near the river:

�i>The River is rising but there’s so much water inside of me�/i>
Some days it’s down by the river the only peace I find in the mile square�/i>�/p>

When and Where to See the Play