Kean Visits Somerville to Highlight $1,942,000 Secured in Federal Funding
(September 14, 2026) SOMERVILLE, NJ – Last week, Congressman Tom Kean, Jr. (NJ-07) visited downtown Somerville with Mayor Brian Gallagher to highlight the $1,942,000 he secured in a House funding bill through the Community Project Funding process.
The funding will be used for two complementary capital improvement projects: the Division Street Arts Plaza and the Giardina Walk Improvements. Together, these projects will transform two heavily traveled public corridors into vibrant, safe, and fully accessible pedestrian spaces that anchor Downtown Somerville’s arts and cultural identity.
“Downtown Somerville is truly the heart of Somerset County, and this investment will help make it an even better place to live, work, shop, and dine,” said Congressman Kean. “I fought for this funding because Somerville deserves a downtown that reflects the energy, character, and pride of this special community. This project will be transformational in supporting local businesses, improving the downtown experience for residents and visitors alike.”
"I'm grateful to Congressman Tom Kean, Jr. for securing nearly $1.94 million in federal funding for the Division Street Arts Plaza and Giardina Walk improvements,” said Mayor Brian Gallagher. “This investment will make our downtown safer and more accessible, strengthen Main Street as a regional destination, and benefit the entire community. Congressman Kean's persistence in advancing this funding through Washington reflects his genuine commitment to Somerville and the region, and we're thankful for his leadership and partnership."
“The Division Street and Giardina Walkway improvements are an investment in the future and economic vitality of Downtown Somerville, the county seat,” said Dana Kessel, Executive Director of the Downtown Somerville Alliance. “This project demonstrates what is possible when a community, its businesses, municipal partners, and a strong Main Street organization work together toward a shared vision. By creating inviting places to gather, shop, dine, and experience downtown, we are strengthening Downtown Somerville’s position as one of New Jersey’s premier destinations.
“As a Downtown Somerville business owner, I am incredibly grateful for everything the Downtown Somerville Alliance does to promote our downtown and support our businesses,” said Allison Reilly Snyder, Co-Owner of Boulevard Seafood & Co. Restaurant and Bar and DSA Board of Trustees member. “The DSA creates opportunities, brings people downtown, and continually advocates for the businesses that make this community special. These improvements are another exciting step forward, and we are grateful to have an organization so committed to the future of Downtown Somerville.”
Since taking office, Congressman Tom Kean, Jr. has secured more than $3.4 million for accessible walkways across New Jersey’s Seventh Congressional District through the Community Project Funding process.
In July, Congressman Kean announced that 18 Community Project Funding requests made by his office totaling $17,765,906, are included in key House funding bills for the upcoming fiscal year. Learn more HERE.
Pictured left to right: Allison Snyder, Mayor Brian Gallagher, Congressman Tom Kean, Jr., and Dana Kessel
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