Red Bank, NJ — July 18, 2025
This morning, Red Bank residents and Borough leaders joined forces to transform the intersection of River Street and Leighton Avenue into a safer, more vibrant community space. Thanks to a $10,000 Safe Routes to School Quick Build Mini-Grant, the Borough implemented a Tactical Urbanism project aimed at slowing traffic, improving walkability, and building a stronger sense of neighborhood identity.
Borough Manager Jim Gant was joined by Deputy Mayor Kate Triggiano, Councilwoman Laura Jannone, Director of Public Utilities Terrance Walton, Director of Parks and Recreation Oscar Salinas, and Community Engagement Coordinator Adriana Medina Gomez to lead the effort. Also lending support were officers from the Red Bank Police Department, who ensured the safety of all participants during the installation.
Helping bring the project to life were the talented and enthusiastic children from the Red Bank Boys & Girls Club. With paintbrushes in hand, the young volunteers filled the intersection with colorful, floral designs that draw attention to pedestrian crossings and highlight the area as a shared public space. Their participation added a powerful layer of purpose, allowing youth to play a hands-on role in shaping the safety of their own neighborhood.
“This morning’s Tactical Urbanism project is a great example of how small, community-driven efforts can make a big impact,” said Borough Manager Jim Gant. ““Creating visible, safer routes for children to walk to and from school is a top priority. Having young volunteers from the Boys & Girls Club take part made the project even more meaningful. They didn’t just help improve their street, they helped shape a more connected Red Bank.”
Tactical Urbanism is a global placemaking strategy that relies on short-term, low-cost, and scalable design interventions to improve public safety and the pedestrian experience. Studies show that these projects slow down traffic, increase driver awareness, and reduce crashes involving people walking or biking. Just as importantly, they invite the community to be active participants in the design of their neighborhoods.
Throughout the morning, neighbors came out to cheer on the young artists and thank the Borough team for bringing energy and attention to this intersection. The installation has already created a noticeable shift—transforming a routine corner into a colorful, community-centered space.
As Red Bank continues to advance its Complete Streets goals and elevate resident voices, projects like this demonstrate the power of collaboration, creativity, and community care.
Want to learn more about Tactical Urbanism? Check out the resources below.
https://tacticalurbanismguide.com/about/
https://equitablecities.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/Report-for-NJDOT_FINAL-2.20_2.pdf