Kean Seeks $1.8M To Upgrade Pleasant Valley Park In Bernards Township

The request is among 20 Community Project Funding requests made by Congressman Tom Kean, Jr. for 2027.

Apr. 10, 2026 at 8:41pm

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A peaceful oil painting depicting an empty park bench surrounded by lush greenery, with warm sunlight casting long shadows across the scene, conveying a sense of quiet contemplation and community connection.A serene park scene captures the tranquility and natural beauty that federal funding aims to preserve and enhance at Pleasant Valley Park.Basking Ridge Today

Congressman Tom Kean Jr. is seeking $1.8 million to construct a culvert and new walking paths at Pleasant Valley Park in Bernards Township. The request is part of 20 Community Project Funding requests Kean's office made to the House Appropriations Committee for consideration in the Fiscal Year 2027 appropriations process.

Why it matters

The project aims to reduce water pollution, provide a safe crossing to the rear of the park, and allow the construction of new paths throughout the park, greatly expanding walking and exercise opportunities for the local community, including veterans living at the nearby Valley Brook Village.

The details

The funding would be used to construct a culvert at Pleasant Valley Park, as hundreds of vehicles per day currently drive through the stream that intersects the park road, negatively impacting the water quality. The new culvert would address this issue and enable the construction of new walking paths throughout the park.

  • Kean's office made the 20 Community Project Funding requests for consideration in the Fiscal Year 2027 appropriations process.

The players

Tom Kean, Jr.

Congressman representing New Jersey's 7th Congressional District, who made the 20 Community Project Funding requests including the one for Pleasant Valley Park.

Valley Brook Village

HUD Veterans Affairs Supportive Housing apartments on the Lyons VA campus next to Pleasant Valley Park, whose residents would benefit from the expanded walking and exercise opportunities.

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What they’re saying

“These investments will make a very positive difference in the daily lives of the people we serve by strengthening infrastructure, supporting public safety, and improving quality of life in our communities.”

— Tom Kean, Jr., Congressman

What’s next

The House Appropriations Committee will consider Kean's 20 Community Project Funding requests, including the one for Pleasant Valley Park, as part of the Fiscal Year 2027 appropriations process.

The takeaway

This project demonstrates Congressman Kean's commitment to securing federal funding for infrastructure improvements and community enhancements that benefit the residents of New Jersey's 7th Congressional District, particularly by addressing environmental concerns and expanding recreational opportunities.