TOWNSHIP OF WASHINGTON—Mayor Peter Calamari expressed deep disappointment and resolve in response to a brazen act of vandalism that targeted a Township Green Team initiative. In a disturbing turn of events, the Township’s bridge beautification project, a symbol of community pride on the path connecting residential Cleveland Avenue with Woodfield Road over the Musquapsink Brook, which feeds Schlegel Lake, was left in ruins last week.
The vandalism resulted in more than $1,000 in damages. Quoting the Green Team’s post of April 6, Calamari said plants meticulously planted by volunteers were callously ripped out, recycled Belgium blocks were thrown into the water, and a birdbath was smashed and tossed into the water.
“It is truly disheartening to see the work of the Township of Washington Green Team and its dedicated volunteers destroyed by someone or some people,” Calamari posted. “What took hours of effort to create was dismantled in probably a few minutes.”
Despite the setback, Calamari said he is determined to turn this negative incident into a positive opportunity. He announced a personal donation of $200 toward the restoration of the vandalized area and encouraged others to contribute in whatever way they can to support the Green Team’s efforts.
“To the individual or group responsible for the destruction, I would invite you to stop by on that day and witness the community in action,” Calamari said. “Let’s turn this negative event into a positive opportunity for unity and growth.”
Additionally, Calamari called for community involvement in the restoration process. Once a date is set for reconstruction, he hopes for a strong turnout from the public to demonstrate their support for the Green Team and their commitment to the community.
Police Cpl. Chris Osenbruck, who said he was born and raised in the township and walks his dog in the area, told Pascack Press on April 8, “It’s a shame, it’s lot of hard work that went into this beautification project.” He said a fence on the path was damaged several weeks ago, that the investigation is ongoing, and that anyone with information is urged to come forward to the WTPD by calling (201) 664-1149.
Green Team keeping busy for residents
Meanwhile, as the Township of Washington gears up for a spring of community engagement, the Green Team’s calendar for April and May is brimming with events:
- On April 13, residents are invited to Town Hall for a seedlings handout, cell phone collection, and plastic bag recycling drive, while Bethany Community Center hosts a paper shredding & e-recycle event, also offerings seedling handouts, cell phone collection, and plastic bag recycling services.
- On April 27, Bethany Community Center transforms into the hub for a 5K Run/Walk & Health Day, inviting health vendors to participate. The Green Team seeks sponsorship letters and volunteers to ensure the success of this health-focused event.
- As May approaches, the Green Team’s efforts continue to bloom. On May 4, attention shifts to Clark Field for a day of tree maintenance, fertilizing, pruning, soil turnover, and park cleanup, with Dairy Queen generously providing gifts to volunteers.
- May 11 marks a pivotal moment for the Green Team, as they converge at the crossing bridge off of Cleveland Avenue for planting, tree maintenance, cleanup, and fertilizing activities. Volunteers armed with rakes and shovels will be pleased as Dairy Queen once again backs their work with refreshments.
- Wrapping up their spring initiatives, on June 8 the Green Team partners with EZ Ride for a bicycle safety/rodeo event at Bethany Community Center. Attendees can expect a day of safety education and bike inspections—and Dairy Queen gifts to reward participation.