NJ Resources Partners with Rutgers University to Launch a $50,000 Sustainability Project

rutgers university

New Jersey Resources (NJR), a clean energy and natural gas company, has pledged $50,000 to support Rutgers University’s first Vibrant Communities Sustainability and Resiliency Project.

This funding, part of NJR’s Coastal Climate Initiative, focuses on making neighborhoods greener, more resilient to flooding, and better prepared to handle climate challenges.

The project will improve the Manitou Park area in South Toms River, New Jersey, which has been identified as an underserved community.

Rutgers University graduate students from the Landscape Architecture Program will work to design and implement a plan to enhance the neighborhood.

Their work will include creating more green spaces, improving stormwater management, and ensuring these changes last through proper long-term care.

One major goal of the project is to make the area more resilient to flooding by improving drainage systems and reducing runoff pollution.

Community members and private partners will also play a big role in keeping the area clean and green over time.

The project also connects with affordable housing built by Homes for All, a nonprofit working in Ocean County for years.

NJR has supported this organization since 2008, giving over $275,000 to help build 228 affordable homes, including nearly 150 in Manitou Park.

This sustainability project builds on that work by improving the community’s outdoor spaces and overall environment.

This announcement comes alongside NJR’s 2024 Corporate Sustainability Report, which highlights the company’s progress in helping the environment and supporting local communities.

Key achievements include:

  • 4,200 volunteer hours from NJR employees and retirees.
  • $2.1 million was donated to local nonprofits.
  • $71.3 million invested in energy-efficiency programs to reduce energy use and carbon emissions.
  • Completion of a solar facility built on a closed landfill in New Jersey, part of NJR’s $1.2 billion investment in solar energy projects.
  • Recognition as one of Newsweek’s Most Responsible Companies for the fifth year in a row.

By partnering with Rutgers University, NJR is helping to make a real difference in Manitou Park.

This project is an example of how businesses, universities, and communities can work together to solve environmental challenges while improving the quality of life for local residents.

For more information, visit www.njrsustainability.com.

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