Message from Deputy Mayor Ellen Zimmerman | April 3, 2024

Who doesn’t love a block party?

In my February 23, 2024, message for the Messenger, I wrote about working with our police department to help residents start neighborhood watches. At the core of each neighborhood is a community of people looking to strengthen bonds with fellow residents. Organizing a block party is a great way to kick this off!

During the summer months, we hope to see more block parties crop up around Scotch Plains. These well-planned celebrations are the ideal opportunity for neighbors to share food and drink, laughter and activities in a closed-off area of the street.

Often, when I see a block party, I wonder why there aren’t more of these thrown around town. After all, it is such a fun and unique opportunity to connect with neighbors, bringing together some of our long-time residents with the new families on the block.

Friendly faces become more familiar, and a casual wave turns into a conversation. This type of camaraderie and support in the neighborhood fosters community and that feeling that we’re all in this together.

As demographics in Scotch Plains change over the years, block parties also promote inclusivity and a greater understanding of one another. They become a neutral space where residents from different backgrounds can mingle, and easily bridge some divides by sharing food and drink in a welcoming environment.

It is important to note that block parties don’t just pop up. They often take months of coordination and planning, from the moment when someone suggests the idea, to getting others involved in the process, to planning out a date that works for everyone and, of course, figuring out who brings what.

Integral in the planning process is working with the Scotch Plains Police Department to ensure the safety of everyone attending. There is even an option of possibly having our first responders (police, fire, rescue) stop by a block party – something I am certain the kids would love!

Please follow this link to the Scotch Plains Police Department website to get all the information needed to help you plan your block party.

Also take a few minutes to read through the application and the block party rules. Once the application is approved, Police Chief Jeff Briel will authorize the closing of a portion of your street/intersection. Please keep in mind, one side of the barricaded street must remain open for emergency vehicles.

If the entire street or neighborhood is engaged, with everyone volunteering to contribute, a block party can really strengthen community spirit. And who knows? After throwing a successful event, maybe it can lead to neighborhood improvement projects, increased participation in local government or the creation of a neighborhood watch.

So, as the days get longer and the sun gets stronger, think about organizing a block party as the perfect way to spend an afternoon with neighbors. 

Let’s fill the Summer of ‘24 with Scotch Plains neighborhood block parties – complete with hotdogs and chili!