Kean Visits Branchburg to Spotlight $2.25 Million in Federal Funds for New Emergency Operations Center

(July 31, 2026) BRANCHBURG, NJ - On Thursday, Congressman Tom Kean, Jr. (NJ-07) met with Branchburg officials during a walkthrough of Branchburg's future Emergency Operations Center. Congressman Kean secured $2,250,000 in the House Appropriations bill for the facility through the FY27 Community Project Funding process. The funding will be used for the renovation of Branchburg's Emergency Management facility, providing a necessary upgrade to protect Branchburg's rapidly growing community and heavily trafficked commuter corridors.

"First responders put their lives on the line to ensure that our communities are safe, and it is critical that we work to support them," said Congressman Kean. "This $2.25 million in federal funding will equip the Branchburg Police Department with the best facilities and resources. I am proud to have fought to bring back millions in federal dollars back to our local law enforcement here in Somerset County."

"Branchburg Township is deeply grateful to Congressman Tom Kean for his leadership and advocacy in securing $2.25 million in federal funding for our Regional Emergency Operations Center," said Mayor Jim Schworn. "This is an outstanding example of what can be accomplished when local government and our congressional delegation work together to advance the safety and security of our communities."

Mayor Schworn continued, "Congressman Kean and his office understood the importance of this project and worked to secure this critical investment through the federal grant funding process. We are proud of our partnership with Congressman Kean and sincerely appreciate his commitment to Branchburg and to public safety throughout our region."

"In order to meet the growing needs of Branchburg Township, a proper Emergency Operations Center (EOC) is needed to better serve our residents during emergency situations," said Chief of Police Richard Buck. "This EOC will act as the communication and coordination hub ensuring the effective management of emergency personnel responding to and addressing incidents, as well as allow for real-time cooperation with Township stakeholders so that our emergency responders can better carry out their functions for the safety and well-being of our residents."

Police Captain Edward Edgar remarked, "The federal funding opportunity supported by Congressman Kean will allow us to engage our community by raising awareness and educating our residents about the importance of emergency preparedness, and undoubtedly be a tremendous benefit in strengthening public safety."

In July, Congressman Kean announced that 18 Community Project Funding requests made by his office totaling $17,765,906, are included in key House funding bills for the upcoming fiscal year. Learn more HERE.

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