The Arnone Report: Stay cool and hydrated, Kyrillos bridge dedication on July 27

By Freeholder Director Tom Arnone

Freeholder Director Tom Arnone Meeting

I hope everyone had a safe and fun Fourth of July holiday!

I was happy to spend part of the holiday walking in the annual Ocean Grove Fourth of July Parade. As always, I had a great time walking the route and seeing everyone dressed in their best patriotic clothing while holding American flags. It is truly a wonderful parade and I look forward to next year’s celebration!

As everyone is aware, we have experienced hotter than normal weather lately. Heat wave or not, I always advise those who plan on spending time outdoors in the heat to be prepared. Heat-related deaths and illnesses are preventable.

For those who are not able to be in a cool location, visit an air-conditioned mall or library to get relief from the hot weather. For those who are out in the heat, stay hydrated! It is important to drink water before thirst kicks in! While you’re keeping hydrated, don’t forget to take care of your pets, too! Lastly, don’t forget the sunscreen!

Keeping with the topic of weather, our Department of Public Works and Engineering has been taking advantage of the warmer months by completing ongoing road projects throughout the County. It is the time of year when weather permits many of these projects to get done. I ask for your patience while our crews are out there working and for all motorists to drive with caution while traveling around these construction projects.

I am pleased to announce one project that was completed just a few years ago, the refurbished Bridge S-17 between Middletown and Red Bank, will soon be named the “Senator Joseph M. Kyrillos Bridge.” I made the motion with the support of my fellow Freeholders at a recent meeting to rename the bridge after former Senator Kyrillos for several reasons.

The Joseph M. Kyrillos, Jr Bridge will be dedicated on July 27

For those who do not know, former Senator Kyrillos helped secure an additional $7 million in funding that assisted the County in completing its reconstruction in 2016. During his tenure, former Senator Kyrillos was an outstanding supporter of County infrastructure projects and we cannot thank him enough for his service and commitment to Monmouth County residents.

I look forward to honoring former Senator Kyrillos during a bridge dedication ceremony on the morning of Friday, July 27. I am certain we will be joined by many members of his family, friends, municipal leaders and colleagues who have had the honor of working alongside our friend.

As always, it is an honor to serve as your Freeholder Director. Please stay safe and keep cool!