development as the town moves forward, ensuring Bernardsville remains timeless and thriving. Bernardsville’s leaders—Mayor Mary Jane Canose, Borough Administrator Nancy Malool, and Council President Al Ribeiro—are deeply committed to the town’s future. “In the 52 years I’ve been here, Bernardsville has maintained its small-town feel despite the growth around us,” Canose explains. This small-town spirit has been a key element in what attracts residents, particularly younger families seeking a close-knit community. With only about 12 square miles to its name, Bernardsville has successfully preserved its historic downtown, centered around its iconic train station, while thoughtfully welcoming new developments that reflect its heritage. TRANSIT PLANS IN MOTION For Canose, who has lived in Bernardsville for over five decades, the borough is more than just a place to live—it’s a way of life. “Bernardsville’s brand has always been family and community,” Ribeiro adds. “That’s why people come here, and that’s why they stay.” The town’s proximity to New York City—just a short train ride away—has been another major draw. Bernardsville’s train station, a critical hub since the 19th century, played a significant role in its early development, attracting New Yorkers who sought refuge from the city and built summer homes in the area’s rolling hills.“The train station was completed in 1872 and brought with it a wave of new residents, which included wealthy New Yorkers who saw the beauty of the land here,” Canose explains. Today, the train station remains central to life in Bernardsville, both in terms of transportation and as a symbol of the town’s enduring character. The leadership team is also working on modernizing and integrating the station into the borough’s plans. “We’re in the process of becoming a designated transit village, which will open up opportunities for grant funding to improve the area,” Malool explains. EMBRACING CONNECTIVITY AND COMMUNITY One of the borough’s most ambitious ongoing 3 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 05, ISSUE 10 BERNARDSVILLE, NJ
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MTI5MjAx