Morris County officials and mayors have gathered in East Hanover Township to observe the ongoing efforts to clear debris from the Whippany River. This initiative, known as the Whippany River Improvement Project, is spearheaded by the Whippany-Passaic River Flood Remediation Task Force. The task force comprises mayors from towns along the river, including Hanover Mayor Thomas “Ace” Gallagher, East Hanover Mayor Joseph Pannullo, Florham Park Mayor Mark Taylor, Morris Plains Mayor Jason Karr, Morristown Mayor Timothy Dougherty, and Parsippany-Troy Hills Mayor James Barberio.
U.S. Representative Mikie Sherrill has secured a federal Community Project grant exceeding $2 million to support this phased project. The removal of debris aims to enhance river flow and capacity, thereby mitigating erosion and flooding risks.
“This initiative, three years in the making, demonstrates the power of partnerships. From local municipalities to federal support, we are working together to alleviate persistent flooding issues that impact so many residents and businesses,” stated Deputy Director Stephen Shaw. He serves as the county commissioners’ liaison to the Morris County Flood Mitigation Program.
Shaw also expressed gratitude towards key leaders: “I especially want to thank Mayor Gallagher and Congresswoman Sherrill for their leadership. This is about more than cleaning a river; it’s about reducing flooding and improving the quality of life for Morris County residents.”
Mayor Gallagher reported that Phase 1 of the project has successfully removed nearly 275 cubic yards of debris such as trees, railroad ties, and shopping carts from Hanover Township’s waterways. Currently underway is Phase 2 behind an auto store at 30 Ridgedale Ave., East Hanover. This phase aims to clear another 200 yards of obstructions with professional contractors expected to complete these initial phases within 12 to 15 days.
