Perth Amboy missed opportunity

 Perth Amboy High School: A Missed Opportunity and the Roads Not Taken

Perth Amboy High School has been a cornerstone of the community for decades, providing education to thousands of students. However, recent decisions about the direction of its development, transportation needs, and the city’s overall infrastructure have left many questioning the choices made by local authorities. The alternative options, which could have transformed Perth Amboy into a thriving hub of innovation, have been overlooked in favor of short-term solutions.

The Vision: An Ambitious Plan for Perth Amboy

There was once a visionary idea, perhaps inspired by a proposal from someone like Varela, that aimed to create a futuristic and well-connected city. The plan wasn’t just about building a new high school—it was about transforming Perth Amboy into a modern urban center, with infrastructure that would support both education and economic growth.

One of the key elements of this vision was to build the new high school off Smith and Convery Boulevard. This location would have allowed for the development of a monorail system, providing efficient and eco-friendly transportation for students and residents alike. A ferry service could have been put into place, further connecting Perth Amboy with neighboring areas and increasing access to the school. Such developments would have reduced the reliance on school buses and other forms of traditional transport, a factor that is becoming increasingly significant now that there are reports of budget constraints preventing adequate funding for bus services.

The Missed Opportunity: A New Bridge and Job Creation

But the vision for Perth Amboy went beyond just a new high school and a better transport system. The plan also included a bold idea: the construction of a new Outerbridge, replacing or complementing the existing one. This new bridge would have served as a crucial piece of infrastructure, not just for local commuters but for the entire region. It would have alleviated traffic congestion and facilitated smoother travel between New Jersey and Staten Island, fostering greater economic opportunities.

Imagine what could have followed once the bridge was completed. The area around it could have been developed into a state-of-the-art manufacturing facility. Instead of warehouses, which tend to offer low-paying and often temporary jobs, this facility could have been dedicated to the production of 6th generation fighter jets or other advanced technologies. This would have provided career opportunities for local residents, helping to build a stable and prosperous community.

Such a facility would not only create jobs but also position Perth Amboy as a leader in advanced manufacturing, attracting further investments and partnerships with industries looking for skilled labor and well-connected transport links. This, in turn, would have strengthened the city’s tax base and provided more resources for schools, public services, and infrastructure development.

The Reality: Warehouses Over Innovation

Instead of choosing the bold and forward-thinking plan, local authorities have opted for more traditional and short-term solutions. The decision to use key areas of land for warehouses instead of innovative infrastructure projects has left many wondering about the city’s long-term vision. Warehouses provide jobs, yes, but they are often low-paying, lack job security, and don’t contribute significantly to the local economy beyond a certain point. They do not attract the kind of investments or opportunities that advanced manufacturing or high-tech industries could bring.

Moreover, the lack of investment in transportation has become a pressing issue. The reports that there is no money for school buses only highlight how the city’s infrastructure has not kept pace with its needs. Had the monorail and ferry systems been built, these problems could have been mitigated. Perth Amboy would have been more connected, less reliant on traditional forms of transportation, and better equipped to handle the growth in student numbers and the community at large.

A Lesson in Missed Potential

The choices made in Perth Amboy serve as a reminder that cities need to think long-term when it comes to development and infrastructure. Short-term gains, such as the building of warehouses, might seem beneficial initially, but they do not lay the foundation for a thriving future. In contrast, investments in transportation, education, and advanced industries can create lasting prosperity.

What’s most frustrating is that the potential was there. Perth Amboy could have had a new bridge, a modern transportation system, and a manufacturing hub that would have created career opportunities for generations to come. Instead, the community is left with traffic, budget issues, and a missed chance at real transformation.

Walking to School: A Nostalgic Look Back

For those who grew up in Perth Amboy, walking to school was the norm. It wasn’t just a way of getting to class—it was part of the experience of growing up in a close-knit community. But times have changed. The city has grown, and the needs of students and residents have evolved. As we look back on the choices made, it’s important to remember that while we once walked to school, the world around us is moving faster, and we need to keep up.

There is still hope for Perth Amboy. The city can learn from these missed opportunities and make better choices for the future. Love and peace to all, and here’s to hoping that the next big idea doesn’t pass us by. Enjoy the journey, and always keep looking forward.