State News
Sunday, May 3, 2026 · Somerville
NJ Ports Smash Records with 8.9M TEUs in 2025 Boom
The Port of New York and New Jersey, anchored in Newark and Elizabeth, handled a record 8.9 million TEUs last year, outpacing pre-pandemic highs amid supply chain rebound. This surge signals robust economic growth for New Jersey, fueling jobs and logistics in the Garden State. But with tariff threats looming, can the momentum hold?
Jersey City Eyes $500M Mixed-Use Towers Amid Housing Boom
Jersey City is transforming its aging public housing landscape with a $500 million redevelopment of the Holland Gardens complex into four high-rise towers. The project, led by WinnDevelopment, promises 50% affordable units and community spaces in the heart of downtown. As construction ramps up, it's poised to reshape the city's skyline and housing market.
Sunday, May 3, 2026
Seton Hall Ace David Festa: NJ's MLB Draft Star Rises
Seton Hall University's star right-hander David Festa, New Jersey's ace pitcher, has skyrocketed into top-10 mock draft projections, elevating the Pirates' national profile. Initially drafted by the Twins in 2021, his breakout season spotlights Seton Hall's baseball resurgence in South Orange. As the 2026 MLB Draft looms, Festa embodies NJ's rich pitching tradition.
Sunday, May 3, 2026
Devils Part Ways With Ruff After Season Spirals
The New Jersey Devils fired head coach Lindy Ruff on March 4, 2024, after the team struggled to contend in a crowded Eastern Conference just a season after winning a playoff round. Assistant coach Travis Green was promoted to interim head coach as the franchise sought to reverse its downward trajectory.
Sunday, May 3, 2026
NJ Teacher Shortages Worsen as Mental Health Needs Surge
New Jersey schools grapple with a deepening teacher shortage, exacerbated by rising student mental health crises and post-pandemic exits. State officials report declining applications and critical gaps in special education and STEM, forcing districts to offer bonuses and relaxed certifications. As vacancies hit 5,000 in recent years, innovative programs race to fill the void before the 2026-27 school year.
Sunday, May 3, 2026
Atlantic City Cops Bust 15 in Casino Drug Ring Raid
Atlantic City police shattered a major drug trafficking network supplying casinos along the Jersey Shore, arresting 15 suspects in a coordinated dawn raid. The operation flooded Atlantic and Ocean counties with thousands of heroin doses, fueling a deadly opiate crisis. Authorities seized cash, drugs and weapons, vowing to protect the shore's tourism lifeline.
Sunday, May 3, 2026
Sherrill's Order Accelerates NJ Affordable Housing Push
New Jersey Gov. Mikie Sherrill signed Executive Order No. 17 on April 27, launching a statewide effort to boost housing production amid a chronic shortage. Building on 2024 reforms under former Gov. Phil Murphy, the order demands agency plans within 60 days to enforce towns' obligations for more affordable units. With municipalities now facing calculated needs through 2035, the move aims to cut red tape and expand homeownership options.
Sunday, May 3, 2026