Don’t try to make township into something it’s not with town square

The proponents of the town center in Middletown would like us to believe that this development will somehow bring our community closer together. They seem to believe that Middletown lacks a defining character and the town center will be the solution. Nothing could be further from the truth.

The town center has been labeled as a place for families and friends to gather and spend the day. How many times have you spent a day in Red Bank with your family or friends, which has many of the features proposed in the town center? I have spent a few hours at the antique stores on occasion, but not a full day. Do the proponents of the town center believe we need a hockey rink, theater, shops and restaurants to bring us closer together as a community? With our hectic schedules and fast-paced lifestyles, can we really spend quality time with our families while shopping or watching a movie?

Middletown is already characterized by its natural, wooded setting, something that is sorely lacking in many communities today because of over zealous developers. We made Middle-town our home as an escape from the overcrowding of northern New Jersey. We chose a property with beautiful old growth trees and an established neighborhood. Middletown is a refuge from hectic work schedules and long commutes. Middletown is where we play with our families in the backyard or barbecue with friends. It is our home.

If asked why someone should live in Middletown, I would describe its proximity to beaches, abundance of parks, distinct neighborhoods, and diverse population. The proponents of the town center would like Middletown to be defined by a large mixed-use development.

Why does Middletown’s character need to be reinvented? Somehow Middletown has survived, continuing to attract homeowners, without a "downtown" for many years. We should not attempt to transform Middletown into something it is not and never will be — Red Bank. Think carefully what this development will mean to Middletown and how it will change the character and landscape of our town forever.

B. Skokowski

Middletown