By Pat Craddick-Irwin
March 7, 2025
South Amboy is on the Move
Leadership, Growth, and Community Impact
Mayor Fred A. Henry, South Amboy, NJ
SOUTH AMBOY — For years, South Amboy, New Jersey, has been a hidden gem along the Raritan waterfront—a small town with a rich history, tight-knit community, and an eye on the future. Under the steadfast leadership of Mayor Fred Henry, South Amboy has embraced change while preserving the essence of its small-town charm. As new luxury apartments bring in over 1,000 families, the town is undergoing a transformation, ushering in a new era of diversity, development, and opportunity.
A Leader’s Journey: Commitment to Community
Mayor Henry never initially set out to lead South Amboy, but when the opportunity arose, he embraced it wholeheartedly. “It was never my intention to run for Mayor, but when the former mayor decided not to seek reelection, I analyzed my options and decided to seek the nomination of my party,” he shares. Once in office, he recognized the potential for meaningful change and, with the support of voters, worked tirelessly to make South Amboy a great place to live.
Over the years, his leadership style has evolved, balancing progress with preservation. By staying connected with residents and fostering a culture of inclusivity, he has ensured that all voices are heard as the town embarks on a new chapter of growth.
A Flourishing Future: Growth and Infrastructure
The arrival of over 1,000 new families is a significant milestone for South Amboy, offering an opportunity to expand the town’s cultural diversity. “With the increase in population, I see it as an opportunity to widen the diversity in cultures and try to take the best that each has to offer,” says Mayor Henry.
Plan for South Amboy Waterfront Development
To accommodate this growth, strategic investments in infrastructure and services have been a priority. The police department, for example, has undergone restructuring to enhance efficiency, and additional officers are being recruited. Similarly, the public works department has expanded to meet the needs of the growing community. These proactive measures ensure that the town remains safe, clean, and well-maintained for both long-term residents and newcomers alike.
St. Patrick's Day Parade | One of the Largest Parades in NJ
South Amboy Day
Black History Month
Honoring the Past While Embracing the Future
With new developments underway, Mayor Henry remains committed to maintaining South Amboy’s small-town character. “Being a life-long resident of South Amboy, I realize the importance of keeping that small-town flavor. But we can’t stop progress,” he explains. Initiatives like the Arts and Historical Society, along with community events such as South Amboy Day, the St. Patrick’s Day parade, and most recently, the town’s first Black History Month event, celebrate South Amboy’s heritage while fostering unity among all residents.
BNE | Station Bay
Overcoming Challenges to Build a Stronger South Amboy
The transformation of the waterfront was not without its hurdles. Environmental remediation posed a significant challenge, requiring extensive collaboration with state agencies, the EPA, and the DEP. Mayor Henry was determined to ensure that taxpayers were not burdened with these costs. “It was important to find developers who would pay for the remediation,” he explains. Through perseverance and strategic partnerships, projects that once faced delays have now come to fruition, setting the stage for South Amboy’s bright future.
BNE | The Pearl | Coming Summer 2025 Next to Station Bay
South Amboy Day Event
Waterfront Development: A Vision Realized
South Amboy’s prime location along the Raritan River has long been an underutilized asset. Mayor Henry’s vision for the waterfront has been years in the making, resulting in a revitalization effort that blends residential living with recreational spaces. “The initial developments included single-family homes, townhomes, and condos. With the cooperation of Middlesex County Commissioners and Sayreville, the Waterfront County Park was built along with our fisherman’s lot,” he notes.
Luxury apartment developments, like Station Bay, have emerged in response to market demands. A waterfront walkway is also in the works, eventually connecting the ferry terminal to the county park—creating a scenic and accessible space for residents and visitors alike.
South Amboy Ferry | NY Waterway | Temporary Terminal
A Thriving, Inclusive Community
As South Amboy grows, its strength lies in the balance between progress and tradition. Mayor Henry’s leadership has been instrumental in guiding the town through this transformation, ensuring that all residents—new and long-standing—feel valued and included. With a thriving waterfront, enhanced infrastructure, and a commitment to preserving the town’s heritage, South Amboy stands as a testament to what thoughtful leadership and community collaboration can achieve.
As Mayor Henry puts it, “We remember what’s great about South Amboy while embracing the changes that come. Our future is bright, and together, we will make South Amboy an even better place to call home.”
Raritan Bay Waterfront
The City of South Amboy, NJ
140 North Broadway
South Amboy, NJ, 08879