From a major fundraising push to save freshman sports to Porchfest taking over front lawns across town this weekend, here’s what’s happening in Montclair right now.
Freshman Sports Fundraiser Passes $100K
The Montclair Athletics Blue and White Club says it has now raised more than $100,000 toward its goal of restoring freshman athletics funding in the district.
The fundraising campaign comes after the full freshman sports budget was eliminated amid the district’s ongoing financial crisis and budget deficit discussions. Organizers are aiming to raise approximately $176,000 to fully reinstate the athletic department budget.
The effort has drawn support from families, alumni, coaches, and residents concerned about preserving access to school athletics for younger student-athletes.
Montclair Porchfest Returns Saturday
Montclair Porchfest returns Saturday, May 16, transforming porches, lawns, and driveways across town into live music venues.
The free community festival features local musicians, bands, and performers playing throughout neighborhoods as residents walk from stop to stop. Organizers say the event is designed to celebrate local music, creativity, and community connection.
There is no rain date planned.
NJ Transit Survey Shows Growing Frustration — and Demand
A new survey from the Montclair NJ Transit Committee found strong demand among residents for expanded NJ Transit service options.
According to the survey, residents overwhelmingly support:
- More frequent weekend train service
- Expanded late-night train options
- Better reverse-commute access for riders traveling outside New York City
- Improved reliability and communication
The findings reflect growing frustration with transit limitations while also highlighting how heavily many Montclair residents still rely on public transportation for work, entertainment, and regional travel.
Children’s Consignment Shop Opens Near Watchung Plaza
Middle Child Kids Consignment has officially opened its first storefront near Watchung Plaza after building a following online.
The second-hand children’s clothing shop specializes in curated kids apparel, toys, and gear. Owners say community demand helped drive the expansion from a web-based business into a brick-and-mortar space.
The store is open Tuesday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturdays from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Car Stolen During Wash at Local Business
Police say a Dodge Durango was stolen from Montclair Mobile Car Care while it was being washed.
According to authorities, the driver’s side door had been left open for staff when a black Mercedes SUV pulled into the driveway. A suspect described as a young light-skinned Black male allegedly exited the Mercedes, entered the Durango, and drove off. Both vehicles fled east on Bloomfield Avenue.
The Durango was later recovered in Newark the following day.
