The Montclair Pod News: Lead Pipes, Stolen Mail, and a Century-Old Substation

Written by:

Farnoosh Torabi

August 21, 2025

Montclair’s latest headlines span the spectrum — from drinking water safety and aging infrastructure to stolen mail (and a lunch bag) that has police and federal investigators involved. Special thanks to Terrence McDonald from the New Jersey Monitor for joining the episode with the latest political and state-wide stories.

Free Lead Pipe Replacement Coming to Montclair

If your home was built before 1940, you may still have lead service lines connecting it to the water system. In response to a statewide law, Montclair is preparing to replace all of them — at no cost to homeowners. The township is asking residents to check their homes against an online inventory and submit photos of unknown service lines so they can be included in the program.

Lights Out on Valley Road

PSE&G has announced plans to replace Montclair’s aging electric substation at 60 Valley Road, which has been in operation since 1925. The utility says the site no longer meets regulatory codes and needs a complete overhaul. The upgrade is expected to take up to 18 months and will affect service for about 10,000 customers.

Crime Watch: Mail Theft, Car Break-Ins, and More

Montclair’s police blotter was especially colorful this week. A postal truck window was smashed and two trays of mail stolen — along with the carrier’s lunch. Authorities say theft from a postal vehicle is a federal crime, and the case is under investigation. Meanwhile, car thefts and break-ins continue across town, from North Fullerton Avenue to Oxford Street, keeping police — and insurance adjusters — busy.

Schools and Politics in the Spotlight

The financial troubles of Montclair’s school district remain unresolved as its former business administrator takes a new job in South Jersey, raising eyebrows among parents and union leaders there. At the state level, the governor’s race continues to tighten, with immigration, bail reform, and public safety shaping up as defining issues heading into the fall.

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