Garden Communities recently dubbed Old Bridge resident Jane Edell as its newest “Golden Resident,” and recognized her with a year’s free rent.
“It was such a shock,” said Edell, who moved to Old Bridge from Fort Lee in 1973. “When I told my family and friends, they couldn’t believe it.”
Edell is now in her 50th year as a resident at Garden Communities’ London Terrace apartments in Old Bridge.
Despite her surprise, Edell thoroughly enjoyed the recent Golden Resident ceremony, at which she was presented with a bouquet of flowers, a box of chocolates and a giant check. The property management team, representatives from Garden Communities’ corporate office and Edell’s longtime boyfriend, Richard Kelly, took part in the celebration.
A resident who loves both her apartment and her neighbors, some of whom have been there almost as long as she has, Edell often recommends London Terrace to friends.
“I can’t imagine anything better,” she said. “It’s a great area. When I saw the apartment, I fell in love with it.”
Edell ultimately chose London Terrace because it offered a one-bedroom apartment as well as a rec room. The rec room has a 12-foot ceiling, perfect for Jane and her two cats.
“When the super came in once to do a repair, he couldn’t believe that ceiling,” she recalled, noting that building maintenance always comes promptly when called.
For more than 40 years, Edell has maintained two retail stores: Earth Tones in Englishtown sells artifacts from around the world; Asbury Antique Emporium in Asbury Park sells antiques. Both locations are easy to reach from Old Bridge, according to Edell.
“It’s very convenient,” she said. “I’m right by Route 9.”
Short Hills-based Garden Communities established its Golden Resident Club in 2020 to honor those who have occupied their apartments for at least 50 years. So far, the company has celebrated more than a dozen recipients. According to the company’s Maria Friscia, who supervises the Golden Resident program, the residents’ loyalty and longevity is echoed as well in the Garden Communities team at London Terrace.
“Garden Communities residents and employees, alike, have found more than just a place to live or work — they have found a place to call home,” she said. “This program is just so meaningful for everyone, and the celebration is always heartwarming.”
