June 8, 2020
ROBBINSVILLE, NJ (MERCER)–The United States Postal Service recently approved Robbinsville Township’s request to become the primary zip code for the 08691 area.Robbinsville’s official request to change its zip code in August, 2016 was denied after the USPS implemented a flawed and confusing survey process that left residents, along with local, state and federal officials, angry and confused. In addition to deficiencies in mail delivery service, inaccurate zip codes impact car insurance rates and GPS coordinates, among other factors.“We’ve heard our residents loud and clear regarding their desire to have “Robbinsville 08691” be their official postal designation,’’ Mayor Dave Fried said. “This is very good news and big step in the right direction. It may take some time for businesses to update their mailing lists purchased from the post office, but making Robbinsville the primary holder of 08691 was absolutely a battle worth fighting. I want to thank Congressman Chris Smith, Assemblyman Wayne DeAngelo and Hamilton Mayor Jeff Martin for their support.”Led by Administrator Joy Tozzi, the Township first mobilized the zip code effort almost 13 years ago. Following the 2016 denial, negotiations with the South Jersey District of the USPS were revived in 2018, at which time the conversation shifted toward Robbinsville being named the “preferred city designation for the zip code 08691.”However, the first attempt at that new compromise floundered when former Hamilton Township Mayor Kelly Yaede refused to sign off on the proposal. Some Hamilton residents and businesses still fall under “Hamilton 08691,” which required the Hamilton Township administration approve the change.The South Jersey District informed Rep. Smiths’ office, located in the 4th Congressional District, that Robbinsville’s request would be “processed upon receipt of a letter from the Mayor of Hamilton. On February 13, 2020, first-term Mayor Jeff Martin submitted a letter to the USPS supporting Robbinsville as the new primary designate for 08691.
“Being a helpful neighbor, especially at no cost, is an easy thing to do,” Mayor Martin said. “Hamilton residents in the 08691 zip code should also receive the benefit of lower insurance costs due to the change. We congratulate Robbinsville on their successful journey and wish all the residents of 08691 well.”