Standard & Poor's Ratings Services affirmed its 'AA-' Standard & Poor's underlying rating (SPUR) on South Plainfield Borough, N.J.'s GO debt. The SPUR reflects the borough's: Access to, and participation in, the New York City and Middlesex County economic regions; Consistently solid financial position; and Manageable debt profile. South Plainfield Borough (population 21,810) is a developed suburban community located approximately 35 miles west of New York City in Middlesex County ('AAA' GO rating). The borough benefits from its participation in the major employment centers of New York City and northern New Jersey, as well as a strong local economic base with opportunities available in retail and manufacturing. Countywide unemployment rates have consistently been below average and dropped further in 2005