The primary focus of the meeting was the Union County Improvement Authority’s presentation on its project to transform the former Berkeley Plaza site into Springfield Avenue Park. Matthew Taris and Jessica Halber outlined the planned features, which include playgrounds, picnic tables, walkways, a gazebo, restrooms, and a boat launch. The park aims to meet community recreational needs with 62 parking spaces, extensive landscaping, and stormwater management systems. While the design minimizes tree removal, some are necessary for pathways and ramps, and new trees will be planted to mitigate this impact.

Board and public comments during the presentation raised several concerns. Key issues included the absence of previously proposed boardwalks, the number of trees to be removed, and the design process for the park. A board member inquired about the possibility of incorporating pickleball courts, but the county’s preference for a passive recreation space excludes sports fields or courts. There was also a suggestion to replace asphalt with environmentally friendly materials, although the county chose asphalt for its low maintenance.

A significant portion of the discussion revolved around the Mount Carmel Festival, a longstanding community event facing potential disruption due to the park’s construction schedule. Attendees expressed a strong desire to hold one final festival before the area becomes a construction zone. Solutions such as closing nearby roads were considered to allow the festival to proceed.

Environmental concerns were also a focal point, particularly regarding landscaping and compliance with recommendations from the Environmental Commission. There was a request to clarify the classification of plant species, specifically challenging the claim that “muelenbergia capillaris is not native to New Jersey.” Suggestions were made to adjust paths to minimize their impact on wetlands and to emphasize natural elements in the park’s design to enhance environmental benefits and reduce heat.

In addition to park-related discussions, the board reviewed correspondence about zoning in the downtown district. A recent ordinance amendment failed to specify restaurant use in permitted categories, creating potential confusion and parking challenges. The board’s planner was tasked with researching practices in other towns to address this issue effectively. The board emphasized the need for clear zoning regulations to prevent unnecessary variances for future restaurant applications.