Delanco Township Council Reviews Union Avenue Boat Ramp Extension Amid Public Concerns
- Meeting Overview:
The Delanco Township Council meeting on June 2nd focused heavily on infrastructure projects and community concerns, with particular attention given to the Union Avenue boat ramp extension proposal and issues surrounding flood prevention and affordable housing. The meeting was attended by several council members, who discussed both local developments and broader environmental challenges.
12:36The council deliberated on a proposed conceptual plan to extend the Union Avenue boat ramp. This plan involves using concrete and a geocell or geo web material to extend the ramp by 30 feet, providing stability for emergency access. The extension would reach the low water line, about 120 feet from the existing asphalt, without disturbing the local freshwater mussel population. The proposal also includes the possibility of installing plants or relocating any mussels found during excavation. The plan aims to ensure the ramp’s usability and prevent vehicles from getting stuck in mud. The council plans to consult the fire chief and send the proposal to the Department of Army Corps for a preliminary review.
36:16The meeting also addressed the township’s stance on climate change regulations. During public comments, a resident expressed concerns over resolution 2025-88, which opposes the New Jersey Protecting Against Climate Threats (NJPACT) program. He emphasized the need for the township to recognize the increasing frequency of flooding events and adapt accordingly. He stated, “We got to stop replacing things that get destroyed by storms,” urging the council to consider the long-term benefits of implementing forward-thinking regulations.
In other development news, the council discussed a Department of Transportation (DOT) grant application for 2026, focusing on Hickory Street’s drainage problems. The street, located next to a school and playing field, has deteriorating pipes posing a safety issue. The council hopes to frame the project as a safety concern to increase the chances of securing funding, which is estimated to cost between $200,000 and $300,000. The resolution for this project is set to be prepared for the June 23rd meeting, with the application deadline on July 1st.
The council also addressed the Public Service Gas (PSG) line replacement program set to begin soon. The project will start near Orchard and Walter Vine Cedar, with main line installation expected to take a week. Residents will be notified of the construction schedule and the requirement to relocate gas meters outside their homes through various communication methods.
26:47Affordable housing was another key topic, with the planning board scheduled to hold a public hearing on the fourth round housing element and fair share plan. The township aims to meet its mandate for 50 affordable housing units without new construction, leveraging prior planning efforts. A resolution endorsing the affordable housing element will be presented at the June 23rd meeting, with available funds from the housing trust fund allocated for necessary upgrades.
36:36During public comments, a resident expressed gratitude to the town committee for their public service and discussed the proposed purchase of property on Creek Road. Highlighting the potential for increased municipal taxes, he emphasized the importance of considering resident concerns, particularly for those who might be priced out of Delanco. He remarked, “What is minimal for one person may be significant for another,” and shared a story of a resident signing a petition for a referendum out of concern for her neighbors.
43:44The council also introduced a proposed ordinance to amend the municipal code on engine braking, often referred to as “jake braking.” This proposal was in response to complaints about truck noise on Coopertown Road, especially near a lumber factory. The ordinance aims to prohibit engine braking, deemed unnecessary for the town’s flat terrain, with penalties set for violations. Enforcement will require residents to file complaints, and signs will be posted to inform truck drivers of the new regulation.
Kate Fitzpatrick
City Council Officials:
Carolyn Suess (Mayor), Matt Bartlett (Committeeman), Phil McFadden (Committeeman), Fern Ouellette (Committeeman)
-
Meeting Type:
City Council
-
Committee:
-
Meeting Date:
06/02/2025
-
Recording Published:
06/02/2025
-
Duration:
52 Minutes
-
Notability Score:
Routine
Receive debriefs about local meetings in your inbox weekly:
-
State:
New Jersey
-
County:
Burlington County
-
Towns:
Delanco
Recent Meetings Nearby:
- 06/26/2025
- 06/26/2025
- 253 Minutes
- 06/26/2025
- 06/26/2025
- 24 Minutes
- 06/26/2025
- 06/26/2025
- 10 Minutes