Little Falls Planning Board Unveils Comprehensive Master Plan, Approves New Mixed-Use Development
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Meeting Type:
Planning Board
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Meeting Date:
10/03/2024
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Recording Published:
10/04/2024
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Duration:
96 Minutes
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State:
New Jersey
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County:
Passaic County
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Towns:
Little Falls
- Meeting Overview:
The Little Falls Planning Board meeting featured a detailed presentation of the township’s long-awaited master plan, developed over the past year, and approved a mixed-use development proposal for the New York Pompton Turnpike area. The master plan, which aims to address various planning elements including land use, circulation, economic development, and sustainability, was unanimously adopted by board members.
The most significant event of the meeting was the presentation of the final master plan by planner Senita Chaan from H2. The master plan is a critical guiding document for Little Falls, as it serves as a roadmap for municipal planning and is updated every ten years. Chaan emphasized the importance of this update, noting that the last comprehensive plan was over two decades ago, with the most recent reexamination in 2023 revealing the need for a thorough overhaul. The plan is a product of extensive community engagement, including online surveys and workshops, allowing for various feedback from residents. Concerns identified were resilience to extreme weather, school quality, traffic congestion, park conditions, and downtown revitalization.
The goals of the master plan address existing conditions and propose updates to zoning ordinances, focusing on areas that have benefited from redevelopment strategies. This includes zoning amendments to eliminate split zoning, particularly in flood-prone areas, and recommendations for revising zoning codes to accommodate modern commercial uses. The township, predominantly residential, aims to encourage non-residential growth and revitalize commercial corridors. Survey results showed preferences for single-family and senior housing, with interest in duplexes, guiding the proposed changes.
A significant component of the master plan is its climate change vulnerability assessment. The plan outlines necessary actions to mitigate risks like flooding and to develop a comprehensive disaster management plan. Over 50 recommendations are included, covering land use, residential and non-residential areas, and vulnerability assessments to provide a cohesive framework for future development. The plan also highlights the interconnection of transportation and land use.
Transportation trends and issues were a key focus of the master plan presentation. The analysis highlighted the need for enhanced pedestrian safety and downtown parking solutions, addressing traffic congestion as a critical concern. Recommendations included collaboration with county and state partners to alleviate congestion, infrastructure improvements for pedestrian safety, and initiatives to support electric vehicle infrastructure. Economic development goals were also addressed.
The board also discussed a new mixed-use development proposal for the New York Pompton Turnpike area, requiring preliminary and final site plan approval, along with a D1 use variance and multiple C variances. The proposal includes two commercial units and four two-bedroom apartments, replacing an existing multifamily dwelling. The development features a building design that complements the neighborhood’s character, with a focus on aesthetics and functionality. The board acknowledged the proposal’s alignment with the municipality’s land use objectives and its potential to enhance the area.
During the discussion of the development proposal, various technical and design aspects were addressed, including parking regulations, drainage plans, and building materials. The board emphasized the importance of compliance with local regulations and sought to ensure the proposed development would fit well within the existing urban fabric. The applicant’s representative provided detailed clarifications, and the board expressed support for the project, noting its potential positive impact on the community.
James Damiano
Planning Board Officials:
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Meeting Type:
Planning Board
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Meeting Date:
10/03/2024
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Recording Published:
10/04/2024
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Duration:
96 Minutes
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Notability Score:
Routine
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State:
New Jersey
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County:
Passaic County
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Towns:
Little Falls
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