0:00The board focused heavily on a public hearing concerning the potential redevelopment of six parcels owned by New Jersey Transit. These properties, mostly consisting of rail-related infrastructure, were considered for inclusion in an existing redevelopment area. The planner, Susan, provided context by referencing the 2023 master plan, which had advocated for transit-oriented development to better connect the community with existing infrastructure. The hearing aimed to determine if these parcels met the criteria required for redevelopment designation.

Susan elaborated on the parcels’ conditions, noting that while they were not deteriorated, maintenance issues such as drainage and impervious surfaces contributed to urban heat effects. The properties included approximately 13 acres zoned for business and industrial use, some within a train station overlay district. The planner highlighted New Jersey Transit’s support for the redevelopment designation, provided their transit rights were preserved.

14:05The board closely examined the state-mandated criteria for redevelopment. It was determined that while the parcels were serving transit functions, certain aspects like the extensive parking areas and rail yard arrangement were deemed obsolete. This classification was based on case law suggesting that the large asphalt parking areas did not represent the highest and best use of the land. The board considered adding these parcels to the existing redevelopment designation, as the master plan had earmarked the area as suitable for transit-oriented development.

27:58Questions arose regarding the implications of the redevelopment on local infrastructure, such as train crossings and platform upgrades. A participant mentioned recent discussions with the North Jersey Transportation Planning Authority. Concerns about public understanding of the planning process were voiced. The board clarified that their role was to evaluate the parcels against established criteria, not to assess the merits of any proposed redevelopment plans.

14:05The board outlined the next steps in the redevelopment process, which included public hearings anticipated for March. Following these hearings, the redevelopment plan would be presented to the Borough Council for adoption before any developer could submit site plans. The discussions also touched on the need for public input during these stages, with assurances that community members would have opportunities to comment on both the redevelopment plan and subsequent site plans.

27:58Environmental considerations were also addressed, particularly a retention pond on one parcel that was frequently dry. Concerns about construction impacts, such as potential flooding, were noted as issues to be revisited during site plan reviews. Engineering assessments would be important to mitigating any negative effects on neighboring properties.