33:22The council delved into the traffic problems plaguing East Glenn Avenue and North Maple Avenue, which serve as a vital route for commuters heading toward Route 17. A recent traffic study, prompted by numerous accidents, revealed significant congestion at these intersections. During peak hours, up to 14,000 vehicles traverse the area, causing severe backups, particularly with northbound traffic on North Maple Avenue. The narrow intersection exacerbates this issue, as vehicles attempting left turns block those going straight, leading to increased delays. Sergeant Ray Torino proposed solutions such as introducing a green left turn arrow for northbound traffic to facilitate smoother turns and alleviate congestion. The council considered a trial phase for this change, which could be temporary, to assess its effectiveness.

36:58The discussion also recognized the need for potential turn restrictions onto Brien Place from southbound Maple Avenue, contingent on approval from the county. Past traffic studies highlighted the challenges posed by the area’s topography, which contributes to speeding issues. Options for adding warning signage for speeding vehicles were explored as part of broader safety measures.

50:13In parallel, the council addressed ongoing recruitment challenges within the Ridgewood Police Department. Despite efforts, only three out of eight necessary officers have been recruited, compounded by upcoming retirements that add urgency to the situation. The timeline from hiring to training is lengthy, and the council was urged to promote the civil service exams through community outreach efforts, including e-newsletters. Suggestions were made to engage with local high school events to inform students about law enforcement careers, offering a viable alternative to traditional college paths. A recent podcast interview highlighted the recruitment difficulties and the need for public assistance in encouraging potential candidates.

01:24:45The meeting also covered updates on infrastructure, notably the restoration of the Kingsbridge Lane pedestrian bridge. The engineering department recommended accepting a low bid of $455,900 from Fred Devans Construction Company to remove, rehabilitate, and reinstall the bridge. This decision followed a review of alternative bids, with the council opting for the most cost-effective solution. Questions remained about the bidder’s past performance and whether the plans included raising the bridge to prevent future damage. The project timeline will be finalized in an upcoming pre-construction meeting.

01:58Further infrastructure discussions included sidewalk projects on West Glenn Avenue, where new sidewalks are being installed to improve safety for residents. The project’s first phase covers five homes, but challenges remain due to environmental approvals and potential easement requirements. The county’s support for moving sidewalks to the northern side of the street is seen as a favorable option, pending environmental review.

01:27:01Additionally, the council reviewed a proposal to increase outdoor café license fees by 25%, the first hike in several years. Landscaping services for Crest Road were also discussed, addressing debris concerns from nearby view areas. The police department’s recent enforcement actions in the area were commended for addressing residents’ concerns.