River Edge Land Use Board: Historic Edgecraft Property Revitalization Plan Takes Center Stage
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Meeting Type:
Land Use Board
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Meeting Date:
05/22/2024
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Recording Published:
05/23/2024
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Duration:
148 Minutes
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State:
New Jersey
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County:
Bergen County
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Towns:
River Edge
- Meeting Overview:
In the recent River Edge Land Use Board meeting, the restoration and development of a historic property, known as Edgecraft, was the focus. The property, which holds a significant place due to its gardens registered with the National Conservancy, drew attention as the Molin family presented their plans for its revival. The proposed changes include the construction of a new pool house, pergola, outdoor kitchen, and the utilization of an existing garage guest studio. The board deliberated on the application from Martin Molen Properties for a property on Summit Avenue, addressing a variety of variances and the property’s storied past and future prospects.
The discussion around the Edgecraft property included its storied history, dating back to around 1920 and its previous ownership by Bud and Virginia Quarter. The Molins expressed their admiration for the property, which spans two zones, R1 and C1, and detailed their intentions to build a new home, pool house, and utilize the garage studio for personal and family purposes.
The board reviewed the maps to clarify the discrepancy between the tax map and zoning map. Caroline Ryder, a Planning Group manager, provided her qualifications as a licensed planner and member of the American Institute of Certified Planners since 1998. Architect Mr. Angali and his associate Mr. Warez presented the proposed improvements, emphasizing that the existing pool house will be enlarged and the outdoor space will include path lighting and exterior sconces. The addition of a waterline to service the pool was discussed, as well as the confirmation that the existing pool’s grade would not change, and that landscaping efforts would include relocating or planting new trees to screen the area from view.
Questions were raised by the board regarding the use of the pool house, specifically inquiring about the possibility of rentals and if a permanent cover or bedroom areas were planned. The applicant clarified that the existing garage with an apartment above would be used exclusively for family and guests. Concerns about lot coverage were addressed, with a suggestion made to use permeable pavers for the driveway area to mitigate concerns.
The need for a grading plan and stormwater management was also a point of contention, with the board emphasizing the importance of confirming water and sewer access before granting approval for the proposed improvements. The feasibility of utilizing the existing three-foot easement for utility purposes was discussed, and the board considered adding a condition to the approval to ensure that services are properly provided. The applicant was asked about the interior of the garage and if there were plans to rent the space, along with questions about additional paving in the project.
Apart from the Edgecraft property debate, the meeting also discussed the application from Hang Xang Inc. for a proposed Chinese food takeout on Kinderkamack Road. The application was reviewed and found sufficient for jurisdiction, with the board proceeding to a discussion about the replacement of equipment, signage, and the addition of two tables for dining in. Concerns about parking availability for customers and employees were raised, with suggestions to have tenants park on the street to leave room for customers. The relocation of a dumpster was debated, with the need to find a suitable place without obstructing stairs or parking.
The possibility of a trial period for the restaurant to operate with tables was suggested, to assess the impact on parking and customer behavior. The Land Use Board encouraged the landlord to work with board professionals to determine the screening for the dumpster and to have the grease trap inspected as a condition for approval.
Thomas Papaleo
Land Use Board Officials:
Chris Caslin, Richard Mehrman, Eileen Boland, Dario Chinigo, Ryan Gibbons, Michael Krey, Bruce Feffer, Colin Busteed, Tom Behrens (Borough Planner), Robert Costa (Engineer), Stephen Depken (Land Use Zoning Officer), Brian Chewcaskie (Land Use Attorney), Ed Alter (Land Use Clerk)
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Meeting Type:
Land Use Board
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Meeting Date:
05/22/2024
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Recording Published:
05/23/2024
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Duration:
148 Minutes
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Notability Score:
Routine
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State:
New Jersey
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County:
Bergen County
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Towns:
River Edge
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