Oakland residents push back against proposed 240-unit housing development
The plan calls for 240 townhomes on a 66-acre parcel, with 20% designated as affordable housing as towns across New Jersey work to meet state requirements.
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A proposed housing development in Oakland is drawing opposition from residents who say the project could significantly change their neighborhood.
The plan calls for 240 townhomes on a 66-acre parcel, with 20% designated as affordable housing as towns across New Jersey work to meet state requirements.
Neighbors say one of their biggest concerns is traffic, especially if the developer is allowed to use Judith Lane as a second access point. Residents describe the road as a narrow, dead-end street currently restricted to emergency vehicles.
The developer is now taking the borough to court in an effort to overturn an ordinance that limits access to Judith Lane to emergency vehicles only.
“This development would create so much more additional traffic in town that it would just be a nightmare,” said resident Jeff Schwarz.
Some homeowners say the project could also impact their properties. One resident, who did not want to appear on camera, said part of her land could be taken to widen the road, including her backyard and pool.
Others are raising environmental concerns, including potential impacts on drainage and water supply.
Residents also worry about safety, noting children frequently walk through the area where there are no sidewalks.
A petition opposing the proposal has gathered more than 1,000 signatures.
In a statement, borough officials said they are aware of residents’ concerns and are reviewing the proposal and ongoing legal matter.
"The Governing Body shares your concerns about access to the proposed TDC Inclusionary development from Page Drive and that is why the Borough Council adopted Ordinance 26-CODE-986 with a provision to limit access to emergency vehicles only. While we remain in opposition, the decision maker on the matter is the judge assigned to oversee Oakland’s Affordable Housing Round 4 compliance, Judge Corriston. Your petition will be shared with the Court’s Special Adjudicator, Beth McManus, to add your voice to the matter and highlight the potential negative effects on our community."
