Development News for Clark, New Jersey

Concerns Raised Over Concentrated Westfield Avenue Development and Traffic Impact

Dileia Collins expressed concern about the number of development projects planned for Westfield Avenue, potentially seven projects occurring simultaneously by 2026, including those near the Quick Check and AM property. She questioned the town's ability to manage the traffic impact and suggested that the AM property developer might be delaying progress. Mayor Albanese clarified that the town conducts its own traffic studies and has a consultant review them. He also noted that the concentration of projects is due to the area being a former blighted zone. Regarding the AM developer (Garden Homes), he is a national developer managing multiple projects. The Mayor also mentioned that the properties across from Quick Check have not yet gone before the planning board, indicating a multi-year development timeline. Ilia Collins later reiterated concerns about traffic jams from multiple projects and mentioned that some projects were proposed years ago. She also noted that in Westfield, builders are required to erect fencing around construction sites.

Council to Investigate Enhanced Pedestrian Crossings on Westfield Avenue Amid Safety Concerns

During public comment, Dileia Collins raised concerns about pedestrian safety on Westfield Avenue, noting the difficulty of crossing the street and suggesting the need for pedestrian-controlled crossing lights similar to those in Westfield, NJ. Council Member Tol will submit a formal request to the traffic bureau to evaluate revitalizing existing pedestrian crossings with flashing lights at key intersections, including Madison Hill Road/Joseph Street or Brandt Avenue, or near Cartmart. He suggested that the cost for such installations could potentially be incorporated into future developer plans. Separately, the Captain or Director of Public Safety mentioned that the county has denied three previous requests to install a controlled light or traffic light at the intersection of Liberty and Westfield Avenue, but they will bring the issue up again due to new development. Mayor Albanese also acknowledged the concern about pedestrian crossings and mentioned that costs could be incurred into developer plans.

Parking Prohibition Adopted on Madison Hill Road for Church Exit Safety

Ordinance 2618 was adopted to prohibit parking on a portion of Madison Hill Road near the exit of St. Agnes Church. This measure aims to improve safety by creating a 25-foot clear zone on both the east and west sides of the church exit, preventing vehicles from parking in a way that obstructs visibility for drivers exiting the facility. The ordinance will go into effect upon adoption.

Township Introduces Strict Regulations for Ebikes and Motorized Bicycles

Ordinance 2619 was introduced to amend and supplement Chapter 347 of the township code, specifically sections related to motorized bicycles and scooters, to regulate ebikes. This action follows the state's reclassification of most ebikes as motorized bicycles and the introduction of restrictive rules, including licenses, registration, insurance, age restrictions, and helmet requirements. The township's regulations are described as among the most restrictive in the United States. The public hearing for this ordinance is scheduled for June 15th.