Multi-family Housing Proposal

The Town Planning Board is getting closer to considering a proposed change to zoning rules regarding multi-family housing. Tuesday, March 5th at 7:30pm is one of the last Planning Board meetings listed by the Town Website to have the proposed Multi-Family Housing Project on its agenda. We urge you to attend, become informed and voice your opinion. The meeting will take place at the Village Hall Court room.

We hope to have a clear summary of the facts soon. There are many issues of concern. In brief, there are four plots of land zoned for multi-family housing. Builders are requesting an exception to zoning laws to allow for the building of more apartments than allowed by the master plan.

Those against the proposal have these concerns:

– Unmanageable increase in population of the schools and bussing
– Traffic: both safety and congestion issues
– Parking
– Town Safety
– The additional strain on village resources, including sewage, garbage and recycling and emergency services

Those for the proposal defend it:

– It can revitalize our town by increasing the downtown population.
– Capitalism is the backbone of our country.
– Ridgewood empty-nesters can have a better option to stay in town.
– It may attract young urban professionals.

I realize these lists are incomplete. If you have an opinion, especially one supported by facts, please email me at info@tipsfromtown.com for possible publication.