Franklin Lakes Expansion: 1,300+ New Homes Proposed in Major “Affordable Housing” Shake-up
the staff of the Ridgewood blog
Franklin Lakes NJ, The landscape of Franklin Lakes, New Jersey, is on the verge of a historic transformation. Following a recommendation from the state’s Affordable Dispute Resolution Program, borough officials have fast-tracked a series of critical hearings this March to solidify the town’s Fourth Round “Affordable Housing” strategy.
For residents, these meetings represent the final word on massive rezonings that could reshape iconic local properties, including the former Becton Dickinson and Cigna sites.
What’s at Stake: Immunity from “Builder’s Remedy”
The urgency behind these meetings is fueled by a March 15, 2026, state deadline. By meeting this cutoff, Franklin Lakes aims to secure a Certification of Compliance and Repose.
Why it matters: This certification grants the borough immunity from “builder’s remedy” lawsuits through 2035—preventing developers from forcing high-density projects onto the town outside of the established plan.
The Three-Day Hearing Marathon: What’s on the Table?
If you live in Franklin Lakes, mark your calendar for these three pivotal sessions regarding the Trelia, Becton, and Cigna developments:
March 2: The Master Plan Review
The Planning Board will evaluate whether the proposed rezonings for the Trelia and Becton Dickinson properties align with the borough’s Master Plan and Fair Share housing goals.
March 3: The Heavy Hitters (Trelia & Becton Dickinson)
The Mayor and Council will hold public hearings on two major ordinances:
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The Trelia Property (Pulis Ave): A proposal for 42 townhouse units (9 affordable) tucked behind four single-family homes on 7.4 acres.
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The Becton Property: A massive shift for the 120-plus-acre site, proposing an “inclusionary” development of 800 total units (640 market-rate townhouses and 160 affordable units).
March 4: The Cigna/Parsons Pond Road Project
The hearings continue for the SHG Franklin Lakes proposal at the former Cigna/IBM site (400 Parsons Pond Road). This project targets 495 total units, consisting of 433 market-rate townhouses and 62 affordable rental apartments.
The Bottom Line for Residents
With over 1,300 total units currently under discussion across these three sites, the upcoming “Fourth Round” plan represents one of the most significant land-use shifts in the borough’s recent history. These meetings are the final opportunity for public comment before the state-mandated resolutions are solidified.
Join the new Saddle River Valley, Ramapo and Pascack Valley Communities Facebook group
https://www.facebook.com/groups/1931704860512551/
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Tags: #FranklinLakes #NJRealEstate #AffordableHousing #LocalPolitics #BergenCounty #UrbanDevelopment #NJNews
