the staff of the Ridgewood blog
Ridgewood, NJ – Over the last two decades, the Village of Ridgewood has undergone significant changes — and not all for the better, according to concerned residents. Once celebrated for its small-town charm, historic architecture, and community traditions, Ridgewood is now facing a wave of overdevelopment that critics say threatens its very identity.
At the center of the latest controversy is Ordinance 4052, which would allow the construction of a five-story luxury, high-density assisted living facility on North Maple Avenue, between Franklin Avenue and Marshall Street. The location sits squarely in a residential neighborhood, sparking fears of a precedent that could reshape Ridgewood into a dense urban landscape.
Historic Character at Risk
For decades, Ridgewood’s Zoning Board and Village Council maintained the town’s historic appeal through strict building ordinances that preserved the vision of the village’s founders. Opponents of Ordinance 4052 warn that approving such a project would pave the way for more towering, modern buildings — replacing the signature three-story architecture with what some describe as “canyon streets.”
Community Voices Concern Over Rapid Development
Critics argue that the rapid pace at which Ordinance 4052 is moving through the approval process leaves little room for public discussion. Many feel that residents have already lost influence over the local public school system and fear that similar erosion of public input is now hitting urban planning decisions.
“The voters have chosen, and they have chosen poorly,” said one longtime resident, voicing frustration at recent development trends.
Key Meeting for Residents to Speak Out
The Village Council will meet to discuss and potentially vote on Tuesday, August 13, at 7:30 p.m. in Village Hall. Community members concerned about Ridgewood’s future are encouraged to attend and make their voices heard.
Whether Ridgewood remains a historic suburban village or evolves into a more urbanized city may hinge on decisions made in the coming weeks.
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Terrible place for assisted living facility! You know where you put ALFs? Close to bustling downtown areas where residents can mill about, see some entertainment, get much needed exercise, etc. What the heck are these people going to do in Ridgewood’s downtown, go for daily haircuts? Plus it’ll be a roll of the dice if one of the village’s illustrious A-1 drivers doesn’t jump the curb and plow them over, so forget about trying to cross the street with your walker. Just dumb. Also it’s a slap in the face to residents who don’t want to be reminded of their own irreversible decline into death and what happens when you don’t have anyone to care of you.
They can’t ignore you if they can’t hear you!
And don’t let them drag it out until it gets late and everybody leaves……………………
This is accurate. Ridgewood has been taken over by empty promises and self serving politicians, both at the BOE and in Village Hall.
The “tradition” is gone. It’s been replaced by corrupt and selfish hacks who are pursuing their own agenda.