Failure to show tangible progress on these key sites by the December 31st deadline could lead to the Fair Share Housing Center asking the courts to revoke Saddle River’s immunity, exposing the borough to the risk of “builder’s remedy” lawsuits and court-ordered high-density development
the staff of the Ridgewood blog
Saddle River NJ, the recent approval of the AvalonBay Communities development marks a significant, albeit legally contentious, step for Saddle River in meeting its state-mandated “affordable housing” obligations.
However, the legal pressure from the Fair Share Housing Center (FSHC) is far from over. Your initial report mentioned two other critical Third Round “affordable housing” projects that were also part of the borough’s commitment: the Algonquin and Rosie O’Donnell properties on East Allendale Road.
A search for the current status of these projects confirms that they remain highly active and controversial, with Toll Brothers leading the development efforts.
Here is an update on the status of these two key sites:
1. The Former Rosie O’Donnell Estate (East Allendale Road Plan)
The property at 115 East Allendale Road, once owned by celebrity Rosie O’Donnell, has been the epicenter of intense debate.
| Project Detail | Status & Update (as of late 2025) |
| Current Developer | Toll Brothers |
| Proposal | 54 for-sale townhouses |
| Affordable Units | 8 affordable homes included in the complex. |
| Planning Board Status | Hearings for the revised 54-unit plan began in September 2025. A final vote by the Planning Board is anticipated for Monday, December 9th. |
| Controversy | Residents continue to oppose the project over traffic mitigation, safety concerns, and the aesthetic impact of a controversial retaining wall near the Wandell School. |
| History | The original 9,000 sq. ft. mansion was demolished. The initial plan called for 60 units but was rejected by the Planning Board in 2022, leading to the current scaled-down proposal by Toll Brothers. |
Key Takeaway: The approval process is in its final stages. A decision on this high-profile site is expected in early December, which will significantly impact Saddle River’s compliance numbers.
2. The Algonquin Trail Project
The Algonquin Trail project (14 Algonquin Trail & 167 West Saddle River Road) is also moving through the Planning Board with its own set of technical challenges:
| Project Detail | Status & Update (as of late 2025) |
| Current Developer | Toll Brothers |
| Proposal | Planned for 60 units, including 12 affordable units (as part of the 2020 settlement). |
| Planning Board Status | Hearings have been ongoing since June 2025 and continued into the Fall. |
| Controversy | The primary sticking point has been stormwater drainage and the potential for flooding neighboring homes. |
| Recent Development | The developer recently unveiled a new, comprehensive drainage plan—nicknamed the “Mayor’s Solution“—which was credited to Mayor Albert Kurpis and appears aimed at resolving the community’s flood fears. |
Key Takeaway: This project is still being debated, but the focus has shifted to resolving technical issues (like drainage) rather than the project’s existence, suggesting potential forward momentum.
The Bigger Picture: December Deadline Looms
The fate of the AvalonBay project, combined with the imminent vote on the former Rosie O’Donnell estate, will determine whether Saddle River successfully implements its entire Third Round affordable housing obligation.
Failure to show tangible progress on these key sites by the December 31st deadline could lead to the Fair Share Housing Center asking the courts to revoke Saddle River’s immunity, exposing the borough to the risk of “builder’s remedy” lawsuits and court-ordered high-density development.
The upcoming Planning Board vote on December 9th for the East Allendale Road project will be the next major flashpoint in this ongoing Bergen County housing saga.
Would you like me to set a reminder to check the outcome of the Saddle River Planning Board vote on the Rosie O’Donnell property scheduled for December 9th?
Join the new Saddle River Valley, Ramapo and Pascack Valley Communities Facebook group
https://www.facebook.com/groups/1931704860512551/
#news #follow #media #trending #viral #newsupdate #currentaffairs #BergenCountyNews #NJBreakingNews #NJHeadlines #NJTopStories
