LAKEWOOD ZONING BOARD ADVOCATES FOR EXPANDED SHUL TO SERVE GROWING COMMUNITY

On Monday night, the Lakewood Township Zoning Board considered Application ZB #4221A, submitted by GM Lanes Mill LLC, which sought approval to construct 22 duplexes (44 homes), 3-single family homes, 27 townhomes, with a shul and a playground, on Lanes Mill Road near the Lakewood/ Brick border.

The Board froze the moment they noticed that the architectural floor plan for the shul depicts a main sanctuary with space for only 116 people.

"You have 74 homes with 74 basement apartments which is 158 families. How can you provide a shul with space for only 116 members??," the Board immediately questioned.

The Board added that the proposed 18 parking spaces for the shul is also wholly insufficient, and that the location of the playground was unsafe for some pedestrians.

Of additional concern to the Board was the width of road which didn't appear to provide turnaround for a garbage truck.

Attorney Adam Pfeffer retorted that the Township's Department of Public Works already reviewed and approved the plan.

The Board was unfazed and continued to give push back.

"Every development that gets built these days has multiple basement apartments, which leads to overly congested roadways and insufficient open space for play and for the shul," the Board stated.

The Board ultimately tabled the application to give the developer an opportunity to revise the plans.

To join the FAA News WhatsApp Status, click here.