Major Rte. 22 Housing Complex In The Works

Springfield's newest housing project, tentatively referred to as Springfield Gardens, will be a major undertaking. It is set to be built by Oakwood Homes Inc., a housing construction company based in Mountainside. The proposed homes will be on the westbound side of Route 22 at Mountain Avenue and Schaffernorth Place, near the Holiday Inn.

A long-time builder of single-family dwellings, Oakwood submitted their initial building application to the Township's Planning Board on Nov. 8, 2008. Their goal is to build a total of 253 units. The property will be subdivided into 16 lots. Of those, 15 will be single-family homes with residential lots. There will also be a lot for 238 multi-family units. Under the AH-17 Zoning District Regulations, several of those units will be designated as affordable housing residences.

As required by law and in keeping with the requirements of the Township, Oakwood Homes gave public notice of their intentions on Nov. 5 of last year.  A public hearing was held on Dec. 2, 2009, where it was determined by the Board that the company could proceed with building the units. The company also sought permission for a sidewalk along one side of the street that will travel around the entire development.

 On Jan. 6, Oakwood was given final major subdivision and final site plan approvals for the project. At a Jan. 28 pre-construction meeting, the firm's engineer met with the Township's engineer to discuss logistics. Construction on the development is set the begin construction immediately. Approvals are pending for building, electrical, and other required permits. Oakwood is also expected to submit building plans.

 Addressing the prospect of the development, Deputy Mayor Bart Fraenkel said "This can only be a good thing. Housing is important to current and potential residents of Springfield. Also, if you're a merchant in our town and there are going to be more residents because of additional residential properties--whether it's houses, apartments or condos--it's a win-win for everyone."

For interested residents, the application, plans and survey are on file in the Township's Annex building (20 North Trivett Street). They are available for review between 9 a.m. and 2 p.m. weekdays.