Coaster Photo
The vacant tract of land at the north end of Ocean Grove is scheduled for redevelopment.
By WILLIAM CLARK
Two Ocean Grove residents have spearheaded a nonprofit corporation to “make changes to the redevelopment agreement and the site plan that will bring the North End project into greater alignment with the historic character of Ocean Grove.”
Barbara Burns and Robert Ingato have started the North End Preservation Fund Inc. The corporation was officially filed with the state of New Jersey Sept. 23.
Their website solicits donations in support of their cause in the form of credit card, check or Venmo.
According to an update posted Nov. 5 the North End Preservation Fund has “engaged” the services of an attorney, architect and planner. The attorney, according to the site, was responsible for communicating its belief to the Neptune Township Planning Board that the board had no oversight of single family homes which were a part of the North End Redevelopment plans. The Planning Board meeting was subsequently adjourned without moving forward and any of the proposals.
The North End Redevelopment Plans were approved by the Township Committee in February after years of legal battles, public hearings and debate. The vote was 3-2.
Residents at the time complained that the redevelopers were not being held to the same burdensome standards that everyday homeowners were required to uphold in regards to the historic nature of the town. Some have said they see this as a double standard as they must ensure that their homes meet the guidelines set forth in the 94 page document for everything from fencing to paint colors.
Over the years residents have also raised concerns about the enormous amount of traffic that would be generated by the project in the historic district which features many narrow streets.
A redevelopment plan for the north end of Ocean Grove was originally adopted in 2008. The density of the project, which includes approximately five acres, has been reduced since it was first proposed. Condominium units have been reduced from 78 to 39 and hotel rooms from 80 to 40. Off street parking is also planned.
