Variance Application

JOSE M DE OLIVEIRA 31 BRADFORD AVE, WEST ORANGE, NJ 07052 BLOCK: 55.06 LOT: 1.01 PROPOSAL This variance proposal outlines the need for and benefits of replacing an existing failed railroad retaining wall with a new gravity blocks retaining wall exceeding the standard height limitation of 6 feet on a property characterized by significant sloppiness and to construct a fence around said wall to provide safety for residents, especially my daughter and son, whom are 5 and 3 years old. The purpose of the new retaining wall is to effectively manage soil erosion, stabilize the terrain, and safeguard the property and surrounding areas from potential damage caused by erosion and runoff. The proposed retaining wall aims to enhance safety, protect the environment, and maintain the integrity of the landscape in accordance with local zoning regulations and building codes. A wooden fence is also requested to be placed around the rear and side (see sketch for more details) of the new retaining walls. The proposed retaining wall in the rear starts at only 2’ in height and it gradually increases towards the corner where it peaks at approximately 9'3”. The wall on the side is a two-tiered retaining wall system. The first one adjacent to the property line, has a peak height of 6’. The second wall is pushed back 4 feet and has a height of 5’ in average. The wall alongside the property line was needed in order to stop soil erosion. The existing railroad timber retaining wall was built on the hill, This was probably done by the original builder to avoid going through the variance process. However, this caused soil erosion from the bottom of the railroad retaining wall. Therefore, causing it to fail overtime. The primary purpose of the proposed retaining wall is to prevent soil erosion and land subsidence resulting from the lot's steep gradient. By constructing a retaining wall of increased height, the development aims to retain the soil effectively, preventing it from washing away during heavy rainfall or water drainage. Furthermore, the wail will create level terraces, enabling safer land use and minimizing any risk of structural instability. The design of the proposed retaining wall (DESIGN TO BE PROVIDED) will be carried out by certified a engineer experienced in land development and slope stabilization. The wall's design will take into account various factors, such as

ning wall (DESIGN TO BE PROVIDED) will be carried out by certified a engineer experienced in land development and slope stabilization. The wall's design will take into account various factors, such as the slope's degree, soil type, and water drainage patterns, ensuring the wall's integrity and effectiveness in preventing soil erosion. The varlance proposal seeks approval from the relevant local authorities to exceed the standard 6-foot height limitation for retaining walls. The proposal complies with all other zoning regulations, building codes, and environmental guidelines, emphasizing the necessity of the increased height to address the lot's steep slope effectively.