West Orange Township_Fourth Round HEFSP_Final Draft

Township of West Orange August 2025 Essex County, New Jersey Draft Housing Element and Fair Share Plan ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- A financial agreement was executed for these lots between the Township and GP Ashland Housing, LLC., on August 3, 2017 (Appendix F). A proposal to create these 44 affordable units through new inclusionary developments along Ashland Avenue and/or at 216-22 Main Street was submitted on March 13, 2024. A total of 44 credits were applied toward the Township’s Prior Round obligation. The Township finds that the zoning in place remains appropriate for the character of the area and the need for affordable housing, particularly in proximity to Main Street. The sites are appropriate for multi-family low- and moderate-income housing as they are available, approvable, developable, and suitable: • Available: The sites have no easements or title issues preventing their development. • Suitable: The sites are adjacent to compatible land uses, as established residential neighborhoods are located on Ashland Street. The lots are located across from the multifamily Edison Lofts building. Their development is consistent with the goals and strategies outlined in the State Plan, as they are located within the Metropolitan Planning Area (PA 1). Further, the sites have direct street access to Ashland Street, and are located within three blocks northwest of Interstate 280, offering more direct access to employment and service establishments. • Developable: The sites fall within a drinking water service area, and within the sewer service area. The sites are not constrained by wetlands or any special flood hazard areas. • Approvable: The sites are within the Downtown Redevelopment Area, where residential uses are permitted. In addition, a Redevelopment Agreement has been executed which requires the development of the 44 affordable units. 45