Towaco Center revitalization gets planners' OK

Montville weighs addition of 45 housing units, commercial space - The township planning board approved an ordinance that will allow 45 housing units and 52,000 square feet of commercial space as part of a revised master plan intended to revitalize Towaco Center.  The measure, which passed 7-0, will be sent to the township committee for review, public hearings and possible adoption.

Prior to the meeting, Robyn Welch, an associate planner with Burgis Associates, said a provision was added to the ordinance for a school impact study.  "After a total of 20 dwelling units are constructed -- out of the total 45 maximum -- the township will be required to take an assessment of the impact building would have on the school system, to determine if remaining units should be age-restricted," she said.

The new plan proposes a maximum of 45 multi-family units and 52,000 square feet of commercial space with approximately 251 spaces for on-site parking. The Board's planner estimated that the plan would add $29.8 million in taxable properties.  Future growth of Towaco, however, long has been a bone of contention for residents who fear the negative impact on the Towaco Valley Aquifer, the township's primary water source.  See Daily Record.  Discuss on OurMontville.com blog.