The Clara Barton neighborhood has been dealt another blow as the Planning Board approved a New York consulting firm’s recommendation to continue allowing four-story buildings on Amboy Avenue. This decision comes despite persistent pleas from residents for a three-story height limit on new construction.
“It’s official – the Mayor, Planning Board, and a majority of the Council don’t care about the well-being and property values of homeowners in Clara Barton,” said Joel Bassoff, a vocal opponent of the decision.
The consulting firm’s recommendation suggests reducing the allowable height to three stories along the corridor, but allows for exceptions on properties with sufficient lot area, width, and depth to accommodate four-story mixed-use development. This caveat has sparked outrage among residents who argue that any four-story building will negatively impact adjacent residential areas.
“The impacts are certain, not ‘potential,’ and they should have been eliminated,” Bassoff added.
The ordinance allowing four-story buildings remains in effect, and a majority of the Council has refused to repeal it. This has left Clara Barton residents feeling betrayed and ignored by their elected officials.
The controversy highlights the ongoing struggle between development and preservation in Edison. As the town continues to grow, residents are concerned about the impact of new construction on their quality of life and property values.
Bassoff and other residents plan to continue their fight for a three-story height limit. They hope to raise awareness of the issue and pressure elected officials to reconsider their decision. However, with the ordinance still in place, the future of Amboy Avenue remains uncertain.
