Planning Board Gives Okay to New Townhouses at former CG Base
Tuesday, December 30, 2008
By Linda Boker-Angelo
The Gloucester City Planning Board last week approved plans for 29 new townhomes to be built on “Freedom Pier,” the former Coast Guard pier which juts out into the Delaware River at King and Cumberland Streets.
The primary concern both the Board’s engineer and the City planner had was the issue of parking.
City Solicitor John Kearney explained that workers in the office building on the site use the available parking lot. Even though the building is at capacity, there are still plenty of spaces available.
During his presentation, Kearney said another parking lot is planned for the waterfront development to accommodate any special events that may be held.
Kearney added that the City’s governing body is overseeing the project, and, having the City’s best interests at heart, they would not approve anything which would be detrimental to the surrounding residents quality of life.
The board also approved the installation of an 875-square-foot freezer addition on the building housing Primo Hoagies and Nellie Provisions, at 900 Jersey Avenue.
Attorney Charles Wigginton, representing property and business owners Anything L.L.C., led a brief presentation, explaining that his client needs more room to accommodate his growing business.
Engineers testified that the freezer’s condenser units would be placed on top of the building to prevent any disturbance to neighboring residents.
Wigginton said the units would be very well maintained, which would also help to keep them running as quietly as possible.
Neighbor John Lang was unhappy with the proposed plans, stating that the existing refrigeration units on the site are already noisy.
The Board approved the plans 8-1, with Steve Martorano casting the sole dissenting vote.
The Board will meet again at 7:30 p.m. on Wednesday, January 21, in City Hall, 313 Monmouth St.
