Hearing For Facility At Lawrence Historic House To Resume In February

LAWRENCEVILLE, NJ — On January 18, the Lawrence Township Zoning Board held the application hearing for Care One Management LLC's proposed assisted living facility at the historic William Gulick House.

However, an assisted living facility is not permitted in the residential Environmental Protection-1 zone.

The meeting saw a large number of residents present, as the developer outlined changes to their plans for the 172-bed assisted living facility. According to the project engineer Michael Thomas, the developers have reduced the number of parking spots from 126 to 100 spaces. This would allow for a buffer between the proposed building and the historic house.

Additionally, the developers are trying to preserve the trees already on site. At least seven of the trees between the buildings will be preserved and efforts will be made to supplement it with additional tree planting. However, Thomas said those trees may have to be removed if they prove to be a hindrance while relocating the historic house.

The developers had also requested the installation of a monument sign along Province Line Road, to make vehicles aware of the presence of the assisted living facility. However, the request was withdrawn.

During the public comment section of the meeting, residents expressed their concerns over the project. Resident Richard Ordowich raised questions about the feasibility of moving the historic Gulick House.

"The original costs of restoring it was estimated at $1.7 million and the sale price was estimated at $1.5 million in 2016 and that was on the 7-acre lot. So I think there is some question about the intent," Ordowich said. "In the meantime, Care One has left the building to deteriorate further."

Based on their previous testimony and the fact the developers "changed their tune" several times over the years, Ordowich suggested that the Township review the "character of the organization" as part of the application process.

Resident Judy Hunt told the Board that she moved to Lawrence Township in 1980 and always appreciated the beauty and history behind Gulick House.

"It's a sin and it's terrible that they let this historic, wonderful, unique house go to hell in a handbasket. I don't know why they bought the property if they knew it wasn't zoned properly," Hunt said. "I hope to goodness that in some way it can be preserved."

The architect and other professionals associated with the project are expected to give testimony at the next meeting which will be held on Feb. 15.

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