Madison Drew University Redevelopment Study Heads To Public Hearing

MADISON, NJ — A proposal involving more than eight acres of Drew University property is heading before the Madison Planning Board, giving residents an opportunity to weigh in on whether the land should be designated for redevelopment.

The Borough of Madison announced that an investigation report covering two proposed parcels on the university campus will be presented at a public meeting Tuesday, Nov. 10.

Residents are encouraged to attend, ask questions and provide comments.

The report, available through the borough's Planning Board website, examines proposed Lots B and C within Block 3001, Lot 1, totaling approximately 8.369 acres.

Prepared by BFJ Planning and dated July 13, the report concludes that both parcels meet the statutory criteria for designation as non-condemnation areas in need of redevelopment.

However, that designation has not yet been finalized.

The borough council directed the investigation in January as part of a broader settlement involving Drew University property and Madison's affordable housing obligations.

According to the report, Lot B encompasses approximately 4.492 acres along the eastern portion of the campus. It includes Sitterly House and Lewis House, two former residences converted into faculty offices.

The report identifies several problems with the more than 100-year-old buildings, including "significant exterior damage", inadequate accessibility, no central air conditioning and a lack of fire suppression systems.

At Sitterly House, investigators documented a deteriorated wooden porch closed for safety reasons, along with roof damage and an unusable fire escape.

Both buildings also have stone foundations without waterproofing or insulation, while investigators found evidence of plant growth inside Sitterly House's basement.

Lot C, approximately 3.877 acres near Vinal Place, includes the Carriage House soccer field, parking areas and a community garden.

Investigators identified cracked pavement, damaged lighting and drainage-related concerns across the properties. The report also noted a dead tree near the athletic field.

Beyond the physical conditions, the study examines how redevelopment could support Madison's planning goals, including additional housing opportunities.

The report connects the proposed redevelopment designation to a settlement involving Drew University's surplus land and the borough's affordable housing planning.

Importantly, the investigation is limited to a non-condemnation designation. Eminent domain is not being considered for these parcels.

Following the public hearing, the Planning Board may recommend a course of action to the borough council, which would make the final designation decision.

Residents can review the full investigation report before the hearing and participate in the public discussion.

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