Proposed Zoning Changes In Newark Survive Vote From City Council

NEWARK, NJ — A series of sweeping changes to Newark’s zoning laws took a big step towards the finish line this week.

The Newark City Council voted 5-2 with two abstentions in favor of an ordinance that would greenlight the zoning changes on Wednesday. Read the full text here.

The proposed ordinance would update Newark’s zoning and land use regulations, laying out new rules for building heights and density, and allowing for some new permitted uses in the city, such as “accessory dwelling units.” Read More: Ball Rolling Again On Proposed Zoning Changes In Newark (See What’s In Store)

Some residents have praised the proposed changes, which officials say will result in better “walkability” and the creation of more housing – a perpetual hot-button issue in Newark. But other residents are concerned that the plan will clear the way for a variety of negative development in a city that is already the most populated place in New Jersey.

During a pre-meeting discussion held on Tuesday, Damon Rich – an urban planner and "Genius Grant" recipient hired by local advocacy group South Ward Environmental Alliance to analyze the proposed changes – told the council that there are still some serious questions and concerns (watch the video below, cued to Rich's comments. Article continues below).

Deputy mayor Allison Ladd, the city’s director of economic and housing development, has maintained that administrators have made “substantial” changes after getting feedback from concerned community members (watch the below video from Tuesday's pre-meeting).

The current version of the ordinance saw support from Council President Lamonica McIver, who added that there may still be some additional tweaks if necessary.

The council will have to vote a second time on the ordinance and hold a public hearing before it is finalized, possibly at their Oct. 18 meeting.

Watch footage from Wednesday's council meeting below (video is cued to the vote on the zoning changes).

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