Scotch Plains Master Plan Update Reveals Residents' Top Concerns

SCOTCH PLAINS, NJ — Downtown improvements and flooding are emerging as major priorities as Scotch Plains works toward adopting an updated township master plan.

In a Friday, Oct. 9, statement, Mayor Josh Losardo said the township hopes to adopt the plan by December.

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According to Losardo, 79% of community survey respondents were satisfied or extremely satisfied with life in Scotch Plains.

"Two issues in particular rose to the top: our downtown and flooding," Losardo said.

Residents expressed interest in additional restaurants, retail and gathering spaces. In May, Scotch Plains Township and its designated redeveloper, Woodmont Properties, publicly presented a proposed downtown redevelopment project featuring 10,000 square feet of new retail and restaurant space.

The proposal also includes a large public plaza along Park Avenue that would complement the Alan Augustine Village Green and provide another gathering place for residents.

The township also aims to preserve the distinctive character and architecture that make downtown Scotch Plains unique.

"While flooding is a regional problem that extends well beyond our borders, there are things we can do here in Scotch Plains to help address it," he said.

Current efforts include a New Jersey Institute of Technology (NJIT) study monitoring water levels at four flood-prone locations, an inventory of stormwater infrastructure and a new rain garden initiative for residents.

The township's Department of Public Works is also increasing efforts to keep waterways and storm basins clear of debris.

Scotch Plains continues to advocate for long-term solutions through its membership in the Green Brook Flood Control Commission, including federal efforts to involve the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers in studying and developing flood-control measures.

Residents can learn more about the proposed downtown plans on the township's Scotch Plains Downtown Redevelopment webpage.

Losardo emphasized that the master plan itself does not rezone properties.

Residents can follow updates through the township's Master Plan Hub.

Have a correction or news tip? Email dani.sepe@patch.com.