Scotch Plains Seeks Resident Input On Master Plan Update

SCOTCH PLAINS, NJ - Scotch Plains is asking residents to complete a community-wide survey as part of a required update to the township's master plan, with a deadline at the end of July.

State law requires every municipality to update its master plan every 10 years. The Scotch Plains Planning Board has been working on the update since last year. Councilmember Ellen Zimmerman, who is helping lead the effort alongside Director of Planning and Community Development Tom Strowe, said the survey is a critical step in shaping the document.

The master plan covers land use, housing, transportation, economic development, recreation, open space and sustainability. Based on input already received, the township is already updating its ordinances to allow for new additions — including breweries and rooftop dining in commercial corridors, where appropriate.

"Consider the Master Plan to be much more than a redevelopment document," Zimmerman wrote in a message to residents Thursday. "It is a comprehensive blueprint that touches nearly every aspect of daily life in Scotch Plains."

Mayor Josh Losardo and Strowe recently visited the township's Farmers' Market to share information about the survey and take questions directly from residents. The goal is to analyze public feedback and present a drafted master plan to the Planning Board and Township Council by fall.

The survey is available on the township website at scotchplainsnj.gov.

Have a correction or news tip? Email sarah.salvadore@patch.com