Development News for Hillsdale, New Jersey

Hillsdale Board Approves Mixed-Use Redevelopment with Residential Expansion and Variances

The board reviewed revised architectural plans for a second-floor residential expansion in an existing mixed-use building at 424 and 432 Hillsdale Avenue. The project proposes three two-bedroom residential units and site improvements. Key revisions addressed concerns about a proposed clock tower, reducing its size and removing the clock function while keeping it within a height requirement. Other changes included revisions to parking layout, ADA space, refuse enclosure, fencing, and lighting coordination. The applicant sought variances for D1 use (residential in C zone), D2 expansion of a non-conforming use, D6 height for the tower element, and C variances for front setback, propane facility transparency, and commercial parking. The board discussed the tower's aesthetic purpose, the overhanging structure potentially crossing lot lines, and parking assignments. Ultimately, the project was approved with numerous conditions, including construction according to revised plans, a six-foot brick veneered wall screening the propane tank, assigned parking, a license from the council for any right-of-way projection, a residential sprinkler system, private trash hauling before business hours, and a six-month lighting look-back. The approval also noted the need for potential tree removal and addressing existing window/door conditions.