Hopewell Township took another step toward meeting its affordable housing obligations Monday by approving a conditional redevelopment agreement with Kushner Real Estate Group for a proposed 250-unit housing development known as “The Wedge.”
The property, located along Scotch Road between the two entrances to Hopewell Parc, would help satisfy the Township’s remaining Round 3 affordable housing obligation.
The agreement begins a 180-day period during which the Township and developer will negotiate a comprehensive redevelopment agreement outlining project details, including the number of affordable housing units. The developer will also reimburse the Township for costs already incurred, including appraisals, planning and legal expenses associated with the project.
Mayor David Chait emphasized that Monday’s action does not constitute project approval.
“It starts the negotiation of a redevelopment agreement, and nothing is approved yet,” Chait said.
Kushner Real Estate Group previously developed The Hopewell Chapter community off Samuel Peterson Drive.
Residents Continue Seeking Relief from Pickleball Noise
Residents living near Independence Park again urged Township officials to find a solution to noise generated by pickleball play during a working session held as part of Monday’s Township Committee meeting.
The four dual-purpose courts, originally constructed as tennis courts by Hovnanian Homes as part of the Brandon Farms development, were later re-striped to accommodate pickleball as the sport’s popularity increased.
Residents described the repetitive sound of pickleball play as disruptive to everyday life, saying it limits their ability to enjoy their yards and decks and can even be heard inside their homes.
“Imagine sitting in your backyards and homes and listening to thousands of loud, sharp, repetitive pops that carry a long distance,” one resident said. “It’s very difficult.”
Pickleball is played with a hard plastic ball and a hard racquet. The noise that generates with loud “pops” can average about 70 decibels. That volume is about the same as running a vacuum cleaner or the sound of highway traffic.
Township officials acknowledged the concerns while noting the growing demand for both tennis and pickleball courts, creating what they described as a difficult balancing act.
The Township has been working with residents for several years and has formed a subcommittee to explore possible solutions. The latest concept would convert the existing four dual-purpose courts into three dedicated tennis courts and three dedicated pickleball courts. The pickleball courts would be enclosed with sound-attenuating panels intended to reduce noise.
Several residents questioned whether the proposal would adequately address their concerns and suggested the Township explore partnering with Lawrence Township to build pickleball facilities farther from residential neighborhoods.
Committee members said they wanted additional information about the effectiveness of the proposed sound mitigation measures and stressed that the proposal remains in its early stages.
“This is an ongoing process,” Chait said.
Committee Recognizes Community Members
The Township Committee honored the life of Evelyn Frances Brooks (Dunn) of Hopewell Borough following her recent passing at age 105.
A resolution recognized Brooks as the matriarch of five generations, a devoted member of Second Calvary Baptist Church, a family historian and a generous community member whose impact extended throughout Hopewell Valley.
The committee also recognized Rosemary Novak upon her retirement after 18 years as a Hopewell Township school crossing guard, describing her as a “trusted guardian of our community’s youth” and a “beloved fixture in the community.”
Novak is also a life member of the Hopewell Emergency Medical Unit, where she served as chief for six years.
Police Promotions Approved
The Township Committee approved three promotions within the Hopewell Township Police Department.
Lt. Louis Vastola was promoted to captain, Sgt. Nicholas Sparaco was promoted to lieutenant and Patrol Officer Paul Alvaro was promoted to sergeant.
An official swearing-in ceremony honoring the officers is scheduled for Wednesday, Aug. 26, at 6 p.m. at Hopewell Valley Central High School.
