As school begins in Hopewell Valley, Borough Council meetings continue to feature extensive discussion about the redevelopment plans for the building site at 57 Hamilton Avenue, a project colloquially known as “Hopewell 57.”
Robustly populated bus stops in the immediate vicinity are a major point of contention for neighbors of the future development. One need only drive — slowly — through that section of town in the mornings to catch a glimpse of how many children live in the area. For their part, Council continues to contend that everything will be done to ensure a pleasant and safe transition toward a more progressive housing stock in the Borough.
Hopewell 57 Redevelopment Sparks Concerns Over Housing Density
Officially, the wheels have been set in motion for up to 130 units of multi-family housing with the Borough committing to a PILOT program and other incentives that come with its having been designated an “area in need of redevelopment.
Unofficially, however, residents are making known their disapproval with many people citing increased housing density as a major concern. That density—30 units per acre—has raised the hackles, not only of the neighbors along Hamilton and Lafayette Streets, but also of residents further flung in the Borough.
Efforts to assuage the ire of commenters at the September meeting were met with mixed results. One person, a local architect and long-time Hopewellian, chided Council for not providing an attorney who could answer legal questions; the Borough’s regular attorney, as well as its mayor, were compelled to recuse themselves, once again, during discussion on the project.
Residents are encouraged to attend a meeting with the developer of Hopewell 57 to take place on September 24, 7pm, at Borough Hall. While no site plan will be unveiled, there will be some conceptual drawings on display and a chance for Q&A.
Council Addresses Dilapidated Buildings, Including Former Franco’s Pizzeria
In general, the Borough continues to address the issues of local business, infrastructure, and housing, all of which were featured in the campaigns of current members of council and the mayor. Twine’s Melissa Cookman inquired about the old pizzeria building, formerly Franco’s, on the corner of Broad and Mercer Streets, to which Mayor Kennedy responded saying that things were in the works to address the dilapidated condition of that building and others in the Borough.
Borough Council to Address Potential Water System Sale in 2025
Also on the minds of Council and residents alike, the potential sale of the water system was discussed during the meeting last Thursday night. Thanks in part to the efforts of Food & Water Watch and concerned citizens, a petition was successfully submitted by the August 5 deadline, forcing a referendum on the question of whether or not the Borough can pursue the sale of its water infrastructure.
An official statement regarding that petition notwithstanding, Council has said there is not enough time to prepare for the required vote this year. As a result, it will be November, 2025 before residents will be asked for their input regarding the water sale.
Community Events and Infrastructure Updates Highlight Borough Council Meeting
In the meantime, Councilmember Doug Mackie reported that the Borough’s application for a DEP grant in excess of $2 million was accepted, which would provide much needed capital for repairs and installation of treatment equipment.
Committee reports were brief. Krista Weaver invited attendees and viewers to the celebration at Borough Hall marking the success of her Pedestrian and Bicycle Safety Committee’s grant application (link to story). Heidi Wilenius mentioned the Green Team will have a tent at the local farmer’s market. Recreation invites all to stop by the Hopewell Harvest Fair on September 21 and Hopewell Porch Fest will take place on October 13.
