Comprised of a variety of residential areas ranging from older established communities on small lots to multi-family townhouse developments, neighborhood shopping areas, substantial office and industrial activity, and large areas of woodlands, open space, steep slopes, wetlands and streams, the Township of Montville’s diverse landscape stands as a microcosm of North Jersey. Burgis Associates, Inc. responded to this unique landscape and its associated broad array of planning issues with the preparation of a new comprehensive planning document, which was ultimately crafted to protect the Township’s most attractive features, maintain its community neighborhoods, promote development in appropriate areas, and respond to the Township’s inclusion in the Highland’s Area.
The Plan included specific planning goals that were based on an extensive compilation of background data. Furthermore, additional area-specific goals were added to address the needs of distinct sections of the Township. One such area of focus was the Towaco Train station, in which the Plan envisioned a transit-oriented area featuring compatible mixed land uses in a compact design. The Towaco Center Master Plan received the NJPO award for Achievement in Planning for incorporating smart growth principles in its visioning of a walkable downtown in Montville. Recently, the municipality has begun to see the plan’s efforts implemented, as three projects in the area have been approved, one of which is now under construction.
Elements
- Land Use
- Historic Preservation
- Community Facilities
- Circulation
- Affordable Housing
