Township approves multiple housing projects including 35 units at Rabbinical College site

The Morris Township Planning Board convened on June 16, 2025, to discuss several key developments aimed at addressing housing needs within the community. The meeting focused on various proposed projects, including townhome developments and affordable housing initiatives.

The first item on the agenda was the proposal for 291 James Street, where the property owner suggested rezoning the site for townhouse development. The board noted a consensus that this location could accommodate 13 townhomes, with a 20% set aside for affordable housing, resulting in three affordable units.

Next, the board reviewed a proposal from Community Hope to develop a special needs group home on township-owned property. This project aims to provide five affordable housing units, which would receive one-for-one credit under the housing plan.

The discussion then shifted to the JCP&L site at 300 Madison, where a developer proposed constructing townhomes and stacked flats. The board favored the townhome option, suggesting it aligns better with existing developments in the area. This project is expected to yield 118 units, with 24 designated as affordable housing.

Another significant proposal was for 100 Southgate Parkway, where the redevelopment of an office building is planned. The developer aims to construct 104 townhomes, with 21 units set aside as affordable. The site’s constraints, including floodways, were acknowledged, but the board deemed townhomes appropriate given the surrounding low-density residential areas.

The board also considered a project at 60 Columbia Road, which is proposed to be the densest development discussed. The plan includes 84 affordable units, taking advantage of the site’s access to major roads and its proximity to non-residential neighbors.

Additionally, the Rabbinical College campus on Sussex Avenue was highlighted for its potential to develop 35 affordable housing units within a townhome community. This project includes plans for a trail system that would connect to the township's existing trails.

In summary, the board reviewed multiple housing projects, emphasizing the importance of affordable units in each development. The total proposed affordable units across these projects include 3 at James Street, 5 from Community Hope, 24 at Madison, 21 at Southgate, 84 at Columbia, and 35 at the Rabbinical College, contributing significantly to the township's housing goals. The meeting concluded with discussions on addressing any potential deficiencies from previous housing obligations, ensuring that Morris Township remains proactive in its housing strategy.