Ridgewood proposes $1.5M for Shetler property remediation, seeks grants for train-station tunnel; 2025 capital stays under $7.5M cap

Ridgewood officials on Feb. 27 presented a 2025 capital budget proposal totaling approximately $7.486 million when carryovers and previously introduced ordinances are included. The package includes an urgent $1.5 million recommendation for soil remediation at the Shetler property, a $400,000 placeholder to strengthen grant applications for a train-station pedestrian tunnel, and multiple equipment and park upgrades the administration says are needed for public safety and accessibility.

"We need to put a substantial amount of money away because without question, there is going to need to be excavation on that property," Keith (staff member) said in presenting capital-line recommendations and a pending Matrix report on the Shetler site. Staff recommended $1,500,000 in bonding to prepare for excavation and remediation work once Matrix delivers its delineation and remediation plan; the village also plans to pursue insurance and JIF claims where possible to recover costs.

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