Council adopts encroachment permit ordinance for scaffolding at 959 Elizabeth Avenue

Elizabeth City Council on June 11 adopted Ordinance No. 6137 to grant an encroachment permit to Life Assets Design Corp. to erect temporary scaffolding with debris netting within the sidewalk area of Elizabeth Avenue and South Spring Street as part of exterior renovations at 959 Elizabeth Avenue.

The Division of Engineering reviewed the application submitted April 22, 2025, and recommended approval conditioned on execution of a hold-harmless agreement acceptable to the Law Department, compliance with the Uniform Construction Code and any requirements of the City of Elizabeth Construction Department, and submission of proof of insurance. The ordinance states the anticipated duration of the encroachment is approximately two months and, because the encroachment was deemed superficial, no bond was required.

Why it matters: The permit authorizes temporary construction activity in the public right-of-way and requires compliance with safety and construction rules to protect pedestrians, street trees and lighting.

Council vote: The ordinance was adopted on final passage by a recorded vote of seven in favor, none opposed (Council members Cuesta; Perkins-Auguste; Torres; Gonzalez; Gallman; Mazza; and President Cedeno). The ordinance takes effect 20 days after final passage and mayoral approval, as provided by law.

Text and conditions: The minutes and ordinance language require compliance with the Uniform Construction Code, satisfaction of the Construction Code Official on structural design and installation, and maintenance of liability and workers’ compensation insurance for the life of the encroachment; proof of insurance is to be kept on file in the Division of Engineering.