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Commission weighs pedestrian walkway, missing fence and litter near Rutgers Plaza
Summary
Commissioners reviewed an inspection of Rutgers Plaza that found a missing fence section creating an informal pedestrian path into adjacent Franklin Greens housing, noted litter there and discussed possible interventions including a formal walkway, selective fencing and working with nearby stores to manage shopping‑cart loss.
A commission member reported on an inspection of the parking area behind Rutgers Plaza and said a missing fence section has become an informal pedestrian path into adjacent Franklin Greens, which has led to extra litter in that pocket.
The commissioner recommended creating a formal pedestrian walkway and adjusting fencing so people can walk through but vehicles cannot. “That area… has some extra litter because it serves as an invitation for some folks to litter,” the commissioner said, and added that a more formal path with posts could allow foot access while barring cars.
Members discussed whether shopping carts were being lost in the area and whether stores might pilot a cart‑management solution or provide a pickup location. Commissioners noted the stores keep inventory records and would know if carts were missing; one member suggested a pilot to see whether a dedicated cart slot and store pickup would reduce dumping.
The commission agreed to monitor the site, share the inspection photos with staff, and consider referring options—dumpsters, fencing adjustments or a formal pedestrian route—to the planning board or relevant departments for follow‑up.
