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Resident alleges widespread ADA sidewalk violations in Belford; township staff says some repairs are scheduled
Summary
At the June 24 Middletown meeting, resident Maureen Kramer presented photos and said she documented 43 ADA sidewalk violations in Belford and nearby Leonardo streets, urged township action and cautioned about potential federal enforcement; township staff acknowledged some sidewalk work is required under zoning and said at least one location is on a list for completion.
During public comment at the June 24 Middletown Township Committee meeting, Maureen Kramer of Belford said she had prepared a packet with photographs showing multiple sidewalk problems she said violate the Americans with Disabilities Act.
"I took pictures of 43 ADA violations according to the ADA law on the sidewalks," Kramer said, describing broken concrete, telephone poles placed in the center of sidewalks and gravel surfaces that force pedestrians into the street. She said she had contacted county officials and Jersey Central Power & Light and that some repairs appeared to be temporary.
Kramer said she considered filing a formal complaint with the U.S. Department of Justice but did not want to pursue enforcement that would cost taxpayers; she urged the township to inspect and correct the conditions and requested that officials review the packet she planned to drop off with staff.
A township representative replied that a sidewalk at one location was required by zoning when a new lessee occupied an old JCP&L building, and that work remained on a list for completion. The representative encouraged Kramer to bring the packet to staff for review.
Why it matters: Sidewalks that do not meet ADA standards can create hazards for people with mobility limitations and expose municipalities to federal enforcement or remediation costs. Kramer’s account highlights multiple locations and requests direct township follow‑up.
Next steps: Kramer asked for a staff response after the township reviews her packet; no comprehensive remediation timeline was provided in the meeting record.
