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Planning board unanimously approves 16-unit, 100% affordable housing project at 1–11 Serpentine Road
Summary
The Tenafly Planning Board approved a preliminary and final site plan for a three-story, 16-unit affordable housing building at 1–11 Serpentine Road, granting a variance for the landscape buffer and requiring conditions including two benches and coordination on trash pickup. Vote was 7–0.
The Tenafly Planning Board on Jan. 28 approved a preliminary and final site plan for a three‑story, 100% affordable housing building at 1–11 Serpentine Road after hearing engineering and architectural testimony.
Mark Martins, the applicant’s engineer, described the proposal as "a new dwelling that is 100% affordable housing with sixteen (16) units," with below‑grade parking providing 27 assigned spaces, including three handicap spaces and five electric vehicle spaces. The plan calls for two 24‑inch perforated HDB pipes under the parking area for stormwater retention and a new connection to Dean Drive.
Architect James Virgona told the board the unit mix will include three three‑bedroom units, three one‑bedroom units and ten two‑bedroom units; he said unit sizes exceed the minimums implemented in January 2025 and that the community room is intended for residents only. Virgona also confirmed the building will not include an emergency generator.
Board members questioned shielding toward the adjacent cemetery, tree plantings, drainage, parking and sidewalks. Martins agreed to use evergreen trees as a buffer and to add two benches along the streetscape. The applicant proposed removing 18 trees and replacing 32. Board Planner David Novak said the project helps address the Borough’s Third Round housing obligations and noted the site assembly dates back about ten years.
Board attorney Andrew Coder summarized conditions that would be written into a resolution, including the landscaping, benches and coordination with the Director of Public Works on trash pickup. Jon Warms moved and Nichole Osborne seconded approval; voting yes were Chairwoman Mary Beth Wilmit, Nichole Osborne, Jon Warms, Ted Nevins, Lynda Baldini, Councilwoman Lauren Dayton and Mayor Mark Zinna. The motion passed 7–0.
The board’s approval is subject to the conditions set forth in the engineer and planner reports and the items summarized by counsel.
