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March 2010 – week 1 Issue
Modular Homes Made More Energy Efficient
Fare Hikes in Bergen County
Events for Tenafly Residents
Pedestrian Safety in New Jersey
Real Estate Construction in Edgewater
Modular Homes Made More Energy Efficient
Home buyers who today prefer energy efficient options can benefit greatly from the new trend of modular homes. Modular homes are pre-designed and set up in modules, so their design can integrate energy efficiency into its elements quite well. This was seen in practice when such a structure received the Energy star certification by the New Jersey Clean Energy program. In order to create energy star certified buildings, builders often have to spend somewhat more – usually 2% o 3% more than in conventional construction. Many real estate experts feel that investment is worthwhile, as these homes can save 20% to 30% on energy. Also, as modular homes are assembled, rather than constructed, at the site, it is much easier to insulate them thoroughly. The energy wastage is minimal, as modular houses have standard sizes and all boards are cut using computerized saws that minimize lost energy through rough edges. For those concerned about personalization of homes, modular home providers assure that small changes can be incorporated onsite.
Residents of Bergen County towns and commuters in other New Jersey regions may now see substantial hikes in transit fares. NJ Transit has revealed that rate increases are included in its current plans as an important measure to offset its $300 million budget gap. While fares were noted to rise drastically by 9%in 2007, the exact figures for 2010 are still to be revealed. Besides increasing rates, NJ Transit also plans to reduce a few trains from each line. Bus commuters can also expect to wait longer for their buses. To cover the gap in its budget, the agency will also cut down on its staff and reduce salaries by up to five percent. The changes are expected to take place in the summer, and agency officials promise that they plan to make the transition as trouble-free manner as possible. For residents who wish to express their opinions on these changes, four public meetings have been scheduled. While the plans will help improve the financial situation of NJ Transit, critics are concerned that this move may make public transport unaffordable and that more people will prefer personal transport with these hikes, causing traffic and pollution problems.
A range of events are scheduled for residents of Tenafly in March. A few of these eagerly awaited events include a wine sampling reception, a dinner and silent auction at Tenafly Nature Center, and a maple sugaring workshop. The wine sampling, cheese and dessert reception is being conducted by the Solomon Schechter Day School at the Café Angelique in Tenafly. Organized by school authorities, proceeds from this event will go to fund an Israel trip for eight graders of the school. The seventh annual dinner and silent auction of Tenafly Nature Center is also being held on 7 March. At this event, Tenafly Mayor Peter Rustin will receive the Tenafly Nature Center’s Founders’ Award for conservation. Funds raised in the event will help further conservation efforts by TNC. In the maple sugaring workshop, also conducted by the Tenafly Nature Center, participants will learn how to identify a maple tree, learn the history of syrup making and understand the technologies used in syrup making. The workshop designed for children and adults takes place on 7 March.
Pedestrian Safety in New Jersey
In order to make life safer and commuting easier for residents of New Jersey, drivers will be required to come to a complete stop at occupied crosswalks. This means that, instead of just waiting for a pedestrian to cross, the driver will now have to stop the vehicle completely as long as the pedestrian is in the crosswalk. The issue of improving pedestrian safety is of growing importance and officials understand the need to address it as quickly and as meaningfully as possible. Across New Jersey, all towns have pedestrians who need to cross at busy intersections. Bergenfield, for example, is only two square miles, but so many vehicles pass through the area that it is unsafe for pedestrians. In Englewood, approximately 10,000 cars move through the downtown area every day, making it potentially hazardous for pedestrians. While the new law is expected to take effect from 1 April, officials understand that it will take a considerable amount of time for drivers to get used to the regulation.
Real Estate Construction in Edgewater
A development project planned in Edgewater has been scaled back. Planned along River Road, the construction was to have consisted of 32 units in a four-story building. The number of units in it has now been reduced to 21, and the parking spaces allotted to residents will also be reduced. The building will, however, still have one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments. Known as the Crown Village Condominiums, this work will require approximately six variances from the borough code. This includes the permission to construct a taller building and to have more units per acre. The main challenge facing the project is objections by the Edgewater Board of Education, as the Eleanor Van Gelder School is next door. The school’s administration is concerned that the construction could increase traffic and endanger school children who commute to the area. The next public hearing for this project is scheduled on 7 April.
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