Update: On February 12, 2026, the Council passed all 5 zoning ordinances. The project now moves to Planning Board review — resident involvement remains critical.
Ridgewood is at a Crossroads
Ridgewood is under court pressure to meet state-mandated affordable housing requirements. The decisions made now — about zoning, development scale, and planning priorities — will shape our neighborhoods for decades.
Ridgewood United is a resident-led group working to ensure these obligations are met thoughtfully, transparently, and without sacrificing safety, neighborhood character, or local control.
What's Happening Now?
On February 12, 2026, the Ridgewood Village Council voted to pass all five ordinances, including the S-1 Senior Overlay Zone that permits an assisted living facility at North Maple Avenue, Franklin Avenue, and Marshall Street.
The zoning changes are now adopted.
The project will next move to the Planning Board for site plan review. Residents still have opportunities to influence the outcome.
The Bigger Picture
Ridgewood must demonstrate to the courts that it has:
A realistic, enforceable housing plan
Zoning tools that can actually produce affordable units
A good-faith, village-wide approach — not a single rushed deal
How Ridgewood responds now will determine whether planning remains local — or is imposed by the courts.
This is not just about one building.
What Ridgewood United Stands For
Safe streets and walkable neighborhoods
Responsible development that fits its surroundings
Transparent public process and resident input
Meeting housing obligations without unnecessary overdevelopment
Long-term planning instead of short-term pressure
How you can help
Attend public meetings
Speaking during the public hearing places your remarks in the official record. See upcoming meetings and tips.
Community Voices Matter
Email the Board and Council
Protect Ridgewood's character. Please email your concerns to the town council and planning board.
Share facts
Request a lawn sign, distribute flyers, donate and point neighbors to our Facebook group.
"My kids cross Franklin every morning — adding ambulances and deliveries here makes those crossing less safe."
Ridgewood Resident
"We support senior housing done right. Show the data, size for peak storms, and keep kids safe at crossings."
Ridgewood Resident
Contact
Quick links
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A volunteer-run information site by Ridgewood residents; not affiliated with the Village or Kensington. Content is informational only and not legal advice. Trademarks belong to their owners.