VANICK Properties is before the Village Board with a proposal to build a 136,500 square foot shopping on Red Schoolhouse Rd called “The Village Green” backing up on Montvale New Jersey.   As part of their proposal, VANICK is proposing a zone change from “LO” (Laboratory Office) to “RS” (National Regional Retail Use District.  The Village Board is holding Public Hearings on the proposal to obtain public comment on the zone change and on environmental impacts that may result from the proposed project.  At the Public Hearing that began at the December 15 2011 Village Board Meeting and was continued at the January 19, 2012 Meeting, nearby residents, and the Mayor and other officials of  Montvale, New Jersey, were able express their views and concerns.  The Public Hearing will continue at the February 16, 2012 Village Board Meeting,

The Shopping Center design is inspired by the home town look of a village drawing on the Dutch Colonial style that is a part of Rockland’s heritage.  Extensive “landscaping, walkways and benches to give the space the feel of a village square” are proposed.  The “anchor” would be a full service grocery store with a plan for a free standing restaurant.  A project such as this, if approved, would have appositive effect on our taxes.

The Village Board is particularly concerned that the traffic that would be generated and with protecting the current stores in the Village.  We are especially focusing with the early morning and evening rush hours with cars using the exit and entrance for the Garden State Parkway extension (which is actually part of the NYS Thruway).   The Board is also concerned with protecting the quality of life and beauty of the Village.

The Village Board meets the third Thursday of every month.  Scheduled Meeting dates and the Village’s Zoning Law are available on our website www.chestnutridgevillage.org.  Interested residents can review the proposed shopping center plans at Village Hall, Monday through Friday 9:00 am to 4:00 pm.