Summer brings about change, but not always the good kind. Whether it's the loud noises of construction waking us up bright and early, or the hundreds of violation notices regarding our sidewalks, there is always something going on in Montclair. Keep reading to learn about three new updates in the Montclair area.

Watchung Plaza Construction

On the way to get your morning bagel and coffee in Watchung Plaza, you may have noticed the entirety of the center park is closed. The town hopes to make the plaza more accessible to people with disabilities, creating an overall more welcoming and navigable environment. The construction started on May 23rd, and Montclair residents can expect the center of the plaza to be closed for six to eight weeks while it occurs. The project includes repaving and repairing brick pavers, the addition of concrete pads and pervious asphalt paving systems, and relocating or furnishing/installing park benches and picnic tables. The project also includes the overall restoration of the site, including landscaping and electrical improvements. 

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Overnight Parking

Residents will be excited to know there will soon be more options for overnight parking in Montclair. An ordinance was passed expanding eligibility for overnight parking across the town. Under the ordinance, residents will have the option to purchase a parking permit for a $45 monthly fee, meaning they will be able to park from 5:00 PM to 8:00 AM the following morning. The permit is known as an “S” permit, and applications to obtain one started on May 28th. To apply, residents will need proof of address and a valid driver's license or state-issued ID. There is limited availability for each street, and waitlists will be created once they reach their capacity. See the website for more information on how to apply. 

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Sidewalks

Homeowners in Montclair are now required to maintain their sidewalks structurally and pay for any costs this entails. The ordinance went into action on April 1st, and since then, over 170 violation notices have been issued with a 45-day time frame for residents to complete repairs. Many of those recipients have been vocal about their unhappiness with the fines. It has been noted that if sidewalks are even a quarter of an inch out of line with the grade, they will need to be repaired. This is a federal requirement under the Americans with Disabilities Act.

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