FAq

What is a Redevelopment/Vision Plan?

A Redevelopment Plan is a zoning tool to define and implement a vision and regulate land use of an area. But more than that, it is a way to empower communities to improve the quality of life and environment. Forward Bound Doremus aims to establish a cohesive vision that addresses the economic, social, and physical changes of the Doremus Port-Industrial District.

What topics and elements will the Redevelopment / Vision Plan include?

We believe that a successful Port-Industrial Redevelopment and Vision Plan process will build the basis for a cohesive vision for equitable, economic, social, and physical improvements in the study area. The plan will address:

• Land Use and Urban Design Master Plan

• Streetscape Plan Schematics and Specimen Palette

• Transportation and Connectivity Recommendations

With the core principles of Equity, Resilience, Health, and Sustainability incorporated into every aspect.

Which neighborhoods are included in the Redevelopment Plan?

The plan will focus on the core area of Newark’s Industrial District, anchored by Doremus Avenue corridor. Bounded by the Passaic River in the north and east, I-78 and Port Newark to the south, and on the west is bounded by Routes 9 & 1 through to Foundry and Chapel Streets, where the Port-Industrial comes into contact with the residential neighborhoods of North Ironbound and East Ferry. The Study Area includes the Doremus, East Ferry and Wilson neighborhoods. To see if your home or business falls within the study area, check out the map here.

Why are we creating a Redevelopment / Vision Plan, and why now?

Newark is entering an exciting period of rapid growth coupled with increased environmental threats and stressors. Industrial uses have been encroaching into surrounding residential areas, highlighting the need to better manage the interaction between industrial and non-industrial uses. Advancements in industrial technology and recent and frequent flooding are elements that need to be addressed in order to support long term sustainability, environmental justice, and economic vitality of the area. Join us now to create a collaborative and inclusive plan that integrates equity, resilience, health, and sustainability to envision the future of Doremus Port-Industrial District for the next 10 years.

How is Forward Bound Doremus different from previous plans?

We know that there have been previous plans, and that the Port Authority of NY and NJ is embarking on a master plan which will heavily impact the study area. And we also understand that there are multiple stakeholders with opposing interests. Forward Bound Doremus is different because it will focus on the core area of the Port-Industrial District and will balance the needs of industry and the community, while positioning the city for economic and environmental resilience. This can only be done in a partnership with you, the stakeholders, and citizens of the area.

Who is leading this Redevelopment Plan?

The planning process will be led by WRT, and supported and guided by the City of Newark Department of Economic and Housing Development Office of Planning and Zoning with support from the Office of Planning & Sustainability and Department of Engineering, as well as Bloomberg Associates. The Planning Team will also benefit from the advice and feedback of a broader Steering Committee and Community Ambassadors that will help ensure that this planning process is integrated into the surrounding communities.

Who is part of the Consultant Team, and what is their role?

The Consultant Team is led by Wallace, Roberts and Todd (WRT), a national urban planning and design firm based in Philadelphia. Ninigret Partners will serve as the economic development and strategies consultants, and T&M Associates as the local full-service engineering firm.

The Consultant Team’s role is to lead the planning process and create a Redevelopment Plan. The team was selected based on part on their commitment and proven ability to design and implement a vision that will balance the needs of industry, the environment, and community while positioning the city for increased economic and environmental resilience.

How was the Consultant Team selected?

The City of Newark released a Request for Proposals (RFP) in May 2019 for urban design and planning firms with experience in planning and economic development of industrial areas. WRT was selected based on its proven history of designing resilience communities that demonstrate how growth can be guided in a sustainable manner that promotes economic vitality and enhances community identity and quality of life.

What is the timeline for the start and completion?

The project had a soft launch in January 2020 and was on-track to deliver a collaborative Redevelopment Plan in August 2020. However, due to COVID-19 we had to pause to re-calibrate the project timeline and our process to follow social distancing guidelines and virtual engagement. But we are back and ready to start working with you to shape the future of the Doremus Port-Industrial District. The plan will be developed through four flexible and overlapping phases, starting with the work we did in February 2020 and finishing in May 2021. This sequence of steps has consistently delivered plans that are thorough, actionable, and supported by their community.

Phase 1: INITIATION – Project Kick-Off + Existing Conditions Analysis

Phase 2: EXPLORATION – Issues and Opportunities + Concept Plans

Phase 3: VALIDATION – Plan Development

Phase 4: DOCUMENTATION – Draft and Final Redevelopment Plan

Virtual visioning and consensus building meetings are planned throughout the four phases, with the goal to continue building on the engagement the City has already conducted for the area.

How can I get involved?

All residents, business owners, employees, and other connections to the Doremus Port-Industrial District are encouraged to participate in our planning to move Forward towards an equitable, resilient, healthy, and sustainable future of the Port-Industrial District. See how you can get involved by clicking here or contact us with questions or comments.

How will the planning process deal with the COVID-19 situation?

We will utilize multiple approaches for community participation, communication, and idea-sharing in these trying times. To ensure that we are engaging in a safe and inclusive manner, we will utilize technology, social media, phone, and email as well as limited in-person engagement events and activities to connect with you throughout the planning process.

Are you currently doing in-person meetings for the project?

Due to COVID-19, all large gatherings and in-person meetings of more than 10 people will be moved to be done virtually for public safety. But, understanding the current challenges and digital divide in some communities, we will also conduct limited in-person engagement activities. Check out the calendar and City of Newark Facebook Page to stay up to date and informed about upcoming meetings and ways to stay involved in the project.

What if I have a question or feedback on engagement?

We welcome all questions and feedback! You can email us with questions or comments at shindep@ci.newark.nj.us and we will get back to you.

What is the Ambassador Team?

Select members of the Newark People’s Assembly, along with other residents in the neighborhood, will be critical members of our team serving as the Community Ambassadors. Using the same mission, the Ambassador’s will help shape and guide the planning process to create a redevelopment plan that balances the needs of industry, the environment, and community.

If I don’t have the internet at my house, how can I get involved?

We are committed to equity and inclusion. While some methods of participation will require and internet connection, many will not. With the help our community ambassadors, we will have limited in-person engagement activities including monthly town-hall meetings, community mapping exercises, and idea boards to get your feedback! Watch your mail for surveys and flyers with updates and listen for information on the radio.

How is the Redevelopment / Vision Plan going to be implemented after completion?

The plan will include an implementation strategy that lays out short-, medium-, and long-term projects and actions. The planning process will conclude with the formation of various topic-specific implementation task forces composed of community members and key stakeholders.