Cluster Development Bill Ready for Full Vote in Senate and Assembly

March 13th, 2013 by Chris Sturm

Thanks to bi-partisan sponsors Green, Clifton, Van Drew and Oroho

Farmland in N. Hanover. Photo: Nicole Heater

Better planning tools may soon be available for municipalities, thanks to the cluster development bill, which received unanimous approval in Senate and Assembly committees last week and is now poised for votes in the full Senate and Assembly as early as next week.

New Jersey Future has worked with a powerful, diverse coalition to craft the cluster development bill, which has been introduced as A3761 and S2608. Special recognition goes to bipartisan sponsors Asms. Green (D-22) and Clifton (R-12) and Sens. Van Drew (D-1) and Oroho (R-24).

The bill is permissive. It amends the Municipal Land Use Law to update authority for contiguous and non-contiguous clustering and lot-size averaging. These tools enable municipalities to put development where it makes the most sense – where it will enhance their communities and where services can be provided in an efficient manner – and at the same time create parks and preserve the open spaces, farmland and historic sites their residents treasure. To learn more about the bill’s provisions, get updates, or sign up as a supporter, visit our informational web page.

New Jersey Future welcomes help in advancing the bill. Supporters are urged to contact their legislative representatives and urge them to vote yes. This document includes key points that can be incorporated into any correspondence. Please contact Chris Sturm with any questions. Thank you for your support for innovative density transfer tools and better land use outcomes.