Muslim Cultural Center Returns to Paramus Zoning Board Thursday

Thursday night the Paramus Zoning Board will continue hearing testimony from the Muslim Cultural Center regarding its plans to occupy a previously approved but not yet constructed office building as a mosque and cultural center on Paramus Road near Arcadian Way.

Based on previous testimony, parking has been the largest concern shared by Zoning Board members and residents who live near the property. Sixty-one spaces are proposed as opposed to 69 which would be required by borough code.

The Muslim Cultural Center is looking to make a home in Paramus. Made up of about 25 to 30 families, the congregation currently worships at the American Legion in Woodland Park and conducts its Ramadan services at the VFW in Paramus.

The building would consist of three floors. Plans presented back in November showed revisions to the first floor taking away lobby space in exchance for five parking spaces bringing the total proposed to 61. The second floor would accomodate the women's prayer ares and the third floor would house the men's prayer area.

The meeting is set for 7:30 p.m. Thursday, March 14 at Borough Hall.