Study on 'Inefficient' Municipal Garage Humming Along, Deputy Mayor Says

A Ridgewood government committee has identified the requirements of a new village garage as it continues its study of the fleet maintenance program, according to Deputy Mayor Albert Pucciarelli.

The Municipal Garage Committee – composed largely by department heads – is exploring whether the "inefficient" and poorly configured garage at Chestnut Street can be relocated, or if the service can be shared with another municipality or even outsourced altogether, Pucciarelli said.

The current property might be sold to developers, off-setting the costs of constructing a new garage. The northern portion of Chestnut Street might also be designated a redevelopment zone, like the southern section of the street.

According to Pucciarelli's report Wednesday night, the village would need a 2-acre property to accommodate a 10,000 to 12,000 square foot facility. The property would need to have a truck washing area, parking for 30 vehicles, gasoline storage tanks and a place to store salt under a dome.

Three potential properties have been identified, he said. The village could see if a facility could be constructed behind the fire station on Glen Avenue and as well as the Ridgewood Signal Division 's headquarters on Prospect Street in Glen Rock. 

Another option is preferred though – the state-owned property on Franklin Turnpike next to the Park & Ride off Route 17.

At its upcoming meeting in April, the committee will look at potential costs as well as associated problems at the sites, like water issues and remediation work.

"So we're moving forward and we intend to keep meeting at least once every two weeks so this project can be on a steady track," the deputy mayor said.