Ten months after denying a plan for 12 units, the Zoning Board of Adjustment on Monday night paved the way for nine condominium apartments at the site of Koza’s Bar (197 W. Scott Ave./Block 231, Lot 16).
Developer Anthony L. Ginesi Sr., who also built the 36-unit Log Cabin Estates on Raritan Road in Clark some 25 years ago, said he hopes to sell the 1,600-square-foot, three-bedroom units for about $350,000, but didn’t rule out renting them until the market improves. The two-story project would be completed no earlier than the end of next year, he added, if the site plan is approved this year and construction moves smoothly.
Representatives for the applicant said the zone permits intensive uses, like banks and restaurants, on the first floor with apartments on the second floor. At the current zoning of 10 units per acre as many as seven apartments could be located on a second floor with retail on the ground floor. A “d” use variance was required to allow units on the ground floor. The nine-unit plan would eradicate a non-conforming use, they argued, in a neighborhood that will become more residential as commercial uses fade in the future.
Last December, the board denied a concept plan for the 0.88-acre site because of concerns about density with 12 units.
Sounds like a good plan to me. Lets hope he brings a “Clark class” to our humble little Rahway!
I have lived down the street from Koza’s for almost 30 years. While i hate to see a sort of “landmark” go, hopefully they will open something really nice there. Looking forward to it!!!
"Clark class", what does that mean, white? My attitude is if a family is coming into Rahway laying down over 3K for housing I don't care if they're green. In this matter the right thing was done scaling back.