As in many other places, Allentown and the surrounding area are dealing with the issue of how to accommodate new development while protecting natural resources, farmland, and open space. Early in 2000, a local group proposed creating a regional greenbelt plan in the context of local and regional objectives and broader planning issues. Subsequently, at the request of Monmouth County officials, PlanSmart NJ organized a meeting of state, county, and municipal representatives to discuss further issues of regional concern. The four municipalities invited to send representatives were Allentown, Upper Freehold, Washington, and Hamilton.

PlanSmart NJ organized and facilitated five meetings of agency representatives, along with two meetings of municipal planners. The work resulted in a summary of key trends and issues, along with potential strategies and actions for addressing the main concerns. This summary focused upon the issue areas of Transportation and Open Space. This work led to PlanSmart NJ’s participation in the Watershed Management Area #20 planning project.

Completion Date: November 2000