Borough of Point Pleasant Beach Open Space Advisory Committee
Meeting Minutes – November 12th, 2018
Attendees: Anne Lightburn, Dara Stieglitz, Sal Pepe and Dave Russell
Absent: Councilman Tom Toohey, Maryann Ellsworth, Greg Cox and Kristen Hennessy
Anne Lightburn reported on the extensive tree and shrub plantings at Little Silver and the Inlet and the upgrades of cement pads, handicap tables and shade pavilion. Anne noted that the sheer number of trees planted exceed the Shade Tree Commission volunteers ability to water. The Shade Tree Commission will be requesting the governing body have DPW or a contractor assume that responsibility in 2020.
The committee discussed public access to Lake Louise for paddle boards and kayaks. As one example, Anne showed pictures of aluminum stair cases that are successfully used on Long Island Sound. They withstand tidal and wave action and are easily removed or pulled up for the winter. The commission felt the town might have to post signage to “use at own risk.” Possible street ends include Boston and Niblick, Boston and Harvard and Randall Avenues. The commission felt this was an appropriate use of the town’s open space tax trust fund. A motion to approve a recommendation for public access to Lake Louise and send a memo including staircase example pictures to the council was seconded and approved unanimously. Anne will draft a memo and circulate it to the entire committee for their review, comments, edits etc. prior to sending to the council.
Sal Pepe discussed seasonal speed rates, in particular, on 35S and 35N as a safety issue with increased pedestrian crossings and bikers. Additionally, the town is considering a rental bike program, which will add to the number of bikers. Sal will discuss the feasibility with the Police Chief to get his opinions before the committee moves forward on the issue or crafting any recommendation to the council. A motion to approve Sal discussing the issue was seconded and unanimously passed.
Dave Russell discussed bike safety and putting markings on the road for bike lanes or sharing the road wherever possible. His major concern was for state and county roads. The borough could petition the state and county to mark the roads. He will discuss the concept with the mayor for his opinions. Councilman Kanitra has a walking and biking project for Antrium School and the marking of the roads many tie in.
Dara Stieglitz has been working on the committee’s previously approved downtown bench donation. Dara has contacted Stella Luna and last Wave regarding the bench and is researching stone and plastic benches.
Meeting adjourned 8:35
