Dear Editor:
This is the third letter to the Reporter concerning the, thus far, inoperable traffic light on River Road between Third Street and Sinatra Dive. For whatever reasons, cars turn up Sinatra Drive on to River Road and drive as if the road were a speedway. I have personally witnessed two instances in which senior citizens coming from the supermarket were almost hit by speeding vehicles. When I cross this road, I am very aware that it is a contest between myself and racing cars especially at the most congested times of the day. Before a fatality forces the issue, what will it take to get this traffic light working since it’s been hanging there with an attractive black garbage bag covering it for months?
Marineview tenants are facing a 15 percent rent increase. A rise in rent is inevitable at this juncture. However, 15 percent is disproportionate. Marineview is one of the few middle income housing options for families and individuals earning less than six figures in Hoboken. It has always been my hope that more of this type of housing for working families would become a part of Hoboken’s future vision or diversity. So far, development remains focused on luxury rentals which is why it is so important to protect the few options there are for moderate income families. The justification for this increase are certain improvements that have occurred in the buildings. These are not luxury amenities, but necessities that prevent a building from becoming a slum dwelling. Cabinets have been replaced in kitchens since the originals were from the 1960s. New windows now prevent apartment flooding and conserve heat costs. Balconies that were falling apart have been fixed and the dirt grey exteriors of the building are being painted after 25 years. We are grateful for this necessary upkeep.
I applaud the initiative being taken by representatives from our Tenants Association and all the elected officials who will be meeting with the State on our behalf. A reasonable compromise needs to be negotiated, and I encourage all of our tenants and members of our community who support middle income housing to let their voices be heard.
Jean Forest