Ridgewood Board to Discuss Valley Expansion

Members of the public will get the chance tonight to hear talks on a possible expansion of Valley Hospital in Ridgewood.

Following a three-month delay spurred by internal negotiations over an expert's proposal—and the need for a subsequent expert—the Ridgewood Planning Board will discuss the project at tonight's meeting.

Board Secretary Barbara Carlton confirmed today that two hired consultants will present recommendations to the board.

A geotechnical group, Whitestone Associates, will present on the feasibility of building underground parking at the hospital. It will evaluate aspects suggested in a report by Medical Planning and Research International Limited, delivered originally to the board in October 2009.

MPRI official Ray Skorupa also will address the board. In October, Skorupa said a renovated Valley should be allowed to increase to six stories, but should consider underground parking.

Since that recommendation, MPRI, Valley and the board have internally discussed matters. In December, Whitestone was contracted to see if underground parking was possible and to evaluate other environmental concerns. Carlton said applicants—in this case Valley—pay for expert expenses.

At the 7:3o p.m. meeting, Planning Board members will have the opportunity to question Whitestone and MPRI representatives. Although the public is invited to attend the meeting in the Village Hall courtroom, no public comments will be taken. 

For the agenda, click here.