Summit Developers Seek Approval for 198-Unit Apartment Complex

Russo Development and Onyx Equities are asking the Summit Planning Board to approve a plan for 198 apartments at 190 River Road. The proposal would replace the existing three-story office building with a four-story residential structure. The development includes 168 market-rate units and 30 affordable apartments.

The 4.4-acre property sits near the John F. Kennedy Parkway and the municipal golf course. Developers are already removing the current office building. The new construction will rise above a two-level parking structure that remains in place. This structure will provide 25 parking spaces for city use. Residents will also access a shuttle that connects the site to downtown Summit and the train station.

The project stems from a January 2026 settlement regarding the city's affordable housing requirements. Under that agreement, Russo committed $1 million to the local affordable housing trust fund. The developer also pledged $100,000 for improvements to the nearby golf course. Additionally, Russo agreed to donate approximately 1.8 acres at 47 and 53 Shunpike Road for a separate affordable housing project intended for veterans.

Planning board members are closely reviewing pedestrian safety, particularly for children crossing River Road to school. The developers proposed new sidewalk connections and flashing warning lights near the road. Board members discussed lowering the speed limit and adding other safety measures. The development team agreed to work with city engineers, police, and county officials to finalize the crossing design.

Traffic analysis remains a focus for the board. Updated vehicle counts collected in September while schools were in session matched earlier studies. The developer's traffic engineer stated that the project fits within current traffic flow patterns at the studied intersections without major changes. Other review areas include drainage, landscaping, emergency vehicle access, and the building's visual impact on neighbors. The plans feature a second access route to provide an alternative for residents and emergency vehicles if flooding affects the main entrance.

Summit changed the property's zoning to permit residential development under the affordable housing agreement. The project requires Planning Board approval before construction begins. The board heard public testimony on Oct. 14. Members are scheduled to reconsider the application on Nov. 9, when they may vote on the proposal.