It's no secret, most of us would like to stay in our own home as we age. Yet, sometimes our loved ones just need a little extra help to remain comfortable at home. That's where Always Best Care can help....we are dedicated to exceeding expectations....always.
They say that your golden years are the best years of your life. For most older Americans, that's how it should be - a time to relax, reflect, and live life in a familiar place. After all, senior citizens in the U.S. have worked tirelessly to build a better economy, serve their communities, and raise families.
However, as seniors grow older, completing daily tasks like showering and enjoying activities such as visiting the historic Van Slyke Castle gets harder without someone by their side. Unfortunately, many older Americans aren't able to rely on their adult children for help. The reality in today's world is that family members do not have the skills or time to dedicate to caring for their parents. That's where Always Best Care Senior Services comes in.
Our in-home care services are for people who prefer to stay at home as they grow older but need ongoing care that family or friends cannot provide. More and more older adults prefer to live far away from long-term, institutionalized facilities and closer to the place where they feel most comfortable - their home. Home care in Wanaque, NJ is a safe, effective way to give your loved ones the care they need when they need it the most.
Home Care Services
Service AreasSince 1996, Always Best Care has provided non-medical in-home care for seniors to help them maintain a healthy lifestyle as they get older. We are proud to have helped more than 25,000 seniors maintain higher levels of dignity and respect. We focus on providing seniors with the highest level of in-home care available so that they may live happily and independently.
Unlike some senior care companies, we genuinely want to be included in our clients' lives. We believe that personalized care is always the better option over a "one size fits all" approach. To make sure our senior clients receive the best care possible, we pair them with compassionate caregivers who understand their unique needs. That way, they may provide care accordingly without compromising their wellbeing.
The Always Best Care difference lies in life's little moments - where compassionate care and trustworthy experience come together to help seniors live a fruitful, healthy life. Whether you are an aging adult that can't quite keep up with life's daily tasks or the child of a senior who needs regular in-home services, Always Best Care is here to help.
“I cannot say enough good things about Always Best Care Services. From the moment I”
“Liz and her team are the consumate professionals when it comes to providing quality care”
“Liz…. Is simply the Best ! Her professionalism is amazing …”
“Liz is beyond TOP NOTCH at what she does, and the services she provides. We”
“When Always Best Care was referred to us by a friend, we didn’t quite know”
“Excellent service, Always Best Care takes care well of your loved one. They are professionals”
“If you are looking for the right team to help you provide in-home care for”
“Liz and her staff are hands down the best!!!”
“Always Best Care Senior Services and CEO Liz Johnson, provide compassionate and qualified care for”
“Always Best Care provides the highest level of in home care for your loved ones.”
“Excellent company! They care deeply for each person they work with and I highly recommend”
“You will always get the best care and service. Liz is so compassionate and”
“When my special needs son broke his femur we called Liz for help. Although”
“Always best care have been a good company,and they always check on the workers,and make”
“I was referred to Always Best Care by a close friend when I was searching”
“Quick and reliable assistance from the skilled team at Always Best Care played a major”
“We found Anna through Always Best Care to take care of my ailing mother-in-law. She”
“After my father was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, we looked at all of the different companies”
“Nicky provided ten months of excellent care to my 82 years old mother who had”
“I would like to offer my thanks to Always Best Care for providing what I”
“Your approach and calming demeanor are truly a gift and personal calling! You have helped”
“Great Agency! Esoma The Coordinator is the best in the field! So caring”
“I am a current client of this provider My ninety year old grandfather was diagnosed with”
“It has been a delightful experience to work with Always Best Care. Over the last”
“I really liked the caregiver who came to help my mom during her recovery from”
“I would like to offer my thanks to Always Best Care for providing what I”
“I am a current client of this provider I would like to offer my thanks to”
“I cannot say enough good things about Always Best Care Services. From the moment I first reached out to them, it felt like I was working with family. The owner is incredibly kind, compassionate, and genuinely cares about her clients. She goes above and beyond to ensure that everything runs smoothly, and it's clear that her heart is in the work she does. The caregivers are top-notch – professional, caring, and incredibly loving. It's rare to find a team that treats your loved ones with the level of respect and warmth that Always Best Care does. I've used other home health care services in the past, but nothing compares to the peace of mind and quality of care I’ve received from this team. The caregivers don’t just provide services; they build meaningful relationships with the people they care for, making them feel like a part of their extended family. I honestly believe they are better than having family help, because they bring so much professionalism, expertise, and heart into everything they do. I trust them completely and would recommend Always Best Care to anyone in need of high-quality home health care. They are simply the best in the business. Dennis Bonagura”
“Liz and her team are the consumate professionals when it comes to providing quality care for our seniors. They provide compassionate and competent care without forgetting about empathy and dignity for those entrusted in their care. Providing exceptional care...and then some...isn't what they do, it's simply who they are. Thank you, Liz, for providing such exceptional leadership to your team!”
“Liz…. Is simply the Best ! Her professionalism is amazing …”
“Liz is beyond TOP NOTCH at what she does, and the services she provides. We had a difficult family situation, and she handled it with grace, and provided my family with service, and advice above and beyond what I expected to receive!!! Thank you!!!”
“When Always Best Care was referred to us by a friend, we didn’t quite know what to expect. Meeting the charming and charismatic Liz the owner and her smiling staff at the agency however put our hearts and minds at ease although we were in the middle of the pandemic. They are down-to-earth caring, compassionate and professional and our aunt could not ask for anything more. I truly recommend Always Best Care.”
“Excellent service, Always Best Care takes care well of your loved one. They are professionals and certified which makes them on top of everything. Just call Liz Johnson and she will help and goes above and beyond. I would highly recommend them.”
“If you are looking for the right team to help you provide in-home care for your loved one, Always Best Care should be your first call. Liz and her team are trustworthy, caring, and compassionate. They go above and beyond for their clients and their families! They are truly exceptional!”
“Liz and her staff are hands down the best!!!”
“Always Best Care Senior Services and CEO Liz Johnson, provide compassionate and qualified care for seniors and patients recovering from surgery. Liz has a heart for families who need to make those tough choices and is a knowledgeable resource for those in need. She addresses questions and concerns with advice and solutions based on her professional acumen and life experience. I would recommend Liz wholeheartedly. Make her your first call when you need support for a loved one!”
“Always Best Care provides the highest level of in home care for your loved ones. I have used this agency to provide in home care for several family members and loved ones. Their aides provide compassionate care and have allowed my family members to age in their home with dignity and grace. Highly recommend !!!”
“Excellent company! They care deeply for each person they work with and I highly recommend them. Very reliable and quick to respond. The owner is just amazing!”
“You will always get the best care and service. Liz is so compassionate and attentive and treats everyone as if they were family. I highly recommend!”
“When my special needs son broke his femur we called Liz for help. Although she specializes in Senior Care, we knew her company would take great care of our pre-teen. We can never thank Liz and her company enough for the kindness and great care they provided not just for our son, but for our entire family! What a relief it was to know he was being well cared for with such kindness and compassion. I would highly recommend Always Best Care Senior Services.”
“Always best care have been a good company,and they always check on the workers,and make everything so easy for me,I never have bad experience wit them,I like my supervisor Mrs Leslie and the Coordinator Esoma bcos they always check on us wit my client and confirm if everything is working so good wit us,please all I want to say to them,is to keep the good work contine,may the company continues to be bless wit good people and so caring about the Aides....thank you so very much”
“I was referred to Always Best Care by a close friend when I was searching for an assisted living community for my parents. I found the staff extremely professional and helpful right from our first meeting. What I appreciate the most is their prompt service and flexibility. Since I have my job in another city, I wasn’t able to take care of my parents and eventually had to make the difficult decision to move them to assisted living. Thanks to Always Best Care for speeding up the whole process according to my schedule. Highly Recommended!”
“Quick and reliable assistance from the skilled team at Always Best Care played a major in my father’s recovery from osteoporosis. The assigned caregiver was extremely patient and supportive. He helped my father with all sorts of exercises. I strongly recommend Always Best Care for the well being of your beloved elders.”
“We found Anna through Always Best Care to take care of my ailing mother-in-law. She is honest, reliable, and goes out of her way to help my mother-in-law with her daily chores. I never have to worry that she wouldn’t show up on time or would find excuses for not doing some tasks. She is also very funny and keeps us laughing all day long. We are really happy with the services offered by Always Best Care. The attentiveness and quick response of their staff has made things quite easy for us. We know that they are there to address our needs no matter what time of the day we call them. They genuinely care about the health and well-being of their clients. And that’s what makes them so much better than other agencies.”
“After my father was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, we looked at all of the different companies in the marketplace. We received great care from our caregiver and really appreciated the patient approach they took with my dad. With much gratitude to the team at Always Best Care!”
“Nicky provided ten months of excellent care to my 82 years old mother who had dementia. She was caring in every possible way which was exactly what the family wanted for her. She passed away last month, but peacefully and with dignity. Thank you so much Always Best Care for the amazing service.”
“I would like to offer my thanks to Always Best Care for providing what I believe is a top-class service. They have amazing caregivers who took care of my mother-in-law post her heart surgery. She was back to her normal routine faster than we thought. It wouldn’t have been possible without the care and support of their caregivers.”
“Your approach and calming demeanor are truly a gift and personal calling! You have helped more than you will ever realize”
“Great Agency! Esoma The Coordinator is the best in the field! So caring about the Aides! Thanks again!”
“I am a current client of this provider My ninety year old grandfather was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s a few months ago. Without the in home care provided by Always Best Care, I do not know how we would have managed everything. I am grateful for the dedicated service they have provided to us.”
“It has been a delightful experience to work with Always Best Care. Over the last three years, I have had a few caregivers come in to care for my mother who has Alzheimer’s. When she was diagnosed with the condition, I had little hope of her getting back to her normal self again. She had almost stopped smiling. But after I had the wonderful caregivers to care for her, I saw a great improvement in her health. She seems not only healthier, but happier too. Thank you Always Best Care.”
“I really liked the caregiver who came to help my mom during her recovery from a major surgery. She took great care of her and ensured a quick recovery. A hearty thanks to Always Best Care.”
“I would like to offer my thanks to Always Best Care for providing what I believe is a top-class service. They have amazing caregivers who took care of my mother-in-law post her heart surgery. She was back to her normal routine faster than we thought. It wouldn’t have been possible without the care and support of their caregivers.”
“I am a current client of this provider I would like to offer my thanks to Always Best Care for providing what I believe is a top-class service. They have amazing caregivers who took care of my mother-in-law post her heart surgery. She was back to her normal routine faster than we thought. It wouldn’t have been possible without the care and support of their caregivers.”
Home is where the heart is. While that saying can sound a tad cliche, it is especially true for many seniors living in America. When given a choice, older adults most often prefer to grow older at home. An AARP study found that three out of four adults over the age of 50 want to stay in their homes and communities as they age.
When you begin to think about why, it makes sense. Home offers a sense of security, comfort, and familiarity.
The truth is, as we age, we begin to rely on others for help. When a family is too busy or lives too far away to fulfill this role, in-home senior care is often the best solution. Home care services allow seniors to enjoy personal independence while also receiving trustworthy assistance from a trained caregiver.
At Always Best Care, we offer a comprehensive range of home care services to help seniors stay healthy while they get the help they need to remain independent. As your senior loved one gets older, giving them the gift of senior care is one of the best ways to show your love, even if you live far away.
To give our senior clients the best care possible, we offer a full spectrum of in-home care services:
If your senior loved one has specific care needs, our personal care services are a great choice to consider. Personal care includes the standard caregiving duties associated with companion care and includes help with tasks such as dressing and grooming. Personal care can also help individuals with chronic conditions like diabetes.
Common personal care services include assistance with:
Sometimes, seniors need helpful reminders to maintain a high quality of life at home. If you or your senior has trouble with everyday tasks like cooking, our home helper services will be very beneficial.
Common home helper care services include assistance with:
Using this kind of care is a fantastic way to make life easier for you or your senior loved one. At Always Best Care, our talented caregivers often fill the role of a companion for seniors. That way, older adults can enjoy their favorite local activities, such as visiting Wanaque Ridge with friends while also receiving the care they need daily or weekly.
Common companionship services include:
According to AARP, more than 53 million adults living in the U.S. provide care to someone over 50 years old. Unfortunately, these caregivers experience stress, exhaustion, and even depression. Our respite care services help family caregivers address urgent obligations, spend time with their children, and enjoy nearby activities. Perhaps more importantly, respite care gives family members time to recharge and regroup. Taking personal time to de-stress reduces the risk of caregiver burnout. So, if you've always wanted to eat at the local Novelli or visit Wyanokie High Point, don't feel bad. Doing so is great for both you and your loved one.
At the end of the day, our goal is to become a valuable part of your senior's daily routine. That way, we may help give them the highest quality of life possible. We know that staying at home is important for your loved one, and we are here to help make sure that is possible.
If you have been on the fence about non-medical home care, there has never been a better time than now to give your senior the care, assistance, and companionship they deserve.
Always Best Care in-home services are for older adults who prefer to stay at home but need ongoing care that friends and family cannot provide. In-home care is a safe, effective way for seniors to age gracefully in a familiar place and live independent, non-institutionalized lives. The benefits of non-medical home care are numerous. Here are just a few reasons to consider senior care services from Always Best Care:
According to AARP, 9 out of 10 seniors prefer to age in place within the comfort of their own home. With in-home care, seniors have a way to stay at home, receive the care they need, and maintain a sense of independence, improving overall wellness.
If you or a member of your family have assumed the role of caregiver for your senior loved one, you know how stressful the job can be. Between caregiver burnout and constant worry, being a family caregiver is hard. In-home care relieves your burden and gives you peace of mind knowing that your older family member is in expert hands.
Unlike nursing homes, where the staff and residents rotate frequently, seniors can foster new friendships and build bonds with their caregiver. Seniors who socialize on a regular basis are often happier, which fosters positivity and leads to increased wellbeing.
No two seniors need the same kind of in-home care assistance. That is why each of our Care Plans is tailored to meet our client's individual needs. We offer plans that cover everything from light housekeeping to more involved duties like transportation to doctor's appointments. Our Care Coordinators will work closely with you to develop a personalized plan to ensure your senior's needs are exceeded.
Always Best Care offers a full array of care options for patients at all levels of health. With our trusted elderly care services, your loved one will receive the level of care necessary for them to enjoy the highest possible quality of life.
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While it's true that some seniors have complicated medical needs that prevent them from staying at home, aging in place is often the best arrangement for seniors and their families. With a trusted caregiver, seniors have the opportunity to live with a sense of dignity and do so as they see fit - something that is unavailable to many older people today.
In-home care makes it possible for millions of seniors to age in place every year. Rather than moving to a strange nursing home, seniors have the chance to stay at home where they feel the happiest and most comfortable.
How much does a senior's home truly mean to them?
A study published by the American Society on Aging found that more than half of seniors say their home's emotional value means more than how much their home is worth in monetary value. It stands to reason, then, that a senior's home is where they want to grow old.
With the help of elderly care in Wanaque, NJ, seniors don't have to age in a sterilized care facility. Instead, they can age gracefully in the place they want to be most: their home. In contrast, seniors who move to a long-term care facility must adapt to new environments, new people, and new systems that the facility implements. At this stage in life, this kind of drastic change can be more harmful than helpful.
Institutional care facilities like nursing homes often put large groups of people together to live in one location. On any given day, dozens of staff members and caregivers run in and out of these facilities. Being around so many new people in a relatively small living environment can be dangerous for a seniors' health and wellbeing. When you consider that thousands of seniors passed away in nursing homes during the COVID-19 pandemic, opting for in-home care is often a safer, healthier choice for seniors.
Aging in place has been shown to improve seniors' quality of life, which helps boost physical health and also helps insulate them from viral and bacterial risks found in elderly living facilities.
For many seniors, the ability to live independently with assistance from a caregiver is a priceless option. With in-home care, seniors experience a higher level of independence and freedom - much more so than in other settings like a nursing home. When a senior has the chance to age in place, they get to live life on their own terms, inside the house that they helped make into a home. More independence means more control over their personal lives, too, which leads to increased levels of fulfillment, happiness, and personal gratification. Over time, these positive feelings can manifest into a healthier, longer life.
More independence, a healthier life, and increased comfort are only a few benefits of aging in place. You have to take into consideration the role of cost and convenience. Simply put, it's usually easier and more affordable to help seniors age in place than it is to move them into an institutional care facility. According to the US Department of Housing and Urban Development, seniors who age in the comfort of their homes can save thousands of dollars per month.
In-home care services from Always Best Care, for instance, are often less expensive than long-term solutions, which can cost upwards of six figures per year. To make matters worse, many residential care facilities are reluctant to accept long-term care insurance and other types of payment assistance.
With Always Best Care's home care services, seniors and their families have a greater level of control over their care plans. In-home care gives seniors the chance to form a bond with a trusted caregiver and also receive unmatched care that is catered to their needs. In long-term care facilities, seniors and their loved ones have much less control over their care plan and have less of a say in who provides their care.
In-home care is a valuable resource that empowers seniors to age in place on their own terms. However, a big concern for many families and their loved ones is how much in-home care costs. If you're worried that in-home care is too expensive, you may be pleasantly surprised to learn that it is one of the most affordable senior care arrangements available.
Typically, hiring an Always Best Care in-home caregiver for a few hours a week is more affordable than sending your loved one to a long-term care facility. This is true even for seniors with more complex care needs.
At Always Best Care, we will work closely with you and your family to develop a Care Plan that not only meets your care needs, but your budget requirements, too. Once we discover the level of care that you or your senior need, we develop an in-home care plan that you can afford.
In addition to our flexible care options, families should also consider the following resources to help offset potential home care costs:
When you or your senior loved one needs assistance managing daily tasks at home, finding a qualified caregiver can be challenging. It takes a special kind of person to provide reliable care for your senior loved one. However, a caregiver's role involves more than meal preparation and medication reminders. Many seniors rely on their caregivers for companionship, too.
Our companion care services give seniors the chance to socialize in a safe environment and engage in activities at home. These important efforts boost morale and provide much-needed relief from repetitive daily routines. A one-on-one, engaging conversation can sharpen seniors' minds and give them something in which to be excited.
At Always Best Care, we only hire care providers that we would trust to care for our own loved ones. Our senior caregivers in Wanaque, NJ understand how important it is to listen and communicate with their seniors. A seemingly small interaction, like a short hug goodbye, can make a major difference in a senior's day. Instead of battling against feelings of isolation, seniors begin to look forward to seeing their caregiver each week.
Understanding the nuances of senior care is just one of the reasons why our care providers are so great at their job.
Unlike some senior care companies, our caregivers must undergo extensive training before they work for Always Best Care. In addition, our caregivers receive ongoing training throughout the year. This training ensures that their standard of care matches up to the high standards we've come to expect. During this training, they will brush up on their communication skills, safety awareness, and symptom spotting. That way, your loved one receives the highest level of non-medical home care from day one.
While it's true that many seniors prefer to age at home, sometimes in-home care isn't the best fit. For those seniors and their families, choosing an assisted living facility makes more sense. Unfortunately, finding the optimal care facility is easier said than done in today's day and age. That's when Always Best Care's assisted living referral services begin to make a lot of sense.
Assisted living is a form of housing intended for seniors who require varying degrees of medical and personal attention. Accommodations may include single rooms, apartments, or shared living arrangements. Assisted living communities are typically designed to resemble a home-like environment and are physically constructed to encourage the independence of residents.
At assisted living communities, seniors receive help with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, and eating. They may also benefit from coordination of services with outside healthcare providers, and monitoring of resident activities to ensure their health, safety, and well-being. Caregivers who work at assisted living communities can also provide medication administration and personal care services for older adults.
Other services offered within assisted living communities can include some or all of the following:
At Always Best Care, our representatives can match your senior's emotional, physical, and financial needs with viable assisted living communities nearby. Results are based on comparative data, so you can select the best choice for you or your loved one.
Always Best Care works closely with local senior living communities to gain valuable knowledge that we then use to help seniors and their loved ones make informed decisions. This information can include basic care and rent, resident availability, and services provided. Because Always Best Care is compensated by these communities, we provide senior living referral services at no extra cost to you.
Some of the most popular assisted living communities to consider in our area include the following:
For many seniors, moving into a senior living community revolves around how and when they want to make a transition to more involved care. Some seniors are more proactive about transitioning to independent living. Others choose to remain home until their care needs or other requirements are satisfied. Remember - our staff is here to help. Contact our office today to learn more about assisted living communities and how we can find a facility that exceeds your expectations.
The first step in getting quality in-home care starts with a personal consultation with an experienced Always Best Care Care Coordinator. This initial consultation is crucial for our team to learn more about you or your elderly loved one to discover the level of care required. Topics of this consultation typically include:
A discussion of your needs and how our trained caregivers can offer assistance in the most effective way
A draft of your care plan, which includes highly detailed notes and a framework for the care that you or your senior will receive
Discuss payment options and help coordinate billing with your insurance provider
Our caregivers are trained to spot changes that clients exhibit, like mental and physical decline. As your trusted senior care company, we will constantly assess and update your Care Plan to meet any new emotional, intellectual, physical, and emotional needs.
If you have never considered in-home care before, we understand that you and your family may have concerns about your Care Plan and its Care Coordinator. To help give you peace of mind, know that every team member and caregiver must undergo comprehensive training before being assigned to a Care Plan.
At the end of the day, we only hire the best of the best at Always Best Care. Whether you need home care in Wanaque, NJ 24-hours a day or only need a respite for a couple of hours, we are here to serve you.
When you're ready, we encourage you to contact your local Always Best Care representative to set up a Care Consultation. Our Care Coordinators would be happy to meet with you in person to get to know you better, discuss your needs, and help put together a personalized Care Plan specific to your needs.
Site DescriptionE.I. DuPont De Nemours & Company is located at 2000 Cannonball Road, Pompton Lakes, New Jersey. The DuPont Pompton Lakes Works site (DuPont) occupies approximately 572 acres of land in Pompton Lakes and Wanaque. On July 1, 2015, DuPont transitioned ownership of the Pompton Lakes Works site to The Chemours Company, FC, LLC (Chemours) in 2015.Two parallel valleys (Wanaque River and Acid Brook) run through the site north to south. Land use in the vicinity of the site is predominantly residential and commercia...
E.I. DuPont De Nemours & Company is located at 2000 Cannonball Road, Pompton Lakes, New Jersey. The DuPont Pompton Lakes Works site (DuPont) occupies approximately 572 acres of land in Pompton Lakes and Wanaque. On July 1, 2015, DuPont transitioned ownership of the Pompton Lakes Works site to The Chemours Company, FC, LLC (Chemours) in 2015.
Two parallel valleys (Wanaque River and Acid Brook) run through the site north to south. Land use in the vicinity of the site is predominantly residential and commercial, and includes undeveloped areas, an interstate highway (Route 287) and state-owned forest. DuPont operated at the site from 1902 to April 1994, when the facility closed. DuPont manufactured lead azide, aluminum, bronze shelled blasting caps and produced metal wires and aluminum and copper shells. The New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) Administrative Consent Order (ACO), NJDEP Groundwater Permit (NJPDES-DGW), and the EPA HSWA Permit require cleanup of the facility (on-site and off-site).
DuPont operated at the site from 1902 to April 1994, when the facility closed. DuPont manufactured lead azide, aluminum, bronze shelled blasting caps and produced metal wires and aluminum and copper shells. The New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) Administrative Consent Order (ACO), NJDEP Groundwater Permit (NJPDES-DGW), and the EPA HSWA Permit require cleanup of the facility (on-site and off-site).
Physical documents can be viewed at:
Pompton Lakes Public Library 333 Wanaque Avenue, Pompton Lakes, New Jersey
EPA RCRA Records Center 290 Broadway, 15th Floor, Room 1538 New York, NY 10007-1866 (212) 637-3043 Monday through Friday from 8 AM to 4 PM
Background
E.I. DuPont De Nemours & Company manufactured explosives on this 572-acre site at the north end of Pompton Lakes, New Jersey, from 1902-1994. Land use in the vicinity is primarily residential and commercial and includes undeveloped areas, an interstate highway (Route 287), and state-owned forest. Cleanup of the facility is required under a New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) order, NJDEP groundwater permit and an EPA permit.
During the facility's operation, manufacturing and waste management practices resulted in contamination of surface water, soil and sediment, and groundwater both on and off-site. Wastes disposed of on-site included lead salts, mercury compounds, explosive powders, chlorinated solvents, waste wire drawing solution and detonated blasting caps. As a result, primary contaminants in the soil and sediment are lead and mercury.
Lead and mercury releases have migrated off-site via a surface water feature known as Acid Brook. This migration resulted in soil contamination at 140 homes near Acid Brook due to overflow from the Brook during flooding events. As a result, acid Brook and the adjacent impacted homes were remediated in the mid-1990s.
Groundwater contaminated with volatile organic compounds also migrated off-site with the potential for vapor intrusion from contaminated groundwater, impacting off-site residences and other structures. Vapor intrusion results from spilled or leaked chemicals and gives off gases or vapors that can migrate through the soil and into buildings through cracks in basements, foundations, sewer lines, and other openings. A groundwater extraction and treatment system was constructed on-site and has been operating since 1998. This system has reduced the concentrations of volatile organic compounds in on- and off-site groundwater over time.
A residential area of about 425 homes is considered the “vapor intrusion investigation area.” This area was a result of groundwater contamination that originated from the historical operations of the DuPont facility. These properties were eligible to undergo vapor intrusion testing, design and installation of a vapor mitigation system, and inspection and maintenance of the vapor mitigation system once installed. Approximately, 337 vapor mitigation systems have been installed.
An area totaling about 40acres within Pompton Lake (known as the Pompton Lake Study Area) was subject to soil removal and dredging of sediment due to contamination by lead and mercury. The source of this contamination in Pompton Lake was DuPont's historical operations that resulted in the migration of metals (particularly lead and mercury) from the facility via Acid Brook into Pompton Lake. As a result, approximately 146,600 cubic yards of contaminated soil and sediment were excavated, processed and disposed of at approved off-site landfills. Restoration of the Pompton Lake Study Area included new plantings and park amenities, as shown in figure 1 below.
Borough officials are gearing up for the acquisition of the Lakeside Manor townhouse development site off Mountain Lakes Drive by eminent domain.WANAQUE — Borough officials are gearing up for the acquisition of the Lakeside Manor townhouse development site off Mountain Lakes Drive by eminent domain.An ordinance pending adoption in October may set the stage for the condemnation of the property and its transfer to the local government for redevelopment, borough records show. The ordinance would usher in a new amendment fo...
WANAQUE — Borough officials are gearing up for the acquisition of the Lakeside Manor townhouse development site off Mountain Lakes Drive by eminent domain.
An ordinance pending adoption in October may set the stage for the condemnation of the property and its transfer to the local government for redevelopment, borough records show. The ordinance would usher in a new amendment for the borough's redevelopment plan for the partially improved site that establishes "the necessity and authorization for condemnation."
The site's future remains in limbo due to a looming court battle between the borough and the longtime property owner. A case management conference for a year-old case regarding the Borough Council's 2023 decision to condemn the site is expected in the coming week, state Superior Court records show.
Originally envisioned as a 64-townhouse neighborhood with shade trees, streetlights and sidewalks, the project was reduced to 47, units and construction began in 1999. Although the infrastructure for water and sewers was installed, and one building was constructed, development was halted in 2004 due to restrictions under the Highlands Water Protection and Planning Act.
A 2011 court ruling eased those restrictions, but the project remained stalled. Borough officials ultimately began to rescind approvals, citing deteriorating site conditions, and developed a redevelopment plan for the site, leading to legal appeals from the property owner, J&S Group Inc.
The sole constructed building has since been demolished.
The pending amendment to the redevelopment plan would be the fourth since the plan was adopted in 2016. According to borough records, it would consolidate the properties and terminate the previously approved site plans. The principal permitted use on the property would nonetheless remain attached multifamily residences, records show. The total units would be capped at 62.
Last year, the Borough Council voted to designate the property as a condemnation area in need of redevelopment, making it eligible for eminent domain, roughly seven years after classifying it as a non-condemnation area in need of redevelopment due to its deterioration and neglect. That previous action led to litigation and a settlement that allowed developer Jacinto Rodrigues of J&S Group Inc. to form Wanaque Urban Renewal Corp. and take advantage of the borough's payment in lieu of taxes, or PILOT, program to execute the project.
The project restarted. Roads were paved. However, the full vision never materialized. Deadlines were missed, and the borough ultimately voided the agreement. The property, now considered abandoned, was deemed a public health, safety and welfare hazard by the Planning Board in 2022. What was built was demolished to the foundation.
Rodrigues' J&S Group Inc. and affiliates, however, said in court filings that they were prevented by borough officials from proceeding with construction or transferring the property to another developer. They have also argued that town officials have intentionally devalued the property amid valuation proceedings in federal court and failed to show why the site should be condemned.
WANAQUE — An abandoned rail line that meanders through 2.15 miles of pastoral northern Passaic County is one step closer to becoming a hiking and cycling trail.The long-dormant New York & Greenwood Lake Railway rail bed that runs parallel to Ringwood Avenue could have a contractor as soon as fall, said Passaic County Freeholder Director John Bartlett.The 10-foot-wide, pancake-flat proposed trail follows the vacant rail bed from Union Avenue to Father Orechio Drive on the North Jersey District Water Supply Commission c...
WANAQUE — An abandoned rail line that meanders through 2.15 miles of pastoral northern Passaic County is one step closer to becoming a hiking and cycling trail.
The long-dormant New York & Greenwood Lake Railway rail bed that runs parallel to Ringwood Avenue could have a contractor as soon as fall, said Passaic County Freeholder Director John Bartlett.
The 10-foot-wide, pancake-flat proposed trail follows the vacant rail bed from Union Avenue to Father Orechio Drive on the North Jersey District Water Supply Commission campus, records show. Bowing outwardly west of Ringwood Avenue, the trail is to run past Laurie Field and Rainbow Lake toward the Wanaque Reservoir on land almost exclusively owned by the commission.
The project could boost nearby property values, benefit local businesses and serve a growing off-road cycling scene in a region not necessarily friendly for road cycling, said Tom Hennigan of the nonprofit Jersey Off-Road Bicycle Association.
"It's an amenity that people seek out and go for, so I think it will be a real benefit to the community," Hennigan said. "I've heard it all over the place that people teaching their kids to ride bikes have a difficult time up in northern New Jersey because of the hills and the traffic."
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The section is one of five proposed that make up a planned 48,500-foot Highlands Rail Trail. As conceived, the trail could reach as far north as Ringwood State park, records show.
The first section of the proposed trail secured a $1.5 milliongrant from the North Jersey Transportation Planning Authority Transportation in 2018 — the Transportation Alternatives Program’s largest award last year, records show. Trail surface and signage work were expected to make up the majority of the estimated $1.65 million cost predicted in a 2017 feasibility study.
The trail is due to be open to horseback riders and motorized mobility devices, records show.
The New York & Greenwood Lake Railway was completed in 1874, running between Hoboken and Greenwood Lake, local records show.
Before 1935, Ringwood Junction diverted its rail cars for disparate roles. The depot sent trains to collect ice and tourists from Greenwood Lake or iron ore from the historic Ringwood Mines.
The railway continued to operate in Wanaque until 1966, when it was converted into the Boonton Line and abandoned, local records show.
After it was closed locally for more than 50 years, what remains of the abandoned rail bed consists of a sandy dirt trail that cuts through backyards and maintenance roads that hug the shoreline of a preserved watershed.
Further sections of the Highlands Rail Trail remain in the conceptual phase, Bartlett said. County officials are speaking with property owners about easements. The design of the next phase of the project could start in early 2020.
As proposed, the rail trail's second section would rely on roads. That section of rail bed starts with a non-existent crossing of the Wanaque River, the bridge having been removed. Moreover, the rail bed in that area is spotted with development, such as the Wanaque Elementary School and Golden Age Club, presenting a variety of obstacles to a fully off-road route.
Phase three would hop back onto the rail bed at Westbrook Road and entirely through water supply commission property along the Wanaque Reservoir. Once it reaches Greenwood Lake Turnpike and Ringwood Junction, the trail could split as does the rail bed.
The proposed junction would send those bearing right on a fourth section to Ringwood State Park via the Ringwood municipal complex on Margaret King Avenue. Others could travel section five to the Monksville Reservoir Dam on Stonetown Road.
An easement negotiated with the water supply commission will integrate the first section of trail into the Passaic County Park System, county records show. The commission will remain owner of the property and have final say on special events, such as charity runs, competitive races or group programs. The county will be responsible for trail maintenance, according to the easement agreement.
Roughly 80 percent of the full, five-section route is owned by the commission, records show. About 70 percent is in Ringwood.
WANAQUE — Typically, fifth graders may feel some embarrassment at having their fathers pick them up at school. Not Harley Mills.As the afternoon bell rung at Haskell School on Ringwood Avenue, 10-year-old Harley was urged by staff to linger behind.Curiously, they said they had a letter she needed to deliver to her mother. More curiously still, when she entered the school's rear courtyard, her schoolmates had formed a wall to block her view."I was like, why is everyone in a line?" Harley said.What s...
WANAQUE — Typically, fifth graders may feel some embarrassment at having their fathers pick them up at school. Not Harley Mills.
As the afternoon bell rung at Haskell School on Ringwood Avenue, 10-year-old Harley was urged by staff to linger behind.
Curiously, they said they had a letter she needed to deliver to her mother. More curiously still, when she entered the school's rear courtyard, her schoolmates had formed a wall to block her view.
"I was like, why is everyone in a line?" Harley said.
What she did not know was that her father, who had been stationed in Kuwait, was waiting to surprise her.
There was a hint Friday morning when her mother, Esther Mills, left her phone out and Harley saw the calendar saying her dad would be home. However, Harley said she had no idea Chief Warrant Officer Michael Mills would be home on Friday after spending nearly a year in the Middle East.
"I am so surprised and really happy," she said after a lengthy and tearful embrace with her father. "I knew he was coming home soon, just not this year."
When the wall divided, she yelled, "Daddy!" and ran into Mills' arms. The two tearfully embraced for nearly a minute as the gathered crowd of more than 100 staff, students and parents roared with cheers and applause.
Mills had just arrived in New Jersey a few hours before. He had left Texas at 7 a.m. Friday, roughly a week after arriving back from the Middle East. His first mission was to pick up his daughter at school.
Thanks to technology, they've been in regular contact since he was deployed to Kuwait in February 2019, Mills said. However, the separation has been hard, he added.
"I wanted to do this for her, because she's had a rough year," he said just prior to the reunion. "This will be good for her."
Mills' recent deployment with the 244th Expeditionary Combat Aviation Brigade based at Fort Dix was his fifth and possibly his last. While he does not plan to leave the military for a few more years, Mills said he doubts he will be deployed again.
Mills said he had no planned weekend activities, other than hanging out at home with his wife and only child. He said it's best to slowly get back into civilian life after being deployed for months.
"It's like merging back onto the highway," he said.
Still, Harley may have something to say about that. When asked what she wants to do with her dad, she said "a lot of stuff."
David Zimmer is a local reporter for NorthJersey.com. For unlimited access to the most important news from your local community, please subscribe or activate your digital account today.
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