VILLAS – A plan to make Schellenger’s Landing, from the base of the Route 109 (Veterans Memorial) bridge to the bridge entering Cape May, safer for pedestrians was unveiled at the July 1 Lower Township Council meeting. The proposed additions would include sidewalks on both sides of the spans, five crosswalks, a large, lighted sign above the road, and rumble strips to slow drivers in the zone.
Joseph Maffei, of Engineering Design Associates, told council the sidewalks would be concrete; however, the crosswalks would be red brick paver stones at five locations along the roadway, where several popular eateries are located, along with marinas, shops, and homes.
Electric poles in the area would need to be relocated, according to Maffei, which Atlantic City Electric agreed to do, as a matter of public safety and at significant savings to the township.
Cost of the project was estimated by Maffei to be close to $600,000.
While there is no special lighting planned as part of the improvements, Maffei said there would be a lighted sign above the road welcoming drivers, bicyclists, and pedestrians to Schellenger’s Landing.
Maffei and council asked for continued input from landowners in the area. Several were present, including Ernie Utsch, owner of Utsch’s Marina.
“This would be the first improvement to Schellenger’s Landing in a long, long time,” said Utsch.
Maffei said the improvements would require state approval, as they involve a state road, but hoped construction could begin as early as the fall.
