Introduction

In 1989, the City of Oakwood adopted its first Comprehensive Plan. Prior to 1989, growth and development had been essentially guided by the Zoning Ordinance and various decisions made by City Council and the Planning Commission.

The primary objectives of the 1989 Comprehensive Plan were to: a) reinforce and strengthen the existing land-use structure of Oakwood; b) encourage compatible and high-quality new development in selected locations; c) improve traffic circulation and public transportation service; and d) enhance the community facilities and municipal services that have traditionally been a hallmark of the Oakwood community.

Based on the 1989 Plan, several follow-up planning efforts were undertaken, including a Subarea Plan for the Far Hills and Schantz area, Design Guidelines for the Far Hills Business District, and a major update to the City’s Zoning Ordinance.

While the 1989 Comprehensive Plan has served the community well, an updated Plan was needed to respond to changing conditions and potentials, address the unique needs and concerns of a mature community, and prepare Oakwood for the future.

The Oakwood Vision Statement

In 1997, the City of Oakwood established a Vision Statement that focuses on continuing the City’s heritage as a premiere residential community.

Where citizens know and respect one another.
Where principal emphasis is placed on neighborhoods, schools, responsive city services and parks.
Where citizens contribute to and benefit from strong, responsible stewardship of community resources.
Where a responsible citizenry helps establish and follows community standards that preserve the quality of individual and community property.
Where residents feel comfortable and secure in their homes and as they move about the community.
Where education is a vital community tradition.
Where viable business and professional enterprises are clearly compatible with the residential integrity of the community.
Where citizen participation is valued and encouraged to give definition to the high expectations of the community and its residents.
Where Oakwood benefits from the involvement of its residents and employees in a variety of regional business, cultural and governmental activities.

Purpose of the Comprehensive Plan

Preparation of a new Comprehensive Plan is an important undertaking for the Oakwood community. The fact that the new Plan is an “update” to an existing plan should not diminish the significance of the current planning program.

The Comprehensive Plan is Oakwood’s official policy guide for physical improvement and development. It considers not only the immediate needs and concerns of the community, but also projects improvement and development 10 to 15 years in the future.

The Plan is “comprehensive” in both scope and coverage. It encompasses the use of land, the movement of vehicles and pedestrians, the protection of open spaces and environmental resources, and the provision of parks, schools, and other public facilities. It addresses residential neighborhoods, commercial areas, public and institutional lands, and the public rights-of-way.