By: Ryan Lynch, TAPinto Madison

MORRISTOWN, NJ - The legal battle regarding the realistic development potential (RDP) of the Drew Forest has come to a temporary pause. With all evidence submitted and all testimony heard, the public now waits on Superior Court Judge Stephan C. Hansbury to apply his knowledge of Affordable Housing laws and make a ruling, according to Judy Kroll, the co-chair of the Friends of the Drew Forest. 

The second day of trial Tuesday began with continued testimony from Jamie Morgan of the Davey Resource Group. Much of her testimony and the ensuing cross-examination centered around the presence of vernal habitats and protected species. Specifically, at one point during the testimony, legal representatives from Drew questioned the alleged presence of the endangered Indiana Bat on the property, to which legal counsel of Friends of the Drew Forest said it would be unlikely Morgan saw an Indiana bat during her day-time observations. 

Both sets of lawyers called on planners who testified to the realistic development potential of the land and how it relates to affordable housing. The planners presented contrasting viewpoints on this issue.

Now, both sides will receive transcripts and prepare closing statements. The final arguements will be submitted as briefs

Judge Hansbury is expected to deliver a written decision in approximately two months, Kroll said.