Authorities probe 2 fires at site of controversial development in Spring Valley

Two fires within the past two weeks at abandoned bungalows that were slated to become multifamily houses are under investigation.
They occurred at the site of the Pascack Ridge Estates in Spring Valley, which made headlines in 2018 for controversial plans to build high-density housing.
Fire officials confirm at least one of the fires is considered suspicious. One person, believed by fire officials to be a squatter, was killed in one of the incidents.
The 27-acre site along Christa Lynn Drive and Ewing Avenue was approved for major zoning changes by the Town of Ramapo earlier this year despite public opposition. A total of 224 units were slated to be built.
The Rockland Sheriff’s Fire Investigation Unit and the Ramapo Police Department are leading the investigation.
The developer, Monsey Lumber Vice President Alex Goldberger, did not respond to News 12’s calls for comment.