The Lakewood Development Corporation approved a series of Urban Enterprise Zone-related measures Monday, including a nearly $2 million project request for snow removal equipment, continued funding for the downtown Clifton Avenue Clean Team, a grant for drone equipment and training for Chaverim of Central Jersey, and a $50,000 UEZ microloan for a local business.

The largest item approved was a request to the New Jersey Urban Enterprise Zone Authority for up to $1,995,000 to purchase snow removal equipment for Lakewood’s Department of Public Works. The project includes two Trecan Model 80-PD snow melters, capable of melting approximately 80 tons of snow per hour, along with two Caterpillar Model 938 wheel loaders to support snow removal operations.

The equipment is intended to help DPW manage snow more efficiently within the UEZ, reduce the need for hauling snow away from downtown areas, allow for on-site snow disposal, and improve roadway access during severe winter storms. The proposed budget lists $1,366,321 for the two snow melters, including warranty and delivery, and $624,000 for the two wheel loaders, with the total request rounded to $1,995,000.

Another resolution approved up to $35,000 in second-generation UEZ funds for Chaveirim of Central Jersey to purchase a drone and cover drone training. The resolution says the equipment and training will assist Chaverim volunteers in supporting the Lakewood Police Department and Office of Emergency Management with overnight searches and other public-safety tasks, including responses involving HAZMAT, homeland security and other threats.

The board also approved submitting a Year 2 project request for the Downtown Clifton Avenue Clean Team. The resolution says the program is aimed at improving cleanliness and traffic flow in the downtown UEZ corridor, which officials said supports local business activity. The project request is for an amount not to exceed $440,000, with a proposed budget showing $437,505.68 in costs, including supervisors and employees, health insurance, supplies and overtime.