The Ten Acre Foundation, represented by Ryan Kennedy, presented its plans for residential cottages and a multi-purpose building. During the 2021 application, the foundation had been granted variances for stormwater retention basins. Pete Hatherell, the project coordinator, praised the project’s environmentally conscious design and the collaborative efforts with Princeton professionals to meet stormwater mitigation requirements.

The board reviewed an aerial image of the property, following which Tom Fick of Carroll Engineering explained the updated mitigation plan’s components. Fick detailed the construction of a bio retention basin and its alignment with stormwater regulations. He also addressed the challenges and solutions associated with revising the four basins on the site to meet strict environmental standards. Throughout this testimony, board members engaged with the content but did not raise questions or objections.

In addition to stormwater management, the board discussed the proposal for green infrastructure improvements, including the use of pervious pavement to minimize impervious surfaces and manage runoff effectively. This initiative is part of an effort to adhere to New Jersey green infrastructure standards. Board members and professionals clarified details about the mitigation plan’s location and discharge. Staff comments were requested to be included as conditions for the approval of the site plan modification.

Further in the meeting, the board was scheduled to hear a second application regarding a minor subdivision with variances. However, the decision was made to table the application pending the receipt of more plans for review.

The meeting also saw the postponement of the findings of fact for the Princeton Academy of the Sacred Heart and the delay of a hearing on the estate Shore 479 Jefferson Road. Another application concerning 344 Nassau Street LLC was canceled. These items, while part of the agenda, were secondary to the in-depth discussions surrounding the Ten Acre Foundation’s site plan.

In addition to application reviews, the board discussed upcoming revisions to its bylaws.

The final administrative action taken was the approval of minutes from a previous meeting after making editorial corrections. This procedural task, while necessary, was a routine part of the meeting’s proceedings and was quickly addressed by the board.

The Princeton Planning Board’s focus on stormwater management and sustainable practices reflects the community’s broader environmental concerns. With the approved modifications, the Ten Acre Foundation is set to proceed with a project that aligns with Princeton’s green infrastructure goals.