The renovation of the shopping center, located just north of the municipal building, encompasses a property size of 3.89 acres within the HD1 Highway Development Zone. An engineer with over 25 years of experience presented the board with a plans that included notable upgrades to the building’s infrastructure, an increase in parking spaces from 44 to 72, and the addition of loading spaces. The engineer also addressed the grading and drainage plan, which entails the construction of a stormwater infiltration basin to comply with current regulations. The board emphasized the need for additional soil testing to ensure the subsoil’s permeability and the stormwater basin’s adequacy.

During the meeting, the planning board scrutinized the proposed parking space allocation, the proximity of parking to the building, and the operations at the rear of the site for loading activities. The board sought assurance that the parking improvements would not necessitate variance relief and was informed that the proposed paving would repair existing surfaces without resulting in a coverage issue. The board agreed to a field meeting with town engineers to follow their guidance on paving and collaborate on stormwater management system requirements.

Landscaping plans were also examined, with the board noting a shortfall of proposed trees relative to The Woodlands Management Plan. The engineer committed to increasing the tree count as recommended by the board and to seek permission to install a sidewalk and plantings in the state-owned right-of-way. Additionally, the lighting plan was discussed, with a preference for down LED lighting fixtures. The engineer agreed to comply with the township’s request to replace the existing lighting fixtures.

The board heard from architect Mr. Adasi, who outlined the proposed facelift of the retail building, which entailed removing signs, adding new finishes, and enhancing the storefronts to improve aesthetic appeal. The design aimed to accommodate up to four tenants, with the board seeking minor adjustments to the facade on sides other than the one facing Route n.

Mr. Kennel, a traffic expert, presented on the parking and circulation adequacy, detailing the planned improvements for circulation and addressing the anticipated parking demand. He emphasized the building’s history of functioning effectively with the existing parking spaces and no use restrictions and agreed to collaborate with the board’s staff to ensure proper signage and tractor trailer access.

The board also heard testimony from licensed professional planner Christine Kone concerning the existing variances associated with the site. Ms. Kone discussed the site’s alignment with the township’s master plan goals and addressed the criteria for granting relief under the municipal land use law. Her expertise in planning and zoning was acknowledged, and no further questions were raised from the board or the public.

In another case, the board demonstrated support for a proposed development in the HD1 zone seeking variance relief. The applicant outlined how the proposed use aligned with the township’s master plan and emphasized the benefits of the project. A board member remarked on the project as a welcome addition to the area.

Further, the board approved SD 3014, a minor subdivision involving the division of a lot into two residential lots, one of which would be used for the construction of a new residence by the applicant’s daughter and son-in-law. The applicant’s attorney noted that the affected property owner had waived the 10-day notice requirement for the application.