The most notable discussion centered on a variance request for a property on Ewing Street, which involved constructing a new two-story house on a lot that did not meet the minimum area requirement. The applicant’s representative, Daniel Barski, detailed that the lot measures 7,014 square feet, noticeably below the required 8,500 square feet for the R8 Zone. Barski underscored that the significant majority of lots on Ewing Street are similarly undersized, with only two out of 22 meeting the minimum area requirement.

Barski’s presentation included visual aids like a tax map highlighting the lot sizes on Ewing Street and plans for the new house and detached one-car garage. He emphasized compliance with all bulk requirements except for the lot area. Given the close-knit layout of the neighborhood, preserving an adjacent spruce tree’s root structure became a focal point. Barski proposed using metal or steel plates to protect the roots, a method approved by the municipal arborist.

The architectural design, described as modern, sparked debate among board members and the public. Although some appreciated the design, there were concerns about its fit within a neighborhood predominantly featuring one-story homes. Architect Marina Rubina responded.

Public comments reflected mixed reactions. Alex Brown from 315 Ewing Street acknowledged the care taken in tree protection but raised issues about rainwater runoff and potential flooding, given the lack of curbs and storm drains on Lynden Lane. Brown suggested that the project include a drainage system to mitigate these issues. Concerns about the height of the new structure and the impact of exterior lighting were also voiced, with suggestions to ensure lights do not disrupt the neighborhood’s ambiance.

The board deliberated on these concerns, particularly focusing on stormwater management and the potential impact on neighborhood flooding. They proposed a resolution requiring engineers to address these issues explicitly.

In response to lighting concerns, the applicant agreed to shield exterior lights above the first floor and direct them downward to minimize light spillage onto neighboring properties. The board emphasized the importance of adhering to municipal ordinances and exploring all possible solutions to prevent exacerbating existing flooding problems.

Ultimately, the board approved the application with several conditions: review of stormwater management by municipal engineers, specific measures to shield exterior lighting, and protection of critical root zones of nearby trees. The approval, unanimously supported by board members, concluded the public hearing for the evening.

Another case involved the property on Bayard Lane, where the owner, Janet Giles, sought C1 and C2 variance relief to reconstruct a garage damaged by a fallen tree. The existing garage was non-compliant with several zoning requirements. Giles proposed demolishing the existing garage and building a smaller shed structure set further from the property line. The new structure would measure 16 by 12 feet, with an increased height from 8.5 feet to 14.25 feet, requiring variances due to the front yard setback.

Giles shared her family’s history in Princeton and the safety concerns posed by the narrow lot and the damaged garage. Visual aids depicted the garage’s condition and its proximity to the state right-of-way. The board recognized the complexities of the case, including the variances required and the historical context of the structures involved. After thorough discussion, the board approved the application, noting that necessary approvals from the New Jersey State Department of Transportation would still be required.

Other matters discussed included the approval of a proposal for 21 Vernon Circle and the carrying over of a case concerning 58-60 William Street to the next board meeting. The board also reviewed and denied a resolution for a property on Lee Avenue, which had been carried over from a previous meeting.