The Memor Center project, presented by John Marora on behalf of Interfaith Neighbors, focused on ensuring pedestrian safety during construction. William E. Fitzgerald, who had previously testified, detailed the construction sequence and traffic control plans. He outlined measures such as removing one tree to create a concrete walking area, erecting scaffolding and protective fencing, and closing pedestrian access along Avenue A and Adams Street due to a lack of parking on the site’s western side. Fitzgerald emphasized that these plans were designed to prevent any infringement on pedestrian safety, with a temporary crosswalk proposed along Adams Street to facilitate safe crossing near a nearby restaurant. Coordination with the Department of Public Works and the police department was deemed necessary to ensure these safety measures.

Concerns from the public included the proximity of construction to an adjacent building that had recently undergone roof renovations, prompting discussions about protective measures like netting or scaffolding. Fitzgerald assured that safety would be maintained and proposed further meetings to address these concerns directly.

Jason Bradshaw, a lighting expert, also testified about the project’s exterior lighting, detailing the compliance with local regulations and the dark sky initiative. He described planned lighting elements such as wall packs near doors and minimal accent lighting to enhance safety while maintaining aesthetic considerations. The board discussed and approved these lighting plans.

Jim Higgins, a planner, provided insights into the Memor Center project’s compliance with neighborhood commercial zoning standards. He noted the unique nature of the site with four street frontages, requiring a zero-foot front setback along Springwood Avenue to promote a pedestrian-friendly atmosphere. The setbacks on Avenue A and Adams Avenue were adjusted to allow for landscaping, and the building was pushed back on Atkins Avenue to accommodate a community garden. Higgins highlighted the inclusion of two affordable housing units, aligning with the redevelopment plan’s goals.

During public comments, a representative from the Asbury Park African-American Music Project appreciated the design changes made throughout the process and emphasized the importance of protecting the adjacent Turf Club property during construction. The board discussed conditions surrounding the project, including the addition of public art, green building initiatives, underground utilities, and coordination of street tree planting with the shade tree commission. Ultimately, the project was approved with these conditions.

The meeting then transitioned to discussions on the Delta Townhouse Development. Architect Adrian Melan presented a visual representation of the project from Web Street, focusing on the view across Eighth Avenue to Seventh Avenue. The board raised concerns about architectural details, particularly the visibility of meters and water sprinkler closets on the building facades. Melan assured that these features would be concealed by landscaping on the sides of the three-story building.

Board members expressed concerns over the uniformity of building designs. They debated the actual view pedestrians would have from Web Street, noting that the rendering did not accurately represent this view. Suggestions included altering the angle of the buildings to minimize the visibility of garages from Web Street and introducing architectural walls to enhance the streetscape.

Brian La, President of BML Studio, provided testimony focused on landscaping, detailing the positioning of buildings in relation to the sidewalk and the inclusion of ornamental trees and shrubs. La explained that the sloping roadways necessitated small retaining walls, which would serve as seating areas and block vehicle headlights from shining onto sidewalks. The selection of plants suited for the coastal environment of Asbury Park was also highlighted.

Public comments raised concerns about the loss of green space and the proximity of buildings to property lines, with frustrations expressed about the development eliminating much of the grass currently on the block. The council representative clarified that infrastructure component reports had been approved and any revisions would be reviewed by the council.

As the meeting progressed, the civil engineer detailed infrastructure improvements, including wider roadways and angled parking. Despite assurances that the design aimed to balance aesthetic appeal with functional considerations, residents remained cautious about the impact on their living environment. The discussion included stormwater management, retaining walls, and the relocation of a bus shelter, emphasizing compliance with flood hazard regulations and the integration of lighting designs.