One of the central discussions revolved around the extension request for the Cano Lofts project on Day Street, represented by James McCann of Connell Foley law firm on behalf of Mana Contemporary. The project, which includes publicly accessible open space with amenities such as a patio, barbecue areas, picnic benches, and a dog run, faced complications from existing open violations and the ownership transition from a single developer to a master condominium association. The Board expressed concerns about the open space management and the social pressures discouraging non-residents from using the area. Despite the complications, the Board approved a one-year extension while emphasizing the need to address the ongoing violations and ensure the space remains accessible to the public.

In another significant agenda item, the Board deliberated on a signage application for H&R Block’s new location on Bergen Avenue, represented by a legal counsel and a professional planner, Mr. Bellamy. The application requested deviations from the local signage requirements, including size and internal illumination. The proposed sign measured 22.6 square feet, exceeding the allowable 20 square feet, and included a green square element, deviating from the black and white signage standard. The Board discussed the necessity of the specific dimensions and the implications of reducing the sign size, ultimately approving the application with conditions regarding the sign’s illumination.

The meeting also included a detailed review of a residential building project that involves renovating an existing three-story structure while retaining its historically significant facade and adding an eight-unit residential building at the back. The Board addressed concerns about parking and accessibility, particularly the potential conflict with accessibility standards if vehicles park in front of the newly designed stairs. The applicant proposed solutions such as adding bollards or a landscaping feature to prevent cars from parking in front of the stairs. The project, compliant with the updated Journal Square Redevelopment Plan, was approved with conditions for enhanced landscaping to deter parking in front of the building.

Additionally, the Board reviewed a preliminary and final major site plan for a new six-story building with 69 dwelling units and ground-floor commercial space at 604 to 606 Communipaw Avenue. The project, designed with an affordable housing component, was categorized as an “as of right” development, complying with existing zoning regulations without requiring variances. The architectural presentation emphasized the building’s courtyard layout, new sidewalks, street trees, and vehicular access management. The Board expressed support for the project, which aligns with the municipal land use law and the overarching goals of the redevelopment plan, and approved the application unanimously.

The Board also discussed a proposal for a non-illuminated banner system for a parking lot, designed to resemble billboard signage. The proposed banner, displayed on a spring-loaded metal frame, would utilize existing lighting from parking lot fixtures for visibility. The application included a request for a deviation concerning the signage type, replacing an existing pylon sign with a new banner sign smaller than the previous one. The Board approved the application with conditions, considering the existing pylon signs along Route 440 and the proposal’s alignment with the commercial corridor’s character.