One of the meeting’s focal points was the detailed examination of parking logistics for the proposed mosque facility, which plans to accommodate a maximum of 321 worshippers. The applicant’s representative, Lawrence Saxs, presented revised plans that included 107 on-site parking spaces, aligning with local ordinances, and an additional 22 spaces located off-site. The revised plans were a response to previous feedback, including the removal of a stacked parking system, driven by the facility’s reduced occupancy from 454 to 321 worshippers. This reduction was achieved by implementing designated prayer mats instead of traditional seating.

Despite these adjustments, concerns persisted about the sufficiency of parking spaces, especially during Friday prayer services, which are expected to draw the highest attendance. The operations manual provided by the applicant outlined anticipated occupancy rates and parking demand, which varied throughout the week. For instance, on Fridays, all 107 spaces would be required to accommodate attendees, with additional off-site parking available during special occasions like Ramadan. However, questions about the proximity of off-site parking and the safety of attendees crossing busy roads to reach the mosque remained unresolved.

Traffic studies presented during the meeting suggested that Friday midday prayer services would result in a high inflow of vehicles, leading to a “level of service D” for driveway operations. This assessment highlighted the need for police presence to manage traffic effectively. The applicant assured that police would be stationed to direct traffic during these peak times, although board members expressed skepticism about relying solely on off-duty officers for continuous safety measures.

The board and public attendees raised further concerns about pedestrian safety, given the mosque’s location near one of Middlesex County’s most dangerous intersections. Suggestions to employ additional safety measures, such as off-duty borough crossing guards or a potential shuttle service for overflow parking, were discussed but not finalized. A participant pointed out the need for a thorough traffic study to address these safety concerns comprehensively.

Residents expressed their apprehensions about the mosque’s development, questioning the project’s impact on neighborhood traffic and safety. Carol Espazito contested the number of available off-site parking spaces, asserting that the actual count was lower than stated. She also requested documentation to verify agreements with nearby facilities for overflow parking. Rick Connelly shared his observations from a previous traffic count, which recorded several vehicles during Friday services.

The conversation extended to the implications of parking on residential streets, with conditions proposed to prevent attendees from parking in those areas. However, the enforcement of such conditions remained a point of contention. Concerns about the adequacy of ADA-compliant parking spaces were also raised, with the applicant confirming the availability of five designated spaces, which would need to be factored into overall parking calculations.

Discussions about potential construction impacts, including noise, dust, and property damage, were addressed, with assurances that measures would be taken to monitor and mitigate these effects. The board emphasized that any approval of the application would include enforceable conditions to ensure compliance with occupancy limits and safety regulations.