06:51The focal point of the meeting was the proposal for a 7 Brew coffee shop, which is set to replace the existing Santander Bank with a smaller, modern drive-thru coffee facility. The coffee shop, notable for its operational model that emphasizes personal interaction with customers, is designed to serve beverages without offering indoor seating or food preparation. The establishment plans to operate from 5:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily, with staff numbers adjusted according to peak and off-peak hours.

28:25A key aspect of the discussion centered on traffic and its potential impact on the surrounding area. The proposed site includes a drive-thru lane designed to accommodate up to 21 vehicles and aims to manage traffic flow efficiently, especially during peak hours. The design incorporates a bypass lane to facilitate smoother exits for customers who have received their orders, thereby mitigating congestion risks. The landscaping plan for the site also promises to enhance the green space, with a particular focus on creating a year-round screening effect along the northern property line shared with nearby apartments.

56:57Notwithstanding the approval, the board raised concerns about pedestrian safety, particularly regarding the proposed walk-up window. With a high school nearby, the potential for students to walk to the site necessitated a commitment to creating clearly marked and safe pedestrian pathways.

In addressing traffic concerns, the board proposed a 90-day trial period for a left turn onto Raritan Avenue, set to commence following the coffee shop’s opening. This trial will be monitored by the police department to assess its impact on traffic patterns and safety, with the authority to modify or terminate the arrangement if necessary. Additionally, the applicant agreed to remove outdoor tables to discourage loitering and promote efficient customer turnover.

42:04The proposal also included a detailed traffic study, which analyzed existing conditions and projected the impact of the new coffee shop. The study found that the anticipated increase in traffic delay would be minimal. The applicant assured the board that the site design would accommodate more vehicles than typically expected during peak business hours, leveraging the location’s high traffic volumes to attract customers without disrupting local conditions.

01:37:14The board’s unanimous approval of the coffee shop application was contingent upon several conditions, including a follow-up meeting with the police department to finalize operational recommendations.

01:46:45Beyond the coffee shop application, the meeting also addressed redevelopment plans for properties on Westfield Avenue. A preliminary investigation report was presented, assessing the potential for redevelopment in these areas, which included the former AMP supermarket site. This site, vacant for nearly two decades, along with other properties, was deemed problematic due to issues like vandalism and safety concerns. The board considered recommendations for these sites to be designated as areas in need of redevelopment, which could involve the use of eminent domain if approved by the council.

The discussion on redevelopment highlighted the challenges posed by long-term vacancies and the need for strategic planning to revitalize these areas. The board’s deliberations underscored the importance of addressing public health and safety concerns while fostering economic development through potential new projects.

02:27:29The meeting concluded with a focus on affordable housing obligations, as the town works to meet revised requirements. The board discussed potential sites for new housing units.