The proposed project involves demolishing an existing garden center to construct a building with 68 apartments, including 11 affordable units. Despite revisions to the layout and a reduction in the number of units from earlier proposals, the application for a bifurcated D variance encountered strong opposition from local residents. Many attendees, such as Patricia Shuck, criticized the project for straying from the original concept of retail stores on the ground floor with residential units above. She expressed frustration over the increased traffic and urged adherence to the town center plan, emphasizing the need to preserve the community’s character.

Residents raised safety concerns related to the traffic impact of the proposed development. The applicant’s traffic consultant, Frank Miskovich, presented a comprehensive traffic analysis report, asserting that the reduction from 68 to 54 units would lessen the project’s impact on local traffic patterns. Miskovich noted that future traffic projections up to 2029 had been considered, factoring in potential traffic from a nearby proposed shopping center. Despite the analysis, residents like Richard remained skeptical, questioning the adequacy of traffic counts and the validity of the findings. He argued that the design was out of character with the area and pointed out existing traffic challenges on Route 516, describing them as exacerbating conditions for local drivers.

Public comments also reflected concerns about the aesthetic and structural aspects of the proposed building. Donna Warren and Chenane Caruana echoed sentiments that a three-story structure would be unprecedented in the immediate area and would not complement the existing architectural landscape. They highlighted issues with traffic congestion and the project’s potential to disrupt the neighborhood’s character. Caruana particularly emphasized the difficulties faced by residents trying to navigate the narrow roads and sharp curves near the proposed site, suggesting that a smaller-scale, community-oriented development might be more appropriate.

The meeting also addressed the logistics of the project, including stormwater management and infrastructure considerations. The project plans to reduce impervious surfaces from 95% to approximately 71%, which is expected to improve drainage and groundwater recharge. However, concerns about the safety and accessibility of the site persisted, with inquiries about fire truck circulation and the adequacy of emergency access points.

In addition to the residential project, the board discussed applications from Stephanie and John Walcott for a driveway expansion on Farm Brook Road and two resolutions involving Bentley Realty Group and Jessica Kriscowski. The Walcotts sought a design waiver for a driveway constructed slightly over the required setback, which the board approved, recognizing their good-faith efforts as first-time homeowners. The Bentley Realty Group and Kriscowski resolutions were adopted without debate.

The contentious nature of the multifamily project was underscored by the board’s decision to carry the application to a future meeting, allowing for additional testimony and consideration of the issues raised by the community. The meeting concluded with an announcement of a special session scheduled for June 29th, where further discussions on the project are expected. Meanwhile, the applicant’s representative reiterated their intention to proceed in compliance with local ordinances, despite community objections.