The central concern of the Zoning Board’s meeting revolved around the establishment of a Starbucks at the corner of Route 22 and Morgan’s Lane. The board scrutinized the revised site plans, which included widening the entry from Route 22 to allow for dedicated turning lanes, increasing the drive-thru lanes’ stacking capacity to 24 vehicles, and adding impervious coverage. The inclusion of electric vehicle (EV) charging stations and three banked parking spaces were also points of discussion.

Traffic was a predominant theme throughout the meeting, with the board debating the potential impact of the Starbucks on the area’s circulation. The proposed drive-thru operation became a focal point, with the board considering the use of loop detectors and an operating manual to manage traffic flow and prevent congestion. Concerns were raised about traffic backing up into Route 22 and the mechanisms for managing the drive-thru queues, such as marking it as closed and criteria for reopening. The discussion extended to parking space availability and the potential need for additional spaces to accommodate overflow due to Starbucks’ popularity.

Architectural design was another significant topic, with the board and the applicant discussing options for the facade treatment of the Starbucks building. Board members expressed varying opinions on the proposed wood paneling and glass treatment, seeking a balanced and aesthetically pleasing design. The positioning and treatment of dumpsters, as well as adjustments to exterior lighting and roof leaders, were also considered.

Landscaping requirements were a pertinent issue, with the board noting that the total number of shrubs proposed nearly doubled the ordinance’s requirement. However, there was a discrepancy with the number of rows of planting along Route 22 and the foundation plantings. The board addressed a deviation request regarding the number of loading spaces for the Starbucks building and various waivers, including parking setbacks, signage, and fence height regulations.

During the meeting, the board raised questions about the 21.3-foot setback along Morgan Lane, the size and lighting of the Morgan Lane entrance sign, and whether consultants’ comments on review letters had been addressed. The revised site layout, including the drive aisles and their impact on lot coverage, was another point of discussion, as was the management of lighting impacts and the modification of the Morgan Lane driveway entrance to improve traffic control.

The board also discussed the design of the site to accommodate delivery trucks, seeking clarification on the largest vehicle expected to be used. Signage for the Starbucks location was another focus, with questions regarding the lighting and details of the freestanding sign on Route 22. Moreover, there was debate about parking space availability during the construction of a hotel on the same site and the impact on shared parking arrangements.

The attorney representing Bridgewater Real expressed frustration with the delay in the restaurant’s opening, highlighting that the rent was tied to the opening date. The site plan engineer provided testimony on the revised site plans, addressing comments from the board and consultants. The board and the applicant agreed to reconvene on August 27th to complete the review once all information was complete.