During the meeting, the Zoning Board heard from Joey Wilder of Benchmark Group, representing the applicant David Swan. The proposed facility, affiliated with Urban Air based in Dallas, Texas, is designed to be a family-friendly environment featuring trampolines, foam pits, and climbing walls. Wilder highlighted the recreational benefits for children aged 5 to 17, while emphasizing the facility’s alignment with the area’s existing entertainment and sports venues. Despite the promise of recreational opportunities, the project required a use variance due to current zoning laws, which do not permit such a facility in the designated zone.

One focus of the meeting was the safety and logistics of the new facility, given its location within a busy mall area. Board members expressed concerns over the current parking lot conditions, which one described as chaotic, likening it to the “wild west.” The high-speed traffic on Route One, coupled with confusing directions within the parking area and the presence of potholes, was noted as a potential hazard. The board member stressed the need for improved signage and clearer directional markers to ensure safety, particularly for families and children visiting the new adventure park.

Attorney Nancy McCann, representing the property owner, acknowledged these concerns and pointed to past planning board approvals, which did not highlight circulation or parking issues. However, she expressed a willingness to collaborate with the planning staff to address potential improvements in traffic management and pothole maintenance. The discussion revealed that the parking lot offers 929 spaces, more than the zoning requirements, but board members emphasized the importance of ensuring these spaces are accessible and safe.

As the board deliberated on the use variance, the facility’s capacity was also discussed. This raised further concerns about traffic flow, as the area is often used as a cut-through for vehicles heading to Route 114. Board members urged the applicant and property owner to work closely with planning staff to enhance the safety and clarity of the parking lot’s layout.

Despite these concerns, there was general support for the application among board members. The consensus was that the adventure park represented a good use of the space, with the potential to offer valuable recreational options for local families. One board member expressed confidence that the property owner would take necessary steps to improve safety and traffic flow in collaboration with the planning department. The motion to grant the use variance included a condition that the property owner must work with planning staff to address these issues.

The unanimous approval of the use variance was an outcome of the meeting, with all board members voting in favor. This decision allows the proposed adventure park to proceed, contingent on addressing the highlighted safety and logistical concerns. The applicant expressed gratitude for the board’s decision, and the meeting concluded with a commitment to ensure that the facility operates safely and within the community.

In addition to the discussion on the adventure park, the meeting also addressed a continuance request from EDM Construction regarding a special permit for storage containers on Popes Lane. The board agreed to continue the case to the May 12th meeting due to insufficient preparation time by the applicant.