The Datab Bagan Vignan Institute Inc. sought preliminary and final site plan approval to convert Richie’s Bar and Pizzeria on Vineyard Road into a two-story place of worship. The proposal included bulk and use variances necessary for the conversion. The property, currently in a state of disrepair, is planned to undergo significant improvements, including the addition of a second story for meeting rooms and a small apartment. While the applicant emphasized the benefits of the conversion, such as reducing the site’s impervious surfaces and enhancing landscaping, board members expressed concerns about traffic flow and parking adequacy.

John Ray, a traffic engineer, noted that the redevelopment would decrease traffic intensity compared to the current bar and restaurant usage. The current operation generates over 1,100 two-way traffic movements on weekends, while the proposed center is expected to generate fewer than 400 trips. Ray outlined changes to improve traffic flow, such as the introduction of a one-way driveway on Vineyard Road and a two-way driveway on Johnstone Street. However, concerns remained about left-turn access from Vineyard Road and potential backups, particularly for vehicles approaching from Route One.

Parking was another contentious issue. The new facility plans to provide 44 spaces, complying with township ordinances, though apprehensions about overflow during high-attendance events were raised. The congregation plans to lease additional parking from the Board of Education when necessary, with shuttle services transporting attendees. However, questions about the reliability of these arrangements persisted.

The conversation also delved into the proposed facility’s use, with representatives clarifying that it would not host large events, limiting gatherings to smaller spiritual functions. The facility aims to serve as a community space open to all individuals, with staggered attendance during high holidays to minimize congestion.

The board faced logistical challenges when it came to voting on the application. With only five members present, unanimous consent was required to proceed. Consequently, the applicant requested to carry the case to the next meeting, allowing further review and participation from additional board members. The board agreed to reconvene on January 21, 2025.

In a separate discussion, the board addressed a proposal from Bola Oil Corporation to develop a convenience store and gas station on a split-zoned property. The project involves adding high-flow diesel pumps, raising concerns about potential traffic increases and parking conflicts. The applicant’s traffic engineer, John Korak, assured the board that the new design would improve vehicle stacking and circulation, with minimal expected impact on local traffic volumes.

The convenience store proposal includes 14 parking spaces, exceeding the required 12, and plans for electric vehicle charging and ADA accessibility. Despite assurances, debate continued over the necessity of high-speed diesel pumps, given the limited services for truckers.

As the meeting drew to a close, board members requested updated traffic studies to better understand the implications of these changes. An adjournment was proposed, with further deliberation scheduled for January 28, 2025.