The expansion plan presented by C. McGowen, a partner at Greenbaum, Rowe, Smith, and Davis, along with other professionals, detailed the architectural and engineering aspects of the project. This included the design of the new addition, which will be made from pre-cast panels to match the existing structure, and a height of 50 feet from the floor to the top of the parapet. New renderings, not previously submitted, were also reviewed.

A traffic engineer provided a revised traffic study indicating an increase of just over 30 trips during peak hours, which was deemed not significant. The board explored the differences in impact between trucks and personal vehicles on local roadways. Additionally, the site plan includes critical elements such as a sound wall, fencing, and landscaping to address noise and aesthetic concerns. The rear area of the existing facility, where infrastructure and utilities are located, necessitated changes from the previous presentation.

Public comments highlighted resident concerns over road congestion and delays, particularly the impact of trucks parking on Commerce Drive. The expansion is designed to improve production capabilities while addressing existing traffic issues. Along with the building addition, 64 parking spaces will be added on Dmer Avenue, with emergency access on the avenue to be closed and landscaped.

The meeting discussed the necessity for tree replacement and suitable species for the wet conditions along Dmer Avenue. The stormwater management plan was explained, including the use of existing basins and the addition of two small bio retention basins for water quality runoff. An equalization shed and storage tanks were mentioned as part of the stormwater plan, with detailed information to be provided in the final plan.

A significant change from the original proposal was the construction of a sound barrier, which had been extended to the east and west after a sound analysis. The height of the barrier and the potential need for a variance were discussed. The positioning of the building and loading docks has been adjusted to be further from residential properties, addressing proximity concerns.

The board also reviewed the lighting plan, with emphasis on minimizing light spillage, and discussed the landscaping plan, including types and quantities of trees for shade tree replacement. The applicant assured compliance with review letters from the township sewage authority and other agencies, including the installation of EV charging stations and fire hydrant and access point upgrades.

Further debate occurred over the presence of porous pavement, which the applicant clarified had been removed in the redesign. The board also discussed tree replacement requirements, stormwater management, and drainage, with concerns about flooding and the impact on neighborhood quality of life.

In response to a resident’s skepticism about noise tests and the potential impacts of the expansion, the board and applicant reiterated their commitment to comply with noise regulations and mitigate concerns. The construction of a sound wall was presented as a major effort to reduce noise levels.

The board also addressed a two-lot subdivision on Garfield in the r10 zone, approving it with conditions to limit clearing and maximize the buffer from Interstate 287. The discussion covered the history of the project and the applicant’s previous challenges in securing approval.