Hainesport Land Use Board Approves Sidewalk Installation Amid Development Discussions

The Hainesport Land Use Board meeting saw the approval of several development projects, with a notable decision to install sidewalks along Route 38, aimed at improving pedestrian safety near a proposed subdivision. The board also granted extensions and variances for other projects, including a minor subdivision involving a jug handle at Lawrence Boulevard and Route 38, and a rear yard setback for a sunroom addition at a senior citizen zone residence.

40:14One notable matter discussed was the installation of sidewalks along Route 38, associated with a subdivision proposed by Palante LLC at Route 38 and Laurel Ridge. The board deliberated on the sidewalk’s necessity, particularly in relation to nearby multi-unit affordable housing, which is expected to increase pedestrian traffic in the area. The decision to extend the sidewalk from Laurel Ridge Road along Route 38 to the property’s edge received substantial board support, with a vote tally of seven in favor and one opposed. Despite concerns about its connectivity to a broader network, the board emphasized the need for approvals from county and state authorities, given the sidewalk’s location within the township’s right-of-way.

24:59The board also addressed a technical variance request for a lot identified as 7.04, which lacked road frontage. This variance was considered necessary due to the municipal land use law classifying the lot as isolated. Alongside this, the board discussed architectural designs and lighting plans for the development, with a focus on maintaining a residential ambiance through small decorative lanterns at driveway entrances instead of large street lights.

The Palante LLC development also prompted a detailed examination of tree and landscaping concerns. The board acknowledged the township’s tree ordinances, separate from land use codes, and the need for compliance with tree replacement and protection standards. A split rail fence with black grading was proposed around the infiltration basin to prevent debris accumulation, with discussions on maintaining tree preservation near Laurel Ridge Road.

11:50In another prominent agenda item, the board unanimously approved a one-year extension for a minor subdivision at the intersection of Lawrence Boulevard and Route 38. The extension was requested due to NJ DOT permit delays necessary for constructing a full movement jug handle. The applicant assured the board that the traffic signal had been activated, and the jug handle was expected to be operational within 60 days, facilitating a land swap with NJ DOT.

19:25Charles Lawrence, a resident, raised concerns about the project’s impact on the nearby Christian Faith Assembly Church. The applicant clarified that statutory notification was provided to property owners within a 200-foot radius and assured that the church property would remain unaffected. The discussion confirmed that construction had been ongoing since the fall of 2024, with warehouse work nearing completion.

Additionally, the board granted a bulk variance for a sunroom project on Pisley Place, submitted by an elderly couple seeking to enhance their home for family visits. The variance was necessary due to a rear setback issue, with the proposed sunroom encroaching on the mandated 20-foot setback. The board emphasized drainage management, with conditions imposed for the final inspection to address runoff concerns. The environmental commission recommended plantings for water infiltration, and the residents expressed willingness to comply with drainage management suggestions.

24:03The meeting further addressed a proposed three-home development by Mr. Singer, involving the review of professional comments and compliance with zoning requirements. The board approved the preliminary and final subdivision, contingent on final reviews and necessary adjustments to the basin. The approval included conditions such as the installation of sidewalks, compliance with engineer and planner recommendations, and a six-foot vinyl fence contingent on planner approval.

Note: This meeting summary was generated by AI, which can occasionally misspell names, misattribute actions, and state inaccuracies. This summary is intended to be a starting point and you should review the meeting record linked above before acting on anything you read. If we got something wrong, let us know. We’re working every day to improve our process in pursuit of universal local government transparency.

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