28:21The meeting centered on the proposal for a new warehouse development on Block 2603 Lot 27, located at the northeast corner of West Commodore Boulevard. The proposed site, currently vacant and wooded, is in the LM commercial office/industrial zone and would feature a 64,620-square-foot warehouse with an additional 8,250-square-foot mezzanine designed to accommodate six separate tenant units. The site plan includes driveways on Patterson Road and West Commodore Boulevard, separating truck and passenger vehicle circulation, with emergency vehicle access planned around the building.

Traffic concerns dominated the discussion, as the board examined the potential impact of the development on local roads. The report projected that the intersection would function at a level of service D during morning peak hours and level C in the afternoon, with acceptable vehicle delays.

Board members raised concerns about the narrowness of Patterson Road and the feasibility of large trucks making right turns onto it. A suggestion to impose a no right turn condition for trucks exiting onto Patterson Road was well received, reflecting similar conditions placed on nearby developments. Additionally, the parking plan comprises 78 spaces, including eight for electric vehicles, adhering to township ordinance requirements.

47:41The board also scrutinized the proposed warehouse’s design, particularly the visibility of loading docks from the street, which some members considered unattractive. The building’s layout, constrained by the lot’s irregular shape, necessitated a variance for the front yard setback on Patterson Road. The current design showed a slight encroachment, with the proposed setback being 94.3 feet instead of the required 100 feet. Discussions included suggestions to place the loading docks at the rear rather than the front to comply with aesthetic standards along County Line Road.

In response to these concerns, board members engaged in a robust exchange about the importance of maintaining visual standards, with some expressing frustration over visible loading docks. There was a consensus on the need for further design modifications, including the possibility of flipping the building or considering design waivers to mitigate visual impacts.

Safety concerns were also highlighted, particularly the absence of sidewalks, which could pose risks for pedestrians. Members emphasized the importance of incorporating safety measures alongside aesthetic considerations. Landscaping plans were discussed as a potential solution to shield loading docks from view, with suggestions for planting tall evergreens to create a natural barrier.

1:06:27The board recommended exploring partnerships with neighboring properties to improve truck access and circulation. An ongoing dialogue with the applicant was encouraged to ensure alignment with community standards while maintaining project feasibility. The application for this warehouse project is set to continue on February 10th, with assurances that no additional public notice will be required.

0:28In addition to the warehouse discussions, the board addressed routine matters such as the approval of previous meeting minutes and the reading of resolutions, including one for the construction of two multi-use buildings for contractors’ offices and warehouses. An agenda change was noted for a project on block 4301 lot 20, which was postponed to March 24th.

The board also discussed the need for improved signage to inform residents about new developments, proposing that signs include project type, anticipated completion date, block and lot numbers, and resolution numbers. This initiative aims to enhance communication with the public and could be incorporated into the master plan or recommended to the council.