The project’s representatives presented an overview of the 5.26-acre site within the Grand Jersey Redevelopment area, detailing the technical aspects and design features of the buildings. The plan strategically positions pedestrian activity and parking garage entry points to maximize accessibility to the Light Rail station while keeping all building services, trash, recycling, and mechanical rooms internal to avoid visibility from the street. The board discussed the traffic implications, safety concerns, and the potential impact on Jersey Avenue’s existing congestion. An emphasis was placed on completing the road network and creating a rectangle of roadway, considering the vacant nature of the site. The project also aims to raise all spaces above the flood elevation to Elevation 14 and includes a green roof and subsurface detention for stormwater management.

In addition to the major mixed-use development, the board reviewed several other significant proposals during the meeting. A redevelopment plan presentation for the Broadway area, which includes two properties and focuses on density, affordable housing units, and the restoration of a pedestrian bridge, generated debate among the commissioners. The plan’s amendments, proposed in consultation with the planning department and the community, addressed building heights, loading requirements, rooftop setbacks, and maximum heights along Broadway.

The board also addressed a seven-story building proposal on Broadway, featuring a combination of masonry brick and frameless curtain wall glass. The renderings presented were to illustrate what the plan could allow, but the final result may differ. The Van Wagenen pedestrian bridge maintenance was discussed, with the Port Authority being responsible for its upkeep and a developer’s contribution to its renovation. Public support was noted, emphasizing the developers’ commitments to enhancing the neighborhood and maintaining existing community events.

A minor site plan amendment for 14-16 Burma Road was discussed, with an attorney presenting the case as a minor amendment to a previously approved site plan. The conditions of the prior approval and the necessity of public notice for the current amendment were topics of conversation.

Another minor site plan for a new four-story, four-family residential building on Liberty Avenue was presented. The project was fully conforming with the R3 requirements in the Land Development ordinance. Public comments raised concerns about traffic congestion, parking, tenant rights and protections, property value, and potential health hazards. The developer’s response included compliance with local forestry standards and regulations regarding potential contaminants and privacy issues related to balcony design. The board voted in favor of the project, commending the developer’s communication efforts with the community.

The meeting additionally discussed a proposal for the Liberty Harbor North area, including a subdivision proposal to reconfigure two lots into three and a preliminary and final major site plan with variances for a proposed mixed-use development. The subdivision involved dedicating a portion of the existing lots to Regent Street, resulting in separate lots for the residential building, Regent Street, and development. The site plan application involved a detailed presentation of the proposed building and its impact on the surrounding area. Despite differing perspectives from the board members, the planning staff recommended approval, and the majority voted in favor of the proposal.

Lastly, a proposed development in the Liberty Harbor North Redevelopment District was deliberated, featuring a 16-story building with 300 market-rate residential units, school space, and retail and parking facilities. The project architect discussed the design and features, including parking arrangements and the presence of a Montessori school. The board and council members raised questions regarding parking, ADA compliance, and the school’s conditional use under the Redevelopment plan. Street improvements and the dedication of a portion of Regent Street to the city were also discussed, with the board approving the subdivision application with conditions related to street dedication.