Monroe Board Approves Varied Subdivision and Addresses Environmental Concerns
- Meeting Overview:
In the latest meeting of the Monroe Township Planning Board on March 28, 2024, the most significant proceedings included the approval of a minor subdivision on Hy Road with variances and the discussion of environmental concerns related to the project. The board granted a time extension to Apple Reality LLC and briefly memorialized the Costco Wholesale Corp project.
The focal point of the meeting was the application for a minor subdivision of a property on Hy Road. This involved the creation of two lots designated for single-family dwellings. The applicant presented a detailed survey plat and plot plan, proposing the dedication of a 25-foot wide strip for road widening and the installation of concrete curbs and sidewalks. The plans also showed compliance with existing zoning requirements. A variance was sought concerning a landscape buffer requirement.
The board was keen to ensure that the development would maintain the area’s environmental integrity. They paid particular attention to the existing trees along Cranbury Station Road, seeking clarification on whether they would remain and how they would comply with ADA standards. The dialogue on this matter did not reach a conclusion within the provided transcript.
During the public comment segment, environmental concerns were a common theme. A neighbor addressed the potential drainage issues on Hy Reid Road. The applicant assured the board and residents of their commitment to providing the necessary curbing and drainage for the area. Another resident’s concerns revolved around the drainage pipes adjacent to their home and the potential effects of the new houses on nearby wetlands. The applicant reassured that the houses would be situated outside the wetland buffer and that the existing trees would not be disturbed.
An aspect of the plan that garnered attention was the circular path depicted on the plans. It was clarified that this was indeed the wetlands buffer, which was integral to the discussion on environmental preservation.
Further examination of environmental considerations involved a conversation regarding a detention basin for the Stratford development. A board member raised a question about the basin’s potential impact on the property in question, though no direct connection was identified.
The application for the minor subdivision, including the variance for a 60-foot landscape buffer, was eventually approved by the board. The members expressed their approval, and the motion passed.
In addition to the primary application, the board dealt with other matters. An extension of time for Apple Reality LLC was approved due to a death in the family of the applicant owner and pending county approval, extending the deadline through March 25, 2025.
The meeting also included the memorialization of the Costco Wholesale Corp project. This item was approved with little discussion.
The meeting concluded with an open public portion, during which no additional comments were brought forth from the public. This was followed by the board moving to adjourn, concluding the evening’s agenda.
Stephen Dalina
Planning Board Officials:
Terence Van Dzura, Marc Gaffrey, Hemant Patel, Alan Weinberg, David Rothman, John Riggs, Roslyn Brodsky, Manish Patel, Carol Damiani, Jay Weiner, Alton Kinsey, Jerome Convery (Board Attorney), Mark J. Rasimowicz (Board Engineer), Robert J. Russo (Board Planner), Laura Zalewski (Board Secretary), Kevin McGowan (Director)
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Meeting Type:
Planning Board
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Committee:
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Meeting Date:
03/28/2024
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Recording Published:
03/28/2024
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Duration:
32 Minutes
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Notability Score:
Routine
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State:
New Jersey
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County:
Middlesex County
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Towns:
Monroe (Middlesex County)
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