The Abbey redevelopment project, intended to house a furniture showroom and restaurant, underwent substantial revisions. The developers proposed a scaled-down design, reducing restaurant seating from 148 to 76 and retail space from over 50,000 square feet to 36,719 square feet. This scaling back, partly due to post-pandemic construction cost increases, aimed to ensure project feasibility while maintaining architectural integrity. The board was particularly interested in how these adjustments would affect parking and traffic flow.

A central concern was the parking arrangement, with the new plan proposing 108 parking spaces, down from the previously approved 170. The developers addressed potential parking issues, noting a post-construction study would assess demand six months after the project’s opening. This study will ensure compliance with the ordinance and Redevelopment plan, with the possibility of off-site parking alternatives if needed.

Traffic flow and ingress/egress designs also drew attention. The developers proposed to maintain the current driveway configuration and prohibit left turns onto Canfield Road, directing traffic towards Madison Avenue. These measures are intended to mitigate traffic impacts on local roads. A traffic study confirmed that the reduced seating and showroom space would decrease overall traffic, supporting a full movement driveway along Madison Avenue.

The board scrutinized the architectural elements of the amended design, particularly the mechanical units’ visibility and the building’s aesthetics. The developers assured proper screening for mechanical units and emphasized the use of quality materials to maintain the site’s visual appeal. The new design features a two-story gallery structure complementing the existing Abbey, with attention to preserving historical elements like stained glass windows.

The meeting also addressed stormwater management, vital due to more state regulations. The proposed design includes porous pavement systems and a bio-retention basin to manage runoff effectively. Landscaping plans were revised to increase buffering, particularly around parking areas, reducing visibility from adjacent streets and properties. The developers committed to replacing trees that had previously died.

Public comments revealed community concerns about parking overflow and lighting impacts on residential areas. The developers reassured that site lighting would adhere to ordinance standards, minimizing light spill. Discussions included the use of downward-facing LED lights and potential light curfews to reduce disturbances to neighbors.

The board’s approval of the amended site plan came after detailed deliberations over the project’s compliance with the original redevelopment plan’s conditions. Deviations from previous approvals, such as signage and parking configurations, were noted, but the board ultimately supported the revised plan. A member who had previously objected acknowledged improvements in the plan, expressing confidence in its progression.