Central to the meeting was the approval of the Whispering Woods development application, a project proposing 529 residential units, including 423 market rate and 106 inclusionary housing units. The development plan, which had previously been denied, was revisited under a consent order that required further consideration. It involves transforming a 95-acre site into a residential community with a mix of amenities, including a clubhouse, swimming pool, and playgrounds. The development seeks to create three new lots and requires several variances, particularly for parking areas.

Traffic and infrastructure concerns dominated the discussion, with detailed testimonies provided by engineers about the anticipated increase in traffic and the proposed mitigation measures. A key point of focus was the traffic impact study, which faced scrutiny due to its reliance on data collected in 2022. Residents voiced skepticism about the study’s relevance to the current traffic conditions, noting significant congestion issues at key intersections, particularly at the Parkway.

The board heard from Carl Peny, a traffic engineer, who detailed the planned improvements aimed at alleviating traffic congestion. These improvements include widening Madawan Road to accommodate additional left-turn lanes, enhancing traffic flow through signalized intersections, and ensuring pedestrian access with new crossings. Despite these proposed measures, residents expressed concerns about the adequacy of the planned infrastructure improvements to handle the projected traffic volume.

Public comments highlighted apprehensions about the timing and coordination of roadway improvements, emphasizing the need for simultaneous construction on both sides of the Parkway to prevent further congestion. Residents like Andrew Lfonty and Judy Young articulated concerns about prolonged wait times and the potential for exacerbated traffic conditions if improvements are not completed before the new units are occupied.

The board acknowledged these concerns and confirmed that traffic improvements would be phased, with certain enhancements completed before the first occupancy permits are issued. However, the timeline for completing all necessary improvements remains contingent on approvals from multiple agencies, including the Turnpike Authority and county officials.

In addition to traffic issues, the meeting addressed other aspects of the Whispering Woods project, such as stormwater and sewage management. Engineers assured the board that the development’s infrastructure is designed to handle high-intensity storms and that systems will be maintained to prevent flooding. A new sewage pump station will be constructed to manage wastewater, connecting the development to the public sewage system and alleviating previous septic system failures.

The board also discussed the landscaping plans and the importance of maintaining green spaces within the development. The applicant agreed to comply with professional memos regarding landscaping requirements and to deed-restrict certain areas to prevent future development.

As the meeting drew to a close, the board voted on the application for preliminary major subdivision and site plan approvals, conditioned on addressing the concerns raised during the hearing. This included complying with professional reviews and updating traffic data. The motion was unanimously passed.