A primary focus was on the contentious environmental impact statement linked to a development project. A board member questioned the claim that “no significant plant or wildlife systems will be damaged or destroyed due to this development,” especially in light of the removal of nearly 21,000 trees, primarily oak and pine. This prompted a call for a more comprehensive environmental report, taking into account the township’s new shade tree ordinance. The applicant agreed to comply with the ordinance, though there were suggestions that the issue could lead to legal scrutiny regarding its applicability.

Traffic implications of the development were another major concern. The project, involving a total of 384 multifamily units, was evaluated by traffic engineer Matt Seckler. This was deemed “insignificant” compared to the current capacity of the Schulmeister intersection, designed for 104,000 vehicles daily, but experiencing between 80,000 and 90,000 vehicles. Seckler suggested that traffic speeds would likely decrease as the development progresses and presented measures like speed humps and textured crosswalks to address speeding and enhance pedestrian safety.

In response to anticipated traffic increases, a council member expressed readiness to lower speed limits. The discussion also touched on the solitary reconstruction of the Schulmeister intersection over the last 25 years, contrasting with other problematic intersections along Route 9. The developer confirmed plans to include electric vehicle charging stations, adhering to state mandates for EV readiness by 2035, and acknowledged challenges related to school bus access due to existing overcrowded conditions.

A significant element of the meeting was the presentation of the amended general development plan for Oldbridge SPE Phase 1 LLC. The plan reduced the number of units from the original 1,386 to 1,312, incorporating 138 affordable units out of 1,056 total units. The developer committed to contributing $3,000 per remaining market rate unit to the township’s recreation fund, with further details to be negotiated in an amended developers agreement. Updates included modern architectural styles and additional recreational amenities such as pickleball and basketball courts and a dog park.

The board addressed the integration of affordable housing within the development, emphasizing the seamless distribution of affordable units among standard townhouse configurations. This approach aims to prevent the isolation of affordable units, aligning with housing policy goals. The project also features a central clubhouse, expanded to over 11,000 square feet to meet residents’ needs, including a package room for secure deliveries.

Waste management improvements were discussed, with the introduction of a centralized trash compactor area, replacing scattered dumpsters, to enhance site cleanliness. The development plan also incorporates outdoor amenities, such as tot lots and a walking trail, promoting community cohesiveness.