The proposed warehouse development received considerable attention due to its scale and the site’s strategic location within the township’s redevelopment plan. The project covers approximately 20.54 acres, adhering to existing zoning requirements and introducing a modern facility to replace the current office building. The redevelopment plan aims to make efficient use of the land, promote general welfare, and improve the visual environment, aligning with local zoning ordinances. The site is situated within an SED-5A zone, subject to a specific redevelopment plan, and surrounded by industrial properties, with residential areas to the west.

The board’s approval of a variance for the driveway width from the standard 24 feet to 35 feet was critical for the project’s operational efficiency and safety. The applicant’s representatives argued that the increased width was necessary to facilitate truck access. This decision was supported by testimony from the applicant’s representatives, who emphasized the project’s compliance with higher tiers of the zoning redevelopment plan and its potential benefits outweighing any detriments.

The discussion around the variance included testimony from several experts, including the project’s engineer and planner, who presented plans and visuals. They highlighted the warehouse’s ability to accommodate between 100 to 150 employees and noted that the structure would incorporate modern features such as dock doors and office entrances. The building’s height was confirmed to be approximately 49 feet, below the permissible 60 feet.

Community concerns were thoroughly addressed during the meeting, with residents expressing various apprehensions. A resident named Thomas Malloy raised issues regarding the proposed lighting height, which would increase from 10 feet to 30 feet, potentially disrupting the neighborhood. He also pointed out the absence of landscaping on the west side of the property and the potential impact on evergreen trees that currently act as a visual buffer. The applicant’s representatives assured efforts to preserve these trees during construction and committed to replacing any that might perish as a result of the work.

Malloy also highlighted past issues with trespassing through the buffer zone into residential areas by tenants of the commercial property. The applicant committed to managing tenant behavior and expressed a preference to avoid erecting a fence unless it became necessary. Additionally, the applicant agreed to cooperate with township officials to clean up fallen trees within the buffer zone, which would help maintain the visual barrier.

Stormwater management was another key issue, with the project proposing to reduce impervious coverage and maintain existing drainage patterns. A new stormwater system will be introduced to manage runoff. The applicant confirmed that existing utilities along Lacawana Avenue would be utilized, with coordination with township professionals to address current conditions.

The planning board’s approval of the application was contingent upon several conditions, including compliance with township recommendations, relocation of lighting to minimize impact on residential areas, and management of tenant movement to prevent trespassing into the buffer zone.

In addition to the warehouse project, the board also approved applications for Colonial Heights LLC, involving the replacement of an unused swimming pool with a pergola at an apartment complex. This project aims to reduce impervious coverage and enhance landscaping, aligning with the township’s goals for environmental sustainability and community aesthetics.