One of a notable topics was the approval of a major redevelopment plan by Washington Avenue Investments LLC. The proposal involves constructing 190 senior living apartments across four buildings, alongside 44 lots designated for single-family detached homes. The project aims to meet the township’s growing need for senior housing, with all structures designed to comply with local redevelopment standards. The board’s deliberations included detailed presentations on the project’s site plan, architectural design, and compliance with environmental and zoning regulations.

A major point of concern was the proximity of a JCPNL utility tower to the residential area. Board members debated whether a protective fence should be installed around the tower to prevent residents from accessing the potentially hazardous area. While some members advocated for this safety measure, citing risks associated with unprotected access, others noted that similar developments had coexisted with utility towers without significant safety issues.

The board also addressed the project’s infrastructure, particularly the installation of a fiber optic conduit line along South Washington Avenue. The conversation highlighted the need for a permit from the Department of Environmental Protection to proceed with installation. Board members agreed on the necessity of integrating irrigation infrastructure during construction to maintain the landscaping’s viability, learning from past developments where lack of irrigation led to landscaping failures.

Another focus was the project’s stormwater management approach, which includes bio-retention basins to handle runoff and comply with green infrastructure requirements. The planning board scrutinized the proposed stormwater system.

Architectural presentations provided insights into the design of both single-family homes and multifamily apartments. The single-family homes were designed with flexibility in mind, offering potential homeowners a range of choices, from floor plans to exterior aesthetics. The multifamily apartments will include a mix of one- and two-bedroom units, with all buildings designed to be accessible and equipped with amenities like lounges and roof gardens.

Public amenities were also a topic of interest, with plans for an 8,000-square-foot clubhouse featuring a pool, patio area, and pickleball courts. The clubhouse is strategically placed to serve as a central hub for both single-family and multifamily residents, with discussions around ensuring adequate parking and access for all residents.

Traffic and accessibility considerations were thoroughly examined, with a traffic engineer confirming that the proposed access points and internal circulation plans meet the Residential Site Improvement Standards. The board also discussed pedestrian access to a planned ecological park, emphasizing the need for safe crossing solutions for seniors.