The council meeting was largely dominated by discussions around a traffic study presented by the developers, which projected additional traffic generated by the proposed facility. The study, based on data from similar sites, claimed that the traffic increase would not alter intersection delays, maintaining a level of service C or better. However, residents and some council members expressed skepticism. They argued that the study failed to account for the real-world conditions and complexities of local traffic, particularly during peak hours. Concerns were raised about the potential for increased delays and safety hazards at key intersections, such as Hartford and Bridgeboro Roads, which already face congestion issues. One resident criticized the study’s timing estimates, arguing that “there is no way… one truck goes through the left-hand turn. Not nine seconds,” illustrating frustration with the current congestion caused by large vehicles.

Safety concerns were further amplified by the proximity of the proposed facility to residential areas and schools. Residents highlighted the dangers posed to school children and crossing guards, referencing incidents where traffic cones had to be placed to protect kids from trucks that were cutting corners too closely. A suggestion was made to conduct noise studies focusing on the areas where residents live, as the current proposals for sound mitigation were deemed inadequate. Residents argued that the facility would exacerbate existing issues, with one stating, “Any truck that comes out of that facility… is going to take up two lanes of traffic.”

Environmental concerns also featured prominently in the discussions. Residents pointed out potential issues related to oil runoff from trucks and the presence of invasive bamboo on their properties. They highlighted past incidents of improper waste disposal, such as motor oil dumping, and called for thorough environmental assessments to be conducted on the proposed site. One speaker expressed hope that any environmental liabilities would be addressed by the council, stating, “I would hope that if they were aware of any issues… they would take care of those problems.”

The meeting further delved into the operational specifics of the facility, particularly concerning the duration vehicles could remain on site and the nature of their storage. Questions were raised about the potential for trailers to be stored for up to 120 days, with some participants expressing concern that this duration implied more extensive repairs than typical. It was clarified that while trucks might be present, the site’s primary use was intended for trailer storage and repair.

Throughout the session, the council heard from a project manager representing the developers, who provided background information on the company’s experience in transforming industrial sites and assured adherence to regulations. However, concerns were raised about the nature of lease agreements with tenants and whether the township could ensure property maintenance to a high standard. The developers confirmed that a local property management team would conduct regular site visits, but the timing of intervention in the event of violations remained a point of contention.

They argued that the application should not proceed without thorough consideration of these factors. A new resident expressed regret upon learning about the proposed facility’s implications, stating, “I would have thought twice before I made an offer on this house,” conveying anxiety about the potential for increased noise, traffic, and environmental hazards.