0:00A significant portion of the meeting focused on the revised traffic study presented by a traffic engineer, which included data from May 2024. The study detailed traffic counts at the Madison Park Firehouse, where the mosque currently holds services. During peak hours, 145 vehicles were recorded entering and 121 exiting the area. The proposed site for the mosque is expected to have a better distribution of service times, potentially easing traffic congestion. However, the study highlighted a deteriorating traffic level at the intersection of Ernston and Bordentown Roads, projected to worsen from a level D to E during peak times. Despite these concerns, the application has preliminary approval from Middlesex County, which reviewed various access scenarios.

19:27Residents raised questions about the validity of the traffic analysis, particularly regarding the adequacy of the proposed parking supply. The facility plans to offer 166 parking spaces, yet seeks a variance for a 30-space deficiency. The applicant argues that the actual parking demand will remain within the provided capacity, especially given that Friday services are the primary concern. However, some board members and residents expressed skepticism about whether the parking arrangements could accommodate future growth and the daily operations of the mosque.

2:43:34Public comments underscored community apprehensions regarding the size of the proposed building, which some argue is disproportionate to the congregation’s needs. Residents like Lisa Michelle questioned the necessity of a 44,000-square-foot facility, emphasizing that it would be used throughout the week, not just for Friday services. Joe Caresan highlighted concerns about the lack of transparency in selecting the site and the potential traffic disruptions it might cause, particularly affecting local schools.

3:01:44The board also addressed the topic of variances required for the project. While parking was the primary focus, other variances, such as those for a de-acceleration lane and building height, were discussed. The absence of a de-acceleration lane was attributed to the county’s assessment that it was not viable for the location, leading to further questions about the cumulative impact of these variances on the community.

19:27Residents and board members called for more detailed projections of attendance, parking needs, and traffic patterns, particularly during peak periods like Ramadan. Questions about the feasibility of existing plans, including the use of parking lifts and the potential for overflow parking, remained unresolved, with calls for future discussions to address these issues thoroughly.