A major concern for residents is the anticipated traffic increase and its impact on safety. A traffic study presented at the meeting highlighted that Route 9, a major thoroughfare, and Strickland Road, a collector road, experience substantial daily traffic. Residents stressed that the additional traffic from the proposed gas station would exacerbate existing congestion and pose safety risks, especially near a school bus stop only 200 feet away from the proposed site. Concerns were raised about the difficulty of turning left onto Route 9 and the potential for increased accidents in an area already known for pedestrian fatalities.

Residents like Sher from Freehold voiced worries about noise pollution affecting their quality of life, particularly due to the 24-hour operation of the proposed facility. She emphasized that the constant traffic from deliveries and operations could disrupt life for her husband, who has a permanent disability. John Denzo, another resident, highlighted potential property devaluation and environmental risks, asserting that the gas station could lower property values by up to 30% and pose pollution dangers, particularly to children.

The board also heard from longtime residents, such as Calderon, who have witnessed the deterioration of traffic conditions over the years. He criticized the area’s already chaotic traffic situation, worsened by existing commuter facilities, and stressed the risks to pedestrians, including commuters walking to nearby bus stops. Residents collectively argued that the proposed gas station would not only reduce property values but degrade safety and quality of life.

Concerns about traffic management, environmental impacts, and pedestrian safety were prominent, with calls for a review of the traffic patterns and stormwater management plans. Vija Quesri echoed these concerns, emphasizing the potential for soil contamination and health hazards, and questioned the necessity of another gas station in an area already served by similar facilities.

While the discussion primarily revolved around the gas station’s impacts, the board also considered other applications during the meeting. Notably, Julie Rich LLC’s proposal for a convenience center and fueling station on US Route 9 was a key focus. The project involves demolishing a vacant bank and constructing a 5,670 square foot convenience store with a fueling canopy. The board reviewed multiple aspects of the proposal, including site layout, stormwater management, and compliance with township and state regulations.

The applicant’s representatives presented technical details about the site plan, which includes a convenience store and fueling canopy with eight islands. Efforts to address stormwater management were highlighted, with an emphasis on complying with local ordinances and ensuring no standing water. Discussions also touched on signage, with proposed adjustments to align with township requirements and past precedents set by nearby businesses.

Board members expressed mixed feelings about the signage and lighting plans, noting the need to balance visibility and community aesthetics. Concerns were raised about the proposed sign’s size and setback, with some members opposing relief from the setback requirement, drawing comparisons to a nearby 7-Eleven. There was consensus on avoiding excessive signage and maintaining a coherent visual appeal for the development.

The meeting also addressed lighting concerns, advocating for adjustments to minimize light pollution, particularly in residential buffer areas. The proposed lighting plan included modern LED fixtures with side and back shields. Landscaping plans were discussed, focusing on creating a visually appealing buffer and screening site elements such as trash enclosures.