At the forefront of the meeting was a detailed presentation regarding the proposed expansion of the synagogue. The synagogue’s representatives emphasized that the expansion, which includes a canopy for stroller parking and increasing parking lot capacity from 37 to 57 spaces, aims to meet existing needs rather than accommodate a larger congregation. The expansion plans include a slight increase in main sanctuary seating from 334 to 351, but representatives clarified that there are no intentions to increase membership or establish additional facilities such as a religious school, nursery, or in-house catering.

A significant aspect of the expansion is the introduction of an open terrace necessary for religious observances, particularly during the holiday of Sukkot. The terrace will feature high walls for privacy and directed lighting to minimize disturbance to neighbors. Concerns were addressed about the property on Pit Road, confirming there are no plans to demolish it for additional parking or create a connecting path to the synagogue.

Board members and the synagogue’s representatives engaged in thorough questioning about the potential impact of the expansion on the community. They underscored the importance of maintaining good neighborly relations and compliance with local ordinances. The representatives assured that the expansion would not increase commercial traffic, with only regular pickups by delivery trucks and occasional extra pickups for special events.

Further discussion centered on the parking lot’s design, which aims to reduce street parking congestion by providing additional on-site spaces. The synagogue representatives highlighted that congregants typically park before the Sabbath or holidays and retrieve their vehicles afterward, which occurs weekly. Overflow parking during special events was addressed, with representatives noting that the expansion would help alleviate such issues.

The meeting also included a presentation by a professional engineer from Dynamic Engineering Consultants. The engineer outlined the existing site conditions and the proposed expansion, which involves demolishing two dwellings to accommodate a two-story addition with a 7,500-square-foot footprint. The expansion plan includes resurfacing the current parking lot and increasing the number of spaces to 57.

The presentation detailed the parking requirements, noting that the existing use necessitates 112 spaces based on the number of seats within the synagogue, with the proposed increase raising this requirement to 117 spaces. Variances and waivers are being sought for the overall number of parking spaces and the driveway configuration.

Concerns about parking adequacy and loading facilities were raised, with the engineer acknowledging that only one loading space is proposed instead of the two required by ordinance. The site improvements also include a green strip buffer along the western property line to provide separation from the neighboring residential area.

Another noteworthy topic was the discussion on a minor subdivision and lot consolidation, involving the relocation of the rear lot line of Lot 39 to align with Lot 38’s rear property line. Despite the reduction in Lot 39’s area, it remains compliant with zoning requirements. The proposal also addresses existing non-conforming conditions regarding building and impervious coverage, with plans to increase both due to the building addition and demolition of certain dwellings.

Stormwater management was a critical concern, with the project proposing an underground detention basin to manage additional runoff. The design aims to maintain existing topography and drainage patterns while complying with ADA accessibility requirements. It was confirmed that the parking lot design would direct runoff toward the property’s interior, captured within the proposed detention basin, and discharged into the existing underground system along Shunpike Road.

The meeting also touched on landscaping plans, emphasizing the importance of maintaining or increasing buffers for neighboring properties. Discussions included the potential removal of one or two parking spaces to create a larger buffer zone and the need for a waiver for aisle width adjacent to Lot 38.

Discussion of a traffic impact study, conducted on August 24, was also significant. The study analyzed existing traffic conditions at the intersection of Mountain Avenue and Shunpike Road and proposed modifications to increase the distance between the Mountain Avenue driveway and Q Drive, reducing potential conflicts. The study concluded that the projected trip generation from the expansion would not impact intersection performance. The unique nature of the synagogue, where the parking lot is closed on the Sabbath and holidays, was highlighted as a factor that minimizes traffic flow during these times.