The central topic of discussion was Wayfair’s proposal to implement security upgrades at their 48 Station Road facility, a site with a 928,000 square-foot warehouse within the Industrial Light Impact Zone. The plan, divided into two phases, involves erecting seven-foot aluminum fencing with motorized gates and security cameras to bolster the site’s defenses. The board scrutinized the proposed security measures, especially given the absence of perimeter fencing and cameras at the existing site. The representative from Wayfair emphasized standardizing security measures across all facilities, citing it as a step to combat industry-wide theft issues, despite no incidents at their Cranbury location.

The board dedicated significant time to evaluating the impact of these security upgrades on traffic flow, particularly concerning the site’s entrances and exits. The proposed design includes three driveways for employee and visitor parking, with a focus on managing vehicle access during peak hours. Concerns were raised about potential queuing issues during shift changes, with suggestions for an “Easy Pass” style system to expedite employee entry and prevent congestion. The representative from Wayfair explained that gates would remain open during peak periods to facilitate smooth traffic flow, with a vehicular arm enabling quick access.

Another point of discussion was the impact of gate installation on parking availability and traffic circulation. The project would result in the loss of two parking spaces, although the site currently exceeds parking requirements. The board also explored the implications of gate placements on emergency vehicle access, emphasizing the need for adequate clearance and maneuverability. A suggestion was made to move the gate further into the property to create more queuing space, drawing parallels to practices used in parking garages to manage traffic efficiently.

In addition to security and traffic management, the board reviewed the site’s layout and functionality, particularly regarding the parking configuration for oversized vehicles. The conversation touched on the need to restripe parking areas to accommodate larger trucks, with concerns about the potential for trucks to obstruct traffic flow. It was proposed to designate separate areas for trucks and cars, subject to approval by the board’s traffic engineer.

The meeting also addressed the integration of safety features in the proposed design, with discussions on the placement of fencing and gates to ensure pedestrian safety and compliance with ADA standards. The board highlighted the importance of maintaining accessibility for individuals using mobility aids.

Concerns about the separation of truck and employee parking areas were raised, with assurances that the design would restrict truck traffic to one side of the building, thereby minimizing risks.

They underscored the importance of a cohesive and effective design, with the expectation of further collaboration to resolve outstanding details. Ultimately, the application was approved, contingent upon finalizing the number of parking spaces and ensuring compliance with safety and operational standards.