The property was zoned R-40 PURD (Planned Unit Residential Development) which would allow this light commercial area.
PURD allows up to 5% of the tract area to be developed with retail and service uses to serve the residents of the PURD.

In Nov. 2004 thru Jan 2005 Gen III the Planning Board considered a request for a variance to build residential unites on this property, known as "Fox Chase at Bridgewater".

In 2004, Gen III, a development company, proposed a 19 lot residential subdivision for this area including a roadway to access the development.

In 2006 Gen III proposed a commercial development including a bank (2,640 sf.), pharmacy (14,530 sf) and retail (8,310 sf) space. The bank and pharmacy would have drive thru windows. It would include access from Rt 22 plus two entrances on Traci Rd. The proposed site improvements will also consist of landscape improvements, and stormwater drainage improvements.

Vairances and Waivers requested:
Design Waiver:
Parking setback from Rt 22 of 80 ft instead of 100 ft required.
Three signs instead of 1.

Variances:
43.7% coverage instead of 40% allowed.
Access from Rt. 22

The township asked them to consider moving the access from Rt. 22 to Walters Brook Rd., which would require going thru the property designated as Lot 4.
Gen III said they had trouble finding who owned Lot 4 and access to Rt. 22 was necessary for commercial viability of the space.

Some alternatives to the development are:
1. Have it designated a "Conservation Easement"
2. Have the county or township purchase it for Green Acres
3. Use it for access to a walkway across Rt. 22 so children can walk to school as part of the NJDOT Safe Routes to School Program.

Zoning Map

Pictures

EIS