June 3, 2026 Planning Board Regular Meeting Minutes

- Mr. Schkolnick noted upcoming testimony regarding: o EV parking improvements. o Compliance with state statutes and local ordinances. o Mr. Pehnke confirmed those improvements, indicating John Cote would discuss them in greater detail. -. Mr. Schkolnick asked about the driveway slope variance. o Mr. Pehnke explained the important design issue is achieving a safe approach to Eagle Rock Avenue. = The new/driveway meets Essex County standards near the roadway. a Vehicles will be able to stop safely, even in poor weather. = Traffic signal control further improves safe entry onto Eagle Rock Avenue. - Explanation of signal phasing: © «The proposed traffic signal will operate using four phases o Sequence described: u Protected left-turn phase for vehicles entering Oval Road while opposing traffic is stopped. = Permissive through movement on Eagle Rock Avenue in both directions. u Protected left-turn phases for Oval Road/Crestmont traffic. u. Side-street movements coordinated with Laurel Avenue. © Signal coordination ensures that when Oval Road/Crestmont traffic receives green time, Laurel Avenue's coordinated timing allows smooth traffic progression through the corridor. - Parking improvements discussed: o. Mr. Schkolnick noted that adding 32-36 parking spaces reduces the site's existing parking deficiency. o Mr. Pehnke agreed and explained: a The parking expansion was an independent need for Crestmont. =. The driveway relocation affected the lower parking area. a The project combines roadway improvements, driveway relocation, and parking improvements into one coordinated application. > Mr. ‘Schkolnick asked whether the new crosswalks and ADA ramps support his opinion that the project provides a public benefit. o Mr. Pehnke responded that: = Providing a safe crossing location on Eagle Rock Avenue is an important public benefit. = Although sidewalks are currently incomplete along portions of Eagle Rock Avenue, this project begins extending the pedestrian network. = The improvements benefit pedestrians, bicyclists, residents using Oval Road, and visitors to the Country Club. - Mr. Schkolnick asked whether the proposal represents a reasonable accommodation in light of the potential eminent domain impacts. o Mr. Pehnke testified that: = These are exactly the improvements traffic engineers would recommend for this location. = Oval Road serves numerous residences,

of the potential eminent domain impacts. o Mr. Pehnke testified that: = These are exactly the improvements traffic engineers would recommend for this location. = Oval Road serves numerous residences, Pleasantdale Chateau, the Paddle Club, and other public traffic. = The project primarily addresses public roadway safety. 23