Costco seeks approval for site expansion and traffic improvements at 10 Costco Drive

The Monroe Township Planning Board meeting on February 28, 2025, focused on two significant applications: a proposal for the Extreme Machine Building and a site plan for Costco Wholesale Corporation.

The first application discussed involved the Extreme Machine Building, which has been operational since its approval in 2001. The applicant proposed extending the length of six parking stalls to accommodate customer vehicles and trailers, which are used for transporting boats and other machinery for repair services. The discussion highlighted the need for these modifications to improve customer convenience, as current parking arrangements have proven inadequate.

Concerns were raised regarding outdoor storage practices, particularly the storage of boats and trailers outside the facility. Board members questioned whether this outdoor storage was compliant with local ordinances, which define outdoor storage of materials. The applicant clarified that all items would be stored within the facility or in designated areas, ensuring compliance with regulations. The board decided to carry the application to the next meeting on March 27, 2025, to allow for further research into the outdoor storage issue.

The second application presented was from Costco, seeking preliminary and final site plan approval for several projects at their facility on Costco Drive. The proposed developments include a 3,739 square foot addition to the existing cold storage building and the construction of an additional truck entrance lane with guard houses. These changes aim to enhance operational efficiency and reduce traffic congestion at the site.

Overall, the meeting underscored the board's commitment to ensuring compliance with local regulations while facilitating business operations in Monroe Township. The next steps for both applications will be addressed in the upcoming meeting, where further discussions and decisions will take place.