Proposed car wash development at Route 28 includes recycling water system

The Cranford Zoning Board meeting on June 23, 2025, focused on a proposal for a new car wash facility at an existing fueling station site. The applicant presented plans to demolish the current retail and repair garage building to make way for a 3,350 square-foot, one-story car wash. This facility will feature two car wash tunnels, one measuring 80 feet for washing and another 50 feet for detailing, with a capacity to wash one car per minute.

Key features of the proposal include two stacking lanes for vehicles, a self-service pet wash kiosk, and a total of 22 parking spaces. The car wash is designed to operate without employees handling vehicles, utilizing a conveyor system for the washing process. Additionally, the facility will incorporate a reclaimed water system to enhance sustainability.

The existing fueling station will remain operational, with modifications to reduce the number of fueling positions to improve traffic flow. The applicant is requesting extended hours of operation from 7 AM to 10 PM for both the car wash and fueling station, while acknowledging that the fueling station currently operates under a town ordinance limiting hours from 5 AM to midnight.

Concerns were raised regarding the increase in impervious coverage, which would rise to 74.9% with the new construction, just under the permitted limit of 75%. The applicant has made adjustments to address these concerns, including the addition of a right-turn-only sign at the Elizabeth Avenue exit to improve traffic safety.

The meeting concluded with discussions on logistics for fuel deliveries and trash collection, ensuring that operations would not conflict with peak hours or disturb nearby residential properties. The proposal is now set to undergo further review as the board considers the implications of the changes on the community.