Essex Planning Board examines traffic concerns for new commercial development permit

The Essex Planning Board meeting on July 2, 2025, focused on a proposed development that raised significant concerns regarding traffic flow and compliance with local zoning regulations. The discussion centered around a commercial unit on the first floor of the building, which is 1,145 square feet. Board members debated whether this size met the necessary requirements under current bylaws, with some suggesting a special permit to reduce the square footage requirement by 350 square feet.

Traffic flow was a major point of contention, particularly regarding access routes for vehicles. One board member expressed concerns about the impact on Choate Court, where residents would need to navigate tight spaces to back out of their properties. The anticipated traffic from the new development, including deliveries and visitor trips, was also highlighted as a potential issue. The board member emphasized the need for a comprehensive traffic study to assess how the development would affect local traffic patterns and resident safety.

In response, the applicant noted that a site plan review would address these traffic concerns in detail. They assured the board that traffic studies are typically conducted during this phase, allowing for a thorough examination of the implications of the new development on the surrounding area.

The meeting concluded with a consensus that while the proposed use of the property appeared to align with zoning laws, further scrutiny during the site plan review process would be essential to ensure that traffic and safety concerns are adequately addressed. The board will continue to evaluate the proposal in upcoming meetings, with a focus on balancing development needs with community impact.