Applicant narrows self‑storage design but hearing continued after neighbors press traffic, flooding and underground concerns

The Clifton Zoning Board of Adjustment heard architecture testimony Jan. 22 on a revised plan to replace the deteriorated commercial building at 813–811 Route 46 with a two‑story, 110,973‑square‑foot self‑storage facility, but continued the application to Feb. 5 so the applicant can present traffic and planning experts.

The project team told the board the design has been substantially reduced from the original proposal. Attorney Michael Sullivan, representing Gilland LLC, said the applicant eliminated building‑height variances and lowered the visible height from an original 39.8 feet (four stories) to 24.1 feet (two stories), and increased on‑site parking from 14 to 23 spaces while adding circulation approved by the fire department. Sullivan said the applicant still seeks a D1 use variance (storage is not permitted in the RA‑2 residential zone) and C variances for bulk relief including parking, loading and signage as identified in the board planner’s December 4, 2024 memo.

Architect William McGeever described the revised exterior and operations. He said the building will be fully sprinklered and alarmed, will contain an office and…