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Resident flags traffic worries over new ShopRite; administration says planning review and DOT coordination in place

Stafford Township Mayor and Council · January 6, 2026
AI-Generated Content: All content on this page was generated by AI to highlight key points from the meeting. For complete details and context, we recommend watching the full video. so we can fix them.

Summary

A Manahawkin resident raised traffic concerns at Stafford’s Jan. 6 meeting about a planned ShopRite. Township Administrator Matthew von der Hayden told the council the project was reviewed by the Planning Board, a traffic analysis was completed and NJDOT authorized changes; he said staff would monitor effects and address issues as they arise.

During the public comment period at Stafford Township’s Jan. 6 reorganization meeting, resident Bob Sylvia of Magnolia Road raised concerns about traffic that he expects to result when a new ShopRite store opens in the township.

Township Administrator Matthew von der Hayden responded that the store’s project underwent Planning Board review and that a traffic analysis was completed as part of the approval process. Von der Hayden said the New Jersey Department of Transportation authorized the closure of an access road related to the project and that signal timing has been coordinated with the county and the DOT. He added that township staff will monitor conditions and address issues if they arise.

Why it matters: The project affects traffic flow on Route 9 and nearby local roads; residents who live near large retail developments commonly raise concerns about congestion, pedestrian safety and parking. The administration’s statement indicates state and municipal agencies were involved in the project’s traffic plan and that township staff will track impacts after opening.

What’s next: No further action was recorded at the Jan. 6 meeting. The administration said it would continue to monitor traffic and work with state and county officials and the Planning Board if problems develop.

Attribution note: Mr. Sylvia raised the concern during public comment; the administration’s response was provided by Township Administrator Matthew von der Hayden. The meeting minutes record the exchange and the administrator’s assurances about Planning Board review and DOT coordination.