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Residents oppose proposed convenience store at 764 New Durham Road; council explains neutrality
Summary
Neighbors told the council they oppose a proposed convenience store and variance request for 764 New Durham Road, citing traffic and safety concerns; the council said it cannot take a position unless an appeal brings the zoning decision before it.
Several residents from District 73 addressed the Edison Township Council on June 10 to object to a zoning board application that would allow a convenience store at 764 New Durham Road.
Speakers said the neighborhood already has several convenience stores within a mile, and they warned the proposed development would increase traffic, create safety risks for children waiting for school buses, and invite loitering. One speaker said the zoning board hearing process left many residents without an adequate opportunity to be heard and that additional public input should be scheduled.
Council members explained the limits of the council’s role: the zoning board is an independent entity; council members cautioned against council interference before the board completes its work because commenting now could compromise the council’s ability to judge any future appeal. The township attorney reiterated that council participation in zoning hearings has produced legal challenges in the past and advised residents on the appeal path: if the zoning board approves the application and opponents appeal, that appeal can bring the matter to the council under statutorily defined review criteria.
Separately, a resident requested a traffic study at the intersection of Old Post Road and Boulevard of the Eagles near Edison High School, citing NJDOT crash data showing about 18 crashes in a limited radius since 2019, including three with injuries and one fatality. The police and engineering administration said they would review existing studies and have traffic staff follow up with the resident.
Next steps: Residents wishing to contest a zoning board decision were advised to consult the zoning department and legal resources; the council will not take a position at this stage but will accept appeals if/when they arrive for review.
