Redevelopment plan for former dealership (Popeyes, Taco Bell) carried to June 18 for further review

Newton Development presented a redevelopment plan to convert the former car-dealership site at 32–34 Hampton Hse Rd into two fast-food tenants with drive-throughs (Popeyes and Taco Bell) and two additional retail spaces. Attorney Jason Tuvel said the proposal includes partial demolition and reconfiguration of the existing building, new parking and circulation, stormwater management, utilities and landscape improvements.

The applicant described proposed hours and operational details: Popeyes would operate roughly 10 a.m.–11 p.m. Sunday–Thursday and 10 a.m.–midnight Friday–Saturday with about eight employees on peak shifts; Taco Bell would operate about 10 a.m.–2 a.m. daily with eight peak employees. The applicant estimated a small number of deliveries per week and private-hauler trash pickup outside peak hours. The application will require several variances (sign area, trash-enclosure height, reduced parking stall size) and coordination with state agencies: an LOI application to the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection is pending for adjacent wetlands and a Flood Hazard Area Individual Permit. A traffic study submitted to the NJDOT is under review; the study recommended adjusted signal timing to improve flow.

Board Engineer Simmons and traffic consultant Corey Chasse reviewed circulation and confirmed the site can accommodate expected vehicle movements, subject to plan changes and additional materials. Several variance requests were revised or withdrawn (sidewalk variance withdrawn; freestanding sign height lowered to comply), and the applicant agreed to review signage and property-line issues. After hearing testimony, the board determined more information and revisions were required and carried the application to the June 18, 2026 meeting at 7:00 p.m. without further notice.