Proposed Citizens Bank branch raises traffic and ATM-queueing concerns; commission asks for revised layouts

The planning commission reviewed a proposal to split a parcel in the Walgreens shopping center and build a 3,000-square-foot Citizens Bank branch with an ATM lane. Commission discussion centered on traffic queuing on Route 82, the ATM's location and whether a freestanding or relocated ATM could prevent left-turn blockage into the shopping center. "If this doesn't work, I think the move out of the community makes sense," an applicant representative said, describing Citizens' interest in the site.

Staff asked the applicant to document how parking will comply with code under a lot-split/lease-area approach and to provide a traffic turn-lane length analysis or counts if needed. Commissioners suggested exploring alternative ATM locations, islanded ATM placements, or reorienting drive aisles to reduce left-turn conflicts; the commission continued the application to the October meeting so the applicant can submit revised layouts and traffic information.