Route 22 Self Storage Proposes Slimming Down Size In Bridgewater

BRIDGEWATER, NJ — Bridgewater Storage LLC returned with another all-new site plan, this time slimmed down, for its proposed self-storage facility, which is looking to replace Melick's farm stand and the long-vacant Tectonic building.

Matthew Capizzi, attorney for the applicant, said that updated engineering plans, an updated landscaping plan, an updated tree inventory, and updated architectural plans were submitted in October following concerns from the Bridgewater Zoning Board of Adjustment and community.

Capizzi went over its new plans at the Bridgewater Zoning Board meeting on Jan. 27 for the site located between Route 22 and Route 28.

The biggest change is the removal of half of a ground level or 15,000 square feet.

"By losing that half of the floor, we were able to also bring the building down 10 feet," said Capizzi.

This reduces the height of the building from 36 feet to 31 feet from an average grade perspective.

Additionally, this also reduces the building height to 53 feet from the intersection of Route 28 to the parapet of the building down by 10 feet to 43 feet.

They also eliminated the proposed drive-up units along three elevations of the building and parking in the front yard.

A drive aisle off Route 22 that entered along the westerly side and meandered along the easterly side to the entrance of the building has been eliminated.

"Now we just have a direct route from the westerly side going up to the main entrance of the building. Which provides for a larger opportunity for landscaping along Route 22 and less tree removal along Route 22," said Capizzi.

The landscaping plan was also updated to remove 300 linear feet of existing evergreen vegetation along Route 28, which will be replanted to provide a "new, more robust vegetative screening along Route 28."

Matthew Kunsman, a senior project manager at Bohler, said the applicant did a tree survey to count the number of trees and their condition.

A total of 242 trees were surveyed on the property, with nine dead or dying trees. This left a total of 233 trees.

"We are removing 129 trees of those survey trees on site. In total, we are also proposing 294 trees part of the landscape plans," said Kunsman. "Total trees on site will be 407 trees in proposed conditions compared to the existing 242 trees."

Lastly, Project Architect William McGeever said the exterior of the storage facility would have earth tones to mimic an office appearance and fit in with the residential neighborhood.

The application hearing will be continued at the March 10 zoning board meeting at 7 p.m.

The Bridgewater Zoning Board of Adjustment are held in person at the Bridgewater Township Municipal Building at 100 Commons Way, Bridgewater, and streamed live on the Bridgewater Township YouTube channel, which can be viewed by clicking on the video stream labeled “Bridgewater Zoning Board” at @BridgewaterNewJersey.

To see all of the documents associated with the storage facility application, click here.

Previous Reporting:

• Bridgewater Self Storage Unveils New Site Plan, Reduces Number Of Trees Removed
• 209 Trees To Be Cut For Proposed Self Storage Facility In Bridgewater
• Farm Stand Could Be Demolished, Replaced With Self-Storage Facility In Bridgewater

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