The Medford Planning Board has been preparing a meaningful land use study of the Route 70 Highway Corridor zoning districts to analyze existing zoning and land development regulations that may be unduly impacting development along the corridor. Council requested the study because they seek to create a business-friendly environment that encourages appropriate levels of development without negatively impacting traffic or the character of the community, in an effort to strengthen the township’s tax ratable base.
In the early 1990’s Medford capped the maximum size of buildings in the Highway Zones to 35,000 square feet, in response to a planning board application that had been submitted by a big box retailer at the intersection of Route 70 and Hartford Road.
The Planning Board subcommittee has completed the study, which has been prepared and is proposed to be discussed at a public hearing as a reexamination report of the township Master Plan. The study is being prepared by Taylor Design Group, Inc. of Mt. Laurel, planning consultants for the township and planning board.
“It is important that Medford evaluate ways to retain existing uses and attract new businesses to promote economic development along the corridor, while preserving the character of Medford,” councilman Frank Czekay said.
The planning board encouraged community input by hosting a work session this past January at the outset of the project. The board has scheduled the next public hearing on the plan for Thursday, July 10, at 7:30 p.m. at the Public Safety Building. The board and council invite all interested businesses, land owners, and residents to review the plan, which is available at the township planning and zoning office and as posted on the township website.
