During a recent government meeting, significant discussions centered around traffic management and the implications of a proposed mosque at 216 Ernston Road. Residents raised concerns about police involvement in traffic direction, specifically whether uniformed officers would be hired or if auxiliary personnel would manage traffic flow. Officials confirmed that while there is no signed agreement with local police departments yet, traffic directors would be utilized if the application is approved.

A key point of contention was whether the traffic study adequately considered nearby developments, particularly the Old Bridge Glenwood Green project, which is expected to add thousands of homes. Officials stated they had contacted zoning officials from both Old Bridge and Sayreville, who reported no current projects that would impact the traffic study. However, the study did account for a background growth rate of 2.75% annually, resulting in an estimated 5.58% increase in traffic over two years.

Further inquiries were made regarding the methodology of the traffic counts conducted at the Madison Park Firehouse, with residents questioning whether vehicles parked in the surrounding neighborhood were included in the analysis. Officials clarified that only cars in adjacent parking lots were counted, excluding neighborhood parking.

Additionally, the timing of mosque activities raised concerns about overlapping with peak traffic hours. While officials noted that daily prayers occur multiple times throughout the day, they emphasized that the traffic generated during these times is significantly less than that during Friday prayer services, which were the primary focus of the traffic study. However, discrepancies in testimony regarding the timing of activities led to further scrutiny from community members.

As discussions continue, the community remains engaged in ensuring that traffic management plans adequately address the potential impacts of the proposed mosque and surrounding developments.