The Town of Newburgh Planning Board were presented a proposed expansion to the Starbucks on Union Avenue along with amendments to the drive thru area to reduce traffic concerns. The project made an initial appearance on Thursday, April 18 but no determinations were made by the board.

Dave LoFrisco of Kimley-Horn and Associates, Inc. presented a site plan of the new Starbucks expansion reconfigured with two lanes for queuing with a new menu board layout. The new drive-thru layout would address traffic concerns during the peak morning and afternoon/evening times.

“There is a backup that occurs beyond the limits of the drive-thru into the parking area, it conflicts with visitors looking to actually park and it’s also a conflict point with visitors who are trying to figure out how to get on queue,” said LoFrisco.

However, LoFrisco later stated the project may change in which the second lane may be eliminated, adding parking to the site. The hope for the one lane is increasing store efficiency and providing a solution that the site faces.

A prepared memo from MHE Engineering reports that the project involves a 700 square foot expansion to the present site. The expansion would include site improvements such as grading, landscaping, striping, directional signage and a new location for the drive through menu.

MHE Engineering requested to know if the project, based on planning board determination, would require a parking calculation. Hines reported Thursday night that the board felt a site parking calculation should be provided as part of the application.

Furthermore, an amended site plan would need referral from the Orange County Department of Planning, but the town will wait for the plan’s resubmission. The town also requires double striped parking spaces.