There was no decision made at the Feb. 22 Public Hearing in regard to the future expansion of Cumberland Farms in Centerbrook. Instead, the matter was tabled until a public hearing set for Monday, March 21 at 7 p.m. at the Town Hall.

More than 60 town residents attended the Feb. 22 public hearing. What little was offered in opposition to the application focused on the large canopy proposed over the gas pump area. The particulars of the size and exact shape of this canopy were not available at the public hearing, which is one reason the matter was tabled.

First Selectman Norm Needleman, who attended the meeting, said, “I am concerned. I am neither for or against this expansion, however, I am concerned about the size of the canopy. Will it look monolithic coming from all directions?”

John Marth, planning and project manager for Cumberland Farms Gulf Group, explained that the size of the proposed canopy is approximately the same size as the one that is currently in place at the Cumberland Farms in Deep River.

In addition to canopy size, many other factors of the proposed expansion project were discussed at the meeting. Cumberland Farms attorney Joseph Williams stated that the company is planning on making a major investment in the project with the hope of improving safety, functionality, and appearance.

The current building was originally built in 1975 to serve as Joe’s Service Station. The proposal is to raze this building and construct a new building and gas fueling operation.

Citing issues such as the need for a new septic system, cramped inside space, safety issues with traffic layout in and around the property, and more, Williams said that the new building and gas fueling layout will be more aesthetically pleasing as well as safe and functional.

“The site has remained the same for more than 30 years and we believe it is a time for an upgrade,” said Williams, adding of Cumberland Farms, “We are a proud New England company that was founded in Rhode Island and we have successful stores all across Connecticut.”

The new building being proposed will be constructed in a farmhouse architectural style, with columns, shingles, vinyl siding, and simulated wood trim. The driveway entrances to and from the property will be reduced from the current number of four down to two and each driveway has been designed to be the farthest away from the intersection as possible. There will be new landscaping and green buffers as part of the new project, as well as storm water run offs, a new septic system, new LED lighting inside and out, new sidewalks installed in front of the property on both Main Street and Westbrook Road, and a relocated trash bin area hidden behind a fenced area.

The new building would be 4,250 square feet (the current building is 1,800 square feet), with 16 parking spaces and one handicapped space. The project also includes six fueling stations (currently there are four fueling stations).

One issue was rendered moot last week. Some hoped the large tree that sat at the edge of the property would remain, others noted it was diseased and could pose a safety issue. An overnight thunderstorm resolved the matter—on Feb. 25, the tree came down, causing power outages throughout Centerbrook for a long period of time. It even caused the closing of Essex Elementary School for the day.

At the next public hearing, specifics on canopy size and shape and the possibility of additional parking spaces will be discussed in detail.