A developer has proposed building a massive warehouse club, over 100,000 square feet, with its own 16-pump gas station, along with a strip of fast-food chains with multiple drive-thrus, on land that's currently zoned industrial. The site is at at 569 and 573 East Main Street in Branford (it's off of Exit 56, across from the Soundview YMCA). Before this project can move forward, the Planning & Zoning Commission (PZC) has to approve a major rezoning, and this is exactly the moment for Branford residents to weigh in, because once this kind of large-scale, auto-centric development is approved, it's very hard to undo. The developer's application is PZ-26-39 and can be viewed here: https://branfordct.portal.opengov.com/records/506153

This proposal, if approved, will change the face of our beloved community forever.

While this project is being sold as benefitting the community, let's consider the impact this it will have:

1.The Town Already Decided What Belongs Here: The proposed development is not allowed under its current zoning. Because of that BJs is requesting a zoning change to allow a use for the property that is otherwise prohibited. There is a Branford Plan of Conservation and Development (POCD) that is a guide for the Planning and Zoning Commission and this proposal does not conform to multiple aspects of the POCD. The POCD is here: https://www.branford-ct.gov/DocumentCenter/View/251/Adopted-POCD-2019-PDF?bidId=

2. Big-Box Stores Don't Pay Their Way: Retail box stores are among the worst sources of tax revenue per acre of land used. Also, many large retailers appeal their tax rate and have large legal funds to fight towns that resist. (Walmart did that in Branford). Studies have also shown that retail box stores can cost more in town services than the tax revenue they provide. 

3. Not the Community Benefit It's Sold As: Large retail box stores rely on low paying jobs. Only about 40% of jobs in Walmart, for example, are full time jobs. Because the large box stores compete with local businesses, local businesses may reduce their workforce. The net job gains may be nonexistent or negligible.

4. Economic Impact on Local Businesses: Big box stores can siphon business  from local shops. Studies show that money spent in local businesses circulates within the community, fostering more economic activity. 

5. Increased Traffic: Traffic is already increasing and this will make US1, I-95, and auxiliary roads more congested (the only traffic study was paid for by BJs). Traffic mitigation measures would require widening roads, more traffic lights, and turn lanes. 

6. Environmental Impact: The large parking areas will contribute to water run off, and reduced water quality in our wetlands. This side of town is home to some of our best conservation land. 

Please, let us protect our town's character, economy, and environment. Sign this petition to say NO to BJ's and similar developments at Exit 56. Please only sign if you're a Branford resident and have not already signed a paper copy of the petition.

You can also write to PZC (planningandzoning@branford-ct.gov) to make your voice heard! And of course attend the public meetings that PZC will hold on this proposal. Make your voice heard by speaking at the October 29 yearning. The PZC's agenda is here:  https://www.branford-ct.gov/agendacenter --from that website click the arrow next to "Planning & Zoning Commission". Search the agendas for application PZ-26-39 ; the applicant is Sound Development Group LLC & BJ’S Wholesale Club, Inc.

Connect with the Branford Citizens for Responsible Development on Facebook for updates on the proposal too.