Rick Brodsky Secures Planning Board Approval for 340 Residential Units and Starbucks Pad Site Despite Community Opposition

In a significant land use victory, Rick Brodsky, Shareholder and Co-Chair of the Zoning and Land Use Department, successfully secured Planning Board approval for the construction of 340 new residential apartments and a dedicated Starbucks pad site in Middletown, New Jersey.

The proposed development, located just off the Garden State Parkway Exit 109 interchange, had drawn significant opposition from neighborhood groups and nearby residents, citing traffic, density, environmental, and quality-of-life concerns. Despite these objections, the Board voted to approve the project after a comprehensive presentation by Brodsky and the development team. Their presentation included detailed legal and expert testimony addressing the project’s consistency with municipal planning objectives, compliance with applicable zoning ordinances, and a demonstrated commitment to addressing environmental and community impacts.

“This approval reflects not only the merits of the project, but also the rigorous preparation and legal advocacy put forth on behalf of our clients,” said Brodsky. “This project represents a forward-thinking investment in Middletown’s future, and we are proud to have guided it through the approval process.”

The 340 residential units are planned to offer a mix of studio, 1-, 2- & 3-bedroom rental units in a thoughtfully designed community. At the same time, the Starbucks pad site will serve both residents and the greater public with convenient access to food and beverage offerings.

The project is expected to break ground after the final permitting and compliance process is completed.