Development News for Northampton, Pennsylvania

92 Steam Whistle Drive Expansion Approved, Adding Storage Space

The Board of Supervisors considered the preliminary and final plan for a land development project at 92 Steam Whistle Drive. The project involves adding approximately 7,000 square feet to an existing 17,968 square foot structure on a 2-acre site within the industrial park. The applicant, a US-based manufacturer specializing in precision machining and fabrication for the power and utility industries, requires the expansion for additional storage and a slight increase in parking. The company currently employs 56 individuals across three buildings. The approval is subject to several conditions, including entering into a land development agreement, paying a park and recreational impact fee, providing a fee in lieu of sidewalks, and obtaining necessary outside approvals.

New Ordinance to Govern Road Restoration by Public Utilities

The township is considering an ordinance amendment to establish road restoration responsibilities for public utilities performing work within the township's right-of-way. This measure is prompted by a lack of coordination, particularly with Pico, where road opening permit applications are sometimes filed shortly after roads have been paved. The ordinance will require roads paved within five years of a permit application to be repaved in their entirety (length and width), with the township determining the resurfaced area. It also sets criteria for roads where the asphalt is older than five years. This aims to prevent premature road degradation and ensure proper restoration after utility work.

Mario Santilli Appointed to Building Code Board of Appeals

The Board of Supervisors considered the appointment of Mario Santilli to the Building Code Board of Appeals due to a recent resignation. Santilli is described as well-qualified, possessing 34 years of experience in residential and commercial construction, including development and project oversight from land development to construction. He has also been a resident of the township for 24 years.

Northampton Township Seeks Growing Greener Grant for Storm Water Basin Improvements

The township proposes improvements to an existing storm water basin in the Deerfield North neighborhood, located on Misty Meadow Drive. These improvements include constructing new best management practices (BMPs) to reduce storm water flow and are intended to meet 10-15% of the township's sediment reduction requirement for the MS4 program. To fund the design of this project, the township plans to apply for a Growing Greener grant from the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection. The total estimated cost for the design is $90,000, with a grant request of $85,000 and a 5% township match of $4,500. A resolution is required from the Board of Supervisors to authorize the application and designate officials to execute documents.