Development News for South Strabane, Pennsylvania

2025 Audit Report Highlights Strong Fund Balance; Accrual Accounting Recommended

The township's fiscal year 2025 audit report was presented. The general fund finished with $1,301,000 in current assets, including cash and investments. Several other funds, such as liquid fuels, drug investigation, capital projects, and fire protection, were also detailed. The report emphasized the importance of fund balance for operational continuity, emergencies, and improving the township. The audit is currently a draft pending information from the Pennsylvania Municipal Retirement System, but an unmodified opinion is expected. Key recommendations included adopting accrual basis accounting for better long-term financial planning and improvements in bookkeeping matters, credit card reporting, and investment management.

Route 19 Improvements and Burket Lane Takeover Discussed; New Traffic Light Technology Highlighted

The solicitor's office is involved in various land development issues, including Costco and preparing ordinances like those for data centers and noise/dust. Regarding Route 19, the discussion focused on whether improvements (HOP) are necessary for Burket Man, with confirmation that no improvements are currently required by PennDOT in writing. The conversation also touched on the potential takeover of a portion of Burket Lane and bringing it up to town specifications. Additionally, the new traffic light technology on Route 19, including Wi-Fi capabilities for remote adjustments, was mentioned.

Discussion on 7970 Project Archaeological Dig Requirements and Gas Tank Placement

The board discussed the 7970 project, specifically addressing concerns raised by a resident regarding the necessity of an Indian dig for archaeological surveys due to federal funding requirements, as well as the potential placement and depth of gas tanks. John Wright of LSSE, representing 7979 Associates and Costco, clarified that no archaeological survey was required by the state for the disturbed site, and that revised permits had been submitted. The discussion also touched upon the Meadows Landing project and the naming of the warehouse club.

Updates on Route 19 and Route 18 Projects; Request Made to Fix Unique Intersection

Updates were provided on two road projects: the N Route 19 corridor project, which is planned to start in 2028, and work by Allison Park Contractors on State Route 18 near the high school. The latter project is scheduled to begin June 8th and traffic is expected to reopen by June 29th, with a detour in place at South Main Street and Park Avenue. A request was made to PennDOT to fix a uniquely configured intersection with backward turning lanes.