Development News for Upper Moreland, Pennsylvania

Township to Amend Town Center Zoning for Parking; Bberry Road Sewer Connection Approved

A motion to authorize advertising a public hearing to amend Town Center (TC1 and TC2) zoning districts regarding parking was approved. This action stems from a review of parking ordinances implemented 20-25 years ago, which allowed for significant shared parking with apartments. The township currently owns little public parking. The proposed amendments aim to address parking issues. Separately, Ordinance 1776 for the Bberry Road Sewer Connection was approved, connecting five houses to the public sewer system, though one resident initially expressed reluctance. The ordinance mandates that all properties along the sewer line must contribute to the cost of installation.

Texas Roadhouse Waiver Approved; Metal Policy Tabled; Construction Trailer Exception Granted

The board approved a land development waiver request for Texas Roadhouse at 2575 Maryland Road. The waiver pertains to land development requirements, and the establishment is still required to comply with all other township ordinances as it is a by-right development. A motion to table the metal policy was made due to the need for updates to ensure the correct policy is voted upon. Additionally, a resolution (R2026-13) was approved to allow for an exception to construction trailer requirements, consolidating two trailers into one on the premises for their construction office.

Parks and Recreation Appointments, May Bills Approved; Street Sweeper Purchase Discussed

The Finance and Administrative Committee recommended several appointments and reappointments to the Parks and Recreation Advisory Council, including Diane Dalco, Michael Shio, and Jillian Cindy Lochton, each for a new two-year term expiring May 5th, 2028. The committee also recommended approval of bills payable for May 2026, totaling $1,324,485.91 for the general fund, along with escro and liquid fuel funds. A significant purchase of a 2026 Elgen Whirlwind street sweeper for $375,215.25 was discussed, intended for cleaning culverts and improving street maintenance, with acknowledgment that such equipment is often difficult to obtain and was part of the capital improvement plan.

Township Addresses Resident Concerns and Plans Zoning for Data Centers

Joan Pritchard raised concerns about the potential impact of data centers on electricity rates, water usage, water pollution, noise, and light pollution. She noted the large scale of some data center developments and cited news regarding a Pennsylvania bill to keep centers off farmland. The township has placed a moratorium on data center permits due to the lack of zoning, granting a six-month window to establish zoning regulations. The goal is to restrict data centers to specific areas and implement significant limitations, as outright bans are unconstitutional in Pennsylvania. A community development committee meeting on June 15th will further discuss these issues, including potential size restrictions.