Development News for Uwchlan, Pennsylvania

Planning Commission Considers Modifications to Town Center 2 Development, Increasing Units and Adding Office Space

The Planning Commission discussed the Hanken Group's proposal for Town Center 2, Phase 2, involving lots 17 and 20, which includes modifying a previously approved plan for an 82-unit residential building. The new plan increases the unit count to 93, splits the development into two residential buildings, and incorporates a 4,800 sq ft addition to the World Travel Building, which is also being merged into the overall town center development. This project requires several conditional use approvals, including modifications to the previously approved plan (5086), building height confirmation (56 ft), parking reduction up to 20%, and a conditional use for parking lots over 200 spaces. The plan emphasizes creating a streetscape, a shared loading court, a gathering area between buildings, and improved trail networks. Discussions also touched upon traffic concerns related to Pennsylvania Drive being four lanes, the feasibility of shared parking between residential and office use, and the potential future use of the World Travel Building. The commission also addressed administrative items regarding off-street loading facilities, ultimately recommending approval with a condition for one designated delivery parking spot.

Zoning Task Force Discusses ADUs, Alternative Energy, and Supplemental Regulations

The Zoning Task Force is developing supplemental regulations applicable to all zoning districts within the township. Key discussions have included Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs), proposing they be permitted by right in residential districts with a minimum of 500 sq ft and a maximum of 1,200 sq ft, not exceeding the primary dwelling's size. Other topics discussed include adult entertainment, agriculture, and alternative energy systems (solar and geothermal). Recommendations from Soulsmart regarding solar installations have been sent to the county planning commission. Cemeteries were also discussed. The task force plans to revisit supplemental regulations next month, as not all topics were covered. They are focusing on definitions and evolving regulations.

Planning Commission Recommends Approval for Second Flex Building at 713 Haywood Drive

The Planning Commission discussed and recommended approval for the Hanken Group's preliminary and final land development plan for 713 Haywood Drive. This plan involves constructing a second 35,000 square foot flex building on lot three, adjacent to an existing 35,000 square foot building. The project requires waivers for preliminary final land assessment, elimination of an environmental impact assessment report, and fiscal impact, all of which were recommended for approval. The site has existing infrastructure, including a stormwater basin, and the new building will share a loading court with the existing structure. The applicant addressed a neighbor's concerns regarding screening by planting mature trees, even on the neighbor's property. The project also involves modifications to the MPDS permit. Several review letters from various departments (Evie Walsh, Bowman, HRG, Thoracov, Fire Marshall, SSM) were considered in the recommendation.