Representatives of the Hanover Development Co., Allentown, last night said they would agree to help pay for whatever traffic signals are needed in the area where they hope to build the massive housing development called Westupland.
The representatives, seeking to change the zoning of Westupland, which is now designated as a planned residential development, spoke before the Hanover Township, Northampton County, supervisors during a public hearing in which heavy traffic again was a concern expressed by residents.
The residents also expressed concern about a proposed commercial area in Westupland, storm water coming onto their properties and a perceived shift away from the rural-residential character of their community.
The supervisors moved to continue the hearing until March 12, after the residents succeeded in convincing the officials that additional public input should be gathered when Hanover Development submits the various data and information that were requested by the supervisors last night. The information would include a statement on how Hanover Development plans to control runoff that comes off their property.
Among the chief concerns the residents have about the proposed zoning change is that traffic would increase on Route 512 and on Jacksonville and Hanoverville roads. According to Hanover Development representatives, there will be two entrances/exits at the proposed development off Route 512, with three off Hanoverville Road and four off Jacksonville Road.
Atty. John Lamb, representing Hanover Development, told the supervisors that his client would contribute money to a fund that the supervisors should set up to purchase traffic signals whenever the volume of traffic meets signalization standards set by the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation.
PennDOT recently denied a township request for a signal at Highland Avenue and Route 512, near the proposed Westupland development. The state, however, did leave open the possibility of installing a flashing caution light at the intersection.
Lamb also said Hanover Development was willing to contribute to a township fund for recreation. He also agreed to a stipulation that no mobile homes be placed in the proposed development.
There was no decision last night by the supervisors on any aspect of the proposed zoning change. The panel has 30 days to hand down a ruling after the final hearing is held, said township Solicitor James Broughal.
Supervisor John Diacogiannis excused himself from participating in the Westupland discussion, and indicated he would do so in the future as well. Diacogiannis, recently appointed to fill a board vacancy, is an employee of Pennsylvania Power & Light Co. Hanover Development is a subsidiary of PP&L.;
The supervisors appointed Charles E. Sandall of Biafore Avenue to the township planning commission, filling the vacancy created by Diacogiannis’ appointment to the board of supervisors. Also, the supervisors named Anthony Donchez to a position on the airport advisory board.
