Middletown Township approves land development for 627 Old Lincoln Highway amid stormwater concerns

Middletown Township's Board of Supervisors took significant steps towards addressing local stormwater management and traffic safety during their meeting on September 19, 2022. The board approved preliminary and final land development for a project at 627 Old Lincoln Highway, contingent upon compliance with township regulations and necessary approvals from PennDOT.

Residents raised concerns about existing stormwater issues, particularly regarding flooding that affects Maple Avenue and surrounding areas. One resident highlighted that the current drainage system struggles to handle the volume of water, exacerbated by new developments. In response, township officials clarified that the proposed project includes underground storage designed to manage stormwater more effectively. This system aims to control the rate at which water is released into the existing drainage network, although officials acknowledged that extreme weather events could still overwhelm the system.

Traffic safety was another focal point of the meeting. Concerns were voiced about potential accidents and difficulties in making turns onto busy roads. The applicant presented data indicating that traffic accidents in the area had decreased, even during the pandemic. They proposed consolidating access points to improve traffic flow and safety, which will also undergo scrutiny by PennDOT as part of the approval process.

The board's decision to move forward with the land development reflects a commitment to enhancing infrastructure while addressing community concerns. As the project progresses, further evaluations and adjustments will be made to ensure that both stormwater management and traffic safety are prioritized, paving the way for a more resilient and accessible Middletown Township.