Board flags parking, traffic safety at Poke Valley/Eastern Road ball field; considers property purchase or paid parking alternatives

Board members discussed persistent parking and traffic-safety problems at the Poke Valley/Eastern Road ball field and explored possible short- and long-term remedies.

Members said parked cars regularly overflow into grass areas on a 45 mph road, creating hazards for players and families. One member said they had spoken with adjacent property owners and that some indicated they might consider selling, which could allow the township to create safer parking and access. The board discussed whether open-space acquisition funds would be appropriate and whether purchasing adjacent parcels should be explored further.

As short-term alternatives, members discussed renting the nearby church parking lot (noting the church had liability and trash concerns) or requiring teams to pay for traffic-control officers when games generate heavy parking. The group also noted that state road limitations complicate redesigning access along the roadway and that PennDOT approvals would likely be necessary for major changes.

Members asked staff to add the parking-safety issue to the August prioritization list so council-level resources and potential property acquisitions could be discussed alongside the budget.