Penske presents concept for Hartman Farm parcel as supervisors weigh town-center overlay

Penske representatives outlined a conceptual plan for part of the Hartman Farm property at a Nov. 1 Bern Township supervisors meeting, and supervisors said any project would require a zoning amendment and further review.

James Gavin, a representative for Penske, and Sean Yentsch, Penske vice-president of facilities, described the company’s interest in using roughly 30 acres of the 60-acre parcel the Hartman family is considering selling. Jim DePetris said the family has explored multiple options for the site, including a potential 20-acre site that could attract a retailer such as Costco and about 10 acres of highway-front retail.

“Because of COVID there is no longer a tremendous need for office space,” DePetris told the Board, noting the family’s desire to sell the parcel as a whole. Board members pressed presenters on likely traffic impacts and site design. Kent Morey, the township engineer, asked for additional operational details, and Manager Brian Potts said road improvements, including road widening, would be required for development.

Sean Yentsch told the Board Penske would need a zoning amendment to proceed and said one incentive the company previously considered is not being pursued. “We are no longer pursuing LERTA,” Yentsch said.

Supervisors did not vote on land-development approvals or on any zoning changes at the meeting. Board members asked that future submittals include traffic and site-design details for further review by the township’s consultants and the Planning Commission.

The discussion is expected to continue in subsequent meetings if Penske or other prospective developers submit formal applications.