At a special meeting held on Tuesday, the Lower Frederick board voted unanimously to adopt resolution 2023 R-06 for sidewalk installation between the township building and the Lower Frederick Fire Company properties. This project would consist of installing approximately 400 ft of sidewalk as well as significant upgrades to the culvert, guardrail, and grading on the south side of Spring Mount Road.

            The project is estimated to cost $312,000 with the 2023 Montco 2040 Implementation Grant Program providing approximately $200,000 and the balance coming from the township. This grant program provides county funding to enable municipalities to institute infrastructure and open space projects.

            Both the affected landowners and fire company representatives are in favor of this effort and will be asked to provide letters of support to the township. These improvements will enhance the safety of pedestrian and automobile traffic and facilitate police and fire company access to Spring Mount Road, which is expected to be closed for approximately one week during construction.

            The board decided to delay an application for a Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) grant for improvements to Coble Park until a more detailed cost estimate can be provided. The deadline for submission is April 5 and the township will not have the required financial details at that time.

            Recognizing the importance of the park for the community, a working group, started last year, was tasked with creating a comprehensive plan for much-needed improvements. After expending a great deal of time and effort on the project, this group will continue their effort to deliver a comprehensive plan for the park along with more detailed cost information. This will enable the township to move forward with the project in the most efficient and cost-effective manner.

            The board intends to get input from the community via public presentations and surveys regarding the selection of play equipment, swings, etc., chosen for the children's enjoyment.

            The board discussed numerous ways of reducing and/or deferring the cost of the project including the possibility of doing the upgrades in phases, for example upgrading the infrastructure (e.g. pavilion, walking path, etc.) in 2023, and then applying for another grant for the rest of the improvements at a later date.