At Tuesday night's meeting of the Upper Salford Township supervisors, concern was expressed by officials and residents about the roundabout recently constructed by the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) at the intersection of Schwenksville, Shelly and Old Skippack Roads.

            The intersection is now open to the public. However, there are problems with the landscaping and lighting. The supervisors will be meeting with PennDOT officials to discuss the issues.

            Due to supply chain issues, the lighting and poles installed are different from what was originally planned.

            A concerned resident used a light meter and measured the lights at the intersection. The reading was five-times greater than specified light levels that are in accordance with PennDOT light levels.

            Chairman Kevin O'Donnell stated that the township is in contact with PennDOT about the lighting and the "landscaping that is unacceptable."

            The roundabout is a PennDOT project and the township is somewhat at the mercy of those projects. However, the township will hold them accountable to the criteria that was set forth at the start of the project. The board of supervisors meeting scheduled for September should provide more answers about the issue.

            Once the landscaping and lighting issues are resolved, PennDOT will maintain the landscaping for a period of time and then the maintenance will be done by Upper Salford Township.

            In other news, a zoning hearing board application was submitted by John K. Kile. The application is for 843 Spring Mountain Road regarding a request for variance in regard to size and lighting of signage.

            The township ordinance specifically states sign measurements and that signs will not be illuminated. O'Donnell stated that the township will "send the solicitor to defend the ordinance." Solicitor Stephen P. Imms, Jr. will be attending the meeting for other matters concerning the township as well as the variance request.

            Township Secretary/Treasurer Amy B. Shafer provided an update on residential pumping receipts. An email reminder was sent out on July 31st. There have been mixed emotions by residents about the reminders. Septic tank pumping is required by the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) and the township must confirm that residents have submitted their receipts and pumping has been completed before the end of the 2023 year. A third and final reminder will be sent in November.

The township urges residents to have their septic tanks pumped before the deadline in order to avoid fees and fines.

            On Sunday August 20, the Montgomery County Planning Commission will be hosting an event at the Upper Salford Park. It is a networking event for farmers in the area and for landowners to learn about how to preserve their land. The event is a free and open forum. Dinner will be provided.

Anyone interested can find information on the Upper Salford Township website or www.montgomerycountypa.gov/planning.  Registration is required by August 11 for the event.