Bridgeville Comprehensive Plan

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-Est. 1901- Bridgeville Borough Comprehensive Plan Table of Contents

Section 1: Introduction Community Development Objectives ...... 1-1 Goal of the Comprehensive Plan ...... 1-2 What is the Bridgeville Borough Comprehensive Plan? ...... 1-3 Timeline ...... 1-4 Interrelationship Statement ...... 1-5 Contiguous Municipalities Statement ...... 1-6 Public Participation ...... 1-6 Capital Improvements Program ...... 1-8 Implementation Plan ...... 1-13

Section 2—Community History ...... 2-1

Section 3—Demographics ...... 3-1

Section 4—Community Amenities ...... 4-1

Section 5—Transportation ...... 5-1

Section 6—Housing ...... 6-1

Section 7—Economic Development ...... 7-1

Section 8—Parks and Recreation ...... 8-1

Section 9—Natural Resources ...... 9-1

Section 10—Land Use ...... 10-1

Appendices

References ...... A Recreation Assessment ...... B Public Input ...... C SWOT Results ...... i CIE Results ...... ii Goals Ranking Results ...... iii Public Comment Form ...... iv Public Survey Results ...... v Economic Development Workshop Results ...... vi Chartiers Valley High School Results ...... vii Project Newsletters ...... D Funding Sources and Technical Assistance ...... E Bridgeville Borough is located along Capitalize on the existing the Interstate 79 corridor in Allegheny transportation network and proximity County approximately 15 miles to major highways and public southwest of the City of Pittsburgh. transportation providers, while The borough is a part of the providing a safe and pedestrian Southwestern Pennsylvania region, friendly atmosphere. which has a rich industrial and ethnic heritage. Encourage residents and visitors alike to visit downtown by improving The comprehensive plan is the only the existing parking. public document that describes the community as a whole in terms of its Develop innovative strategies to complex and mutually supporting capitalize on the existing housing networks. The plan contains policy stock and provide more housing statements, developed by the options such as garden apartments, community and adopted by its townhouses, and condominiums and officials, which are used to support allow for mixed-use commercial and community decisions and anticipate residential districts. future conditions.

The Bridgeville Borough Work with surrounding municipalities Comprehensive Plan has been to provide coordinated public prepared in accordance with the services and infrastructure to ensure Pennsylvania Municipalities Planning the highest quality of life for borough Code subsequent amendments. residents. Although the plan is not a legally binding document, it is the official Promote an aesthetically pleasing statement for future development in downtown environment to attract new the community. The following were businesses. identified as the community development objectives through input Foster better relationships with local from the public at large, steering industries to promote a safe and committee and borough officials: healthy environment for borough and surrounding municipalities’ residents. Improve, update, and maintain the current recreation facilities and Preserve the historic integrity of services available to meet the Bridgeville Borough and promote changing needs of the borough while existing and potential historic sites. providing better access to these facilities for all residents.

Bridgeville Borough Comprehensive Plan Update

HISTORY & COMMUNITY CHARACTER

Incorporated as a borough on March 11, 1901, Bridgeville has celebrated over 100 years of history. The 1920’s saw a “Build – Boost – Beautify” mentality emerge for Bridgeville. The Bridgeville Chamber of Commerce set the tone with this motto, and the catchphrase “make your home town an ideal place in which to live, work and play”. Over the course of the next 80 years, Bridgeville would feel the effects of the changing social and economic composition, such as the consolidation of public schools, the construction of I-79, and the decline of manufacturing industries. Bridgeville coped with these social and economic trends by slowly evolving from a vital business center into a pleasant residential area for families that retains a strong commercial flavor. The “Build – Boost – Beautify” motto of the 1920’s was replaced with the current motto of “It’s a nice place to live.”

Many buildings constructed before or around the turn of the 20th Century still exist and are in fine condition. These homes and businesses serve to impart a sense of character and elected officials would be wise to use these structures as the basis for future streetscape planning. Bridgeville has a very active historical society and community association. These local organizations have published several yearbooks (the most recent for the 2001 centennial celebration) celebrating the borough’s history. The borough should work with these organizations to identify the historic or cultural resources that should be preserved. Funding is available from the Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission (PHMC) to non-profit organizations and local governments for historic preservation, structural Historic Railroad Car at Library rehabilitation, and restoration of historic properties.

As the project area is located along roadways that experience significant amounts of traffic, there are numerous opportunities to increase awareness of the borough by creating gateways. Thematic improvements to the downtown streetscape would improve the appearance and encourage individuals to shop in the business district. As stated in the plan, there are many tools available for municipal officials that can be used to foster community character and protect important historic and cultural assets. As these steps are taken, the borough will see benefits both socially (as community pride increases) and economically Washington Avenue Shops (with increased property values and an infusion of spending by visitors).

The following action steps have been identified as priorities for the history and community character element:

1. Hold a workshop with the Pennsylvania Downtown Center to discuss issues regarding the appearance of the central business district and possible programs to implement 2. Create a Business Improvement District 3. Complete a streetscape plan for the Washington Avenue Corridor 4. Implement design guidelines in the business district 5. Establish gateways at vehicular and pedestrian entry points 6. Establish a shade tree commission and enact a shade tree ordinance 7. Study the financial feasibility of hiring a Main Street Manager 8. Conduct an inventory of historic resources and identify those suitable for heritage tourism efforts 9. Obtain funding for the restoration and rehabilitation of historic properties 10. Provide information to individuals interested in obtaining tax credits for historic preservation activities 11. Acquire preservation or façade easements on historic properties 12. Provide zoning bonuses for the preservation of historic sites and structures 13. Identify a location to house the historical society Bridgeville Borough Comprehensive Plan Update

COMMUNITY FACILITIES

The provision of community facilities, services and utilities are often included in the quality of life factors that people look for when finding a place to reside. It is the community’s ability to provide the necessary facilities and services that will ultimately impact its potential for growth. But providing these facilities and utilities normally requires capital investments that are funded through municipal budgets or through user fees.

The abundance of quality community facilities and services within Bridgeville has been identified as an asset to the community throughout the planning process. Bridgeville is a charter member of the Char-West COG and participates in activities provided by the COG. It is recommended that the borough to continue to remain active in the COG as well as investigate other intergovernmental agreements and partnership opportunities.

Bridgeville Borough Building

Bridgeville Volunteer Fire Department (VFD)

The following strategies should be completed by the borough in order to continue providing quality community services:

1. Obtain funding for the completion of a feasibility study for a community center 2. Form an advisory committee comprised of municipal officials, recreation organization leaders, citizens, etc. to guide the feasibility study 3. Update the water and sewer lines GIS database to include diameter, age, material used and condition of pipes 4. Implement a maintenance schedule for repairs and replacement of water and sewer lines 5. Continue efforts to comply with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Consent Decree regarding maintenance and replacement of water and sewer lines 6. Partner with Pennsylvania-American Water Company to improve and maintain the existing water lines 7. Identify the needs of the library over the next 5, 10 and 15 years 8. Apply for funding to conduct a regional police force study 9. Utilize the Char-West Council of Governments to identify additional areas where the member municipalities can cooperate and share resources 10. Determine the level of interest in developing a home rule charter 11. Investigate the cost of a wood chipper as well as the opportunity to share with surrounding municipalities 12. Implement the recommendations contained in the Bridgeville Police Department study Bridgeville Borough Comprehensive Plan Update

MOVEMENT OF PEOPLE AND GOODS

The transportation network within Bridgeville Borough provides for the adequate movement of people, goods and services. For the most part, the road network is in good condition and provides access to all areas within the borough and the surrounding region. Public transportation is furnished by the Port Authority of Allegheny County and compliments the roadway network by providing transit services for the residents of the borough.

Several issues should be addressed regarding the road network within Bridgeville Borough. Concerns such as traffic congestion, pedestrian and vehicular safety, traffic signal operations, and intersection geometry were among the top concerns of the Borough as identified throughout the planning process (i.e. the public survey as well as public meetings and interviews) . PA Route 50 / Washington Avenue has been identified as an area of concern for borough officials, residents and business owners, particularly the congestion experienced on PA Route 50 / Washington Avenue at the northern and southern ends of the borough.

The following actions have been identified as being important to the long term viability of the borough:

1. Identify and prioritize deficient intersections 2. Present the prioritized projects to the Southwestern Pennsylvania (SPC) Commission to be listed on the Transportation Improvement Program 3. Support the widening of PA Route 50 from Bower Hill Road to the Greater Bridgeville Chamber of Commerce Building 4. Discuss potential projects with PennDOT 5. Investigate the possibility of one-way streets through the central business district 6. Complete an updated traffic study for PA Route 50 and the downtown area 7. Implement improved signing to direct people to alternate routes off of PA Route 50 (Washington Avenue) 8. Establish a Park and Ride facility on Baldwin Street 9. Improve traffic flow by modifying the traffic signals using methods such as retiming, phasing alterations or minor geometric changes 10. Determine the feasibility of traffic improvement projects in the previously completed traffic studies 11. Identify locations where pedestrians cross high traffic volume areas 12. Improve pedestrian crossings through signage and marking 13. Extend the pedestrian network by encouraging the construction of new sidewalks in residential areas through sub-division and land development requirements

PA Route 50 / Washington Avenue

Port Authority Bus Bridgeville Borough Comprehensive Plan Update

HOUSING

Because of Bridgeville’s proximity to the major employment center of Pittsburgh and the surrounding metropolitan area, the borough has the potential to remain a desirable bedroom community. While providing a variety of housing types is necessary, raising the level of home ownership should be a priority. Due to the fact that Bridgeville is almost completely built out, the emphasis should be placed on infill development and / or replacing dilapidated housing.

Bridgeville Single Family Homes

Goodwill Manor Senior Housing

In order to meet the anticipated goals established during the public participation process, the following action steps have been identified as priorities for the housing element:

1. Enact residential zoning district requirements that permit increased densities, variable setback standards, flexible lot coverage, etc. 2. Utilize 2nd story and above floor space in downtown areas for residential opportunities 3. Hold periodic workshops for landlords and / or tenants outlining Pennsylvania law regarding renting and rental property 4. Enact an ordinance requiring all landlords to obtain permits for rental property (fee schedule should be based on square footage not occupancy) 5. Create a database of all rental property within the borough 6. Hire an individual to act as the code enforcement officer for the borough 7. Conduct annual inspections of all rental property to ensure compliance with property maintenance codes 8. Create a marketing brochure that highlights the housing options in Bridgeville 9. Utilize Bridgeville's web site to advertise housing opportunities and other quality of life issues Bridgeville Borough Comprehensive Plan Update

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

As a small, densely developed community with little or no room for new development, borough officials are charged with implementing innovative strategies that will retain and compliment existing businesses. The prevalence of large- scale shopping plazas, malls, and the “one-stop-shop” big box retail stores had an impact on the commercial base of Bridgeville. Although Bridgeville’s commercial district is still very active, it is not quite the vital business center that it once was. While economic development can be promoted and assisted by governmental and public entities, the real driving force must come from the private sector. Opportunity sites that are prime for economic development or parking improvements are identified on the map below (Figure 10-4: Opportunity Sites).

The following strategies have been identified as priorities to ensuring the long term sustainability of the local economy:

1. Expand the Bridgeville Community Development Committee into the Bridgeville Business Association with open membership to all business owners in the borough. 2. Conduct a market study to assess service needs 3. Conduct a cost / benefit analysis of the Business Privilege and Mercantile Tax 4. Promote the business friendly atmosphere by conducting an open house that rotates to different businesses each month 5. Conduct a detailed parking study of the downtown area 6. Investigate the lease options for private parking lots 7. Determine the cost of constructing a parking garage at Parking Lot #2 8. Offer lower lease rates at the fringe parking lots to encourage business employees to utilize these lots rather than using Parking Lots #2 and #4 9. Investigate the possibility of using the abandoned railroad corridor off of Station Street as a parking facility 10. Investigate the possibility of having a trolley loop through business districts in the borough 11. Work with business owners to implement Figure 10-4: Opportunity Sites "special" shopping nights during which businesses extend their hours 12. Provide identification tags to businesses who purchase parking spaces for their customers in the parking authority lots to ensure proper enforcement 13. Work with the Parking Authority to provide free parking in the evenings or on specific days of the month when stores extend their business hours Bridgeville Borough Comprehensive Plan Update

PARKS AND RECREATION

Recognizing the value of recreation and the benefits it brings to a community and its residents, Bridgeville Borough places a strong emphasis on providing quality recreational facilities and services. The presence of outdoor recreation in Bridgeville is evident by driving or walking around the community. In only 1.1 square miles, the borough maintains four outdoor recreation parks.

A parks and recreation department and / or a director of parks and recreation for the borough could provide better management of the facilities and services provided by the borough. If a department Triangle Park were to be created, personnel policies should be developed to provide working parameters for the department.

The following strategies have been identified as priorities to continuing the efficient provision of recreation services:

1. Conduct a community survey specific to recreation needs / services 2. Develop a youth advisory group to provide insight into what recreation facilities and programs are desired by young adults and children 3. Develop public / private partnerships to provide recreational programs Chartiers Park 4. Designate funding to complete a Master Site Plan for Chartiers Park 5. Develop fishing areas along Chartiers Creek 6. Implement the Master Site Plan for McLaughlin Run Park 7. Develop a maintenance plan for all parks and recreation facilities 8. Identify opportunities to assess user fees for recreation facilities/services 9. Complete a Comprehensive Parks, Recreation and Open Space Plan 10. Develop a policy manual for borough owned parks describing hours of operation, rental fees and procedures, order of McLaughlin Run Park importance for field usage, etc. 11. Investigate the feasibility of hiring a full-time or part-time Parks and Recreation Director 12. Apply for funding to conduct a trail feasibility study

Cooks School Park Bridgeville Borough Comprehensive Plan Update

LAND USE & NATURAL RESOURCES

The land use plan for Bridgeville includes an existing land use inventory - land characteristics and coverage; future land use plan; and local land use controls. The future land use plan identifies projected land use patterns based upon current trends, growth patterns, and natural development constraints. It is a tool that guides the way land resources are used and provides a blueprint to manage future growth. The future land use plan becomes the foundation for updating current land use tools and techniques, such as subdivision and zoning ordinances. As shown below, Figure 10-3: Future Land Use Map depicts the future land use scenario for Bridgeville Borough.

Strategies to achieve the overall vision for the borough include:

1. Apply for funding to update the current zoning ordinance 2. Hold a planning workshop to identify zoning requirements that are too antiquated or strict 3. Require that zoning staff and members of the zoning hearing board attend annual training sessions 4. Create a GIS database for all the vacant parcels in the borough noting size, ownership and current condition 5. Establish a sub-committee of the Bridgeville Borough Planning Commission who will ensure that vacant land is redeveloped in accordance with the Comprehensive Land Use Plan for Bridgeville 6. Focus redevelopment efforts on the Baldwin Street corridor while capitalizing on its status as the borough’s first business district 7. Review the 1984 Redevelopment Plan to determine the validity of the recommendations and take the necessary steps toward completing these recommendations 8. Enact a storm water management ordinance for future development 9. Develop a water quality monitoring program and compile this information into a comprehensive database 10. Include provisions in the zoning ordinance to maintain existing riparian buffers 11. Establish a task force comprised of community stakeholders, local business owners, municipal leaders, watershed groups, and interested citizens to hold semi-annual clean-up days

Figure 10-3: Future Land Use Map Bridgeville Borough Comprehensive Plan Section 1: Introduction

Community Development Objectives

• Improve, update, and maintain the current recreation facilities and services available to meet the changing needs of the borough while improving and providing better access to these facilities for all residents. • Capitalize on the existing transportation network and proximity to major highways and public transportation providers, while providing a safe and pedestrian friendly atmosphere. • Encourage residents and visitors alike to visit downtown by improving the existing parking. • Develop innovative strategies to capitalize on the existing housing stock and provide more housing options such as garden apartments, townhouses, and condominiums and allow for mixed-use commercial and residential districts. • Work with surrounding municipalities to provide coordinated public services and infrastructure to ensure the highest quality of life for borough residents. • Promote an aesthetically pleasing downtown environment to attract new businesses. • Foster better relationships with local industries to promote a safe and healthy environment for borough and surrounding municipalities’ residents. • Preserve the historic integrity of Bridgeville Borough and promote existing and potential historic sites.

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The Goal of the Comprehensive Plan

Once adopted and implemented by the community, the comprehensive plan will encourage positive growth and sound land use policies. The Bridgeville Borough Comprehensive Plan was developed to:

• Revitalize the economy • Provide transportation options that reduce congestion and promote safety • Control public expenditures and ensure efficient use of resources • Foster a strong business and industrial environment • Create a sense of place which is attractive to residents and visitors • Capitalize on the natural, cultural, environmental and historic features of the community • Promote those aspects which are unique to the community

Only with the support and commitment from the borough council, business and civic leaders, and residents, can the Bridgeville Borough Comprehensive Plan truly be a positive and powerful tool. The plan is a framework that outlines the strategies that should be implemented by local leaders to achieve the stated community development objectives.

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What is the Bridgeville Borough Comprehensive Plan?

Ideally, a comprehensive plan will describe how, and at what pace, a community desires to develop its land to direct growth and preserve natural resources and historic or cultural character, while strengthening the commercial and economic base. In addition, a comprehensive plan will identify what social aspects a community believes are important and will provide strategies to improve the quality of life for its citizens by providing appropriate public services and improving the quality of the housing stock.

The comprehensive plan is the only public document that describes the community as a whole in terms of its complex and mutually supporting networks. The plan will contain policy statements, developed by the community and adopted by its officials, which are used to support community decisions and anticipate future conditions.

The Bridgeville Borough Comprehensive Plan has been prepared in accordance with the Pennsylvania Municipalities Planning Code (Act 170 of 1988) and subsequent amendments. Although the plan is not a legally binding document, once adopted it will be the official statement for future development in the community.

The Bridgeville Borough Comprehensive Plan is: • A set of general guidelines for future development of all land in a manner which will promote the public health, safety, morals and general welfare of all residents and business persons; and, • A tool to promote the public interests of all residents and business persons and nonresidents rather than the interests of individuals or special interests groups; and, • A public policy guide to decision making regarding the physical development of the community; and, • A strategy to guide leaders when making decisions about future land use, housing, economic development, natural, cultural and historic features, transportation, community facilities and services, parks, recreation and open space; and, • A statement of the past and present conditions of the community; and, • A description of how and at what pace the community desires to develop physically, economically and socially; and, • An expression of the community’s “vision” of the optimally desirable pattern of development for the future.

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Even though the Bridgeville Comprehensive Plan is not a legally binding document, it does have some legal status as granted by the Pennsylvania Municipalities Planning Code Sections 303 and 305. The sections are as follows:

Section 303. Legal Status of Comprehensive Plan Within the Jurisdiction that Adopted the Plan. (a) Whenever the governing body, pursuant to the procedures provided in section 302, has adopted a comprehensive plan or any part thereof, any subsequent proposed action of the governing body, its departments, agencies and appointed authorities shall be submitted to the planning agency for its recommendations when the proposed action relates to: 1. the location, opening, vacation, extension, widening, narrowing or enlargement of any street, public ground, pier head or watercourse; 2. the location, erection, demolition, removal or sale of any public structure located within the municipality; 3. the adoption, amendment or repeal of an official map, subdivision and land development ordinance, zoning ordinance or provisions for planned residential development, or capital improvements program; or 4. the construction, extension or abandonment of any water line, sewer line or sewage treatment facility. (b) The recommendations of the planning agency including a specific statement as to whether or not the proposed action is in accordance with the objectives of the formally adopted comprehensive plan shall be made in writing to the governing body within 45 days. (c) Notwithstanding any other provision of this act, no action by the governing body of a municipality shall be invalid nor shall the same be subject to challenge or appeal on the basis that such action is inconsistent with, or fails to comply with, the provision of a comprehensive plan. (d) Municipal zoning, subdivision and land development regulations and capital improvement programs shall generally implement the municipal and multi-municipal comprehensive plan or, where none exists, the municipal statement of community development objectives.

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Section 305. Legal Status of Comprehensive Plans Within School Districts

Following the adoption of a comprehensive plan or any part thereof by any municipality or county governing body, pursuant to the procedures in section 302, any proposed action of the governing body of any public school district located within the municipality or county relating to the location, demolition, removal, sale or lease of any school district structure or land shall be submitted to the municipal and county planning agencies for their recommendations at least 45 days prior to the execution of such proposed action by the governing body of the school district.

It is recommended that continued planning efforts be identified as an important step to the implementation of the comprehensive plan. Planning efforts that can aid in implementing the comprehensive plan include:

• Mandatory reviews of proposed projects by the planning commission to ensure that they are consistent with the comprehensive plan (these reviews would not be able to require actions but could encourage them) • Annual plan implementation progress report by the planning commission to borough council • Following the capital improvements plan on page 11 of this section • Plan implementation projects recommendations by planning commission to borough council for the annual budget

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Comprehensive Planning Process

Formation of Steering Committee and Identification of Key Persons & Stakeholders

Development of Community Objectives

Data Gathering, Background Studies

Identification of Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threats

Interviews, Mapping, Land Use & Development of Plan Identity

Community Imaging Exercise

Development of Draft Plan

Prioritization of Goals and Objectives Steering Committee Review Final Draft Plan

45- Day Review Period

Indicates Public Meeting Public Hearing

Adoption 1-6 Bridgeville Borough Comprehensive Plan Section 1: Introduction

Interrelationship Statement

It is the purpose of the comprehensive plan to ensure that the development of a community, or communities, is orderly and consistent with the identified goals of the plan. In order to function properly, the plan must serve as an overriding guide for future development process. As each element of the comprehensive plan is interrelated, substantial changes to any of the elements will have an impact and effect on all the others within the community and region.

The plan elements were developed in accordance with the Pennsylvania Municipalities Planning Code (MPC) and the scope of work issued by the borough. Recommendations for each of the elements, that are reflective of the overall goals of the comprehensive plan, were prepared. After an analysis and review of existing conditions within the borough, specific goals were developed to provide for new development opportunities while protecting natural resources and preserving historic and cultural areas.

Specific needs for community services were based on an analysis of the demographic features and trends as well as the results from various public participation efforts. These recommendations were developed to promote and improve the available facilities and services within Bridgeville Borough, as well as those services offered on a countywide basis. As stated in the MPC, future infrastructure improvements will be completed concurrently as new lands are planned for development.

The recommendations for the movement of people and goods (transportation) identified specific issues and integrated regional plans in order to meet the goals that have been identified within the Bridgeville Comprehensive Plan. Deficiencies and future projects should be incorporated into the county’s planning efforts so that they can be included in PENNDOT’s planning process and the Southwestern Pennsylvania Commission’s regional transportation plan

The recommendations addressing recreational needs in the communities were made with the understanding that future improvements will coincide with the existing and planned regional and county projects.

Previous planning documents and studies were thoroughly reviewed and considered when identifying existing needs and when developing recommendations. These plans and ordinances included the 1969 and 1992 Bridgeville Comprehensive Plans, the Bridgeville Zoning Ordinance, the Lower Chartiers Creek River Conservation Plan, the 1988 Transportation Study and the 2001 Route 50 Corridor Study.

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Contiguous Municipalities Statement

As per Article III, Section 301 (5) of the PA Municipalities Planning Code (MPC), a statement has been prepared indicating the relationship of the existing and proposed development of Bridgeville Borough to existing and proposed plans of adjacent municipalities and to the objectives of the region as a whole.

The plan was developed with respect to surrounding land uses of the adjoining communities. It is the belief of the Bridgeville Borough Council and the Bridgeville Comprehensive Plan Steering Committee that the goals and objectives of this plan are in concert with those of adjacent municipalities within Allegheny County. The plan was submitted to each of the adjacent municipalities, Chartiers Valley School District and the Allegheny County Economic Development Department. There were no objections by these entities to the recommendations stated in this plan, and the plan is to be adopted by resolution as required by the MPC.

The Bridgeville Comprehensive Plan promotes the concepts of regional planning and intergovernmental cooperation. It is the belief of the Bridgeville Borough Council and the Bridgeville Comprehensive Plan Steering Committee that the goals and recommendations of the plan will not have an adverse affect on other municipalities within the study area or those that are contiguous to the study area municipalities.

Public Participation

A comprehensive plan is an expression of a community’s desired future and one that reflects the ideas of its residents during the planning process. To achieve active participation by the residents and business persons within the project area, Mackin worked closely with the Steering Committee to develop a strategy that would address the unique aspects of the region and Bridgeville Borough. The Steering Committee included elected officials, business owners and residents with each member providing their expertise to focus the public involvement effort towards achieving the highest level of participation.

The information gleaned from the various exercises, surveys, focus groups and interviews contributed to the development of the plan’s goals and objectives and corresponding recommendations. The goals and objectives were then brought back to the public who participated in an exercise to prioritize the goals and objectives. The following discussion provides a synopsis of the public participation methods used during the Bridgeville Comprehensive Plan development. Supporting documentation can be found in the appendices.

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Public Meetings

Three public meetings were held during the development of the Bridgeville Comprehensive Plan. The first public meeting was held at the beginning of the project and served to introduce the project and conduct a brainstorming exercise to identify the strength, weaknesses, opportunities and threats (SWOT) of Bridgeville Borough. Forty-Nine (49) community residents, including the Steering Committee, attended the public meeting held on October 9, 2003 at the Bridgeville Volunteer Fire Department. The results of the SWOT exercise can be found in Appendix C.i.

Attendees were also asked to participate in a mapping exercise. Attendees were asked to look at three maps of the project area and identify development areas, conservation areas, and areas of concern on each corresponding map. The results from this exercise were used in developing the future land use map as well as recommendations for the Bridgeville Comprehensive Plan.

The second public meeting was held on March 25, 2004. There were sixty-one (61) community residents, including the Steering Committee, in attendance. Meeting participants were asked to complete two activities. The first was a Community Imaging Exercise (CIE) designed to rank images of existing land uses and services within Bridgeville Borough and from outside of the project area. Presented through PowerPoint, this exercise relies on the first impression evoked by a photograph. Participants were asked to rate (on a scale of 1-5) whether they strongly agree or strongly disagree with statements regarding the images. To develop the presentation, Mackin took over 200 pictures of current conditions and typical land uses present in each of the communities. The CIE utilized 82 of these images. The results from the exercise can be found in Appendix C.ii.

The public was also asked to participate in a goals prioritization exercise where attendees were asked to rank their top three goals in each plan element. The following formula was used to calculate the average weighted score for each goal.

1. The number of 1st priority votes multiplied by 3 2. The number of 2nd priority votes multiplied by 2 3. The number of 3rd priority votes multiplied by 1 4. Add lines 1 –3 together and divide by 3 5. Take the result of line four and divide by the total number of votes for all the goals in the element and multiply by 100.

The results of this exercise can be found in Appendix C.iii.

The priority goals and strategies that can be used to achieve these goals are located in the Implementation Plan at the end of this section.

The third and final public meeting was held on June 24, 2004. 35 community residents including the Steering Committee were in attendance. At this meeting Mackin presented the a summary of the findings and conclusions of the plan, a summary of the public participation, and the goals and strategies for each plan element. A comment sheet was also provided at the

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public meetings for residents to provide any comments on the findings, conclusions, or recommendations, to be returned to Mackin.

Youth-in-Planning: Chartiers Valley School District

The project area for the Bridgeville Comprehensive Plan includes the Chartiers Valley School District. Believing that the participation of the youth of a community is very important to the comprehensive planning process, Mackin contacted Chartiers Valley High School to request their cooperation to elicit the input of students who live in Bridgeville Borough.

The Chartiers Valley High School Principal identified students from grades 10, 11 and 12 to participate in a focus group discussion to teach them about land use planning and gain valuable insight into what aspects of their community the students thought most important. The students were also asked to participate in the same goal ranking exercise that the attendees at the second public meeting completed. A total of 26 students from the project area participated in the focus group and the results can be found in Appendix C.vii.

Stakeholder/Key Person Interviews

One-on-one interviews, either in person or via telephone, were conducted to supplement the public participation process. Over thirty-three (33) interviews and surveys were conducted with community leaders, community residents, business leaders, civic members, religious leaders and other key persons. Interviews consisted of a series of questions focused on the present conditions of Bridgeville Borough, the strengths and weaknesses of the area and the desired future. Overall, the response was supportive of the comprehensive plan process. The results from the interviews also contributed to the development of the plan’s goals and objectives. In addition to the previously mentioned stakeholder interviews and surveys, an economic development workshop was held on January 8, 2004. Invitations were sent to all Bridgville Borough businesses. Twenty (20) business owners attended the workshop where issues such as business attraction and retention and parking were discussed. The results from this workshop can be found in Appendix C.vi.

A community survey was also mailed to all residents. 247 surveys were returned. A summary of the public survey results can be found in Appendix C.v.

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Capital Improvements Program

The Capital Improvements Program (CIP) provides a schedule for the future provision of public capital improvements for various projects identified in this plan. Capital improvements have been identified as major, one-time expenditures by the governing body to provide for such things as public buildings, transportation improvements, sewer and water facilities, purchase of land or streetscape improvements. The projects identified for the CIP are typically financed by a debt service repaid over many years primarily from tax revenues.

The CIP is, in and of itself, a planning process that should be reviewed annually. Members of the Bridgeville Borough Council should have a defined financial policy that identifies the current level of debt, taxation issues, potential user and service fees, and grants and other funding sources for identified projects. The CIP should accomplish the following objectives:

• Provide a tool for which future improvement projects are to be measured • Improve the scheduling of public improvements • Provide assistance for future financial planning • Provide assistance in maintaining proper debt management

The CIP identified in this plan should be used as a guide for incorporating projects into the municipality’s Capital Improvement Program (a five-year program) that is updated annually. The projects should follow the “General Conditions and Assumptions” and “Capital Improvement Project Justification” of the Bridgeville Borough’s Capital Improvement Program as they are considered for inclusion of municipal expenditures.

To initiate a comprehensive CIP, Bridgeville Borough officials should begin the following process:

1) Inventory existing public facilities and equipment. This includes buildings, parks and recreation areas, public works vehicles and equipment, streets and alleys, signage system, parking facilities and equipment, and water and sewer management systems. The CIP inventory should describe each element in relation to its history, present condition, usage placed upon the element and the estimated year for replacement or expansion.

2) Conduct a Financial Analysis of Bridgeville Borough’s ability to fulfill the CIP by collecting financial data for the previous 5-10 years. Project (over the next 5-10 years) what financial data will become relevant, needed or even obsolete. Complete a calculation of capital outlays required to complete needed projects. Discuss how the capital outlay may affect Bridgeville Borough’s tax rates.

3) Select and prioritize projects by evaluating the project design, need and cost. Once the projects have been listed according to priority, Bridgeville Borough should begin to establish a funding plan.

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4) Once the CIP is developed, the Bridgeville Borough’s Planning Commissioners should thoroughly review the plan and hold a public hearing to receive residents’ comments. Once this is complete, the borough should formally adopt the CIP by resolution.

5) Ongoing monitoring of the CIP should be completed annually to assure successful implementation.

Project Opinion of Estimated Cost Gateway development $5,000-$15,000 per gateway Complete a streetscape plan $40,000

Conduct a feasibility study for a community $15,000-$25,000 center Conduct a police force study $30,000 Conduct a traffic study $25,000-$50,000 Develop a Housing Marketing Brochure to $2,500 to $5,000 promote housing opportunities in the downtown area Conduct a detailed parking study $10,000 Conduct a Comprehensive Parks, Recreation, $25,000 Open Space Study Conduct a trail feasibility study $20,000-$30,000 Update zoning ordinance $16,000—$20,000

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HISTORY AND CHARACTER Improve the aesthetics of downtown Bridgeville Strategies Responsible Agency Potential Partners Funding Sources Hold a workshop with the Pennsylvania Downtown Center to discuss issues regarding the appearance of the central business district and possible Neighboring Municipalities PA State Association of Boroughs (PSAB) programs to implement

Create a Business Improvement District Greater Bridgeville Chamber of Commerce Pennsylvania Downtown Center, Pennsylvania Department of Community and Allegheny County Department of Economic Development Economic Development (DCED) Complete a streetscape plan for the Washington Avenue Corridor (ACDOED) Local businesses, Greater Bridgeville Chamber of Commerce, Implement design guidelines in the business district Community Development Block Grant Funds (CDBG) Borough Council Bridgeville Planning Commission

Implement a weed and seed program Allegheny County DED, Bridgeville Police Dept. Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency

Establish gateways at vehicular and pedestrian entry points as identified in PA Dept. of Transportation (PENNDOT), ACDOED, Bridgeville PENNDOT, PA Historical and Museum Commission, Western PA Conservancy, Figure 10-3 Comprehensive Plan Steering Committee Community Revitalization (DCED), Borough Budget

Establish a shade tree commission and enact a shade tree ordinance Bridgeville Business Associations PA Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR)

PA Downtown Center, Greater Bridgeville Chamber of Pennsylvania Downtown Center, Pennsylvania Department of Community and Study the financial feasibility of hiring a Main Street Manager Commerce Economic Development (DCED) Encourage the historic preservation of the borough Strategies Responsible Agency Potential Partners Funding Sources Conduct an inventory of historic resources and identify those suitable for heritage tourism efforts Borough Council, PSAB Obtain funding for the restoration and rehabilitation of historic properties PA Historical and Museum Commission (PHMC) Provide information to individuals interested in obtaining tax credits for N/A historic preservation activities Bridgeville Historical Society Acquire preservation or façade easements on historic properties Bridgeville Historical Society

Provide zoning bonuses for the preservation of historic sites and structures Bridgeville Planning Commission N/A Identify a location to house the historic society Bridgeville Historical Society, area businesses and churches

1-13 Bridgeville Borough Comprehensive Plan Section 1: Implementation Plan

COMMUNITY FACILITIES AND INFRASTRUCTURE Determine the need for a Community Center Strategies Responsible Agency Potential Partners Funding Sources Form an advisory committee comprised of municipal officials, Bridgeville Community Organizations N/A recreation organization leaders, citizens, etc. to guide the process Borough Council Obtain funding for the completion of a feasibility study ACDOED, PSAB DCED, DCNR, Private Contributions Identify potential locations for a community center Advisory Committee Borough Council N/A Improve and maintain existing water and sewer lines

Strategies Responsible Agency Potential Partners Funding Sources Update the water and sewer lines GIS database to include diameter, Borough Manager N/A age, material used and condition of pipes

Implement a maintenance schedule for repairs and replacement Pennsylvania American Water, ALCOSAN Small Water Systems Consolidation Construction Grant Program (DEP, Continue efforts to comply with the Environmental Protection Stormwater Planning and Management (DEP), Growing Greener Agency(EPA) Consent Decree regarding maintenance and ALCOSAN (DEP/DCNR), PENNVEST, Verification for Water and Wastewater replacement Borough Council Treatment Plant Operators (DEP), Water and Waste Disposal Grants and Loans Programs (USDA), Small Water Systems Regionalization Grant Program (DEP), Formation of Water Authorities Grant Program (DEP), Act Partner with Pennsylvania-American Water Company to improve Pennsylvania American Water 339 Sewage Treatment Plant Operation Grants (DEP) and maintain the existing water lines

Support efforts to expand the public library

Strategies Responsible Agency Potential Partners Funding Sources Identify the needs of the library over the next 5, 10 and 15 years Borough Council Bridgeville Public Library, Carnegie Library Private Foundations, State subsidies

Explore opportunities to work cooperatively with neighboring communities to provide municipal facilities / services

Strategies Responsible Agency Potential Partners Funding Sources

Apply for funding to conduct a regional police force study Bridgeville Police Department, Neighboring Communities DCED, PA Downtown Center Borough Council Utilize the Char-West Council of Governments to identify additional areas where the member municipalities can cooperate Neighboring Municipalities N/A and share resources

Ensure the effectiveness of the administration

Strategies Responsible Agency Potential Partners Funding Sources Determine the level of interest in developing a home rule charter DCED DCED Investigate the cost of a wood chipper as well as the opportunity to Borough Council Surrounding municipalities share with surrounding municipalities Municipal budget Implement the recommendations contained in the Bridgeville Police Borough Council and Police Department study Department DCED

1-14 Bridgeville Borough Comprehensive Plan Section 1: Implementation Plan

TRANSPORTATION Improve the operation of existing intersections to improve traffic flow and safety Strategies Responsible Agency Potential Partners Funding Sources

Identify and prioritize deficient intersections PennDOT, Allegheny County Agility Program (PennDOT), Transportation Equity Act / TEA, DCED Borough Council Present the prioritized projects to the Southwestern Pennsylvania (SPC) Commission to be listed on the Transportation Improvement Program PennDOT, SPC N/A Enhance traffic circulation to and within the borough Strategies Responsible Agency Potential Partners Funding Sources Support the widening of Route 50 from Bower Hill Road to the Greater Bridgeville Planning Commission Chamber of Commerce Building N/A Discuss potential projects with PENNDOT

Investigate the possibility of one-way streets through the central business district

PennDOT Complete an updated traffic study Borough Council

Implement improved signing to direct people to alternate routes off of PA Route 50 (Washington Avenue) Agility Program (PennDOT), Transportation Equity Act / TEA, DCED, Alternative Fuels Incentive Grant Program (Bureau of Air Quality / PA Dept. of Environmental Protection)

Establish a Park and Ride facility on Baldwin Street Port Authority of Allegheny County

Improve traffic flow by modifying the traffic signals using methods such as retiming, PennDOT phasing alterations or minor geometric changes

Determine the feasibility of traffic improvement projects in the previously completed PennDOT, Route 50 Corridor Commission, Planning N/A traffic studies Commission

Improve pedestrian safety in locations deemed to be hazardous Strategies Responsible Agency Potential Partners Funding Sources

Identify locations where pedestrians cross high traffic volume areas

Improve pedestrian crossings through signage and marking Borough Council PennDOT Agility Program (PENNDOT), Transportation Equity Act / TEA, DCED Extend the pedestrian network by encouraging the construction of new sidewalks in residential areas through sub-division and land development requirements

1-15 Bridgeville Borough Comprehensive Plan Section 1: Implementation Plan

HOUSING Encourage the construction of a variety of housing types as new residential opportunities arise Strategies Responsible Agency Potential Partners Funding Sources Enact residential zoning district requirements that permit increased densities, variable setback standards, flexible lot coverage, etc. Borough Council ACDOED CDBG, Governor's Center for Local Government Services Utilize 2nd story and above floor space in downtown areas for residential opportunities Bridgeville property owners DCED Address issues associated with landlords regarding their responsibilities in terms of property and tenants Strategies Responsible Agency Potential Partners Funding Sources Hold periodic workshops for landlords and / or tenants outlining Pennsylvania law regarding renting and rental property Borough Council Governor's Center for Local Government Services Governor's Center for Local Government Services

Enact an ordinance requiring all landlords to obtain permits for rental property N/A (fee schedule should be based on square footage not occupancy) N/A Borough Council

Create a database of all rental property within the borough Borough Manager Borough Budget Enforce residential property maintenance codes Strategies Responsible Agency Potential Partners Funding Sources Hire an individual to act as the code enforcement officer for the borough Borough Council Neighboring Communities, Char-West Council of Governments DCED Conduct annual inspections of all rental property to ensure compliance with property maintenance codes Building Inspector N/A N/A Market Bridgeville in a manner that promotes its variety of affordable housing options Strategies Responsible Agency Potential Partners Funding Sources

Create a marketing brochure that highlights the housing options in Bridgeville Bridgeville Business Association Grants and Foundations, PHMC, PA Housing Finance Agency Borough Council Utilize Bridgeville's web site to advertise housing opportunities and other quality of life issues Bridgeville Web Master Borough Budget

1-16 Bridgeville Borough Comprehensive Plan Section 1: Implementation Plan

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT Attract new businesses to the downtown area Strategies Responsible Agency Potential Partners Funding Sources Develop an economic strategy Bridgeville Business Association, Greater Bridgeville Chamber of Commerce DCED Expand the Bridgeville Community Development Committee into the Bridgeville Business Association that opens membership to all business Owners in the borough. Greater Bridgeville Chamber of Commerce N/A Conduct a market study to assess service needs Bridgeville Business Association, Greater Bridgeville Chamber of Commerce PHMC, DCED - Tourism Marketing Program, Local Sponsors Borough Council Conduct interviews and surveys on an annual basis to determine causes for recent business closures Borough Budget Conduct a cost / benefit analysis of the Business Privilege Tax

Encourage existing and new business owners to become members of the Greater Bridgeville Chamber of Commerce Bridgeville Business Association through an annual mailing N/A Promote the business friendly atmosphere by conducting an open house that rotates to different businesses each month Bridgeville Business Local Businesses Recognize new businesses and developers by holding an annual meeting of Association the Bridgeville Business Association to welcome the new comers Borough Budget Expand the parking capacity in the downtown business area Strategies Responsible Agency Potential Partners Funding Sources Conduct a detailed parking study Borough Council Bridgeville Parking Authority Borough Budget

Investigate the lease options for private parking lots Private Parking Lot Owners N/A Determine the cost of constructing a parking garage at Lot #2 Parking Authority Budget Investigate the possibility of using the abandoned railroad corridor off of Station Street as a parking facility Bridgeville Parking Borough Council Investigate the possibility of having a trolley loop through business Authority districts in the borough Parking Authority Budget, Foundations, ISTEA Offer lower lease rates at the fringe parking lots to encourage business employees to utilize these lots rather using Lots #2 and #4 N/A Provide identification tags to businesses who purchase parking spaces for N/A their customers in the parking authority lots to ensure proper enforcement Encourage business owners to extend hours of operation Strategies Responsible Agency Potential Partners Funding Sources Work with business owners to implement "special" shopping nights during Bridgeville Business Association, Greater Bridgeville Chamber which businesses extend their hours Borough Council of Commerce Local Businesses Work with the Parking Authority to provide free parking in the evenings or on specific days of the month when stores extend their business hours Borough Council Bridgeville Parking Authority N/A

1-17 Bridgeville Borough Comprehensive Plan Section 1: Implementation Plan

PARKS AND RECREATION Provide recreation facilities / programs that appeal to all segments of the population Strategies Responsible Agency Potential Partners Funding Sources Conduct a community survey specific to recreation needs / services Borough Council Recreation Committee DCNR Develop a youth advisory group to provide insight into what recreation Borough Council Recreation Committee N/A facilities and programs are desired by young adults and children Develop public / private partnerships to provide recreational programs Borough Council Recreation Committee Private donors, DCED, DCNR Enhance the existing park system Strategies Responsible Agency Potential Partners Funding Sources Designate funding to complete a Master Site Plan for Chartiers Park Borough Council PSAB DCNR Develop fishing areas along Chartiers Creek Borough Council PA Fish Commission, DCNR Implement the Master Site Plan for McLaughlin Run Park Borough Council DCNR Bridgeville Recreation Committee Develop a maintenance plan for all parks and recreation facilities Borough Council Borough Budget Improve the administration of borough recreation facilities and programs Strategies Responsible Agency Potential Partners Funding Sources Identify opportunities to assess user fees for recreation facilities/services Borough Council N/A Complete a Comprehensive Parks, Recreation and Open Space Plan Borough Council

Develop a policy manual for borough owned parks describing hours of Borough Council Bridgeville Recreation Committee operation, rental fees and procedures, order of importance for field usage, etc. DCNR

Investigate the feasibility of hiring a full-time or part-time Parks and Borough Council Recreation Director Explore the feasibility of connecting Bridgeville to the Montour Trail Strategies Responsible Agency Potential Partners Funding Sources

Apply for funding to conduct a trail feasibility study Borough Council Montour Trail Council, Neighboring Municipalities DCNR

1-18 Bridgeville Borough Comprehensive Plan Section 1: Implementation Plan

NATURAL RESOURCES Preserve existing parks / open space Strategies Responsible Agency Potential Partners Funding Sources Require that parcels abutting existing parks and open space to provide a Bridgeville Planning Commission N/A buffer Borough Council Dedicate a portion of the municipal budget for parks and open space Bridgeville Recreation Committee Borough Budget development and maintenance Improve areas prone to flooding Strategies Responsible Agency Potential Partners Funding Sources Initiate educational programs on floods and floodplain development as well as wetlands, which include "flood emergency response" education ACDOED Borough Budget, CDBG materials and flood awareness seminar for residents Borough Council Work with surrounding communities that are impacting Bridgeville to Surrounding Communities DEP implement storm water management practices Enact a storm water management ordinance for future development N/A DEP, DCED, DCNR (Growing Greener) Improve the water quality in McLaughlin Run and Chartiers Creek Strategies Responsible Agency Potential Partners Funding Sources Develop a water quality monitoring program and compile this ACDOED DCED information into a comprehensive database

Local Environmental and Watershed Become more involved with local watershed preservation groups Groups Growing Greener (PA Dept. of Environmental Protection), Source Water Protection Grant Program (DEP, Western PA Watershed Protection Borough Council Program, Governor's Award for Watershed Stewardship Program (DEP) Conduct an assessment for watersheds within Bridgeville Local Watershed Groups, DEP, DCED

Partner with Upper St. Clair Township to improve water quality in Upper St. Clair Township DEP McLaughlin Run Creek Enhance the aesthetics of the borough by making the waterways and natural resources accessible and more attractive Strategies Responsible Agency Potential Partners Funding Sources Plant or enhance the vegetative barriers along waterways, where feasible Develop a newsletter to educate property owners along the streams Local Environmental Groups Foundations about the importance of riparian buffers

Include provisions in the zoning ordinance to maintain existing riparian Bridgeville Planning Commission, buffers Bridgeville Zoning Hearing Board Borough Council Borough Budget Establish a task force comprised of community stakeholders, local business owners, municipal leaders, watershed groups, and interested PA Cleanways citizens to hold semi-annual clean-up days

Implement the recommendations contained in the Lower Chartiers Local Watershed Groups, DCNR, DCNR Creek River Conservation Plan Surrounding municipalities

1-19 Bridgeville Borough Comprehensive Plan Section 1: Implementation Plan

LAND USE Develop flexible zoning requirements that allow appropriate adaptive reuse for structures and property Strategies Responsible Agency Potential Partners Funding Sources

The World Class Communities Program, Land Use and Planning Apply for funding to update the current zoning ordinance PSAB Technical Assistance Program (DCED), Local Government Academy, Borough Budget

Bridgeville Zoning Hearing Hold a planning workshop to identify zoning requirements that are too Board, Bridgeville Planning PA Downtown Center, DCED antiquated or strict Borough Council Commission Investigate the inclusion of performance standards within the zoning ordinance ACOED DCED

Require that zoning staff and members of the zoning hearing board attend PA Downtown Center, ACDOED annual training sessions The World Class Communities Program, DCED’s Land Use Planning and Technical Assistance Program (LUPTAP), Local Government Academy Identify vacant and underutilized properties and determine their best use / reuse Strategies Responsible Agency Potential Partners Funding Sources Create a GIS database for all the vacant parcels in the borough noting size, Borough Manager ACOED Borough Budget ownership and current condition

Work with real estate agents to market the vacant land to potential developers Real Estate Agents

N/A Establish a sub-committee of the Bridgeville Borough Planning Commission who will ensure that vacant land is redeveloped in accordance with the Comprehensive Land Use Plan for Bridgeville Borough Council Bridgeville Planning Create community gardens on vacant parcels located near entry ways and Commission Western PA Conservancy, Borough Budget, Local Funding Agencies points of interest

Focus redevelopment efforts on the Baldwin Street corridor while capitalizing DCED on its status as the borough’s first business district Ensure future planning efforts encourage infill development and the reuse of existing structures Strategies Responsible Agency Potential Partners Funding Sources Bridgeville Planning Enact plans / ordinances that are in accordance with the goals and Commission, Bridgeville Zoning recommendations established by the Comprehensive Land Use Plan The World Class Communities Program, DCED’s Land Use Planning and Technical Assistance Program (LUPTAP), Local Hearing Board, ACOED Government Academy Offer incentives to developers who utilize existing vacant parcels rather than Borough Council utilizing green space Bridgeville Planning Commission N/A Review the 1984 Redevelopment Plan to determine the validity of the recommendations and take the necessary steps toward completing these recommendations

1-20 Bridgeville Borough Comprehensive Plan Section 2: Community Character and History

A. Existing Conditions

Bridgeville Borough is located along the Interstate 79 corridor in Allegheny County approximately 15 miles southwest of the City of Pittsburgh. A project locator map can be found on Figure 2-1. The borough is located in the Southwestern Pennsylvania region, which has a rich industrial and ethnic heritage. It was in 1749 (Crumrine, 1882) that the French formally laid claim to the area by proceeding down from Canada, across Lake Erie to the Conewango Creek and eventually to the Allegheny River. Over the next several years a variety of expeditions took place by both the French and English governments. Increasingly these expeditions resulted in conflicts that resulted in the initial control by the French of the land west of the Alleghenies.

From this point on, Native American unrest in the region limited white settlement. It wasn’t until 1758 that the English finally overthrew French occupation and began to renew their old alliance with the resident tribes. Unfortunately, as history attests, a peaceful European and Native American allegiance was never to be and it wasn’t until near the end of the 1700’s that peaceful occupation of the region began to be realized. The first white settlers who braved the Indian unrest were primarily of English, Scottish, and Scotch-Irish descent.

Allegheny County is named after the Allegewi Indian Tribe, who inhabited the region decades before and after 1700 (http://www.county.allegheny.pa.us/comm/county.asp). The Allegheny River and Allegheny Mountains also derived their names from this wandering band of Native Americans. The entire region was inhabited for many years by several different tribes of Native Americans including the Shawnee, Delaware, and the Iroquois, who lived off the land and the plentiful game and foul.

Allegheny County was established in 1788 when portions of Washington and Westmoreland Counties were sectioned off to form a new county. The new county was formed when the Pennsylvania legislature finally gave in to persistent pressure from settlers in the rapidly growing Pittsburgh area who had difficulty transacting their local government affairs in the county seats of Westmoreland and Washington counties (http://www.county.allegheny.pa.us/ comm/county.asp).

Allegheny County soon became the one of the centers for manufacturing on the East Coast after 1794 when the Battle of Fallen Timbers freed the area of danger from Indian Attack. Iron smelting, coal mining, tool making, nail and wire manufacturing, glass blowing, tanning and boat building became important businesses (http://www.county.allegheny.pa.us/comm/county. asp).

Evidence of early human occupation of the Bridgeville area appeared in the late 1840’s when a burial mound was discovered on what is locally known as the Crestvue Plan. Diggers from the Carnegie Museum came in and found the first prehistoric Indian grave carved into the bedrock. Dr. Donald Dragoo, then associate curator of the Carnegie Museum’s Department of Man, observed that “This probably represents the dying gasp of the mound-building complex between 600 and 800 A.D.” This was an important find due to the fact that it was the first stone mound of its kind found in the Upper Ohio valley (and perhaps anywhere). The grave

2-1 Bridgeville Borough Comprehensive Plan Section 2: Community Character and History

was approximately eight feet long, five feet wide, 30 inches deep and contained the remains from early ‘flesh burials and cremations’ (Rivera, 1997).

Bridgeville Borough has had a long association with transportation and actually received its name from the very first bridge built over Chartiers Creek. The bridge was constructed to protest a landowner who was charging a toll for people to cross the creek at his ford. Several local farmers joined together to build a wooden bridge. The farmers’ bridge became a local landmark and meeting place for residents, businessmen and travelers. “Meet you at the Bridge” and later “Meet you at Bridgeville” became part of the local dialect (Bridgeville Community Association, 2001, p 18).

In the late 1800’s Bridgeville was not more than a wayside hamlet, in Upper St. Clair Township, Allegheny County. A post office was established under the name of Moorhead in January 1862, and the name was changed to Bridgeville in June 1874 because of the bridges on the north and south end of town (Bridgeville Community Association, 2001).

At first, Bridgeville Borough was predominately inhabited by farmers. However, in 1884, when the Bridgeville Mines were opened many people began moving into the area. Folks came from as far away as Connellsville and as a result the town grew. When the miners went on strike because they were discontented with working conditions and wages and proceeded to burn all the tipples, most of the mines closed (Bridgeville Community Association, 2001).

The greatest disaster of this area happened in 1874 when a cloudburst caused the waters of McLaughlin Run to rise to a height of 25 ft. The waters rushed with such force that houses, people, chickens and cattle were whisked away. Altogether 13 people were drowned including the constable of the township and his family. There have been floods since, but none as devastating as the one in 1874. Rising waters troubled those who lived along Chartiers Creek and McLaughlin Run until about 1960 when the Flood Control Bill was put into effect (Bridgeville Community Association, 2001).

On March 11, 1901, a petition signed by about 94 property owners was presented to the Court of Quarter Sessions of Allegheny County, asking for the incorporation of Bridgeville as a borough. On July 27, 1901 the Court of Quarter Sessions entered an Order decreeing that the Town of Bridgeville be incorporated into a borough, and the first election of borough officers was held on September 24, 1901 (Bridgeville Community Association, 2001). The borough boundaries remained unchanged until 1949 when Bridgeville annexed additional ground from Upper St. Clair Township.

At the beginning of the twentieth century Bridgeville was primarily a residential community with many of the residents working in nearby Pittsburgh. Several large mines were located in the area as well as several factories that employed residents in such industrial pursuits as a glass works, bolt making, brick making, rolling mills, etc. There were also a number of stores, banks, churches and a school (Bridgeville Community Association, 2001).

2-2 Bridgeville Borough Comprehensive Plan Section 2: Community Character and History

The 1920’s saw a “Build – Boost – Beautify” mentality emerging for Bridgeville. The Bridgeville Chamber of Commerce set the tone with this motto, and the catchphrase to “make your home town an ideal place in which to live, work and play”. There were several automobile dealers in the borough, the Central Restaurant featured special “Sunday Dinners”, there were two markets, several tailors, two shoemakers, a hardware company, a confectionery, a tobacco dealer, real estate and insurance companies, etc. Business was very good in Bridgeville at this time (Bridgeville Community Association, 2001).

Near the middle of the twentieth century, Bridgeville went through several changes that affected the community both socially and economically (Bridgeville Community Association, 2001). The first change was the consolidation of the Bridgeville, Collier Township, Heidelberg, and Scott Township School Districts, which led to the closing of all the public schools in Bridgeville. Although the consolidation was viewed as a benefit to the students, the effect on the community was negative. The schools had become a cornerstone of Bridgeville’s character. The whole community participated in major school activities, athletic events and concerts. After the Bridgeville schools were closed and students moved to locations outside of the borough, only their families and close friends attended school activities (Bridgeville Community Association, 2001).

The second change was related to transportation. For many years the railroad was the principal link between Bridgeville and Pittsburgh. Commuter trains took people into the “city” for work, entertainment, and shopping. Bus lines and private automobiles quickly provided too much competition for the commuter rail lines and the railroad terminated passenger service in 1952. Fortunately the passenger rail station was saved and converted into the Bridgeville Library, which is used by many area residents. The decline of industrial production in the Chartiers Valley and the increased use of truck transportation also reduced the freight traffic through Bridgeville to two trains per day (Bridgeville Community Association, 2001).

The development of I-79 and two major exits on either side of Bridgeville also brought about transportation related effects, which had both advantages and disadvantages. The advantage for Bridgeville was that it was located on an important transportation artery. The disadvantage was the large amount of through traffic moving on Bridgeville’s crowded streets (Bridgeville Community Association, 2001).

The third change involved the decline of the manufacturing industries in the mid twentieth century, which had a disastrous effect on many Southwestern Pennsylvania towns. Manufacturing firms were moving south and overseas in search of non-union labor and low cost production. The impact to Bridgeville was the significant loss of local manufacturing jobs (Bridgeville Community Association, 2001).

Bridgeville coped with these social and economic trends by slowly evolving from a vital business center into a pleasant residential area for families that retains a strong commercial flavor. The “Build – Boost – Beautify” motto of the 1920’s was replaced with the current motto of “It’s a nice place to live” (Bridgeville Community Association, 2001).

2-3 Bridgeville Borough Comprehensive Plan Section 2: Community Character and History

Today one can see how much the residents of Bridgeville love to recount their history by spending just a few hours at the local public library. Vertical files and scrapbooks record a long and active life in Bridgeville. Newspaper clippings indicate a community that loves parades, pageants, singing, fundraisers and contests. Local social organizations have published several yearbooks (the most recent for the 2001 centennial celebration) celebrating the borough’s history (Rivera, 1997).

B. Analysis of Existing Conditions

To protect the region’s architectural heritage, historic preservation provisions should be incorporated into future zoning ordinance development and building code updates as authorized by the Pennsylvania Municipalities Planning Code. Ordinances focused on demolition, historic zoning overlays, zoning bonuses for the preservation of specific resources and protection of such features as scenic areas and historic sites could be particularly effective. Once local controls are incorporated into the zoning ordinance, the municipality will have more control over the balance of preservation and development.

Currently the following structures in Bridgeville are eligible to be listed on the National Register of Historical Properties by the Pennsylvania Historical Museum Commission, Bureau for Historic Preservation:

1. Bethany Presbyterian Church 2. Bridgeville Pennsylvania Railroad Station

Although the Pennsylvania Historical Museum Commission formally recognizes the significance of the structures listed above, various other structures offer fine examples of period architecture. Many buildings constructed before or around the turn of the 20th Century exist and are in fine condition. These homes and businesses serve to impart a sense of character and elected officials would be wise to use these structures as the basis for future streetscape planning. For example, the Murray House, an 1828 Greek Revival, was designated a historical site in 1986 (Rivera, 1997).

Organizations such as the Bridgeville Historical Society also exist and should continue to promote the history of Bridgeville. The Historical Society is a 98-member organization with seven members whom are invited to serve on the board. In addition to sponsoring various speakers and events throughout the year, the society is working on updating family and individual histories for Bridgeville’s residents.

One of the immediate needs of the Historical Society is an office and display space. The society could partner with other local organizations such as the Bridgeville Community Association to share space and reduce operating costs. Another option would be to utilize extra space in one of the church buildings throughout the borough.

2-4 Bridgeville Borough Comprehensive Plan Section 2: Community Character and History

There are various strategies available to assist a community interested in preserving historical sites and structures. Some of which are listed below:

• Historic Preservation Zoning: The Pennsylvania Municipalities Planning Code (MPC) provides local governments the ability to incorporate historic preservation provisions into comprehensive planning and zoning ordinances. Utilizing the zoning ordinance is especially effective for communities where historic resources may be widely scattered. A few of the techniques that have been utilized by communities are Historic Zoning Overlays and Zoning Bonuses.

The benefit of historic preservation zoning is that it allows a community to look at the historic everyday landscapes in the region and balance the preservation of resources with development.

The first step in protecting historic resources is to include them in a comprehensive planning process as well as completing a historical and architectural survey / inventory (Land Use in Pennsylvania, 2000).

• Preservation Easements: Local governments or non-profits can acquire a preservation or façade easement on a historic property. These easements are legal agreements between the property owner and the local government or non-profit agency, and require the easement donor to allow restrictions on the property while the recipients of the easement ensure that the property owner meets the terms of the agreement. A property owner who donates a preservation easement on a National Register site may be eligible for federal income tax credits.

The property owner and the easement recipient set the conditions of the easement which may include restricting alterations to a building’s façade, demolition or other changes to the property.

Landscaping at an entry point into a municipality imparts a sense of arrival or departure along roadways, railroad crossings, river access points or trails. These visual gateways can serve to increase awareness of the community and promote the municipality to visitors as well as enhance community appeal for residents. Gateways play a vital role in the initial perception of a community and can be tied into the local history, businesses, and community events. Gateways should include a thematic design in which such aspects as signage and landscaping should be attractive but not overpowering and developed with consideration to maintenance and the overall features of the community.

As the project area sits along key roadways that experience significant amounts of traffic, there are numerous opportunities to capitalize on the opportunity to increase awareness of the municipalities by improving visual appeal through gateways. Areas where gateways should be established are located on Figure 10-3 and include the northern and southern bridges at the entrances to Bridgeville on Washington Avenue, the intersection of Lesnett and Bank Street, McLaughlin Run Road entrance and the intersection of McLaughlin Run Road and Bower Hill Road.

2-5 Bridgeville Borough Comprehensive Plan Section 2: Community Character and History

Shade trees and landscaping along roadways, sidewalks and public spaces also provide residents and visitors a pleasing atmosphere. Bridgeville should utilize existing volunteer groups, such as scout and youth groups or establish new volunteer groups, if needed, who can assist in planting and maintenance efforts. Other municipalities have established volunteer groups such as a shade tree commission to assist in beautification efforts.

The appearance of the business district in Bridgeville was identified as an issue. According to the survey responses, while 60% of residents felt that the appearance of Bridgeville’s business district is appealing, 40% felt it was not. Thematic improvements to the downtown streetscape would foster a community appeal and encourage individuals to shop in this area. It is recommended that the borough complete a streetscape study for Washington Avenue that would address issues including gateway development, signing, building facades, street lighting, street trees, and sidewalks.

The borough can also take steps to make downtown more aesthetically pleasing by implementing thematic banners along Washington Avenue. According to a visual preference survey conducted at a public meeting, the following improvements were identified as being needed, in order of priority.

∗ Building Façade ∗ Landscaping ∗ Lighting / Street Trees ∗ Street Trees ∗ Gateway Treatment ∗ Decorative Lighting ∗ Traffic Signal/Street Sign (design) ∗ Community Banners ∗ Street Furniture ∗ Business Park Entryway

Improving existing business districts also increases a sense of pride within communities and provides an economic development tool for the area. There are several tools available to communities to assist in business district improvement.

• Main Street Program: This program is a local public / private partnership designed to assist a community’s downtown economic development efforts through:

1. Establishing a local organization dedicated to downtown revitalization. The current Bridgeville Community Development Committee or the expanded Downtown Business Association, which is discussed in Section 10, could be tasked with this responsibility. 2. Hiring a professional downtown coordinator to manage the downtown revitalization. As a requirement of the program, the borough would need to hire a Main Street Manager.

2-6 Bridgeville Borough Comprehensive Plan Section 2: Community Character and History

The Main Street program is designed to promote preservation by using the quality elements of a built environment to create a positive image for everyone who uses the downtown area residents and visitors alike (Land Use in Pennsylvania, 2000).

Once created, the Bridgeville Downtown Business Association should apply for a grant for downtown revitalization from the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development. This initial grant is intended to help the borough complete required planning in the first year of the Main Street program and establish an office. Once those requirements have been fulfilled, the borough could receive an additional $170,000 over three years in matching state funds to hire a Main Street manager to oversee improvement and marketing to the business district. In addition to hiring a Main Street manager, the Main Street program will provide up to $20,000 per year to help downtown merchants improve their facades. Individual store owners would be eligible for a maximum matching grant of $2,500, provided the new storefront meets design criteria established by the borough and approved by state officials.

• Design Guidelines: One component of the Main Street program as well as historic preservation programs is to develop guidelines and standards for building facades and streetscapes. The set of guidelines ensures a semblance of commonality in a downtown area. By preserving an area’s unique character, these guidelines often boost property values and stimulate investment as well as foster community pride and help to improve quality of life (Governor’s Center for Local Government Services, 2000).

• Business Improvement Districts (BIDs): BIDs are legal entities solely created for the implementation of business improvement activities in defined districts. BIDs typically consist of commercial uses and are based on the ability to levy assessments on property within the district. Common activities of BIDs usually focus on cleaning up the district and increasing the safety. Some other activities may include: strategic planning, maintenance, security, consumer marketing, business recruitment and retention, parking and transportation management, façade programs, social services and capital improvements. BIDs are usually organized by district property owners.

A local example of a successful BID is the Oakland Business Improvement District in the City of Pittsburgh (Land Use in Pennsylvania, 2000).

2-7 Bridgeville Borough Comprehensive Plan Section 2: Community Character and History

• Shade Tree Ordinance: This type of ordinance is designed to reduce tree loss during development, reduce damage to standing trees during construction, provide for replacement trees lost during construction, provide for planting trees where none occurred previously, provide for the maintenance of preserved trees after construction is complete. Once a shade tree ordinance is adopted, the municipality should appoint a shade tree commission, which would be responsible the planting and maintenance of plants on municipal property (www.mnstac.org, 2004).

• Weed and Seed Program: This is a program designed to “weed out” criminals through an intensive law enforcement partnership between local police and the Pennsylvania State Police, and “seed” revitalization programs to eliminate the social and economic deterioration of the community.

Funding is available through a variety of state and local sources to assist with these beautification efforts. The Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED) works in coordination with the Pennsylvania Downtown Center (PDC), which is a nonprofit organization established to provide technical assistance and training to communities interested in downtown revitalization. The PDC operates a “Road Show,” where it travels to communities and provides a day long session to assist in organizing local efforts. The PDC will also provide, for a fee, assistance with conducting a visioning process as the first step in downtown revitalization.

2-8 Bridgeville Borough Comprehensive Plan Section 3: Demographics

Understanding the socio-economic structure of the project area is essential for elected officials who want to properly plan for the future needs and demands of the residents. For instance, the number of individuals in a specific age group will provide an indication of the demand for certain services and facilities. A community with a proportionally higher amount of elderly citizens may require more healthcare related services and community programs focusing on home maintenance. In contrast, a community with a large concentration of children within the zero-to- 4 and 5-to-17 age brackets will require an emphasis on additional education, recreation and child care needs.

The demographics of a community are important to understand when planning for its future. Past and present trends should be analyzed as well as future projections. It is also important to compare the community to surrounding municipalities to see whether the trends are standard for the region or unique to the community.

Data used in this section was taken from U.S. Census Bureau 1990 and 2000 Census data, the Pennsylvania Department of Education, and the Pennsylvania Department of Labor and Industry. In addition, the population projections contained in this section are taken from the Southwestern Pennsylvania Commission (SPC) Long Range Forecast (Adopted on July 31, 2000). The Long Range Forecast is the product of a national econometric model created by Regional Economic Models Inc (REMI), and reflects the following adjustments:

a. The REMI model uses 1995 as the last historical year and begins forecasting for the year 1996. The co-owner of the Pittsburgh REMI model, the University of Pittsburgh University Center for Social and Urban Research (UCSUR), has calibrated the model to incorporate 1996 employment data. b. 1997 total regional population was adjusted to match Bureau of the Census 1997 total population estimates. A proportional adjustment was then reflected in each post-1997 forecast year. This adjustment was also expressed in proportional adjustments to post-1997 regional employment totals based upon the 1997 population-to-jobs ratio. c. REMI manufacturing employment forecasts have been adjusted to exclude employment at manufacturing non-production sites. Employment at these non- production sites has been reclassified to the “other” employment category. d. The REMI forecast reflects recent, planned, and proposed large economic development projects that are identified in the Long Range Plan. The data on economic development projects were current to December 13, 1999. e. The REMI forecast reflects the impact of the transportation projects included in the Long Range Plan.

The regional forecast from REMI is allocated to traffic analysis zones using the SPC modeling procedure called MERLAM (Mature Economic Region Land Allocation Model). MERLAM employs statistical extrapolation of historical trends in various social and economic data weighted, in some cases, by characteristics of zones or municipalities. Since the forecast includes impacts of transportation user benefits from the SPC Long Range Plan and the effects of Long Range Plan economic development projects, the forecast explicitly assumes completion of the Long Range Plan (SPC Long Range Forecast, 2000).

3-1 Bridgeville Borough Comprehensive Plan Section 3: Demographics

A. Existing Conditions

Bridgeville Borough is located in Allegheny County along Interstate 79 south of the City of Pittsburgh. To provide a regional analysis, the municipalities that surround Bridgeville Borough’s borders: Collier Township, Scott Township, South Fayette Township, and Upper St. Clair Township, were used in the comparisons. Heidelberg and Oakdale Boroughs are also included in the comparisons as they are the closest boroughs to Bridgeville in Allegheny County. For purposes of this section, these four townships and three boroughs (including Bridgeville) will be

referred to as the study area. Chart 3-1: Land Area (square miles) To provide a demographic analysis at a larger 0.5 perspective, a comparison was Oakdale also made to Allegheny 0.3 Heidelberg County and Pennsylvania. 9.8 Upper St. Clair 20.3 Chart 3-1 graphs the land area South Fayette for each of the municipalities 4.0 Scott in the study area. As can be 14.2 seen, at 1.1 square miles, Collier 1.1 Bridgeville is more than twice Bridgeville the size of the other two 0.0 5.0 10.0 15.0 20.0 boroughs, yet significantly smaller than the surrounding townships.

Population Statistics Table 3-1 depicts the total population in 2000 for the communities within the study area as well as the percentage of population that is considered urban and rural. Bridgeville, Heidelberg, Oakdale, Scott, and Upper St. Clair are all categorized as being 100% urban, however in Collier and South Fayette Townships, there is a small percentage that is

Table 3-1: URBAN AND RURAL POPULATION, 2000 Bridgeville Collier Heidelberg Oakdale Scott South Fayette Upper St. Clair Allegheny County Pennsylvania Total: 5,341 5,265 1,225 1,551 17,288 12,271 20,053 1,281,666 12,281,054 Urban: 100% 91.60% 100% 100% 100% 88.70% 100% 97.3% 77.1% Inside urbanized areas 100% 91.60% 100% 100% 100% 88.7% 100% 97.3% 66.9%

Inside urban clusters 0% 0% 0% 0% 0% 0% 0% 0.0% 10.2% Rural 0% 8.40% 0% 0% 0% 11.30% 0% 2.7% 22.9% Filler 0% 0% 0% 0% 0% 0% 0% 0.0% 100.0% Souce: U.S. Census Bureau; Census 2000

3-2 Bridgeville Borough Comprehensive Plan Section 3: Demographics

considered to be rural. As Allegheny County is 97.3% Chart 3-2:Population Density: Persons per Square Mile urban, these figures are 0 1,000 2,000 3,000 4,000 5,000 6,000 characteristic of the region. Bridgeville 4,855 As urban areas, it is not Collier 371 surprising that many of the communities are comprised of Scott 4,322 dense populations. Population South Fayette 604 density is defined as the number of persons per square Upper St. Clair 2,046 mile and is important because Heidelberg 4,083 it plays a large role in Oakdale 3,102 determining a municipality’s needs and the level of services Allegheny County 1,755 that must be provided. Pennsylvania 274

Chart 3-2 identifies the population density for the study area in the year 2000. Bridgeville had 4,855 persons per square mile, which is the highest in the study area. Second to Bridgeville was Scott Township, with 4,322. The least dense municipalities in the study area are South Fayette, with 604 persons per square mile and Collier, with 371 persons per square mile. As the largest townships in the study area, at 20.3 and 14.2 square miles respectively, South Fayette and Collier are also the only two municipalities with rural population which is less dense by definition.

Population Composition In examining the population Chart 3-3: Population by Sex, Census 2000 composition of a community, -60-50-40-30-20-100 102030405060 factors such as the breakdown 46.5 Bridgeville by sex, race and age are 53.5 studied. Chart 3-3 graphs the 47.9 Collier population breakdown of the 52.1 46.6 study area by sex for the Heidelberg 53.4 municipalities, the county and 48.2 the state. As is seen in Oakdale 51.8 Allegheny County and 47.1 Pennsylvania, the study area Scott 52.9 has a higher percentage of 47.5 South Fayette females than males, ranging 52.5 48.4 from 53.5% in Bridgeville to Upper St. Clair 51.6 51.6% in Upper St. Clair. 47.4 Allegheny County 52.6 The study area as a whole is 48.3 much less racially diverse Pennsylvania 51.7 than that of both Allegheny County and Pennsylvania. Male Female

3-3 Bridgeville Borough Comprehensive Plan Section 3: Demographics

Allegheny County and Pennsylvania are 84.3% and 85.4% white respectively, compared to 94.0% in Bridgeville and 98.2% in Oakdale. Bridgeville and South Fayette have the highest percentage of black or African American residents, although at roughly 4% each, they are significantly less than the 12% throughout Allegheny County. Chart 3-4 shows the racial composition, excluding white, for each municipality, Allegheny County, and Pennsylvania in 2000.

Chart 3-4: Racial Composition, 2000 100% 90% 80% 70% 60% 50% 40% 30% 20% 10% 0%

r t r a e g e t te i ty i ll e r l t i li e a o a n n l c e l a v b d y u e o l k S C o v e a . l g C a t C d F y id i O S s e h y n r t r n H u e n B e e o p h S p g P U e ll A Black Asian American Indian Native Hawaiian

The age breakdown of a population is extremely important to a municipality as it identifies what types of facilities and services are needed to meet the needs of the age groups. The median age in Bridgeville is 43.8 years, which is the second highest in the study area. Table 3- 2 lists the median age for the study area, county and state. Compared to Allegheny County and Pennsylvania, the borough is comprised of an older population.

Table 3-2: MEDIAN AGE, 1990 and 2000

Median age (years) Bridgeville Collier Scott South Fayette Upper St. Clair Heidelberg Oakdale Allegheny County Pennsylvania 2000 43.8 45.9 41.5 39.3 42.0 40.6 40.9 39.6 38.0 1990 43.0 42.7 39.0 34.7 38.0 41.0 35.4 36.7 35.0 Source: U.S. Census Bureau; Census 2000

3-4 Bridgeville Borough Comprehensive Plan Section 3: Demographics

Chart 3-5 breaks the age groups into six major categories: 0-4, 5-19, 20-24, 25-44, 45-64, and 65 and older. The 0-4 age group shows the presence of young children and will indicate future needs when they reach school age. Bridgeville has 5% of its population in this category, which is lower than that of South Fayette, Upper St. Clair, Allegheny County and Pennsylvania. The 5-19 age group consists of children and young adults who are in the public and private school systems. At 14.5% and 14.6% , Scott and Bridgeville have the lowest percentages in this bracket. Allegheny County and the state are at 19% and 20%, respectively, in this age bracket and Upper St. Clair has the highest percentage, at 24%. In looking at the 65 and older age bracket, Bridgeville and Collier have the highest percentage of senior citizens in the study area and are both higher than that of the county and state.

Chart 3-5: Population by Age, 2000 0-4 5-19 20-24 25-44 45-64 65+

100%

80%

60%

40%

20%

r t e a lle e lli cot nty S u vani gevi Co l St. Clair Oakdal nsy rid n B per Heidelberg South Fayette gheny Co Pe Up le Al

Population Trends

When looking at the population of a community, it is crucial to examine not only the current figures, but also look at recent trends. Table 3-3 depicts the population figures for the study area over a 40-year period. Population counts are included as well as the percentage change in ten-year increments and the overall change from 1960 to 2000.

Over the 40-year period, Allegheny County lost 21.3% of its population and so it is not surprising that the majority of the communities in the study area have also lost population, with Heidelberg, Collier, and Bridgeville experiencing the heaviest losses. What is noteworthy is that while Collier lost 34.4% and Scott lost 9.5% of their respective populations, South Fayette and Upper St. Clair grew by 29.3% and a staggering 142% respectively over the same time frame.

3-5 Bridgeville Borough Comprehensive Plan Section 3: Demographics

Table 3-3: POPULATION 1960-2000 1960 1970 1980 1990 2000 % Change 1960-2000 Bridgeville 7,112 6,717 6,154 5,445 5,341 -5.9% -9.1% -13.0% -1.9% -24.9% Collier 8,021 6,874 5,063 4,841 5,265 -16.7% -35.8% -4.6% 8.1% -34.4% Scott 19,094 21,856 20,413 17,118 17,288 12.6% -7.1% -19.2% 1.0% -9.5% South Fayette 9,494 9,369 9,707 10,329 12,271 -1.3% 3.5% 6.0% 15.8% 29.3% Upper St. Clair 8,287 15,411 19,023 19,692 20,053 46.2% 19.0% 3.4% 1.8% 142.0% Heidelberg 2,118 2034 1606 1238 1225 -4.1% -26.7% -29.7% -1.1% -42.2% Oakdale 1,695 1614 1995 1752 1551 -5.0% 19.1% -13.9% -13.0% -8.5% Allegheny County 1,628,587 1,605,016 1,450,085 1,336,449 1,281,666 -1.5% -10.7% -8.5% -4.3% -21.3% Pennsylvania 11,319,366 11,800,766 11,863,895 11,882,842 12,281,054 4.1% 0.5% 0.2% 3.2% 8.5% Source: U.S. Census Bureau; Census 2000

In order to examine the population loss in Bridgeville in more depth, the Chart 3-6: % Change in Bridgeville's percentage change by age groups was Population By Age: 1990-2000 derived over the last decade, from 1990 to 2000. Chart 3-6 identifies the 65+ 1.1% breakdown in population change into six established age groups. Over the 45-64 -3.9% ten-year time frame, the most significant losses took place in the 20- 25-44 -1.3% 24 age group. With no colleges, universities, or technical schools in 20-24 -47.2% the borough, it is not uncommon to experience losses in this age group. 5-19 2.6% However a 47.2% loss is rather high. Interestingly, while the 0-4 age group 0-4 10.9% comprises 5% of the population in 2000, that age group has grown by -60% -40% -20% 0% 20% 10.9% over the last 10 years. The working age groups, 25-44 and 45-64, however are experiencing small losses in population.

Population Projections Population projections were calculated by the Southwestern Pennsylvania Commission in their Long Range Forecast that was adopted in 2000. Projections were based upon the population in 1997.

3-6 Bridgeville Borough Comprehensive Plan Section 3: Demographics

Based upon these projections, all three boroughs in the study area are projected to continue losing population through 2025, while the four townships are expected to grow. Bridgeville is expected to continue to decline in population and it is projected that by 2025, the decline will fall to a low of 0.5%.

Table 3-3: POPULATION PROJECTIONS, 1997-2025 1997 2002 2010 2020 2025 5093 -4.5% -12.3% -4.5% -0.5% Bridgeville Collier 5300 21.9% 58.0% 62.4% 61.6% Scott 16466 -2.3% -6.1% 3.2% 6.9% South Fayette 10771 19.4% 58.1% 64.9% 64.6% Upper St. Clair 20450 11.2% 38.2% 43.3% 43.1% Heidelberg 1158 -6.0% -17.1% -11.5% -7.3% Oakdale 1616 -5.9% -16.6% -10.9% -6.8% Source: SPC Longrange Forecast; 2000

Education

Educational attainment refers to the level of education completed in terms of the highest level of schooling or highest degree obtained. The education level of a population identifies the employment opportunities and needs of a community. Table 3-4 depicts the educational attainment for the study area.

Table 3-4: EDUCATIONAL ATTAINMENT, 2000 Bridgeville Collier Scott South Fayette Upper St. Clair Heidelberg Oakdale Allegheny County Pennsylvania Less than 9th grade 5.9 4.3 3.5 6.7 0.7 7.5 1.9 3.7 5.5 9th-12th grade, no diploma 10.6 12.0 8.8 10.0 2.1 11.0 9.5 10.0 12.6 H.S. Graduate (includes equivalency) 43.1 41.4 31.5 27.7 14.1 43.5 47.7 33.9 38.1 Some College, no degree 15.9 14.9 15.2 15.4 13.1 16.5 17.9 17.0 15.5 Associate Degree 6.5 5.6 5.9 8.0 4.7 6.0 7.0 7.1 5.9 Bachelor's Degree 14.3 16.2 22.2 22.2 38.4 12.8 11.5 17.3 14.0 Graduate or Professional 3.7 5.6 12.9 10.6 26.9 2.6 4.4 11.0 8.4 H.S. Grad or higher 83.5 83.7 87.7 83.3 97.2 81.5 88.6 86.3 81.9 Bachelor's degree or higher 18.0 21.8 35.1 32.9 65.3 15.5 15.9 28.3 22.4 Source: US Census Bureau, Census 2000

With 83.5% of its residents receiving a high school diploma or higher, Bridgeville compares quite well to the rest of the study area, with all of the other municipalities falling between 81.5% and 88.6%, except for Upper St. Clair who stands out at 97.2%. In terms of those

3-7 Bridgeville Borough Comprehensive Plan Section 3: Demographics

who received bachelor’s degree or higher, at 18%, Bridgeville has a lower percentage than that of the surrounding townships, but higher than the other two boroughs.

Chartiers Valley School District encompasses Bridgeville Borough, Collier Township, Heidelberg Borough, and Scott Township. In 2002, Chartiers Valley School District completed a demographic analysis for the school district. The analysis includes grade specific school district projections for the ten year period, 2003-2012, under four differing projectories. The one used in this report is Scenario III, which was viewed as the most likely of all the scenarios. The projections for Scenario III used five-year retention ratios, births, the in-migration of pre-schoolers, and a method for yielding the expected additional students due to growth in new residential housing.

Table 3-5 lists the projected student enrollment in Chartiers Valley School District for the period between 2002 and 2012. The district is expected to grow over the ten-year time frame, from 3442 total students in 2002 to 4206 students in 2012. This is an increase of 764 students, or a 22% growth.

Table 3-5: PROJECTIONS FOR CHARTIERS VALLEY SCHOOL DISTRICT, 2002-2012 2002 2007 2012 Change 2002-2012 Total 3442 3833 4206 +764 Source: Chartiers Valley School District, 2002

Income

Income statistics were compiled for the project area and included median family, household, and per capita income, income type by household, and the poverty level of a community. Household income includes the total income of all members of the household over the age of 15. Dividing the total income distribution into two equal parts, whereby the median is the middle number, derives median income. As many households consist of one person, the median household income is usually lower than the family household income.

As depicted in Table 3-6, in 2000, Bridgeville had a median family income of $46,500 and a median household income of $34,873. In terms of household income, this is the lowest

Table 3-6: INCOME Median Family Median Family Median Household Median Household Income- 1990 Income- 2000 Income-1990 Income- 2000 Bridgeville $34,948 $46,500 $25,288 $34,873 Collier $36,304 $50,469 $29,669 $41,989 Scott $42,345 $54,716 $34,644 $44,434 South Fayette $40,659 $65,473 $35,699 $53,739 Upper St. Clair $72,407 $95,257 $67,657 $87,581 Heidelberg $29,306 $41,023 $22,056 $35,000 Oakdale $41,078 $55,865 $32,368 $46,574 Allegheny County $35,338 $49,815 $18,136 $38,329 Pennsylvania $34,856 $49,184 $29,069 $40,106 Source: US Census Bureau; 1990, 2000 *Note: 1990 figures not adjusted for inflation

3-8 Bridgeville Borough Comprehensive Plan Section 3: Demographics

figure in the study area and lower than the county and state averages. Almost the same holds true for median family income, with the exception that Heidelberg has a lower median. Standing out from the region and state, is Upper St. Clair, who has figures almost $50,000 higher than everyone else, on the average.

The percentage change in median income is also important. Knowing that Bridgeville has lower income figures, it is helpful to know whether or not the percentage change compares to the surrounding municipalities, as well as the county and state. Chart 3-7: % Change in Income 1990-2000 Chart 3-7 graphs the percentage 60.0% change for both median family and 50.0% household income between 1990 40.0% and 2000. 30.0% In comparing Bridgeville to 20.0% Allegheny County, the change in 10.0% family income is close, within 5%. 0.0% However, the change in household e t e r e y a ll er t t l t i income rose dramatically, over i li co et erg n l Clai b u an S el 50%, over the ten-year period in Co Fay t. d Co ylv ei Oakda y s er S Bridgev p H en the county, but in Bridgeville it South p h Penn eg U ll remained under 30%. Compared to A the study area and the state, Bridgeville falls in the middle of Median Family Income % change 1990-2000 the pack. Interestingly, while Median Household Income % change 1990-2000 Upper St. Clair’s median family and household incomes are Chart 3-8: Per Capita Income 1990 & 2000 significantly higher than the rest of $50,000 the study area, the percentage $45,000 change is rather low, with only Scott having a smaller increase. $40,000 $35,000 Per capita income is the average $30,000 income earned by an individual in a $25,000 municipality. Chart 3-8 shows per $20,000 capita income in 1990 and in 2000 $15,000 for the study area, county and state. $10,000 The rise in per capita income $5,000 figures is staggered across the board during the ten-year span. $0

In Bridgeville, income figures rose e er tt te r e ty i co lai erg al n ll S C b from around $13,000 in 1990 to Co Fayet del akd St. i O uth er $19,500 in 2000. The most Bridgevill o He eny Cou ennsylvania S pp h P dramatic increases occurred in U lleg A Collier, Scott and Upper St. Clair, each having an increase exceeding Per Capita Income, 1990 Per Capita Income, 2000

3-9 Bridgeville Borough Comprehensive Plan Section 3: Demographics

$10,000. In 2000, only Bridgeville and Heidelberg had per capita incomes of less than $20,000.

Poverty level is based upon the US Department of Agriculture’s determination that one third of income is spent on food and the basis for the food cost is from a Department of Agricultural economy food plan. For the 2000 Census, the poverty level was determined at $8,350/annually for persons who were 18 and over, and resided in the Contiguous United States and the poverty threshold for a family of four persons was $17,603. Chart 3-9 graphs the percentage of individuals living below the poverty level in 2000.

Chart 3-9: % Living Below Poverty Level, 2000 11.2% 11.0% 12.0% 9.8% 10.0% 7.8% 7.2% 8.0% 6.4% 6.0% 4.2%

4.0% 2.6% 2.8% 2.0% 0.0%

e er t te ir g le ia ot t a er a nty vill c ye e S a elb kd Colli d h F i Oa ut Bridg o He S Pennsylvan Upper St. Cl llegheny Cou A

As shown in Chart 3-9, the percentage of individuals living below the poverty levels varies significantly throughout the study area. Bridgeville has a7.8% rate, second only to Heidelberg, at 9.8%. Oakdale and Upper St. Clair have the lowest percentages for the study area, at 2.6% and 2.8% respectively. At 11.2%, Allegheny County has the highest percentage of residents living below the poverty level with Pennsylvania close behind, at 11%.

3-10 Bridgeville Borough Comprehensive Plan Section 3: Demographics

Employment

The types of jobs of those employed; the industries employing the population; and the commuting patterns all play important and integral roles in the region’s economic future. Employment statistics were determined from the civilian labor force, 16 years and over, who provided information on occupations, employment status, and travel characteristics.

Employment status is calculated for the entire population 16 years and older. Table 3-7 breaks down employment status into the percentage of residents in the labor force and those not in the labor force. Of those in the labor force, it further breaks down the percentage in the workforce into those in the civilian versus armed forces and then the civilian into employed and unemployed. In 2000, 57.8% of the Bridgeville’s population was in the workforce, which is slightly lower than that of Allegheny County and Pennsylvania. At 70.5%, Oakdale had the highest percentage of residents in the workforce while the remaining communities had percentages similar to Bridgeville.

Of the population in the labor force, every community along with the county and state, had a very small percentage if any, in the armed forces. The rest of the population is categorized as being in the civilian workforce.

The civilian workforce is broken into two categories: employed and unemployed. Allegheny County has 3.7% of its workforce unemployed and the state has 3.5% unemployed. With the exception of Scott, 3.5%, all of the communities in the study area have lower percentages of the workforce unemployed.

Table 3-7: EMPLOYMENT STATUS, 2000 Bridgeville Collier Scott South Fayette Upper St. Clair Heidelberg Oakdale Allegheny County Pennsylvania Population 16 years and over 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0 In labor force 57.8 56.2 60.8 62.1 58.2 64.4 70.5 61.1 61.9 Civilian labor force 57.8 56.2 60.8 62.1 58.2 64.4 70.5 61.1 61.8 Employed 55.7 53.5 57.3 60.3 57.1 62.1 67.9 57.3 58.3 Unemployed 2.1 2.7 3.5 1.7 1.1 2.3 2.7 3.7 3.5 Armed Forces 0.0 0.0 0 0 0.1 0 0 0.1 0.1 Not in labor force 42.2 43.8 39.2 37.9 41.8 35.6 29.5 38.9 38.1 Source: US Census Bureau; Census 2000

3-11 Bridgeville Borough Comprehensive Plan Section 3: Demographics

Table 3-8 denotes the employment in the region by job type, including the percentage employed in professional or management occupations, service occupations; sales and office occupations; farming, fishing, and forestry; construction, extraction, and maintenance; and production, transportation, and material moving occupations.

Table 3-8: OCCUPATION, 2000 Bridgeville Collier Scott South Fayette Upper St. Clair Heidelberg Oakdale Allegheny County Pennsylvania Management, professional, and related occupations 28.9 34.8 45.9 42.6 59.3 29.4 28.2 37.8 32.6 Service occupations 16.8 12.2 13.1 12.1 5.9 21.3 15.2 15.8 14.8 Sales and office occupations 31.1 31.0 28.3 27.2 28.1 27.1 26.6 28.7 27.0 Farming, fishing, and forestry occupations 0.2 0.0 0.0 0.6 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.1 0.5 Construction, extraction, and maintenance occupations 11.0 9.5 6.1 8.6 2.8 9.7 14.5 7.5 8.9 Production, transportation, and material moving occupations 12.0 12.5 6.6 9.0 3.9 12.6 15.5 10.1 16.3 Source: US 2000 Census

3-12 Bridgeville Borough Comprehensive Plan Section 3: Demographics

An important component of a region’s demographics is the employment diversity that exists within that region. Employment diversity is important to the economic stability of a municipality and region. As experienced in the past, communities tied closely to a single industry are subject to economic challenges if that industry were to fall on difficult times. Table 3-9 breaks down employment by sector.

The largest sector of the population in Bridgeville is employed in educational, health and social services, 22.4%, which is similar to Allegheny County and Pennsylvania. The next two largest employment sectors for Bridgeville are retail trade, 15.3%, and professional, scientific, management, administrative, and waste management services, 11.0%. These three sectors employ almost 50% of the entire workforce. The remaining 50% is somewhat equally distributed throughout the other nine sectors (excluding agriculture as there is less than one percent employed within).

Table 3-9: INDUSTRY, 2000 Bridgeville Collier Scott South Fayette Upper St. Clair Heidelberg Oakdale Allegheny County Pennsylvania Agriculture, forestry, fishing and hunting, and mining 0.2 0 0.1 0.6 0.9 0.3 0 0.2 1.3 Construction 7.8 8.3 4.5 7.2 3.5 9.5 10.9 5.4 6.0 Manufacturing 8.9 10.6 7.6 11.1 9.2 9.5 15.4 9.0 16.0 Wholesale trade 4.5 4.4 4.1 4.8 4.8 3.1 4.2 3.4 3.6 Retail trade 15.3 13.4 11.3 13.1 11.7 12.1 10.7 11.9 12.1

Transportation and warehousing, and utilities 6.8 9.5 6.5 6.2 4.2 5.5 9.1 6.0 5.4 Information 2.0 4.3 3.9 3.8 2.7 4.4 2.8 3.2 2.6 Finance, insurance, real estate, and rental and leasing 6.6 9.4 11.1 8 11.9 7.3 7.7 8.5 6.6 Professional, scientific, management, administrative, and waste management services 11.0 9.7 17 12.7 17.1 12.9 8.5 11.2 8.5 Educational, health and social services 22.4 16.1 20.7 21.1 23.5 21.5 14.5 24.4 21.9 Arts, entertainment, recreation, accommodation and food services 7.6 7.9 5.6 5.7 3.5 8.1 9.1 8.2 7.0

Other services (except public administration) 4.8 4.3 5.3 4.7 4.4 4.5 4.3 5.1 4.8 Public administration 2.3 2.2 2.3 1 2.6 1.5 2.7 3.3 4.2 Source: US 2000 Census

3-13 Bridgeville Borough Comprehensive Plan Section 3: Demographics

An interesting component to look at is the commute to work of residents within a community. Table 3-10 denotes the work commute into six categories and also lists the average travel time (in minutes) to work. In Bridgeville, 76.6% of workers drove alone to work, which compares almost evenly with Pennsylvania and only slightly higher than the county average. With the exception of Heidelberg, it is lower than the other communities in the study area. A very high percentage, 11.8% carpooled to work in Bridgeville and the remaining either utilized public transportation, walked or found some other means.

Bridgeville residents have an average travel time of 23.1 minutes to work, which is lower than the majority of communities as well as the county and state.

Table 3-10: COMMUTING TO WORK, 2000 Bridgeville Collier Scott South Fayette Upper St. Clair Heidelberg Oakdale Allegheny County Pennsylvania Car, truck, or van -- drove alone 76.6 85.1 78.2 86.6 81 74 85.5 72.1 76.5 Car, truck, or van -- carpooled 11.8 6.9 7.7 6.7 6.7 11.7 9.2 10.0 10.4 Public transportation (including taxicab) 4.4 3.1 9.9 2.9 6.7 7 1.6 10.5 5.2 Walked 3.6 1.2 1.1 0.8 0.3 5.2 2.3 4.1 4.1 Other means 1.21.20.60.60.20.60.70.70.8 Worked at home 2.4 2.5 2.6 2.4 5.1 1.5 0.7 2.5 3.0 Mean travel time to work (minutes) 23.1 25 24.2 25.2 28.1 22.1 23.8 25.3 25.2 Source: US Census Bureau; Census 2000

3-14 Bridgeville Borough Comprehensive Plan Section 3: Demographics

B. Analysis of Existing Conditions

Bridgeville Borough is a small, densely populated municipality, which has little room for new development. Future development should occur as infill development and / or the redevelopment of underutilized or abandoned sites. Townships with larger amounts of available land surround Bridgeville, providing opportunities for new developments outside of the borough’s boundary. Therefore, the borough should identify areas suitable for infill / redevelopment and offer incentives to developers that encourage the reuse of these sites.

• Bridgeville’s population has been declining since 1960 while surrounding townships have been growing.

Population trends since 1960 show that the borough’s population has been declining, with the most significant losses happening during the 1980’s. While the borough has lost almost a quarter of its population over the 40-year span, it is encouraging that this rate has declined to 2% over the last ten years. Population projections indicate that population losses will continue over the next 25 years.

While Bridgeville has been losing population, some of the municipalities around the borough have been experiencing dramatic increases in population. Since 1990, South Fayette has seen its number of residents increase by 15.8% and Collier has grown by 8.1%. Although population increase in Upper St. Clair has stabilized over the last 20 years, it is a sizable community that has very high income levels. Despite the population loss within Bridgeville itself, the borough is surrounded by large, populated townships, of which it can capitalize upon.

• Since 1990, the borough has experienced a 10.9% increase in children ages 0-4.

This is important as it suggests that additional families with young children are moving into the borough. When these children reach school age, it will place a demand upon the educational system as well as municipal services. As was shown in Table 3-5, Chartiers Valley School District is projected to grow by 22% in 2012. This is a significant increase and important for borough officials to recognize.

• In terms of education, Bridgeville compares well with the study area, Allegheny County, and the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.

While over 83% of its population has at least a high school diploma, the borough lags somewhat behind in the percentage of population with a higher education. The definition of a skilled workforce has come to mean an education above the high school level, and while the percentage that have received a technical degree are not accounted for, only 18% of borough residents have a bachelor’s degree or higher. Compared to percentages of 65.3% in Upper St. Clair, 35.1% in Scott, and 32.9% in South Fayette, the borough has less of a skilled labor force from which to draw.

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• Income levels in Bridgeville are on the average, lower than that of the surrounding communities as well as Allegheny County and Pennsylvania.

However, between 1990 and 2000, both the median family and household income levels rose by more than 25%. While the gap between Bridgeville and communities such as Scott and Upper St. Clair still exist, the gap is beginning to shrink. Of all the municipalities, South Fayette has experienced the largest increase in median family income of almost 40%.

• One concern is that while per capita income in Bridgeville has risen since 1990, it has not increased to the extent that its neighbors of Collier, South Fayette, and Upper St. Clair have all experienced.

These three communities have seen an increase in per capita income by more than $10,000 and in some cases by almost $15,000. With the exception of Heidelberg, Bridgeville had the lowest per capita income in 2000 at $19,500 and when compared to Allegheny County and Pennsylvania, this figure is only slightly lower.

• With a per capita income of $19,500, the borough had 7.8% of individuals living below the poverty level in 2000.

Again, while this figure is a little more than 3% lower than that of Allegheny County and Pennsylvania, it is on the high end of the spectrum within the study area. Although Heidelberg had a higher percentage at 9.8%, other communities in the region have only 2.6%, 2.8% and 4.2% of individuals living below the poverty level.

• Of the Bridgeville labor force in 2000, the highest percentage (31.1%) of workers were employed in sales and office occupations.

The second highest (28.9%) was found to work in management, professional, and related occupations. The exact opposite was the case in the other communities, the county, and the state.

• In looking at the economic diversity of workers in Bridgeville, over half of all workers are employed in one of three industries.

The three industries are educational, health and social services; retail trade; or professional, scientific, management, administrative, and waste management services. While this holds true for many of the communities in the study area as well as Allegheny County, what is notable is the high percentage of those in the retail trade. At 15.3%, this is more than 2% higher than any other community and is in many cases more than 4% higher. Also, the borough has the lowest percentage of workers employed in the information industry and in the finance, insurance, real estate, and rental and leasing industry. In looking at these statistics, it is indicative of the lower income levels found in Bridgeville.

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Community facilities and services are the backbone of a community and are often one of the measures used to assess its quality of life. The ability for a community to provide desired facilities and services will ultimately impact its potential for growth in the future. Proper planning enables a community or region to eliminate additional and unnecessary costs that typically come from reactionary responses due to an unforeseen long-term demand or failure to improve and maintain the current facilities and services.

The provision for facilities and services normally requires capital investments by the community that are funded through municipal budgets (local tax base) or through the implementation of user fees. Communities must consider whether it is more cost effective to provide the services themselves or have private providers do this on a contractual basis. Some of the advantages of utilizing public agencies are their ability to secure long-term financing for projects and their capability of planning for contingencies. Therefore, the type, quality and quantity of facilities and services being provided by the community or region are most often a compromise of the resident’s ability or interest in paying for it. Once it has been determined by a community or region to provide a particular facility or service, it is important to consider where they are provided in relation to the current and future population they are intended to serve.

In order to identify the future service needs of the community, an inventory and analysis of the community facilities and services being provided was conducted and is found in this section of the comprehensive plan.

A. Existing Conditions

Municipal Government

Municipal governments include counties, cities, boroughs and townships. The responsibilities or duties of local governments are many and include providing for public safety/emergency services, garbage collection, sewage collection/ treatment, repair and maintenance of local roads (including snow removal), code enforcement and local planning and zoning.

Bridgeville operates under the Borough Council form of government. The Borough Council form of governing has a dominant council with broad Bridgeville Municipal Building, Mackin 2003 powers to implement policy while the mayor of the municipality is considered a “weak executive” who oversees daily operations such as police operations.

Borough Council meets on the second Monday of every month at 7:30 PM in the municipal building. The municipal building is located at 425 Bower Hill Road in Bridgeville and is open to the public for regular business hours Monday through Friday between 8:00 AM and

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4:00 PM. The borough maintains a full-time manager, a full-time secretary, Public Works Department, and a Police Department. In 2003, the borough operated on a budget of $1,800,777.00 and had a mileage rate of 15.41.

The borough operates a comprehensive web site that provides information about borough services as well as community events. The address is www.bridgevilleboro.com.

Public Works

The Bridgeville Borough Public Works Department is responsible for planning and directing the operations, construction and maintenance of borough owned streets (37.5 miles); sidewalks (three miles); storm sewers; parking lots (six); street lights on Washington Avenue; and all equipment, facilities and properties owned by the borough, including the parks. In addition to providing winter maintenance and sweeping of borough streets, the department has a contract with the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and Allegheny County to provide these services on the state and county routes within the borough. The department also provides trash pick-up (twice a week on Washington Avenue) and leaf pick-up. The department has six full-time maintenance persons and three part-time workers in the summer months to care for the parks and weed maintenance. The department does have a road maintenance in place, as well as plans for acquiring new equipment.

Code Enforcement and Zoning

To ensure that growth and development occurs in an orderly manner, the borough has adopted land use controls including a zoning ordinance and a subdivision and land development ordinance (SALDO). The Bridgeville Borough Zoning Ordinance was adopted in 1988 and most recently amended in 2001. The borough has eight zoning classifications including Conservation, Single-Family Residential, Two Family Residential, Multiple- Family Residential, Business, General Business, Office and Industrial. These zoning districts are described in more detail in Chapter 9 of this plan.

The Bridgeville Borough Manager also serves as the Zoning and Code Officer and is responsible for enforcement of all zoning and property maintenance ordinances.

As required by the Pennsylvania Municipalities Planning Code (MPC), Bridgeville Borough has appointed a Zoning Hearing Board comprised of five members who meet on an as needed basis to ensure that the application and administration of the zoning ordinance is fair and equitable. The board also presides over hearings involving appeals of the zoning officer’s decisions, the granting of variances for certain hardships imposed by the ordinances, and applications for special exceptions.

Through interviews with the Bridgeville code enforcement officer, the most common complaints received are regarding property maintenance issues, such as trash, high grass, abandoned vehicles, etc. The bulk of the officer’s time is spent on these issues and it was indicated that not enough time is spent on building maintenance issues. Another problem noted was absentee homeowners and landlords. Due to the fact that the borough manager is

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the code enforcement and zoning officer, there is not enough time to address all the issues that arise due to property maintenance.

The building inspector, who is responsible for inspecting new construction within the borough, is currently contracted out to a third-party organization. The borough was operating under the 1993 BOCA Fire Prevention Code, but will be administering Act 45, the Uniform Construction Code (UCC), starting in the summer of 2004. The UCC will govern all building codes across the Commonwealth. Under Act 45, local municipalities will be mandated to adopt the UCC and determine how it will be administered and enforced.

Bridgeville has a Planning Commission, comprised of five members who are appointed by the borough council. The Planning Commission’s responsibilities are to oversee the development of the Comprehensive Plan as well as assume the responsibilities of those prescribed for Planning Agencies found in Article II of the MPC.

Police

Bridgeville provides its own police force located in the municipal building at 425 Bower Hill Road in Bridgeville Borough. The police department provides service 24-hours a day / seven days a week within Bridgeville Borough.

The department operated on an annual budget of $580,000 in 2003, which is approximately 36% of the borough budget. Staff consists of nine full-time officers, and a full-time secretary. Salaries range from $22.56 / hour to $26.44 / hour.

The Bridgeville Police Department sponsors community-oriented programs such as crime prevention tip meetings, D.A.R.E. and the Neighborhood Crime Watch Program in addition, the department provides a school resource officer to the Chartiers Valley Middle School in Scott Township.

The department currently has mutual aid agreements with surrounding municipalities, and is working with the Char West Council of Governments for shared services in equipment needs.

In 2002, the department received 3,170 calls for police services

Through interviews with the police department, the biggest threats to providing services facing the department were identified as lack of funding and cost of services. Current facilities were cited as being adequate for department needs, the municipal building is in good condition and the police department now has adequate space. Table 4.1 lists the equipment owned by the Police Department. Bridgeville Police Car, Mackin 2003

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Fire

Table 4.1: Bridgeville Police Equipment Number Type Condition 1 2002 Ford Crown Victorias Good 2 2004 Ford Crown Victoria Good 3 Shotguns N/A 1 Battering Ram N/A 1 Digital Camera N/A 5 Computer workstations N/A Video Recorders in each car N/A MDT in each car N/A

The Bridgeville Volunteer Fire Department (VFD) provides the fire protection for Bridgeville Borough. The fire department was established in 1916 when the mode of fire fighting was bucket brigades. The fire department was located in the borough building until 1997 when they moved into their new fire station and social hall at 370 Commercial Street.

The department has a four member board, close to 50 active volunteers, and a ladies Auxiliary Group and relies on membership dues, borough funding (through the Fireman’s Relief Fund), donations and fundraising efforts to finance equipment and apparatus purchases. The fire department operates its own web site at www.bridgevillevfd.com.

The fire station has four bays to accommodate the company’s vehicles (listed in Table 4.2), a meeting room, administrative and line officers’ offices, lockers, a training and work area as well as a social hall, which is named the Chartiers Room. The handicapped accessible Chartiers Room can accommodate up to 300 people, is fully carpeted around a dance floor, has a wet bar, kitchen and restrooms.

The department provides various training exercises for its members. First Response classes meet once a week to learn procedures to stabilize a situation until an ambulance arrives on the scene. Smoke training is also provided to assist firefighters with learning how to enter a smoke filled room to find trapped victims.

Bridgeville Volunteer Fire Department, Mackin 2003

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Table 4.2: Bridgeville VFD Equipment Year Type Condition 1988 KME heavy pumper N/A 1977 American LaFrance heavy pumper N/A 2003 American LaFrance/Salisbury heavy rescue truck N/A 1997 Dodge Pickup N/A 1982 Pierce 100-Foot ladder tower N/A

Through an interview with the volunteer fire chief the main issues that the fire department faces are the lack of visible street addresses on all buildings and cars that block hydrants as well as streets. Cherry Way was also listed as a concern due to the fact that fire trucks cannot maneuver down the street.

Emergency Medical Services (EMS)

Southbridge Emergency Services is the sole provider of EMS to Bridgeville as well as South Fayette Township and portions of Collier and Cecil Townships, 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Southbridge owns four Ford Type III ambulances all of which are equipped to provide Advanced life support. One additional ambulance, which is equipped as a Special Operations Vehicle, is used primarily as a rehab vehicle for the fire department during structure fires. The company is a charitable 501c3 non-profit corporation, who does bill insurance companies for services rendered, but also has a subscription program available to residents . Its emergency response area includes 45 square miles, and Southbridge is located at 178 Hickory Grade Road. Staff is comprised of 30 total employees: 17 full-time and 13 part-time. Eleven of these employees are paramedics and 19 are EMTs. Southbridge owns four Ford Type 3 ambulances and one International ambulance, which is equipped as a special operations vehicle (this vehicle is also used by the Bridgeville Volunteer Fire Department for structure fires). Three advance life support (ALS) ambulances are in operation from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM and two ALS ambulances are in operation during the remainder of the day. According to representatives, Southbridge answers approximately 80 calls per month to Bridgeville, which include varying types of medical emergencies and traumatic injuries.

The locations within the borough that generate the highest number of calls for service are: Bridgeville Towers, Goodwill Manor, Goodwill Villa, Washington Commons, all senior living facilities and Grandview Towers, which is also primarily a senior citizen facility.

According to Southbridge Emergency Services, there are no significant problems regarding EMS service in the borough or access issues. This was re-enforced by the public input throughout the planning process. Although presently the Bridgeville Police Department responds to emergency calls, representatives from Southbridge did mention that formal arrangements with the police department to respond to EMS calls could help improve emergency services in the borough. Staffing issues due to a limited number of qualified paramedics and EMTs, declining reimbursement from insurance companies, fuel costs and

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employee benefit costs were mentioned as concerns for service provision.

Water

All of Bridgeville’s residents have public water service. Pennsylvania American Water Company provides the water services. Pennsylvania American supplies an average of 72 million gallons of water a day and has large diameter lines running to Bridgeville Borough. Through interviews with the water company, it was discovered that the water lines have sufficient capacity to handle any further development that may occur in the borough. The company has a maintenance plan that allocates five to seven million dollars a year to replace pipe in Southern Allegheny and Washington Counties on an as needed basis.

There were no significant problems mentioned regarding the infrastructure or provision of water services to the borough.

Sewer

Public sewer is available to all residents in Bridgeville Borough, provided by the Allegheny County Sanitary Authority (ALCOSAN). Located along the Ohio River on Pittsburgh’s Northside, ALCOSAN treats an average of 200 million gallons of wastewater daily representing treatment service from 320,000 customers in 83 communities including Bridgeville Borough. ALCOSAN, a joint city-county authority operating under state guidelines, receives no tax monies with revenues generated solely by rates (www.alcosan. org).

The 83 communities within the ALCOSAN service area are currently under the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) mandates to repair broken sewer lines, reduce inflow and infiltration, reduce the frequency and amount of combined sewer overflows, and eliminate sanitary sewer overflows (www.alcosan.org).

According to ALCOSAN there are no construction projects in place over the next several years for Bridgeville other than repairs as needed. There is a cleaning contract, which will allow ALCOSAN to bring in vacuum trucks to scour the ALCOSAN interceptors and vacuum out debris.

Refuse and Recycling

Waste Management is under contract as the sole garbage collector in Bridgeville. Refuse and recyclables can be placed curb side after 6:00 PM on Sunday evenings. The garbage is collected every Monday morning. Borough residents are charged quarterly for their sewage bill for refuse and recycling pick-up. For more information on garbage collection and recycling in Bridgeville, please visit www.bridgevilleboro.com/refuse.html.

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Library:

The Bridgeville Area Public Library is located at 441 Station Street in Bridgeville. Hours of operation are from 11 AM—8 PM Monday through Thursday, 11 AM—5 PM on Friday, 10 AM—3 PM on Saturday and 1 PM—5 PM on Sunday (the library is closed on Sundays from June through August). The library’ information can be found on the web at www.einpgh. org/ein/bridgevl/index.html. Bridgeville Public Library, Mackin 2003 The library was established in 1962 when a group of concerned citizens gathered to discuss the idea of organizing a public library to serve the community. Shortly thereafter the library was moved to a more accessible location in the Dreon Building. But interest in finding a permanent home for the library was growing and led to the purchase in 1968 of the abandoned Penn Central Railroad Station building and grounds. An extensive fund-raising drive was conducted to raise support for this purchase and for the remodeling. The entire renovation, which began in April, 1969 was done by volunteers from the Bridgeville Kiwanas Club. Except for a few additions, such as the doorway and the lighted cupola and a few finishing touches, the exterior of the depot has been preserved in its original state (www.einpgh.org/ein/bridgevl/index.html).

At the time of the library's dedication in June, 1970, the collection had grown to 7,000 books and continued to expand until the library began to experience growing pains. An ingenious solution to the space problem was the addition of a children's wing in the form of a caboose, which was purchased from the B&O Railroad in 1974, remodeled by the Kiwanas Club and opened for service in June, 1975.

The library’s collection currently includes 20,000 items and is focusing on computers, automation and CD-ROM reference. Bridgeville Public Library is a member of Pennsylvania ACCESS and the Allegheny County Library Association. The library is staffed by a professional librarian, a secretary and volunteers.

The library offers the following special services: • Interlibrary Loan • Rent a book • Photocopying • Pre-school and elementary school story hours

Senior Services:

Bridgeville currently has four senior living facilities. They include Goodwill Manor located at 601 McMillan Street, Goodwill Villa located at 617 McMillan Street, Bridgeville Towers located at 479 Bank Street Extension and Washington Commons located at 528 Dewey Avenue. The first three are senior living facilities that provide housekeeping, activities and health care on site. Washington Commons is a personal care facility that provides 24-hour

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care for physically disabled and senior citizens. More information is included in Chapter Six of this plan.

Public Schools:

There are no school facilities located in the borough. The Chartiers Valley Area School District includes Bridgeville and Heidelberg Boroughs and Collier and Scott Townships. Four school facilities comprise the Chartiers Valley School District – the Primary School located at 125 Thoms Run Road (grades K-2), the Intermediate School located at 2030 Swallow Hill Road (grades 3-5), the Middle School located at 50 Thoms Run Road (grades 6-8) and the High School located at 50 Thoms Run Road (grades 9-12). The Chartiers Valley School District can be found on the web at www.cvsd.net.

Table 4.3 displays information for the Chartiers Valley High School as compared to the neighboring high schools and to Pennsylvania public schools. Chartiers Valley High School has a very low drop out rate of 1.1 percent. This is lower than all the surrounding schools, with the exception of Upper St. Clair at 0.0 percent, and Pennsylvania’s rate of 3.4 percent. The student attendance rate of 92.8 percent is comparable to Pennsylvania’s rate of 93.0 percent and the surrounding high schools. The overall SAT average for Chartiers Valley of 994 is only slightly lower than that of Pennsylvania’s average of 997 and is in the middle in terms of high schools in the region; Upper St. Clair is the highest with 1129. The percentage of students who were planning on attending a degree granting post-secondary institution (92.9 percent) was significantly higher than the state average of 77.1 percent, but is in the middle in terms of surrounding high schools. Upper St. Clair (97.7 percent) and Montour (94.8 percent) both had rates higher than Chartiers Valley.

A report issued in January of 2003 by a Pennsylvania Department of Education approved demographer projected that enrollment increases in the district will range from 764 to 1,202 additional students by 2012. It should be noted that these projections do no include additional growth from the 650-700 new homes planned for Collier Township (www.cvsd. net).

Table 4.3: School Information Chartiers South West Montour Upper St. Pennsylvania Valley Fayette Allegheny H.S. Clair H.S. H.S. H.S. H.S. Total Enrollment 1,123 488 974 1,161 1,397 861,830 Student Attendance 92.8% 93.8% 93.1% 93.7% 94.5% 93.0% Low Income 17.5% 5.7% 14.9% 2.0% 1.0% 30.9% Drop Out Rate 1.1% 2.5% 9.0% 7.8% 0.0% 3.4% SAT Overall Average 994 1005 988 980 1129 997 Post Secondary bound* 92.9% 81.8% 81.4% 94.8% 97.7% 77.1% (degree granting institution) Source: PA Department of Education—School year 2001-2002 * For school year 2000-2001 graduates

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Chartiers Valley School District finished 18-months of strategic planning and have several projects underway to accommodate the nearly 35 percent projected enrollment growth. These projects are not to exceed $29.5 million and the projects will be funded through a wrap-around bond issue and will not increase future taxes to the school district residents (www.cvsd.net).

According to the Chartiers Valley School District web site, the proposed renovation is comprised of 73 projects. The site specific renovation projects are as follows (www.cvsd. net):

• Primary School: Plans include constructing 15 new classrooms, expanding the gymnasium, converting space into a networked computer lab, enlarging the cafeteria, HVAC upgrades, restroom upgrades and an expansion to the Thomas Run soccer area to include a concession area, restrooms and additional storage.

• Intermediate School: Plans include 11 new classrooms, relocating administrators to allow for additional instructional areas, a new computer lab, a new music classroom, upgrades to mechanical and electrical service, restroom upgrades, new ceilings, lights, entrance doors, additional library space, enlarged cafeteria, reconfigured locker areas, asphalt repair, new athletic fields and the relocation of outfield fencing.

• Middle School / High School Complex: The plans provide for new classrooms, new Family and Consumer Science instructional areas, a district-wide security surveillance area, expanded art room and cafeteria, mechanical and electrical upgrades, renovation of restrooms, a modernized fire alarm, exterior door replacement, acoustic ceiling replacement, resurfaced track, new sports turf on the high school field, two additional tennis courts, entrance traffic control station replacement and relocation of stadium concession stand. An existing addition on the North side of the facility will house a new Academic, Athletic, Community Complex as well.

Councils of Governments (COG)

Councils of Governments (COGs) are special ACT 180 organizations. Act 180 is the Intergovermental Cooperation Law, which was enacted by the general assembly in 1972 and states, “A municipality...may...cooperate or agree in the exercise of any function, power or responsibility with...one or more...municipalities…” COGs are established to enable a group of municipalities to work together on whatever programs are in their mutual interest (DCED, 1997). COGs differ from the typical Act 180 joint program in several ways:

• A COG has broad responsibility. It may be responsible for studying and proposing new joint programs and projects and for coordinating other municipal activities. • Several existing or proposed ACT 180 agreements among COG municipalities can be included under the umbrella of one COG. • No specific program must be undertaken. • The COG board or council is almost always comprised of elected officials. Other ACT 180 programs may be overseen by either elected or appointed officials.

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Bridgeville Borough is part of the Char-West COG, which was established in 1981 and is comprised of the following 21 communities:

• Bridgeville Borough • Carnegie Borough • Collier Township • Coraopolis Borough • Crafton Borough • Crescent Township • Findlay Township • Green Tree Borough • Ingram Borough • Kennedy Township • McKees Rocks Borough • Moon Township • Neville Township • North Fayette Township • Oakdale Borough • Pennsbury Village • Robinson Township • Rosslyn Farms Borough • South Fayette Township • Stowe Township • Thornburg Borough

The COG meets monthly and is comprised of two elected officials from each community’s governing body. Bridgeville is a charter member of the COG, and is actively involved in the activities.

The COG provides various services to its members. The services include joint purchasing agreements (everything from police cars to road salt), training opportunities for municipal officials and community development grants (park improvements in Bridgeville were funded through this grant program). The COG is currently working on a police mutual-aid agreement which would potentially link Bridgeville to the other police departments within the COG to provide additional assistance for emergencies requiring regional response.

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B. Analysis of Existing Conditions

The abundance of quality community facilities and services within Bridgeville has been identified as an asset to the community throughout the planning process. In the public survey distributed to all borough residents during the planning process, community services ranked in the middle of choices for what residents liked best about their community.

Municipal Government

As stated on page one, Bridgeville currently operates under a Borough Council governmental system. While no major concerns to this form of government have been mentioned during the planning process, some residents felt that the Borough may want to investigate the benefits of adopting a home rule charter. Home rule means “shifting of responsibility for local government from the State Legislature to the local community...a borough choosing home rule can tailor its governmental organization and powers to suit its special needs,” (Home Rule in Pennsylvania, 2003). By becoming a Home Rule municipality, Bridgeville would be granted any function “not denied by the Constitution of Pennsylvania, the Home Rule Charter, or by the General Assembly at any time.” In short, the basic authority to act in municipal affairs is transferred from state law, as set forth by the General Assembly, to a local charter, adopted and amended by the voters.

The Home Rule Charter and Optional Plans Law (referred to as the Home Rule Law), which was adopted on April 13, 1972, established the procedure for adoption of the Home Rule Charter. The first step is for the voters of a local jurisdiction to elect a government study commission, charged with studying the existing form of government, exploring alternatives and deciding whether or not to recommend change. If the commission decides to recommend home rule, it drafts a charter that is presented to the voters for their decision. Adoption of a home rule charter comes only with the approval of a majority in a voting referendum,” (Home Rule in Pennsylvania, 2003).

According to the Home Rule Law, the question of having a government study commission on the ballot may be initiated one of two ways:

1. An ordinance of the municipal governing body, or 2. A petition of the registered voters of the municipality

It is recommended that Bridgeville begin discussions at their municipal meetings to determine the level of interest of both the residents and borough officials in implementing a home rule charter. If sufficient backing is found (either by the residents or by borough officials), then the next step would be for the government study commission to be placed on the ballot at the following election.

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Public Works

In the public survey that was distributed to all borough residents, better maintenance of existing roads ranked second (out of six choices) in terms of the most important transportation issue is facing the borough. A complete listing of the survey results can be found in Appendix C v. The borough does have a road maintenance plan in place. It is recommended that this plan be reviewed and updated, if necessary, to ensure that the borough roads are receiving the highest maintenance possible.

Through interviews with the Public Works Department, several issues were mentioned. The first was the need for a wood chipper and the second was park vandalism at both Chartiers and McLaughlin Run Parks.

It is recommended that the borough investigate the cost of purchasing a wood chipper as well as the possibility of sharing the cost and use with surrounding municipalities. The borough could then sell the wood that is chipped. Currently wood from downed trees, etc. is burned, which is not the preferred method of disposal.

The parks are closed in the winter months, which aids in preventing vandalism. It is recommended, however, that members of the police department periodically patrol the parks in order to reduce the occurrence of vandalism. Informative signs should be placed at park entrances and within indicating police presence.

Code Enforcement / Zoning / Building Inspection

According to the public survey results, property maintenance ranked sixth out of 11 choices on what borough officials should focus their efforts. The survey results also showed that 33.6% of respondents would support ordinances that enforce stricter property maintenance codes. The borough should investigate the possibility of hiring or contracting a person to perform the code enforcement duties due to the fact that the borough manager does not have enough time to address these issues. Various options are available to municipalities for providing code enforcement. Bridgeville could seek assistance through the Char West COG or partner with surrounding communities to provide a regional code enforcement officer.

Currently, a third party firm provides building inspections for the borough. Through interviews with the building inspector assigned to the borough, there are no problems regarding current building inspections or fees.

The third-party firm currently providing building inspection duties to the borough is licensed to provide building inspections under the Uniform Construction Code (UCC). Due to issues with the provision of building inspection services, the borough will need to make a decision regarding enforcement of the UCC and whether they will continue with the current firm or choose another option. The UCC is discussed further in Chapter Ten of this plan.

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Throughout the planning process, the zoning code was mentioned as a hindrance to promoting mixed use development in the commercially zoned districts of the borough. It is recommended that the borough hire a professional to update the current zoning ordinance to promote more flexible zoning especially in the commercially zoned districts.

Police

In May of 2002 Bridgeville Borough Council initiated a study of the Borough’s Police Department. Pennsylvania’s Department of Community and Economic Development Governor’s Center for Local Government Services (GCLGS) oversaw the study, which was conducted by Harry J. Fruecht, Chief of Police / Director of Public Safety for Peter’s Township, Washington County under the GCLGS Police Management Peer-to-Peer program.

The study overall was very positive regarding the Bridgeville Police Department. The recommendations that were made are listed below:

• Additional staffing to handle traffic enforcement—A part-time officer dedicated to traffic enforcement was hired to address this issue—The chief would like to make this position full-time • Revise the Daily Activity Report (report for all calls for service) to collect additional shift information and begin to destroy records in accordance with the Records Retention Act • File medical records separately from the personnel files, and implement an employee recognition program • Edit Section 4.8 Background Information of the Civil Service rules and regulations to reflect requirements under the Municipal Police Officer’s Education and Training Commission (MPOETC) • Edit Section 5.2 Appointment to require that the employee to be reinstated comply with all of the update requirements of ACT 120 (i.e. individual must update CPR and first aid certifications and complete update training on the Crimes Code and Vehicle Code) prior to enforcing the law • Change Section 5.3 Appointment of Chief of Police to reflect the language in the Borough Code as it relates to the non-competitive process of selecting a police chief • Develop a field training program and manual, and train an officer to manage that program • Draft new job descriptions and provide to the borough solicitor for legal opinion • Establish a Departmental Directive System • Review and update manual on an annual basis • Bridgeville Borough Police Department should become a member of the IACP Model Policy Program to assist in developing a manual. Consider purchasing all existing policies to assist in drafting a current manual • Provide each employee a copy of their job description and Mission Statement to sign, and place a copy in the employee’s personnel file • Institute an in-service training program to familiarize all employees with the content of the new manual

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• The revised manual should contain at a minimum, the material listed below

• Mission Statement • Table of Contents • Chain of Command • Job Descriptions • Rules of Conduct • Uniform and Appearance • Use of Deadly and Non-Deadly Force • Use of Firearms / Firearms Proficiency/Security • Use of Issued Weapons and Devices (batons, shotguns, etc.) • Search and Seizure • Domestic Violence • Ethnic Violence • Outside Employment • Infectious Disease (rabies, hepatitis, aids, etc.) • Arrest Procedures • Emergency Operation of Police Vehicles • Vehicular Pursuit • Vehicle Inventory and Searches • Citizen Complaints against Officers

• Develop a replacement program for all police equipment including portable radios, lightbars, etc. to assist the Chief of Police with planning and incorporating costs into the borough budget • Carry the equipment listed in the Management Review of the Bridgeville Borough Police Department in the trunk of each police vehicle. • Discuss with the EMS provider the level of medical equipment needed in the police vehicles • Borough should take a proactive approach to intergovernmental cooperative efforts to pursue alternate methods of providing police services with neighboring communities to assist with the fiscal strain of providing basic municipal services

Public input from the community survey distributed to Bridgeville residents during the planning process, results from the public meeting as well as interviews with public officials revealed that there is support for sharing police services with neighboring communities. This also reinforces the recommendation that was mentioned in the study of the borough police department regarding the borough pursuing intergovernmental cooperative efforts in providing police services.

While the day-to-day supervision of the police department in Bridgeville falls under the mayor’s duties, the borough council is also involved because they are the governing body in charge making decisions for all borough departments. It would be advantageous for Bridgeville Borough Council to appoint one member to work with the mayor and the department on specific issues pertaining to police service provision. This would help reduce confusion and redundancy in communications between borough council and the police

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department.

Typically police costs are among the largest municipal expenses (Bridgeville’s police department accounted for 36% of the borough’s total budget in 2003). This could mean larger savings are available in sharing police services with neighbors compared to other municipal services.

Borough officials should explore options for cooperating with their neighbors in order to continue to provide quality service as well as sharing costs.

There are two major approaches to regionalizing police forces, a joint police force and contract police services.

A joint police force serves two or more municipalities and is under the joint control and direction of the participating municipalities. Usually there is a joint police commission that oversees the department; the chief of police would report to this commission. Because this can often become an emotional issue, it is essential that officials be sensitive to the needs of the people concerned when exploring joint police services. Discussions should be open to the public in order to receive input from police officers and residents. The benefits to providing joint police services are as follows (DCED, 1997):

• Effective use of police personnel • Full-time coverage for all municipalities involved • Continuity of coverage • Scheduling flexibility • Patrol backup • Career opportunities for the officers • Specialization • Reduced liability • Eliminate redundancy • Improve equipment • Area wide investigations

Contract police services are provided to adjacent municipalities, but the “home” municipality controls the department and appoints the police chief. The main benefit to contract police services is that it can be established somewhat easier than a joint police department. The main disadvantage is that control remains with the providing municipality and this can cause conflict with the communities purchasing the services (DCED, 1997).

Fire

The fire department has a quality facility that allows the fire department to provide excellent service as well as offers a community amenity in the Chartiers Room. As with the police services, results from public input during the planning process supported sharing fire services with neighboring communities as well. Results from the public survey distributed to all borough residents revealed that 44.5% of the respondents would support partnering

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with neighboring communities for fire service. The options below are available for municipalities who may want to work together in the provision of fire service.

• A merger involves the combining of two or more companies with one retaining its original name. • Consolidation happens when one or more companies join together to form a new company with a new name. • Regionalization occurs when one or more companies combine specific resources to share services/costs while retaining their own identities.

Sewer

Bridgeville Borough signed the EPA consent decree in December of 2003 that mandates the borough address issues with broken sewer lines, inflow reduction and infiltration, combined sewer overflow frequency reduction and the elimination of sanitary sewer overflows. This program will last through 2010.

The borough should continue efforts to comply with the EPA consent decree as well as continue to educate its residents regarding storm water runoff, which can contribute to sewer overflow problems.

Library

The Bridgeville Public Library is considering another expansion to increase its services as well as provide needed meeting space for its board as well as others. The Community Imaging Exercise (CIE), which was administered at a public meeting during the planning process, revealed that the public strongly agreed with the statement that the library needs to be improved. The expansion of the library will serve to enhance an already strong community asset. The loss of parking spaces and the need for additional spaces to serve the expanded library will need to be addressed by the borough and is discussed further in Chapter Five—Transportation of this plan.

Public Schools

The Chartiers Valley School District is in the process of significant renovations to all its school facilities in order to address projected increases in enrollment over the next several years.

Throughout the public participation process, residents of Bridgeville Borough repeatedly identified the school district as a strength in the community. In the Community Imaging Exercise (CIE) that was conducted at the December 2003 public meeting, a photograph of the high school ranked first in terms of positive images, which were taken in and around the community, see Appendix C ii for results from the CIE. Residents expressed the need to build upon the quality education that its students receive and capitalize on the availability of skilled workers as well as attract new homeowners to the area.

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In the 2000-2001 school year, over 92% of Chartiers Valley High School students were postsecondary bound to a degree granting institution. When compared to the surrounding high schools, these figures were more than 11% higher than two of the neighboring high schools in the region, but were also slightly lower than the other two high schools in the comparison. When compared to Pennsylvania public schools, Chartiers Valley High School was much higher with 15% more students attending a post secondary institution. The borough needs to focus on retaining their high school graduates and providing quality jobs that will entice them to return to the area upon graduation from post secondary institutions.

According to interviews with the high school representatives, the high school is currently beginning a 29.5 million dollar building project to handle the projected increase in student population. All three buildings will be expanded within the next three years. The top three issues facing the school district over the next five years were listed as:

1. Planning for increased enrollment 2. Continuing to be diligent in improving student achievement 3. Continuing to establish community partnerships

Programs offered to community residents include athletic camps, swim programs, concerts, showcase, athletic events and plays. In addition, the track, swimming pool and classrooms are open to the public. The school has stated that they are open to the possibility of identifying areas to work cooperatively with Bridgeville regarding the sharing of facilities and operating joint programs.

Councils of Governments (COG)

Bridgeville is a charter member of the Char-West COG and participates in activities provided by the COG. It is recommended that the borough to continue to remain active in the COG as well as investigate other Act 180 agreements that could be accomplished. The Intergovernmental Cooperation Law, Act 180 of 1972, is the legislation that permits municipal governments to jointly cooperate with other municipalities in the exercise of their governmental “functions, powers, or responsibilities”. This act has produced hundreds of cooperative activities among municipalities including municipal leagues, regional police departments, joint purchasing agreements, and many others.

Community Center

The need for a community center was consistently mentioned throughout the planning process. In the past, this project was considered by the borough and partially implemented at the John Wight School. At the time, community interest was minimal. However, as the need for a community center was also ranked as a high priority goal by the public, see Appendix C iii, Bridgeville Borough Council should look into this matter further. It is recommended that the Council appoint an advisory committee comprised of municipal officials, recreation organization leaders, Bridgeville residents and Bridgeville youth to guide the process and complete a feasibility study to determine the cost, appropriate location, etc. for the community center.

4-17 Bridgeville Borough Comprehensive Plan Section 5: Transportation

A comprehensive transportation system includes a road network capable of handling various vehicular traffic loads, public transportation that meets resident demand and provides alternative transportation methods to the community, and a method to move pedestrians or non-motorized vehicles through the community. In addition, aviation services, water transport and rail travel contribute to transportation system planning, each with its own constraints and benefits.

Since 1990, the United States Congress has enacted two pieces of legislation which dramatically affects the way long-range transportation planning is done: the Clean Air Act Amendments (CAAA) of 1990 and the Intermodal Surface Transportation Efficiency (ISTEA) now the Transportation Enhancement Act (TEA 21). The CAAA requires planners to explore modes of travel other than personal vehicles to improve air quality and meet the population’s transportation demands. ISTEA and TEA 21 require an emphasis on improving mobility and increasing the number of options available for moving people and goods. Transportation planning has to be multimodal and intermodal, in addition, transportation plans and programs must conform to fiscal and air quality requirements, and incorporate a proactive public participation process.

A. Existing Conditions

Road Classification

The capacity of a road network to safely and efficiently move people or goods to a desired destination has long ranging implications and is an important factor when making land use decisions. Accessibility to employment centers and shopping areas are among the concerns of potential businesses and residents who are looking to relocate. In addition, the ability of local officials to provide services to residents is largely dependent upon, and influenced by, the road network in place. See Figure 5-1 for the regional transportation network

According to the municipal engineer, Bridgeville Borough has approximately 43 miles of federal, state, county and borough roads in place. Interstate 79 is the only federally owned roadway in the borough and it is maintained by PennDOT. The roadways that are owned and maintained by PennDOT within Bridgeville include PA Route 50 (Washington Avenue), SR 3004 (McLaughlin Run Road), SR 3005 (Station Street / Bank Street / Dewey Avenue), SR 3031 (Prestley Road), and SR 3034 (Chartiers Street / Lesnett Road). Allegheny County owns and maintains Bower Hill Road.

The remaining roads are owned and maintained by Bridgeville Borough. According to the 1997 PennDOT Municipal Road Data Processing Report for Bridgeville, the borough owns 15.41 total miles of roads, including alleyways. There are no unimproved roadways within the borough.

Figure 5-2 shows the local transportation network for Bridgeville.

5-1 Bridgeville Borough Comprehensive Plan Section 5: Transportation

For the purposes of the Comprehensive Plan, the road network has been classified into the following categories (Penn DOT, 2004). Table 5.1 lists the roadways in Bridgeville along with their PennDOT classification.

Table 5.1: PennDOT ROAD CLASSIFICATIONS

PennDOT Classifications Bridgeville Roads Interstate Highways, Other Freeways & Expressways Interstate 79

Principal Arterial PA Route 50 (Washington Avenue)

Minor Arterial SR 3004 (McLaughlin Run Road)

Major Collector SR 3005 (Station / Bank Street)

Minor Collector None

Local Road All other roadways in the project area

• Interstate Highways, Other Freeways and Expressways – Major highways or streets with a multi-lane design that serve a large volume of traffic and provide limited access facilities.

There is only one roadway that fits into this category, I-79, which is located on the western boundary of the borough and is a 339 mile road that has its southern end in Charleston, WV and its northern end in Erie, PA. The Bridgeville interchange off of I-79 (Exit 55) provides a direct link for Bridgeville residents with Washington County to the south and the City of Pittsburgh to the north. The interchange also provides an opportunity for many South Hills residents to use Bridgeville as a through-way I-79 Interchange, Mackin 2003 from I-79 to Upper St. Clair, and other southern Pittsburgh suburbs.

• Principal Arterial – Serves statewide or interstate level and all urbanized areas. Provides integrated movements without stub connections. Design of the roadway usually consists of two 12-foot lanes with 8 – 10 foot shoulders and speeds on arterials range from 40- 65 mph.

Within the project area, PA Route 50 is classified as a principal arterial. PA Route 50, which is also known as Washington PA Route 50 / Washington Pike, Mackin 2004

5-2 Bridgeville Borough Comprehensive Plan Section 5: Transportation

Avenue, provides access from Bridgeville north through Carnegie where it connects with PA Route 60 near Pittsburgh, PA. PA Route 50 / Washington Avenue is also the main corridor through Bridgeville and is where most of Bridgeville’s business district is located.

• Minor Arterials – Links cities, larger towns and other traffic generators to provide integrated interstate and inter-county service. Minor arterials are spaced at proper intervals consistent with population density. Design of the roadway usually consists of two 12-foot lanes with 8 – 10 foot shoulders and speeds on arterials range from 40- 45 mph.

Within the project area, SR 3004 (McLaughlin Run Road) is classified as a minor arterial roadway. This roadway connects Bridgeville with the neighboring community of Upper St. Clair and PA Route 88 in Bethel Park.

• Major Collectors – Highways or streets that link towns by distributing trips to small areas or neighborhoods. They provide for a greater amount of mobility than land access and are intended to convey traffic from medium travel distances (generally greater than one mile) and serve motorists between local streets and arterial roads. The design of Major Collectors usually consists of two 12-foot lanes with 8 – 10 foot shoulders and designs speeds of 35 miles per hour or greater.

Within the project area, SR 3005 (Station / Bank Street) is classified as a major collector. The Station Street corridor also contains one of Bridgeville’s business districts and provides direct access to PA Route 50 / Washington Avenue.

• Minor Collectors – Roads that enable moderate quantities of traffic to move between arterial and local roads. These roadways provide for an equal amount of mobility and land access, providing access to adjacent properties. Minor collector roads are usually designed with two 12-foot lanes and 4 – 10 foot shoulders and design speeds of 30 mph.

There are no roads in the project area that fall into this category.

• Local Roads – Roads with a principal function of providing direct access to adjacent properties. Local roads are intended to provide mobility within a particular neighborhood, or to one of the other road types. Local roads are usually designed to be 20 – 22 feet wide (one lane in each direction) with 2 – 8 foot shoulders and design speeds of 25 mph.

All other roadways within the project area are classified as local roads.

Bower Hill Road, which is a major thoroughfare through Bridgeville is not listed in the above classifications as it is a county road. Bower Hill Road connects with Washington Avenue at the end of Bridgeville’s business district and continues through the borough into the neighboring community of Upper St. Clair. Bridgeville’s municipal building is also located on Bower Hill Road.

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According to traffic data released in 2001 by the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (Penn DOT), the Annual Average Daily Traffic (AADT) numbers for roadways located within the project area are displayed in Table 5.2. The AADT numbers are typical daily traffic volumes on a road segment for all the days in a week, over a one year period. The volume represents total traffic in both directions.

Table 5.2 ANNUAL AVERAGE DAILY TRAFFIC (AADT), 2001*

Route Name AADT I-79 60,000 PA Route 50 (Washington Ave.) 14,000 - 27,000

SR 3004 (McLaughlin Run Rd.) 4,800

SR 3005 (Station St. / Bank St.) 6,200 SR 3031 (Prestley Rd.) 2,200 SR 3034 (Chartiers St.) 8,400

Source: Pennsylvania Department of Transportation, 2001 *Traffic counts were actually taken in 1999 and 2000 and a growth factor was added by Penn DOT to create the 2001 traffic count numbers

AADT numbers show that an average of 60,000 vehicles per day travel the stretch of I-79 that passes through the outer edge of Bridgeville. AADT numbers show that PA Route 50 ranges from 14,000 to 16,000 vehicles daily, while Chartiers Street experiences a high volume of traffic (8,400 vehicles per day) for a local road. The portion of Washington Avenue that is located on the outskirts of the borough right before you cross the bridge before Chartiers Street has an AADT number of 27,000. This number is not in the table as it is not within the borough boundaries, but it does affect traffic flow on Washington Avenue and Chartiers Street. The other main streets within Bridgeville (McLaughlin Run Road and Station Street/ Bank Street) range from 4,800 to 6,200 vehicles per day according to the AADT numbers.

PennDOT and the Southwestern Pennsylvania Commission (SPC) Road Projects

The regional planning agency, SPC, has been designated as the agency that determines how federal transportation funds are spent in southwestern Pennsylvania. SPC’s membership includes at least two members from each county’s Board of Commissioners. SPC works with PennDOT to produce a Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) every four years. While there are no projects in Bridgeville listed on the 2003-2006 TIP, the Route 50 Area Corridor Commission met in December of 2003 and discussed the following three recommended transportation improvement projects with Penn DOT:

1. Widening Route 50 between Vanadium Road and Kirwan Heights 2. Turn lanes and widening Route 50 between the Greater Bridgeville Chamber of Commerce Building and Vanadium Road 3. Widening Route 50 in Bridgeville from Bower Hill Road to the Greater Bridgeville Chamber of Commerce Building

5-4 Bridgeville Borough Comprehensive Plan Section 5: Transportation

At this meeting, the Commission discussed possible strategies to place these supported projects on the TIP and their preliminary decision was to pursue the first project. Although the project is outside of Bridgeville, it’s related impact on the borough will be significant and should be supported by Borough Council. In March of 2004, Bridgeville Borough Council endorsed the third project to be scheduled on the TIP as well.

In addition to the TIP, SPC produces a Long-Range Plan that is a 25-year plan. The most recent being the 2030 Long-Range Plan, which addresses three major components:

• Quality of Life and Community Development • Economic Development • Transportation

The Long –Range Plan is a fluid document, which changes as needed and lists the TIP projects as well as longer-term projects. More information on SPC and its programs can be found on their web site at www.spcregion.org.

There are no major road improvement projects currently underway within the borough of Bridgeville. According to the Penn DOT listing of future projects, there will be two projects involving I-79 in the near future. The first is scheduled to begin in late 2004, and is a reconstruction of I-79 between the Bridgeville Interchange and the I-279 Parkway West Interchange. The estimated cost for this project is $89,100,000 and is scheduled to be completed in the fall of 2006. The second project is set to begin in the spring of 2006 and involves the relocation of the ramp in South Fayette Township from PA Route 50 to I-79 north bound. The project includes relocating the ramp onto a new bridge and constructing acceleration lanes. The estimated cost of this project is $5,100,100 and is scheduled to be completed in the fall of 2006 (www.dot.state.pa.us).

Public Transportation

Bridgeville is served by the Port Authority of Allegheny County public transportation. The Port Authority currently has five bus routes that go into Bridgeville as well as two express bus routes. The Port Authority provides public transportation to the municipalities in Allegheny County using buses, the “T”, which is part light rail and part subway (through Downtown Pittsburgh) and the two inclines (the Monongahela and the Duquesne), which run from Station Square to Mount Washington’s Grandview Avenue.

The seven bus routes that travel through Bridgeville are the 31D, 31E, 33D, 33E, 41B, 41C and the 44U. Figure 5-2 illustrates the bus lines through Bridgeville. Schedules for these bus lines can be viewed at www. portauthority.com or by calling 412-442-2000. While all the routes travel between Bridgeville and Downtown Pittsburgh, the 41C connects with the “T” system at South Port Authority Bus, Mackin 2004

5-5 Bridgeville Borough Comprehensive Plan Section 5: Transportation

Hills Village Mall, and the 44U travels through Downtown Pittsburgh into the Pittsburgh neighborhood of Oakland which houses major hospital and university institutions.

Table 5.3 lists the percentage of the Table 5.3: POPULATION UTILIZING PUBLIC workers (16 years and over) that use TRANSPORTATION public transportation based on travel Travel Time Percentage of Workers (16 years and over) times. Overall not many residents utilize public transportation. The Less than 30 minutes 0.4 highest percentage is workers 30 to 44 minutes 0.8 traveling 45 to 59 minutes (1.9 45 to 59 minutes 1.9 percent). This probably is attributable 60 or more minutes 1.5 to Bridgeville residents working in the City of Pittsburgh. Source: US Census Bureau, 2000 Census

While there were no immediate problems or concerns regarding public transportation mentioned during the planning process, due to the fact that the Port Authority is experiencing budget shortfalls in its fiscal year 2005 (which runs from July 1, 2004 to June 30, 2005), there may be cutbacks in service.

Railroad

The rail-freight system in Pennsylvania is well developed and there are presently over 5,000 miles of active rail lines in the Commonwealth. Located within the project area are the Wheeling and Lake Erie (W&LE) and the Pittsburgh and Ohio Central Railroad Lines. Figure 5-2 displays the rail lines within Bridgeville Borough.

Both Railroads were contacted and information from those interviews is included below. Pittsburgh & Ohio Central Railroad, Mackin 2004

The Pittsburgh and Ohio Central Railroad line runs parallel with I-79. This railroad runs an average of two trains a day, six days a week through the borough carrying mixed freight. The railroad is currently exploring an expansion to increase their customer base. There were no problems mentioned in terms of railroad operation through the borough.

The Wheeling and Lake Erie Railroad line runs through the southern portion of the borough and crosses under I-79. The railroad runs approximately one to two trains per day through the borough carrying mixed freight. Currently there are no plans for expansion and no concerns were mentioned regarding the operation of the railroad through the project area.

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Parking

Bridgeville Borough maintains a Parking Authority, which is comprised of a five-member board, who are appointed by borough council. The Authority was originally created to develop parking in the downtown business area. Staff consists of one full-time and four part-time employees and their responsibilities include the oversight of parking issues such as collection, leasing and enforcement. The authority meets the third Monday of every month and has an office at 242 Station Street.

A number of public parking facilities are present in the downtown area of the borough. The borough maintains public metered parking lots as well as leased parking. The meters in Bridgeville are $0.25 per hour and are enforced from 9 AM to 9 PM. Table 5.4 lists the parking authority lots, the number of spaces in each lot and the location of the lot (Figure 5-2 graphically displays the location of the parking lots).

Table 5.4: BRIDGEVILLE PUBLIC PARKING LOTS Lot # Location Available Spaces Handicapped Spaces 1 Washington Ave. 37 2 2 Washington Ave. 112 6 3 Baldwin St. (permit only) 17 1 4 Railroad Ave. 35 1 5 Station St. 61 3 7 In between Moore St. and Taylor Way 11 None

Pedestrian Circulation

Bridgeville Borough contains a vast network of sidewalks that serve as pedestrian connections within the community. Most are in good condition and have curb cuts that meet the standards as specified by the Americans with Disabilities Act.

There are currently no walking or biking trails through the borough. The Montour Run Trail Council has its headquarters in Bridgeville on Hickman Street. Crosswalk at Washington Avenue and Station Street, Mackin 2004 Air Transportation

There are no private or public air transportation facilities located within the project area. The Pittsburgh International Airport (PIT) located about 30 minutes from Bridgeville provides regional, national and international air transport for Bridgeville’s residents. Opened in October of 1992 at a cost of $1 billion, PIT accommodates nearly 20 million travelers and nearly 450,000 aircraft operations per year. With more than 600 non-stop flights per day to 118 destinations, PIT is served by more than 20 air carriers and is US Airways largest hub (www.pitairport.com).

5-7 Bridgeville Borough Comprehensive Plan Section 5: Transportation

B. Analysis

The transportation network within Bridgeville Borough provides adequate movement of people, goods and services. For the most part, the road network is in good condition and provides access to all areas within the project area. Public transportation is furnished by the Port Authority of Allegheny County and compliments the roadway network by providing service for the residents of the borough. According to the public survey results, over 70 percent of recipients agreed or somewhat agreed with the statement that “the road network is in good condition.” However, the same survey results revealed that the road network ranked second in terms of the things that people like least about Bridgeville (the full survey can be found in Appendix C.v). This contradiction could be attributed to the fact that people feel the actual roads are in good physical condition, but the network of roads needs to be improved.

Road Network

Interstate 79 is a major transportation corridor that provides direct access to Pittsburgh, Washington County and West Virginia. Access to Interstate 79 is provided by PA Route 50, which travels directly through the central business district of Bridgeville Borough as Washington Avenue.

Several issues should be addressed regarding the road network within Bridgeville Borough. Concerns such as traffic congestion, pedestrian and vehicular safety, traffic signal operations, and intersection geometry were among the top concerns of the Borough as identified throughout the planning processes (i.e. the public survey as well as public meetings and interviews) . PA Route 50 / Washington Avenue has been identified as an area of concern for borough officials, residents and business owners. The congestion experienced on PA Route 50 / Washington Avenue at the northern and southern ends of the borough is quite heavy at times. This congestion probably contributed to the road network ranking second in terms of the things people liked least about Bridgeville in the public survey that was given as part of the planning process.

A traffic study completed by Classic Development Consultants for the borough in August of 1988 analyzed the traffic flow along Washington Avenue corridor from the PA Rt. 50 intersection to Prestley Road and the Bower Hill Road corridor from McLaughlin Road to Washington Avenue. The full study is available at the Municipal Building for review.

The study identified the following as recommended improvements for the Washington Avenue corridor. Projects that have been completed are marked as such. They are listed in order of priority.

• Pavement marking plan along corridor and at all study intersections. Adjust traffic signal timing in accordance with analysis (completed) • Resignalization of Bower Hill Road / Washington Avenue intersection to include Murray Avenue utilizing controller capable of interconnection and various timing schemes. Minor geometric improvements to turning radii on Bower Hill Road (completed)

5-8 Bridgeville Borough Comprehensive Plan Section 5: Transportation

• Interconnect traffic signals from Prestley Road, to Station Street and resignalizing in accordance with MUTCD Standards (completed) • Widen Washington Avenue to four lanes from Chartiers / Church to Hickman Street (completed) • Install traffic signal at Hickman / Washington intersection. Interconnect with system. • Reconstruct Washington Avenue from Hickman to Station. • Realign Bower Hill Road and Murray Avenue (completed). • Reconstruct Washington Avenue from Station Street to Bower Hill Road. • Construct connection from Bank Street to Station Street. • Construct Washington Avenue / Shady Avenue one-way couple. • Construct connection from James Street to McMillen Street. • Realign James Street with Hickman Street

The following are improvements recommended by the 1988 Traffic Study for the Bower Hill Road corridor (in order of priority).

• Signing and Pavement Marking at Railroad Street / Bower Hill Road intersection and to include Union Street intersection. • Install traffic signal system at Railroad / Bower Hill / Union intersections. This will keep Bower Hill traffic flowing. • Install traffic signal system at Bower Hill Road / McLaughlin intersection. • Reconstruct Bower Hill Road to four lanes from Washington Avenue to Union Street.

The Route 50 Area Roadway Commission was formed in 1988 to address issues regarding traffic problems on and leading into the PA Route 50 corridor. The commission is part of the Greater Bridgeville Chamber of Commerce and is comprised of representatives from Bridgeville Borough, Collier Township, Mt. Lebanon, Scott Township, South Fayette Township and Upper St. Clair.

Traffic counts included in the 1988 Traffic Study show that Washington Avenue at Station Street was experiencing 15,840 vehicles per day and Washington Avenue at Chartiers Street was experiencing a volume of 25,140 vehicles per day. According to the Penn DOT traffic counts in 2000, Washington Avenue between Chartiers Street and Station Street was experiencing 16,181 vehicles per day, which is a 2% increase from 1988. Washington Avenue between Chartiers Street and the borough boundary saw approximately 26,440 vehicles per day according to 1999 traffic counts, which is a 5% growth from 1988. Although the percentage of traffic has not increased significantly between 1988 and 2000, there are problems with traffic congestion at various points throughout the borough and a bottleneck effect occurs upon entering Bridgeville. It is recommended that the borough complete an updated traffic study to ensure that the traffic counts are as accurate and up-to- date as possible and steps be taken to remedy this problem.

A traffic study for the Route 50 corridor was commissioned by the organization and completed by Trans Associates in 1990. A copy of the full report can be obtained from the Route 50 Corridor Commission or from Bridgeville Borough. The study examined existing traffic conditions and the following recommendations were made for the portion of the

5-9 Bridgeville Borough Comprehensive Plan Section 5: Transportation

Route 50 Corridor that is in or adjacent to Bridgeville:

• Upgrade traffic signals and intersections and install interconnect system on Route 50 between Bridgeville Interchange and Chartiers Creek (north end) Bridge (completed) including realignment of Murray/Bower Hill, widening in the vicinity of Chartiers Street (from Hickman to Chartiers) improved access to Industrial Park (intersection of Railroad Street and Bower Hill) and potential widening north of Bower Hill Road • Install traffic signal and widen for turning lanes at intersection of McLaughlin Run Road and Bower Hill Road • Construct Lesnett Road Connector from Bridgeville Interchange to Mayview Road with potential connectors to Lesnett Road and Morrow Road and realign and install traffic signal at Chartiers Street/Lesnett Road/Bank Street/Mayview Road intersection • Widen Route 50 to 5 lanes between Kirwan Heights Interchange and Chartiers Creek Bridge with intersection improvements: ° Between Kirwan Heights Interchange and Vanadium Road ° Between Chartiers Creek and Vanadium Road • Construct parallel Route 50 Shady Avenue Access Road in Bridgeville

Figure 5-3 shows the recommendations on a map from the Route 50 Corridor Commission Study that are within the borough boundaries.

The Route 50 / Washington Avenue and Shady Avenue one-way couple through Bridgeville’s business district was mentioned in both of the aforementioned studies as well as throughout the planning process as a viable option to decreasing traffic congestion through Bridgeville. One–way couples have positives and negative aspects associated with them. While they can relieve congestion, traffic is also re-routed off of the main street. This would affect Washington Avenue in that half of the traffic will now be by-passing the businesses. Also in Bridgeville’s case, Shady Avenue does not currently extend the length of Washington Avenue, property would need to be acquired to extend this road through the borough to make it a viable option. Significant upgrades to the current condition of Shady Avenue would need to be made as well to handle the increased traffic.

Several other options were mentioned during the process to alleviate the traffic on Washington Avenue through the central business district. These included constructing a connecting ramp between the I-79 Bridgeville interchange to Chartiers Street and constructing a new exit on I-79 between the existing Bridgeville and Kirwan Heights exits, which would route traffic to the rear of the Chartiers Valley Shopping Center and the Great Southern Shopping Center. These would be very costly, anywhere from $20 to $40 million dollars, and may have additional constraints such as environmental issues.

Neither a traffic study nor traffic counts were included as part of the scope of work for this project and therefore definitive recommendations in terms of specific projects have not been identified. Due to this fact and that the aforementioned studies are now outdated, the borough should complete an updated traffic study that would include accurate traffic counts, regional transportation projects as well as road conditions. Before this option is acted upon, borough officials should thoroughly examine the two traffic studies that have been

5-10 Bridgeville Borough Comprehensive Plan Section 5: Transportation

completed to determine which projects are feasible and move forward with improvements that have not been completed at this point. The borough should also examine the reasons why certain projects, that have been recommended in various traffic as well as comprehensive studies over the past 40 years, have not been implemented. The borough should take a proactive approach in terms of deciding which projects should be pursued by engaging in discussions with PennDOT as well as borough engineers. The Route 50 Area Corridor Commission would also be an excellent partner in this endeavor due to the fact that they have been studying the traffic situation in the area for many years.

During field views of the project study area, it was noted that there are extensive vehicular queues occurring at some of the signalized intersections. The most significant vehicular backup seemed to occur along Chartiers Street (S.R. 3034), during the A.M. peak hour, with its intersection with Washington Avenue (PA Route 50). Traffic signal modifications could help to alleviate problems such as this throughout the Borough. Modifications could include re-timing of the signals, alterations to the phasing or minor geometric changes.

It was also noted that throughout the Borough many of the existing pedestrian crosswalk markings were almost completely worn off of the roadways. Crosswalks not only assist pedestrians by alerting them to the best place to cross a road but when properly maintained, they alert drivers as to where to expect the possibility of pedestrians. Proper maintenance and upkeep of crosswalks and other pavement markings are the duty of the local government in which they are located.

The minimum safe stopping sight distance is defined as the minimum distance required by a driver traveling at a given speed to stop the vehicle after an object on the roadway becomes visible to the driver. Some unsignalized intersections throughout the study area were observed to have inadequate sight distance. Some of the intersections noted to have sight distance problems are as follows:

• Washington Avenue (PA Route 50) and Hickman Street • Bower Hill Road and McLaughlin Run Road (S.R. 3004) • Bower Hill Road and Railroad Street

To help minimize vehicular crashes, intersections within the study area with inadequate sight distance should be identified and mitigation measures, such as clearing vegetation or converting to one-way streets, should be taken to obtain minimum stopping sight distances.

Public Transportation

During the planning process, locating a park and ride facility on Baldwin Street was mentioned as an opportunity to provide area residents and commuters the option of parking in Bridgeville and taking a Port Authority of Allegheny County bus into Pittsburgh or to surrounding areas. The park and ride could serve to decrease the amount of traffic through Bridgeville during peak hours if more commuters would use the public transportation system rather than driving their own car. The Baldwin Street location would be a good site due to the fact that it is located in a floodplain and a parking lot would provide an appropriate use of land within the McLaughlin Run floodplain.

5-11 Bridgeville Borough Comprehensive Plan Section 5: Transportation

Currently the nearest park and rides are located at Carnegie and Woodville. In order to determine the viability of a park and ride in Bridgeville the borough should contact the Port Authority of Allegheny County to determine the interest in, and the feasibility of, providing this service. Questions such as cost, ridership, and location of current bus routes would need to be answered before such a project could be undertaken. Also negotiations would need to take place between the current property owners and the developer in order to acquire the necessary properties for the park and ride.

Parking

Another issue that surfaced frequently throughout the planning process was the parking situation in the borough. Accessible and ample parking is very important to a successful business district. Within the Borough of Bridgeville, there are six public parking lots, one lease only lot (Lot # 3 on Baldwin Street) and metered parking along Hickman Street, Station Street, and Shady Avenue.

Residents and business owners are concerned about the lack of parking spaces in the main business district as well as the hours that the meters are enforced, which is 9 AM to 9 PM. The most important transportation issue identified in the public survey, distributed to Bridgeville residents during the planning process, was the need for more parking, which ranked first out of a possible six choices.

Through the planning process several solutions were mentioned to reduce the parking problems. A few of these are listed below. There are also goals and action steps located in the implementation section of this plan regarding the parking situation. • Create a parking lot along the abandoned railroad corridor adjacent to Washington Avenue • Offer trolley service from satellite lots along the fringe of the borough and in neighboring communities through the main shopping districts (Washington Avenue, Station Street, and Railroad Street) • Offer lower lease rates in fringe lots to encourage business employees to park there instead of the main lot on Washington Avenue • Reduce meter hours

The Bridgeville Public Library also has plans to expand its current facility on Railroad Street. This expansion would require the Bridgeville Parking Authority to give up four parking spaces in the lot along Railroad Street. In addition to replacing these spaces, the borough should consider adding an additional five to eight spaces to accommodate the increase use of the library once the expansion is complete. Several areas have been studied to provide the land needed to accommodate the additional parking spaces. Parking along Railroad Street, Mackin 2003

5-12 Bridgeville Borough Comprehensive Plan Section 5: Transportation

Through interviews with the Parking Authority, their first choice, as well as what is most practical, is to utilize the old railroad right of way that is located off of Station Street and currently privately owned. This site could accommodate a two-level garage and would service Washington Avenue, Station Street and Railroad Street. The second choice in terms of adding more parking would be to build a second level on Lot 2 located on Washington Avenue.

Field views at various days and times of day showed that Lots 1 and 5 were underutilized. Abandoned Railroad Right of Way near Station Street,, Mackin While there is signing currently directing 2004 shoppers to these lots, more distinctive signs may make it more obvious in terms of where these alternate lots are located.

Currently, the parking authority offers lease rates of $20 / month at lots 1, 3, 5, and 7, while the lease rates are $35 / month at lots 2 and 4. A more significant rate change or a no lease policy in lots 2 and 4 would encourage employees of the Bridgeville businesses to not park in lots 2 and 4 leaving more space for shoppers.

The parking authority also offers business owners along Railroad Street the opportunity to purchase a parking spot for $35 / month. After a business purchases a space, the Parking Authority would then place a sign on the space indicating that it was only to be used by patrons of that business. No business owners have utilized this opportunity at this time. Enforcement is an issue with this program. Neither the parking authority nor the borough would be able to enforce the users of the parking space. It would be up to the individual business owner to patrol the parking space. This could be a reason why no business owners have been willing to participate in the program. A suggestion to help alleviate the problem of enforcement would be to provide a sticker (or some form of identification tag) to the business owner who would then give the identification tag to the patron to place in their car while they are parked in the space. The Parking Authority may then be able to enforce the parking space. They could ticket a vehicle if it was in the space without the identification tag.

Cooperation and open lines of communication with the parking authority is essential to provide adequate parking to borough residents, business owners and visitors. It is recommended that both the parking authority and the borough ensure that the lines of communication are open.

At this point there have been no parking studies completed for Bridgeville Borough. In order to adequately address the parking problem and implement the best solutions to the problem, a parking study should be conducted by the borough.

5-13 Bridgeville Borough Comprehensive Plan Section 6: Housing

It is important to examine the existing housing conditions within a community in order to understand the trends and identify future needs. The appeal of a community is related to the availability of attractive, affordable homes as well as the different types of housing found in its neighborhoods. Homes that are occupied and well kept lend to a residential character that is attractive to current residents and future homebuyers. This portion of the comprehensive plan analyzes the present conditions of the housing stock in the project area and compares these conditions to the surrounding municipalities, Allegheny County, and Pennsylvania.

Since most of the people in communities such as Bridgeville live in some type of housing unit, identifying the differences between who lives in these units as compared to the types of structures they live in should be distinguished. The US Census Bureau defines a household as “all of the people who occupy a housing unit as their usual place of residence” (2000). Housing units are structures intended for residential use and can include a house, apartment, townhouse, modular home, mobile home or even a single room that is maintained as separate living quarters. The analysis of the housing units / housing stock within a community provides a strong foundation for comparison because as residents may be transient and household composition may change, the housing units they occupy remain relatively permanent.

The relationship between owner and renter occupied housing and vacancy rates typically correspond with the availability of, and demand for, housing. Owner occupied homes are traditionally considered more desirable as they retain a better resale value and are typically in better physical shape than rental units. Renters are considered to be less connected to a community as they have less “at stake” than a homeowner and many communities try to limit the number of rental units. As home ownership rates fall over a period of time, officials may need to be concerned that the well being of the community may be declining.

Municipal officials should also monitor the number of occupied and vacant units within their communities. The potential for deterioration, vandalism, or arson increases as homes are left vacant. These factors also may influence the value of homes in the community and thus impacting the tax base and financial stability of the municipality.

A. Existing Conditions

The available housing stock in Bridgeville predominately includes single-family homes. With the exception of Heidelberg Borough, Bridgeville has a wider variety of housing types available to residents than the surrounding municipalities in the region. Residential areas are shown on the existing land use maps for Bridgeville, Figure 10.1.

Table 6-1: Housing Occupancy shows the total number of housing units, the percentage change in the number of housing units between 1990 and 2000, the percentage of occupied units, the percentage of vacant units, and the percentage of those vacant units that are for seasonal, recreational, or occasional use. The number of housing units in Bridgeville has grown 1.5 percent over the past decade which is higher than the county (0.5) but not the state (6.3).

Of the project area communities, Heidelberg Borough has the highest rate of vacant housing

6-1 Bridgeville Borough Comprehensive Plan Section 6: Housing

Table 6-1: Housing Occupancy Total Housing Change in housing units Occupied Vacant Seasonal Units (1990 - 2000) Units Units Use Bridgeville 2,656 1.5% 95.6% 4.4% 0.1% Boro Collier Twp 2,358 32.1% 94.3% 5.7% 0.3% Scott Twp 8,163 4.7% 96.0% 4.0% 0.2% South Fayette 4,924 30.4% 95.5% 4.5% 0.3% Twp Upper St. Clair 7,091 4.2% 98.2% 1.8% 0.3% Twp Heidelberg 606 1.0% 94.2% 5.8% 0.5% Boro Oakdale Boro 640 -3.8% 94.4% 5.6% 0.2% Allegheny 583,646 0.5% 92.0% 8.0% 0.4% County Pennsylvania 5,249,750 6.3% 91.0% 9.0% 2.8% Source: US Census Bureau, 1990 and 2000 Census

units (5.8%). Bridgeville has a vacancy rate of 4.4 percent, which is near the middle of these communities and all of them are lower when compared to the county (8.0%) and the state (9.0%).

Table 6-2 illustrates the total number of occupied units and the percentage of those units that are either owner or renter occupied. Bridgeville’s rate of owner occupied units at 64.5 percent, is lower than the rest of the study area, the county (67.0%) and the state (71.3%). Upper St. Clair Township has the highest rate of owner occupied units at 92.6 percent.

The age of the existing housing stock can provide information about many things regarding housing quality including the potential for housing growth, housing maintenance needs, and historical value. As shown in Figure 6-1: Age of Structure, Bridgeville has not seen a large increase in new housing units constructed over the past few decades, with over 80 percent of the borough’s housing stock being built before1969. The table shows that 6.1 percent of the total housing stock in Bridgeville has been built between 1990 and 2000, which is slightly higher than the county rate of 5.4 percent.

Table 6-2: Housing Tenure Total Occupied Owner Renter Housing Units Bridgeville Boro 2,539 64.5% 35.5% Collier Twp 2,224 90.6% 9.4% Scott Twp 7,835 67.1% 32.9% South Fayette Twp 4,704 77.0% 23.0% Upper St. Clair Twp 6,966 92.6% 7.4% Heidelberg Boro 571 67.6% 32.4% Oakdale Boro 604 83.8% 16.2% Allegheny County 537,150 67.0% 33.0% Pennsylvania 4,777,003 71.3% 28.7% Source: US Census Bureau, 2000 Census

6-2 Bridgeville Borough Comprehensive Plan Section 6: Housing

Collier Township is experiencing the highest amount of growth for the study area communities as 29.8 percent of the township’s housing stock has been built since 1990.

Figure 6-1: Age of Structure 100%

90% 1999 to 2000 80%

70% 1995 to 1998

60% 1990 to 1994

50% 1980 to 1989 40% 1970 to 1979 30% 1960 to 1969 20% 1940 to 1959 10% Before 1939 0%

o p p o ro ty a or w w wp wp o ni B T T Bor r g ille lie tte T r Scott ye be nsylva el en gev Col d heny Coun P id ei Oakdale B g Br H lle South Fa A Upper St. Clair T As shown in Table 6-3, the majority of homes in the study area have access to a public utility supplying natural gas or electric for home heating. A few of the homes within the project area continue to rely on kerosene or fuel oil heat, however none are as high as the State of Pennsylvania at 25.5%. Almost 100 percent of housing units in Bridgeville rely on gas or electricity in order to heat their homes.

Table 6-3: House Heating Fuel Utility Bottled, Elec- Fuel oil, Coal Wood Solar Other No fuel gas tank, tricity kerosene, or energy fuel used or LP gas etc. coke Bridgeville 87.8% 0.0% 11.5% 0.2% 0.0% 0.4% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% Collier Twp 86.5% 0.4% 4.8% 6.3% 0.0% 1.5% 0.0% 0.6% 0.0% Scott Twp 89.7% 1.4% 8.3% 0.5% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.1% 0.1% South Fayette 80.4% 0.1% 13.8% 4.6% 0.2% 0.5% 0.0% 0.0% 0.4% Twp Upper St. Clair 88.1% 0.5% 11.1% 0.1% 0.0% 0.1% 0.0% 0.1% 0.1% Twp Heidelberg 91.1% 0.0% 7.5% 1.0% 0.0% 0.3% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% Oakdale 90.2% 1.3% 6.6% 1.5% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.3% Allegheny County 88.3% 0.8% 8.5% 1.5% 0.0% 0.1% 0.0% 0.5% 0.2% Pennsylvania 51.3% 3.0% 16.5% 25.5% 1.4% 1.6% 0.0% 0.4% 0.2% Source: US Census Bureau, 2000 Census

6-3 Bridgeville Borough Comprehensive Plan Section 6: Housing

Table 6-4 displays the Source of Water for homes within each municipality in the project area, the county and the state. It is important to note that data was taken from the 1990 U.S. Census, as 2000 data was not collected for source of water . In 1990, 100 percent of households in Bridgeville Borough had public water or were supplied through a private system. The surrounding municipalities and Allegheny County all were over 90 percent and were well above the state figure of 78.1 percent.

Table 6-4: Source of Water Public System or Individual Individual Some Other

Bridgeville 100.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% Collier Twp 92.3% 6.7% 0.2% 0.7% Scott Twp 99.8% 0.0% 0.0% 0.2% South Fayette Twp 97.0% 1.4% 0.7% 0.9% Upper St. Clair Twp 99.7% 0.1% 0.0% 0.2% Heidelberg 99.7% 0.0% 0.3% 0.0% Oakdale 99.6% 0.4% 0.0% 0.0% Allegheny County 97.9% 1.7% 0.1% 0.3% Pennsylvania 78.1% 18.3% 1.5% 2.1% Source: US Census Bureau, 1990 Census

Table 6-5 displays sewage disposal methods for housing units and like the source of water,, the figures are also from the 1990 U.S. Census. As the statistics show, all of Bridgeville’s housing units were connected to a public sewer system. The remainder of the project area is mostly connected to public sewer systems as well. The numbers are slightly lower in Collier and South Fayette Townships, however, with these municipalities showing 76.3 percent and 78.8 percent respectively connected to a public sewer. Allegheny County’s average of 95.2 percent connected to a public sewer is much higher than the state at 74.3 percent.

Table 6-5: Sewage Disposal Public Septic Tank Other Sewer or Cesspool Means Bridgeville 100.0% 0.0% 0.0% Collier Twp 76.3% 23.3% 0.4% Scott Twp 99.3% 0.6% 0.1% South Fayette Twp 78.8% 19.5% 1.7% Upper St. Clair Twp 99.4% 0.5% 0.1% Heidelberg 100.0% 0.0% 0.0% Oakdale 98.2% 1.8% 0.0% Allegheny County 95.2% 4.5% 0.3% Pennsylvania 74.3% 24.5% 1.2% Source: US Census Bureau, 1990 Census

6-4 Bridgeville Borough Comprehensive Plan Section 6: Housing

Table 6-6 addresses Median Housing Value and Rent for the project area. Upper St. Clair has the highest median housing value at $174,900 in the project area. This figure is over $90,000 higher than the median value in Allegheny County and over $77,000 higher than that of the State. With the exception of Heidelberg Borough at $69,600, Bridgeville’s median housing value, at $78,900, is lower than every municipality in the project area. Bridgeville’s median housing value is also lower than the county’s at $84,200 and the state at $97,000. The median rent in Bridgeville ($451) is also lower than the county, the state and the other municipalities in the study area.

Table 6-6: Median Housing Value/ Mortgage/ Rent Median Housing Median Mortgage Median Rent Value Payment Payment Bridgeville $78,900 $883 $451 Collier Twp $92,500 $1,151 $513 Scott Twp $98,300 $996 $644 South Fayette Twp $118,000 $1,237 $697 Upper St. Clair Twp $174,900 $1,583 $1,207 Heidelberg $69,600 $756 $488 Oakdale $83,100 $886 $482 Allegheny County $84,200 $971 $516 Pennsylvania $97,000 $1,010 $531 Source: US Census Bureau, 2000 Census

Table 6-7 displays the Year Householder Moved Into Unit. Almost 50 percent of householders in Bridgeville moved into their unit since 1990, which is the third highest in the project area, but lower than the county and the state. Some factors that could influence these figures include the turnover due to the high number of rental units, older population moving into apartments or smaller rental units, and homeowners renting their homes.

Table 6-7: Year Moved into Unit, 2000 1969 1970 to 1980 to 1990 to 1995 to 1999 to

Bridgeville 25.1% 10.1% 15.2% 12.9% 24.0% 12.7% Collier Twp 20.2% 12.1% 20.4% 19.2% 19.5% 8.6% Scott Twp 21.7% 12.2% 13.2% 13.1% 22.5% 17.3% South Fayette Twp 13.4% 9.9% 11.4% 17.2% 29.5% 18.7% Upper St. Clair Twp 11.7% 17.0% 22.8% 18.5% 20.9% 9.1% Heidelberg 29.3% 10.8% 14.5% 14.3% 19.3% 11.8% Oakdale 23.8% 24.1% 20.4% 12.1% 12.1% 7.5% Allegheny County 19.5% 12.1% 15.8% 14.5% 23.0% 15.0% Pennsylvania 17.0% 12.0% 17.2% 15.4% 23.9% 14.6% Source: US Census Bureau, 2000 Census

6-5 Bridgeville Borough Comprehensive Plan Section 6: Housing

As shown in Table 6-8, a majority of the housing units in the entire project area and Allegheny County are 1-unit, detached, as compared to 55.9 percent in Pennsylvania. Almost 70 percent of the housing units in Bridgeville Borough are 1-unit detached. However, Bridgeville does have a more diverse housing stock than the county, the state, and the surrounding municipalities (with the exception of Scott Township). The more diverse the housing stock is, the more choice a resident has in terms of housing units. This equates into a high number of apartments, senior living facilities, etc.

Table 6-8: Units in Structure 1-unit, 1-unit, 2 3 or 4 5 to 9 10 to 19 20 or Mobile Boat, detached attached units units units units more Home RV, units Van, etc. Bridgeville 67.4% 2.4% 6.3% 4.9% 4.2% 3.1% 11.6% 0.0% 0.0% Collier Twp 75.4% 6.1% 1.1% 0.6% 0.0% 0.4% 0.0% 16.3% 0.0% Scott Twp 57.4% 8% 2.4% 3.8% 6.9% 7.1% 14.1% 0.3% 0.0% South Fayette Twp 58.3% 22.5% 2.3% 2.5% 3.1% 5.1% 6.2% 0.1% 0.0% Upper St. Clair Twp 92.0% 2.8% 0.3% 0.4% 0.2% 1.2% 3.1% 0.0% 0.0% Heidelberg 73.2% 3.3% 9.5% 3.9% 6.1% 3.6% 0.3% 0.0% 0.0% Oakdale 82.8% 1.7% 3.3% 7.1% 0.5% 0.3% 0.8% 0.3% 0.0% Allegheny County 62.0% 8.9% 5.9% 5.2% 4.9% 4.1% 8.2% 0.8% 0.0% Pennsylvania 55.9% 17.9% 5.2% 4.6% 3.4% 2.5% 5.4% 4.9% 0.1% Source: US Census Bureau, 2000 Census

6-6 Bridgeville Borough Comprehensive Plan Section 6: Housing

B. Analysis

Housing is reflective of a community’s social and economic status. The condition and supply of housing can be used as an indicator of economic cycles, population growth or decline, and architectural trends. Availability of safe, sound and affordable housing is vital to a community and is part of the quality of life factors that potential residents seek. Therefore, planning for adequate and affordable housing should be balanced with other community planning objectives. The housing stock within the project area is, for the most part, very good and adequately meets the residential needs. The results from the public survey that was sent to borough residents during the comprehensive planning process, showed that 70.4 percent of respondents either agreed or somewhat agreed with the statement that “Bridgeville’s housing stock is in good condition.” When respondents were asked to rank the top four things they liked about the borough, housing ranked third out of a possible nine choices with small town character and location ranking first and second (see Appendix C v for complete public survey results).

Bridgeville has experienced a small increase in new housing units (7.5%) since 1980. Most of the housing stock is older and well maintained. During public meetings, residents emphasized the fact that Bridgeville has an abundance of quality affordable housing. The median housing value for Bridgeville is the second lowest in the project area at $78,900. The median rent is the lowest in the project area at $451 per month. This could be due in part to the amount of land that is available in the surrounding communities. As Bridgeville is primarily built out, neighboring townships have an abundance of land available that is being used to build large upscale housing developments.

While the low cost of housing can be a good thing for a community and can help bring new residents in, the borough should be concerned with low property values. This can potentially lead to a destabilizing of the community and an increase in Bridgeville Single Family Homes: Mackin, 2003 vacant units.

The percentage of owner occupied homes in Bridgeville is the lowest in the project area, the county and the state. Low rents and the large number of senior living facilities also contribute to the higher number of rental units in the borough. Even though the homeowner rate is lower than the rest of the project area, it is still higher than 50%, and throughout the public participation process, residents expressed the fact that people take pride in their properties. Results from the public survey that was distributed to Bridgeville residents show that housing was one of the items that people liked best about Bridgeville (it ranked third out of nine behind small town character and location).

6-7 Bridgeville Borough Comprehensive Plan Section 6: Housing

Because of Bridgeville’s proximity to the major employment center of Pittsburgh and the surrounding metropolitan area, the borough has the potential to remain a desirable bedroom community. While providing a variety of housing types is necessary, raising the number of home owner properties should be a priority. Public officials and the community should support the efforts to implement sound land use planning policies.

Home ownership carries with it several benefits such as:

• Through home ownership, a family invests in an asset that can grow in value and generate future financial security. • Home ownership enables people to have greater control over their living environment. Bridgeville Duplex,: Mackin, 2003 • Home ownership stabilizes neighborhoods and communities. • Home ownership helps to generate jobs and stimulate economic growth.

Bridgeville has a very low vacancy rate at 4.4 percent. This is about half of the vacancy rate at the county and the state level. While there are very well kept and appealing residential neighborhoods within the borough, there are some blighted areas with deteriorating housing and the presence of junk / trash on the property around homes. The presence of blighted or abandoned structures was documented during field views and was identified as a major concern of the residents during the public participation process. These structures pose a threat to the community by discouraging residents to buy homes nearby or make improvements to homes where they presently reside. In some areas, blighted conditions are a result of abandoned homes while others reflect a lack of basic home maintenance. Although the borough has ordinances in place that address property maintenance and the upkeep of homes, enforcement is the key to successful regulation of issues such as missing siding, abandoned cars, trash, and grass. Through stakeholder interviews it was revealed that a serious issue facing the borough in regards to property maintenance is the lack of time to enforce codes.

Almost 30 percent of Bridgeville's housing stock was built prior to 1939, and a significant period of new construction between 1940 and 1959 added an additional 42 percent of new homes during this time. With approximately 30 percent of houses built before 1940, the borough is at risk for issues such as dilapidated structures, fire risks, and increased home maintenance costs. All of which lessen the appeal of a community when seeking to attract or retain residents.

The historical appeal of older homes should not go unrecognized, however. Capitalizing on unique aspects offered by turn of the century construction can serve to impart a sense of

6-8 Bridgeville Borough Comprehensive Plan Section 6: Housing

community and historical charm.

Unlike municipalities surrounding Bridgeville, which are mostly larger townships with room to grow, all of the housing units within the borough have access to public water and sewer. Due to the fact that Bridgeville is almost completely built out, the emphasis should be placed on infill development and / or replacing dilapidated housing.

A high number of Bridgeville’s housing stock has two or more units (30.2%). This is higher than all of the surrounding municipalities, with the exception of Scott Township (34.6%), the county and the state. While Bridgeville does have a wider variety of housing options than most of the surrounding municipalities, offering additional housing options was often mentioned as a priority during the public participation process. Housing choices such as garden apartments, condominiums and town houses are opportunities for the borough to explore and promote. This can be used as an advantage to attract a mix of residents to the borough as well as to create a healthy and vibrant community. A flexible zoning ordinance can assist public officials to provide these development opportunities much easier.

Zoning, along with building and property maintenance codes will assist local officials to properly develop the use of land and buildings. A good zoning ordinance and effective enforcement can protect against the undesirable use of property that would lessen property values or harm the community. It is also essential that the borough enforce property maintenance codes. Unsightly conditions, such as unkept lawns, abandoned vehicles, broken windows, garbage and missing siding contribute to the overall appearance of neglect and disrepair, therefore lowering property values and the quality of life within the community.

Bridgeville currently has four senior living facilities as well. They include Goodwill Manor, Goodwill Villa, Bridgeville Towers and Washington Commons, which is a personal care facility. Goodwill Manor and Goodwill Villa are subsidized apartments for low income seniors.

The high number of senior living facilities highlights the fact that the borough has adequate housing to care for its aging population. Bridgeville has the highest percentage of residents over the age of 65 in the study area, the county and the state. Goodwill Manor Senior Housing Facility: Mackin, 2003 The results from the public survey show that residents of the borough feel the need for senior housing development is not very important (it ranked ninth out of a possible 11 choices for what elected officials in Bridgeville should focus on), This is contradicted in the fact that there is a waiting list at all four of the senior living facilities in the municipality.

6-9 Bridgeville Borough Comprehensive Plan Section 7: Economic Development

A. Existing Conditions

The 11-year time span between 1990 and 2001 saw the Pennsylvania economy both mirror and lag behind the United States economy. On the positive side, the trend in total employment in the state generally mirrored the U.S. by expanding in eight of the 11 years, contracting only during recessions (1990-1991 and 2000-2001) and Pennsylvania also kept pace with the nation in lowering its rates of unemployment. On the negative side however, annual rates of job growth typically lagged behind the U.S. and Pennsylvania’s population growth between 1990 and 2000 was only one-fourth the U.S. rate (The Pennsylvania State University, Center for Economic & Community Development, 2002).

The Verizon Economics Group forecasted an improving Pennsylvania economy in 2003, as the unemployment rates are expected to slowly decline and the Gross State Product (GSP) is predicted to rise in 2003 and 2004, although it will lag behind most of its neighbor states.

Between June of 1999 and 2001, Allegheny County was one of four counties in Pennsylvania to have an increase in total employment in excess of 5,000. The bulk of new jobs in Pennsylvania were created in the southeast outside of Philadelphia and Delaware counties and in Allegheny and its suburban counties, namely Butler and Washington. Table 7-1 shows the top 10 growth industries in Pennsylvania between 1990 and 2001.

The Top 10 Growth Industries in Pennsylvania illustrate the major changes that the Pennsylvania economy has undergone over the years. Eight of the ten growth industries were in the services sector, with the only non-service industries being Eating & Drinking Places in Retail Trade and Air Transportation, Scheduled in the Transportation and Public Utilities Sector.

Table 7-1: “TOP 10” GROWTH INDUSTRIES: PENNSYLVANIA, JUNE 1990-2001

Rank % Change in Industry Number Change in Employment Employment 1 21.2 Eating & Drinking Places in Retail Trade 59,095

2 89.6 Personnel Supply Services 47,497

3 118.4 Computer & Data Processing Services 38,749

4 46.4 Nursing & Personal Care Facilities 36,273

5 122.8 Management & Public Relations 28,695

6 47.2 Offices & Clinics of Medical Doctors 26,853

7 59.6 Residential Care 23,555

8 108.3 Air Transportation, Scheduled 23,289

9 49.1 Misc. Amusement & Recreation Services 22,947

10 83.2 Individual & Family Services 20,467

Source: The Pennsylvania State University, Center for Economic & Community Development 7-1 Bridgeville Borough Comprehensive Plan Section 7: Economic Development

Further illustrating the changing Pennsylvania economy, Table 7-2 outlines the top 10 declining industries in Pennsylvania between 1990 and 2001. The change is incurred by business firms contracting and restructuring or actually terminating operations, not change through growth. During this time span, manufacturing industries dominate the list of the top 10 declining industries, which is a continuation of the decades long decline of this sector in Pennsylvania. Six of the top 10 declining industries were in manufacturing, with blast furnaces and steel products leading in employment loss at 22,581 jobs.

Table 7-2: “TOP 10” DECLINING INDUSTRIES: PENNSYLVANIA, JUNE 1990-2001

Rank % Change in Industry Number Change in Employment Employment 1 -41.3 Blast Furnaces & Basic Steel Products -22,581

2 -71.9 Women’s & Misses Outerwear -19,450

3 -19.0 Commercial Banks -15,838

4 -35.2 Life Insurance -10,417

5 -39.6 Women’s Clothing Stores -8,741

6 -41.0 General Industrial Machinery -8,456

7 -49.9 Bituminous Coal & Lignite Mining -7,812

8 -63.0 Knitting Mills -7,548

9 -78.3 Men’s & Boys’ Suits & Coats -7,406

10 -19.0 Men’s & Boys’ Finishing -6,686

Source: The Pennsylvania State University, Center for Economic & Community Development

Regional Economy

Allegheny County, with a population of 1,270,612, is the driving force behind the Southwestern Pennsylvania economic region. The Southwestern / Pittsburgh economic region includes Allegheny, Armstrong, Beaver, Butler, Fayette, Greene, Indiana, Lawrence, Washington, and Westmoreland counties. As the largest municipality at 334,563, the City of Pittsburgh is the cornerstone of not only Allegheny County, but also the region. Located just 15 miles south of Pittsburgh, Bridgeville Borough functions as a part of the Greater Pittsburgh economic region. Allegheny County is classified as its own Workforce Investment Area (WIA), the Three Rivers, according to the Pennsylvania Department of Labor and Industry . Table 7-3 depicts employment trends for Allegheny County from 1990 to 2003. The County’s unemployment rate was 4.3 in 1990, increasing to a high of 6.4 in 1993. Following these increases, the unemployment rate began to decline and reached a low of 3.6 in 2000. Coinciding with the national recession, unemployment rates began to increase in 2001 through 2003 to 5.1%.

7-2 Bridgeville Borough Comprehensive Plan Section 7: Economic Development

Table 7-3: ALLEGHENY COUNTY EMPLOYMENT TRENDS, 1990-2003

Unemployment Year Civilian Labor Force Total Employment Total Unemployment Rate (%) 2003 665,200 631,000 34,200 5.1 2002 679,900 646,800 33,100 4.9 2001 674,300 649,000 25,300 3.8 2000 661,400 637,500 23,900 3.6 1999 660,100 634,500 25,500 3.9 1998 656,500 629,700 26,800 4.1 1997 662,300 633,300 29,100 4.4 1996 656,200 626,600 29,500 4.5 1995 652,200 617,800 34,400 5.3 1994 655,300 618,300 37,000 5.7 1993 665,800 623,400 42,400 6.4 1992 662,300 620,900 41,400 6.3 1991 649,900 615,200 34,600 5.3 1990 641,200 613,400 27,800 4.3 Source: PA Dept of Labor and Industry, PALMIDS

In terms of employment by sector, the Three Rivers WIA has experienced a 20.3% increase in employment in the service sector between 1990 and 2001, slower than all surrounding counties with the exception of Westmoreland County. In the same time span, Allegheny County has declined 16.9% in manufacturing employment, the highest rate in Southwestern Pennsylvania and higher than the statewide average of -12.9% (The Pennsylvania State University, Center for Economic & Community Development).

According to the Allegheny County Department of Economic Development, the following are the top 10 private employers in the county with corresponding number of employees:

1. UPMC Health System 29,600 2. West Penn Allegheny Health System 10,500 3. University of Pittsburgh 9,700 4. US Airways Group, Inc. 7,700 5. U.S. Steel Corp. 7,000 6. Mellon Financial Corp. 6,500 7. Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield 5,600 8. Giant Eagle, Inc. 5,000 9. Eat’n Park Hospitality Group 4,600 10. Verizon Communications 4,400

7-3 Bridgeville Borough Comprehensive Plan Section 7: Economic Development

The top employment sectors in Allegheny County are listed in Table 7-4. Health care and social administration is the top employment industry in Allegheny County, with over 100,000 persons employed. Over 40,000 of those employees are employed by the top two private employers in the county—UPMC and West Penn Allegheny Health Systems.

Table 7-4: TOP EMPLOYMENT SECTORS IN ALLEGHENY COUNTY

RANK INDUSTRY EMPLOYEES

1 Health Care and Social Assistance 107,800 2 Retail Trade 79,200 3 Accommodation and Food Services 52,950 4 Manufacturing 50,700 5 Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services 48,300 6 Finance and Insurance 43,800 7 Administrative and Support and Waste Management and Remediation Services 39,700 8 Construction 33,225 9 Educational Services 31,600 10 Other Services (except Public Administration) 26,700 All Other Sectors 187,525 Total Employment for All Sectors 701,500

Source: Pennsylvania Center for Workforce Information and Analysis

In an effort to assist the local Workforce Investment Boards (WIB) and training providers, the Center for Workforce Information and Analysis (CWIA) compiles annual demand occupation lists. The demand lists are not meant to be all-inclusive. The Pennsylvania Department of Labor & Industry published the 2003 Demand Occupations for the Three Rivers Workforce Investment Area. Table 7-5 lists those demand occupations that have or are expected to have 200 or more annual openings, including openings due to growth and replacements, as well as the education / training level required. For a complete list or for more detailed information, visit the department’s website at www.palmids.state.pa.us.

As can be seen in Table 7-5, the majority of the demand occupations that have 200 or more annual job openings for the Three Rivers WIA are in the service sector and require no postsecondary education. The only four demand occupations that require at the least some postsecondary education are teachers, general and operations managers, and registered nurses.

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Table 7-5: 2003 DEMAND OCCUPATIONS FOR THE THREE RIVERS WORKFORCE INVESTMENT AREA (WIA), WITH 200 OR MORE ANNUAL JOB OPENINGS Education / Training Required Occupational Title College Degree Some Post- On-The-Job or More Secondary Training Bartenders X Cashiers X Combined Food Preparation & Serving Workers X Counter Attendants: Cafeteria, Food Concession & Coffee X Shop Customer Service Representatives X Elementary School Teachers, Ex. Special Education X Food Preparation Workers X General & Operations Managers X Janitors & Cleaners X Laborers & Freight, Stock & Material Movers, Hand X Office Clerks, General X Registered Nurses X Retail Salespersons X Sales Representatives, Ex. Technical & Scientific Products X Secondary School Teachers, Ex. Special & Vocational X Education Stock Clerks & Order Fillers X Tellers X Waiters & Waitresses X Source: The Pennsylvania State University, Center for Economic & Community Development

In addition, the Pittsburgh Regional Alliance has released recent expansions and relocations of businesses that have occurred in Allegheny County. They cover a variety of fields, including information technology, medical devices, financial services, consumer healthcare, and manufacturing.

Serving as the Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) for ten counties in Southwestern Pennsylvania, including Allegheny County, the Southwestern Pennsylvania Commission (SPC) published the 2025 Transportation and Development Plan for Southwestern Pennsylvania in July of 2000. The plan addresses counties’ individual needs, guided by the plan’s regional goals and objectives, and provides a list of proposed investments for each county. The proposed investments are expected to spawn approximately 128,000 jobs and the estimated total public and private investment in these economic development projects is approximately $10 billion, in the whole SPC Region.

7-5 Bridgeville Borough Comprehensive Plan Section 7: Economic Development

The regional economic development goals included in the plan are the following:

⇒ Southwestern Pennsylvania will have a vibrant and diverse economy ⇒ Economic prosperity will be distributed equitably through the region as a result of job opportunities ⇒ Strategic industry clusters will grow, attracting other industries to the region, and distinctive markets will be developed, taking advantage of unique assets found in the region ⇒ Businesses will find competitive sites and facilities ⇒ Businesses will be able to start, locate and expand rapidly ⇒ The region’s attractiveness as a place to do business will be well-known nationally and internationally ⇒ To enhance economic development, the region will have a workforce of the size and with the skills needed by the types of industries in and attracted to the region

Within Allegheny County, not including the City of Pittsburgh, the plan lists 34 new capacity development projects, one anchor project, seven build-out projects, four destination projects, one community / recreation project, and four access projects. Although there are no scheduled projects within Bridgeville Borough, there are two projects included in the plan that could have an impact in the borough.

One project is in neighboring Collier Township and is a new capacity development project. The project involves the development of a 450-acre mixed-use site, which will include the redevelopment of the former Woodville State Mental Hospital. Expected to create 6,300 jobs, the initial investment to prepare for development is $25,000,000 and the total public and private investment throughout development is $218,000,000.

The other project occurring near Bridgeville is the second phase access CSXT Interchange project. The project entails the construction of a railroad connection to interchange Wheeling and Lake Erie traffic to Pittsburgh Industrial Railroad to re-establish CSXT interchange south of Bridgeville. The project will not create any jobs and $4,000,000 is the initial investment needed to prepare for development.

Local Economy

To understand the local economy, data from the United States Census Bureau and SPC Long Range Plan were compiled. Trends were analyzed by comparing data and statistics from 1990 and 2000 for various economic categories. In some cases, data was not available for 1990 or the categories had changed and did not allow for comparisons with 2000 data.

7-6 Bridgeville Borough Comprehensive Plan Section 7: Economic Development

Table 7-6 compares the employment status for Bridgeville for the years 1990 and 2000. As noted in the table, the population over 16 has decreased, thereby shrinking the available workforce. However, the percentage of the population in the workforce has not changed much in the ten-year span, remaining at approximately 57%. The percentage of unemployed persons has not changed much either, although it shrank from 2.9% in 1990 to 2.1% in 2000.

Table 7-6: BRIDGEVILLE EMPLOYMENT STATUS, 1990-2000

1990 2000 # % # % Population 16 years and over 4,690 100 4,488 100 In labor force 2,697 57.5 2,596 57.8 Civilian labor force 2,681 57.2 2,596 57.8 Employed 2,547 54.3 2,502 55.7 Unemployed 134 2.9 94 2.1 Percent of civilian labor force — 5.0 — 3.6 Armed Forces n/a n/a 0 0 Not in labor force 1,993 42.5 1,892 42.2

Source: US Census Bureau, 1990 & 2000

The classification of the workforce is divided into four categories: private wage and salary workers, government workers, self-employed workers in own not incorporated business, and unpaid family workers. Table 7-7 compares the percentage of the workforce employed in each category for 1990 and 2000. The percentages compare rather evenly throughout each category, although there has been a slight increase in self-employed persons and a corresponding slight decrease in the private wage and salary workers over the ten-year time span.

Table 7-7: CLASS OF WORKER

1990 2000

Private wage and salary workers 82.8% 81.6%

Government workers 11.8% 11.6%

Self-employed workers in own not incorporated business 5.1% 6.5%

Unpaid family workers 0.4% 0.3%

Source: US Census Bureau, 1990 & 2000

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Allegheny County is a part of the Pittsburgh Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA), along with Armstrong, Beaver, Butler, Fayette, Washington, Westmoreland counties. MSAs are defined by the United States Office of Management and Budget. Table 7-8 depicts the place of work for employed Bridgeville residents.

Nearly all Bridgeville residents work in Pennsylvania, with less than two percent working outside of the state in both 1990 and 2000. Similarly, nearly all residents work in Allegheny County, although the percentage has dropped from 90.1% in 1990 to 87.9% in 2000 as more residents have found jobs in surrounding counties. The number of residents working within the Pittsburgh MSA has not really changed from 1990 but due to the lower number of workers in the borough in 2000, the percentage has risen. However, the number and percentage of residents working outside of the Pittsburgh MSA has dropped significantly, with only 42 residents (1.7%) in 2000.

More residents are working in the City of Pittsburgh in 2000 than were in 1990, an increase of almost five percent. Another area that has also increased is the percentage of residents working in another MSA, where almost three-quarters of those residents are working in a central city in that MSA in 2000, up from only one-third in 1990. In terms of working within Bridgeville Borough, fewer Bridgeville residents are working in the borough in 2000

Table 7-8: PLACE OF WORK—BRIDGEVILLE RESIDENTS

1990 2000 # % # % TOTAL 2,544 100 2,454 100 Worked in Pennsylvania 2,505 98.5 2423 98.7 Worked in Allegheny County 2,313 90.1 2,157 87.9 Worked outside of Allegheny County 192 7.5 266 10.8 Worked outside of Pennsylvania 39 1.5 31 1.2 Living in Pittsburgh MSA (not central city) 2,544 100.0 2,454 100.0 Worked in Pittsburgh MSA: 2,416 95.0 2,412 98.3 Central city 405 16.8 513 21.3 Remainder of Pittsburgh MSA 2,011 83.2 1,899 78.7 Worked outside of Pittsburgh MSA 128 5.0 42 1.7 Worked in a different MSA: 95 3.7 31 1.3 Central city 34 35.8 22 71.0 Remainder of different MSA 61 64.2 9 29.0 Worked outside of any MSA 33 1.3 11 0.4 Worked in Bridgeville Borough 586 23.0 390 15.9 Worked outside of Bridgeville Borough 1,958 77.0 2,064 84.1 Source: US Census Bureau, 1990 & 2000

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Table 7-9 depicts employment by industry for Bridgeville Borough, Allegheny County, and Pennsylvania. The largest sector of the population in Bridgeville is employed in educational, health and social services, 22.4%. The next two largest employment sectors for Bridgeville are retail trade, 15.3%, and professional, scientific, management, administrative, and waste management services, 11.0%. These three sectors employ almost 50% of the entire workforce. The remaining 50% is distributed throughout the other nine sectors (excluding agriculture). The distribution closely mirrors that found in both Allegheny County and Pennsylvania.

Table 7-9: INDUSTRY, 2000

Allegheny Bridgeville County Pennsylvania Agriculture, forestry, fishing and hunting, and mining 0.2 0.2 1.3 Construction 7.8 5.4 6.0 Manufacturing 8.9 9.0 16.0 Wholesale trade 4.5 3.4 3.6 Retail trade 15.3 11.9 12.1 Transportation and warehousing, and utilities 6.8 6.0 5.4 Information 2.0 3.2 2.6 Finance, insurance, real estate, and rental and leasing 6.6 8.5 6.6 Professional, scientific, management, administrative, and waste management services 11.0 11.2 8.5 Educational, health and social services 22.4 24.4 21.9 Arts, entertainment, recreation, accommodation and food services 7.6 8.2 7.0 Other services (except public administration) 4.8 5.1 4.8 Public administration 2.3 3.3 4.2 Source: US 2000 Census

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In terms of the occupation of Bridgeville residents, 60% are employed in management / professional or sales / office occupations. Table 7-10 shows the employment by occupation for Bridgeville, Allegheny County and Pennsylvania. Bridgeville is similar to both the county and the state, although almost 9% fewer residents are employed in management, professional and related occupations while almost five percent more are employed in the construction and production categories than in Allegheny County.

Table 7-10: OCCUPATION, 2000

Bridgeville Allegheny County Pennsylvania Management, professional, and related occupations 28.9 37.8 32.6 Service occupations 16.8 15.8 14.8 Sales and office occupations 31.1 28.7 27.0 Farming, fishing, and forestry occupations 0.2 0.1 0.5 Construction, extraction, and maintenance occupations 11.0 7.5 8.9 Production, transportation, and material moving occupations 12.0 10.1 16.3 Source: US 2000 Census

SPC’s Long Range Forecast, adopted in 2000, contains work-place employment projections, which is equal to the number of full-time and part-time employees by place of work. Work- place is broken into three categories: retail, manufacturing, and other. Other includes any employment in industries not included under retail or manufacturing, such as agriculture, forestry, mining, transportation, finance, public administration, services, etc. Table 7-11 depicts the projected employment for Bridgeville Borough.

Table 7-11: BRIDGEVILLE EMPLOYMENT PROJECTIONS

# Change % Change Retail Manufacturing Other TOTAL from 1997 from 1997 1997 (base year) 692 123 823 1,638 2010 633 96 918 1,647 9 0.5% 2020 562 76 907 1,545 -93 -5.7% 2025 542 70 912 1,524 -114 -7.0% Source: SPC Long Range Forecast, 2000

Bridgeville’s total employment is projected to decrease 7.0% by 2025. The largest employment losses are expected to occur in the retail sector, a net loss of 150 between 1997 and 2025. Manufacturing is also projected to lose over 50 jobs, while the other employment sectors will see job gains between the numbers of 80 and 90.

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Commercial and Industrial

According to Bridgeville Borough tax records, there are 194 businesses located within the borough. The borough has a downtown central business district that is comprised of Washington Avenue (Main Street), Station Street, and Railroad Street. The majority of commercial development is located within the downtown area of the borough. The existing commercial base is primarily comprised of retail establishments, small professional offices (doctors offices, attorneys, insurance agencies, real estate agencies), and eateries / coffee shops / pubs, etc. There are 85 businesses located on Washington Avenue, 23 businesses on Station Street, and 8 businesses on Railroad Street, totaling 116 commercial Washington Avenue, Mackin 2003 businesses in the downtown. Table 7-12 lists all businesses in the downtown central business district.

Within the central business district are two shopping plazas—Bridgeville Plaza, located off of Washington Avenue behind Northwest Savings Bank, and Norwood Center, located next to the Co-Gos on Station Street. Other major arteries with commercial / industrial activity include McLaughlin Run Road, Bower Hill Road, Baldwin Street, and Commercial Drive. These businesses are listed in Table 7-13. There is not much industrial development located within Bridgeville, with only five light industrial and one heavy industrial businesses operating in the borough. Commercial Drive is a small “industrial park” - type development that houses a mix of commercial and light industrial Station Street / Washington Avenue Intersection, Mackin 2003 businesses.

Major shopping centers exist in close proximity to Bridgeville and play a major role in the economy of the area. Nearby shopping centers include the Great Southern and Chartiers Valley, which offer specialty, discount, and department stores. Regional malls include South Hills Village, Century III, Robinson Town Centre, The Galleria, and Raceway Plaza.

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Table 7-12: BRIDGEVILLE BOROUGH CENTRAL BUSINESS DISTRICT— BUSINESSES

Business Name Location Business Name Location

A&A Sports Cards Washington Avenue Fox Farsight Productions, Washington Avenue AARCO Real Estate Washington Avenue Franz, DDS Washington Avenue Accentique Washington Avenue Furry Friends Washington Avenue Allegheny Construction Group Washington Avenue G.E. Financial Washington Avenue Alternatives Washington Avenue Great Southern Roller Rink Washington Avenue Allegheny Veterinary Clinic Washington Avenue Hellman Trading LLC Washington Avenue Angelina's Pizza Washington Avenue Hibler, DDS Washington Avenue ATM LogIV Washington Avenue Home Sweet Home, Again! Washington Avenue Bastola Auto Washington Avenue I. W. Sales, Inc Washington Avenue Bogan Wolf Funeral Home Washington Avenue JoAnn's Beauty Salon Washington Avenue Brenlove Assoc. Washington Avenue JT Landscaping Washington Avenue Bridgeville Appliance Co. Washington Avenue LaBella Bean Washington Avenue Bridgeville Auto Specialist Washington Avenue Louis Damich DMD Washington Avenue Bridgeville Diner Washington Avenue Lowlander Corp Washington Avenue Bridgeville Greenery Washington Avenue LTW Mechanical Group, Inc Washington Avenue Bridgeville Medical Center Washington Avenue LVR West Inc Washington Avenue Bridgeville Tattoo Washington Avenue M J Dental Lab Washington Avenue Bulldog Construction Washington Avenue Nicholas Rudman Jewelers Washington Avenue Burgh's Pizza/Wings Pub Washington Avenue Vocelli’s Pizza Washington Avenue Campbell Automotive Washington Avenue Planned Parenthood Washington Avenue Candy Bouquet Washington Avenue PNC Bank Washington Avenue Castaways Washington Avenue Rankin, DDS Washington Avenue Cellone Bread Washington Avenue Rattenni Insurance Washington Avenue Country Sampler Washington Avenue Retail Systems Consulting Washington Avenue Cozy Nest Washington Avenue Rocky Raco Photography Washington Avenue D&C Supply Washington Avenue Rossino Jewelers Washington Avenue Dancy's Trading Post Washington Avenue Sarasnick Hardware Washington Avenue DeBlasio Associates Washington Avenue Steel City Mattress Washington Avenue Don Welch Cars Washington Avenue Straight Talk Wireless Washington Avenue Drutis & Co. - Accounting Washington Avenue Zemencik DDS Washington Avenue Fleet Depot Washington Avenue 457 Optical Washington Avenue Foreign Auto Parts Washington Avenue

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Table 7-12: BRIDGEVILLE BOROUGH CENTRAL BUSINESS DISTRICT— BUSINESSES (cont)

Business Name Location Business Name Location Carols Needleworks Bridgeville Plaza COGO's Station Street Headlines Hair Fashion Bridgeville Plaza Dr. Zimdahl Station Street James J. Bowman Attorneys Bridgeville Plaza Fazio’s Hair Salon Station Street Nationwide Insurance Bridgeville Plaza Finn Construction Co. Station Street Northwest Savings Bank Bridgeville Plaza First Commonwealth Bank Station Street Jerry Coiffure Station Street Beer Warehouse Railroad Street Kireacos Cuts Station Street Chartiers Mental Health Railroad Street Martial Arts Sports Station Street DiMario's Bar Railroad Street Metz & Associates Ltd Station Street M&M Uniforms, Inc. Railroad Street Medicine Shoppe Station Street Mariani's To-Go Railroad Street Operation Paintball Station Street Regine, DDS Railroad Street Pittsburgh Vision Services Station Street Tambellini's Restaurant Railroad Street Rusmur Floors Station Street Seven Eleven (7-11) Station Street Buzzatto DDS Station Street Suburban Dry Cleaners Station Street

Table 7-13: OTHER BUSINESSES IN BRIDGEVILLE BOROUGH

Business Name Location Business Name Location A & H Equipment McLaughlin Run Road Blanc Printing Baldwin Street ABD Sprinklers McLaughlin Run Road Bonide & Assoc. Baldwin Street Bruce’s Auto Body McLaughlin Run Road Littlehale Auto Baldwin Street Commelec, Inc. McLaughlin Run Road Mark May Photography Baldwin Street Cimarolli Signs McLaughlin Run Road MarKee Lounge Baldwin Street Good Wood Grill McLaughlin Run Road McB Autoport Baldwin Street Greentree Investments McLaughlin Run Road McB Motors Baldwin Street J C Wiliamson Co McLaughlin Run Road Orient Inc Baldwin Street Rag Top Bar & Grill McLaughlin Run Road South Hills Golden Cue McLaughlin Run Road Botts Salon Dewey Avenue TA Robinson McLaughlin Run Road Washington Commons Dewey Avenue The Clayshooter McLaughlin Run Road Country Style Pizza Dewey Avenue

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Table 7-13: OTHER BUSINESSES IN BRIDGEVILLE BOROUGH (cont)

Business Name Location Business Name Location Edward Jones Co. Bower Hill Road Brewton Inc. Union Street Henry's Dari Delite Bower Hill Road Ceiling Systems Union Street Hopkins Chiropractic Bower Hill Road Market S.Network Union Street P J's Deli Bower Hill Road Newland Assoc. Union Street Premier Car Rental Bower Hill Road Radiac Abrasives Union Street Pro Tech Auto Glass Bower Hill Road Sihol Builders Union Street Raya's Pizzeria Bower Hill Road Universal Square Union Street

Unique Auto Bower Hill Road Wide Open Motor Sports Bower Hill Road Fatur, MD Shady Avenue Willard Generators Service Bower Hill Road The Grape Seed Nutrition Store Shady Avenue Progressive Insurance Shady Avenue Babettes Carol Avenue BBL Leasing Carol Avenue Eckerd Drug Store Chartiers Street Last Shot, Inc. Carol Avenue H&W Chiropractic Chartiers Street Porsche Specialist Carol Avenue Sports Haven Bowl Carol Avenue City Coin Murray Avenue

Aladdin Self Storage Commercial Drive Conomos Inc. Coulter & Station Great Lakes Warranty Corp. Commercial Drive

National Alliance Brokerage Commercial Drive Dreon Enterprise Greenwood Place Parc Way Industries Commercial Drive Shannon Safety Products Commercial Drive Herbert Feige & Co. Darby Way

Barufaldi Optical Hickman Street J M Productions Moore Ave Crawford Co. Hickman Street Studio U Hickman Street Pronto Auto Parts Prestley Road

Baskets, Baskets, Baskets Mill Street South Hills Cabinet Jane Way Ghelarducci Service Mill Street

Heaven on Earth Day Spa Mill Street X-Point Trading Company, Inc Werner Avenue TRR Enterprises Mill Street

7-14 Bridgeville Borough Comprehensive Plan Section 7: Economic Development

There are no business or industrial parks within the borough, however there are a number located within Allegheny County.

⇒ 79-North Industrial and Research Park—136.5 acres ⇒ Abele Business Park—15 acres ⇒ Airside Business Park—26.13 acres ⇒ Cherrington Corporate Center—143 acres ⇒ Foster Plaza—120 acres ⇒ Leetsdale Industrial Park—130 acres ⇒ Penn Center West—100 acres ⇒ RIDC Park West—500 acres ⇒ RIDC Thorn Hill Industrial Park—950 acres ⇒ Rockpointe Business AirPark—300 acres (with all 300 acres being a Keystone Opportunity Zone, KOZ) ⇒ U-PARC—85 acres

In addition, Southpointe Industrial Park is located only 10 minutes from Bridgeville in Washington County.

Business Assistance Resources

There are a number of groups that operate within Allegheny County that offer assistance to local and regional businesses available to residents and business owners.

Allegheny County Department of Economic Development The Allegheny County Department of Economic Development provides the municipalities in Allegheny County with technical assistance needed to attract and retain businesses in the county. The department has many programs to offer, one such program is the Business Expansion Network (BEN).

BEN is aimed at fostering growth among the area's existing employers by identifying companies that are poised to expand and create new jobs and connecting them with appropriate programs within the public sector that could help facilitate job creation.

BEN is a cooperative effort among three groups: existing employers with an interest in expanding; a network of professional service firms that can help to identify those businesses and bring them to the county's attention; and Allegheny County, which administers a variety of funding programs and works with other partner organizations to facilitate job growth and business expansion.

The Professional Service Provider Network (PSPN), a part of the Business Expansion Network, consists of law firms, accountants, investment advisors, and other business consultants in the region. PSPN members nominate companies that meet program criteria and may be eligible for public-sector support. The nominations are reviewed by the Allegheny County Department of Economic Development to determine what programs may be most appropriate.

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Eligible companies must employ at least 15 full-time workers, have been in business for at least five years with stable or growing revenue, and be committed to increasing the number of employees by at least 10 percent by creating new, family-sustaining jobs. Eligible businesses and activities include manufacturing, industrial, research & development, advanced technology and business services firms. Ineligible businesses and activities generally include retail operations. (http://www.county.allegheny.pa.us/ economic/ben.asp)

Redevelopment Authority of Allegheny County (RAAC) The Redevelopment Authority of Allegheny County was created in 1950, by the Allegheny County Board of Commissioners, and is located at 425 Sixth Avenue in Pittsburgh. The mission of the Redevelopment Authority is to assist in the generation, stimulation, and management of economic and community growth. The Authority achieves this mission by acquiring and preparing real estate for economic development activities; managing finances from various public sources; and facilitating the reuse of vacant, tax delinquent, or blighted property through the power of eminent domain. As an independent authority, the RAAC is governed by a volunteer Board of Directors, comprised of six members. RAAC's activities cover four areas: (www.county.allegheny. pa.us/economic/raac)

Economic Development Fund - RAAC is responsible for administering Allegheny County's $50 million low-interest revolving loan fund that was established in 1995 to create and retain jobs in the region. Since its inception, the program has created or retained an estimated 6,360 new jobs with a $43.8 million investment in local companies.

Redevelopment Projects - RAAC coordinates comprehensive plans with local municipalities and conducts economic feasibility studies to leverage County resources for redevelopment projects to benefit the local tax base. The authority recently administered a State Redevelopment Assistance Capital Grant for the Airside Business Park at Pittsburgh International Airport and is overseeing the redevelopment of the former Carrie Furnace Steel site in Braddock for a proposed National Park Service site dedicated to promote the region's rich steel making heritage.

Tax Increment Financing - RAAC manages tax diversion plans to finance public infrastructure improvements that allow redevelopment activities to take place. A portion of the new assessed value of the property creates new tax revenues that are used to pay-off debt issued to finance the improvements. The RAAC was instrumental in organizing a tax revenue sharing district between the municipalities of Homestead, Munhall and West Homestead for The Waterfront, a $300 million synergistic mix of commercial, retail and residential development.

Housing Redevelopment - The RAAC also aids the Department of Economic Development Housing Division initiatives with financing, business development, master planning and reclamation activities. Allegheny County is improving its

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housing stock through the administration of the Home Improvement Program of Allegheny County (IMPAC), Vacant Property Recovery Program, and large-scale housing redevelopment.

Greater Bridgeville Area Chamber of Commerce Established around 1928, the Greater Bridgeville Area Chamber of Commerce is located in Collier Township, just outside of Bridgeville Borough at 99 Washington Avenue. The Chamber serves what is called the “Greater Bridgeville Area,” which includes Bridgeville Borough, Collier Township, South Fayette Township, Scott Township and surrounding communities. Regular office hours are 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM, Monday through Friday. The Chamber can be reached at (412) 221-4100 and operates a website at: www.bridgevilleareachamber.org.

The Chamber is an independent organization but is a founding member of the Regional Alliance of Chambers (RAC), which includes Upper St. Clair and Peters Townships chambers. RAC was formed to provide a stronger voice for the region and sponsors four joint functions a year. The Greater Bridgeville Chamber is run by a 12 member board, elected by the membership, and has two paid staff and five volunteers. There are approximately 400 members in the Greater Bridgeville Area Chamber, although only a small percentage of businesses in Bridgeville Borough are members. The Greater Bridgeville Area Chamber of Commerce provides the tools to assist in the operation and promotion of local businesses. It can act as a resource to existing businesses as well as provide materials, contacts, and funding sources to new businesses. The Chamber also operates a scholarship program, providing $1,000 scholarship to each school district in the area. Their mission statement is the following:

⇒ Advocate growth and economic vitality to benefit its members and the communities it serves. ⇒ Advance the commercial, financial, industrial, and civic interests of its members. ⇒ Sustain a working partnership between businesses and government interests. ⇒ Promote the benefits of Chamber membership to businesses and concerned citizens.

Interviews with Chamber staff indicated that the key issue related to attracting businesses and developers into Bridgeville Borough is the lack of parking. Other issues identified include the appearance and signing of businesses, operating hours, and strict zoning districts that are not hospitable to economic development.

Bridgeville Community Development Committee Bridgeville Borough Council established the Business Community Development Committee in December of 2002 with the mission to make Bridgeville a more business friendly and pedestrian friendly community. Borough Council nominated seven business owners to the committee, which functions in a strictly advisory capacity to Borough Council.

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Workforce Development

Under the Workforce Investment Act of 1998, local Workforce Investment Boards (WIBs) approve training services for Individual Training Accounts based on occupations determined to be in demand. Local WIBs may also approve training courses based on additional information obtained via local sources.

The demand lists (see Table 7-5) can be useful tools for students, job seekers, and vocational counselors. They provide a guide for making informed career choices by identifying occupations that have a high potential for sustained demand or growth in the local area (PA L&I http://www.dli.state.pa.us/landi/cwp/view.asp?a=140&Q=161353).

Information regarding these programs and Individual Training Accounts may be obtained at your local Team Pennsylvania CareerLink (CareerLink). The following is a list of local CareerLink sites.

Pittsburgh/Allegheny County CareerLink 425 6th Avenue, 22nd Floor Regional Enterprise Tower Pittsburgh, PA 15219 Phone: (412) 552-7100

Allegheny West CareerLink 1950 Park Manor Blvd. Pittsburgh, PA 15205 Phone: (412) 809-3500

West Pittsburgh Partnership 37 Wabash Avenue Pittsburgh, PA 15220 Phone: (412) 922-2740

The Career Development Center 5743 Bartlett Street Pittsburgh, PA 15217 Phone: (412) 422-5627

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B. Analysis

Bridgeville Borough has felt the effects of the changing economy, which has occurred not only in Allegheny County and Southwestern Pennsylvania, but across the state. Once a residential suburb of Pittsburgh, Bridgeville has evolved into a thriving community with a strong commercial business district . As was the case with many communities in Southwestern Pennsylvania, residents of Bridgeville were affected by the decline of the manufacturing industries. The prevalence of large-scale shopping plazas, malls, and the “one-stop-shop” big box retail stores impacted the commercial base of Bridgeville, although Bridgeville’s commercial district is still very active, it is not quite the vital business center that it once was.

As a small, densely developed community with little or no room for new development, borough officials are charged with implementing innovate strategies that will retain and foster existing businesses. While economic development can be promoted and assisted by governmental and public entities, the real driving force must come from the private sector. In order to accomplish this, a focus of this plan was to actively engage both residents and business owners throughout the planning process to identify the current issues threatening the vitality of borough’s economic base and develop counter measures. As a part of this plan, residents and business owners were invited to participate in a community wide survey, economic development focus group, and a host of exercises at public meetings designed to collect input. This analysis builds upon the ideas expressed through these mediums.

At the beginning of the process, several key issues were identified regarding economic development within the borough. The identified issues are a result of information gathered through public meetings, stakeholder interviews, and other formats.

∗ Presence of big-box retail stores and shopping centers in close proximity to Bridgeville is detracting from the vitality of the downtown business district ∗ Businesses operating hours do not support economic growth ∗ Zoning ordinance requirements are not business friendly ∗ Parking within the borough does not support existing businesses nor new opportunities in the downtown ∗ Appearance of Main Street (Washington Avenue) and downtown business district should be more aesthetically pleasing

In order to gauge business owners’ opinions on issues regarding economic development, a number of questions were included on the public survey. When asked how often they visit the business district in the borough, about half of the respondents visit two or more times a week while the other half visit only rarely (less than twice a month). The majority of respondents who go to the business district, do so for professional services (medical doctors, attorneys, accountants, etc.), dining, and shopping. Residents seek areas outside of the borough for shopping, dining, professional services, personal services, special events, and employment. Retail and restaurants were the two highest rated responses regarding what type of development they would most like to see in Bridgeville. Full survey results can be

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found in Appendix C v.

The nationwide trend in retail shopping has shifted from downtown main street shopping to the larger malls and shopping centers. The close proximity of the Chartiers Valley Shopping Center and the Great Southern Shopping Center (within walking distance) combined with South Hills Village Mall, The Galleria, Raceway Plaza, Robinson Town Centre Mall, and Century III Mall (within a short driving distance), attracts shoppers away from the commercial retail stores in the borough. Bridgeville should conduct a market study that will inventory the businesses in the commercial district and identify niche markets that the borough can provide and support. In addition to the large number of professional services offered in Bridgeville, there are also a number of specialty stores unique to the area. The borough should identify these areas and capitalize upon the customers they attract.

Tourism is one of the leading industries in Pennsylvania and can be used as an economic development tool. Bridgeville should work in conjunction with surrounding communities to capitalize on historic attractions in the local region, such as the Veterans Cemetery in Cecil Township, Washington County. Other opportunities include Summer Garden Tours, Summer House Tours, and festivals focused around historic events that occurred in the region, such as the Whiskey Rebellion.

With 116 businesses operating in the downtown business district (comprised of Washington Avenue, Station Street and Railroad Street), there are not many vacant storefronts and buildings. Therefore, it is vitally important for the borough to identify the types of businesses it wants to attract for infill development as space becomes available. It is recommended that the borough initiate a well-planned infill development strategy with the assistance of the local business owners and economic development organizations in the region. Attention must be given to attracting businesses that compliment the existing economic structure in the borough.

Any economic strategy should at a minimum address the following elements:

∗ Identifying opportunities and developing recommendations for retrofitting buildings and sites to current standards, ∗ Conducting an analysis of vacant sites with strategies on how to market the sites to progressive, but complimentary firms, ∗ Suggesting standards for lighting, signage, and building facade and streetscape improvements that will create a unified visual appeal for new development, ∗ Defining the obstacles that exist to enhance businesses that presently are located in this central business district, ∗ Identifying traffic and parking issues, ∗ Determining what types of public investment are needed to assist in this process, ∗ Identifying the issues that could be of concern to local business owners such as public safety, lack of space, lack of a business organization, perceptions, community identity and proper mix of business types.

7-20 Bridgeville Borough Comprehensive Plan Section 7: Economic Development

One of the most common complaints heard throughout the planning process was that the stores downtown close too early. With a closing time of 4PM or 5PM, residents have expressed the opinion that business hours are not convenient to working residents. Commercial retail stores located in the nearby shopping plazas and malls are open later (usually around 9PM on weekdays) and allow for working residents to shop after work. Although it may not be feasible for the businesses downtown to remain open that late every night, the business owners could agree on one night a week to extend their business hours. By extending their hours, they would encourage more shopping in the downtown and could compete with the larger retail stores nearby. It is also recommended that business hours are extended when special events held in the borough.

A strategy developed by the business owners at the economic development workshop, held on January 8, 2004, is to form a Bridgeville business owners association. A summary of the workshop can be found in Appendix C vi. The association would provide a forum where the businesses owners can discuss issues particular and pertinent to the downtown. The association could conduct an open house that would rotate to different businesses each month. The Bridgeville Business Development Committee was formed by Borough Council to address many of these same issues and could become the foundation for forming this association. It is recommended that this association work with and possibly become an affiliate of the Greater Bridgeville Area Chamber of Commerce in order to avoid any duplication of services.

The Chamber of Commerce can be a valuable resource to local business owners in Bridgeville Borough and allow the downtown business owners association to focus solely on issues facing Main Street and the downtown. With a very small number of Bridgeville businesses belonging to the Chamber, the resources available to its members are not being fully realized by the local business owners. Steps should be taken to open communication and foster relationships with existing businesses and the Greater Bridgeville Area Chamber of Commerce and other local associations or economic development organizations.

In order to maximize the use of buildings downtown, this central business district should be the focus of mixed-use development efforts. Zoning districts should incorporate regulations to allow appropriate mixed-use development, with commercial businesses operating on the first floor and residential units on the remaining floors. This is discussed in greater detail in Section 10—Land Use.

Parking in Bridgeville was identified as being one of the key obstacles to economic vitality in the borough. While parking is addressed further in Section 5—Transportation, there are some issues pertinent to economic development that are discussed here. There is no “on street” parking in the downtown business district, while six public parking lots are scattered throughout the borough. The Parking Authority is aware of the lack of parking to support the business district and is in the process of identifying possible solutions, such as new sites for parking lots or the construction of a parking deck.

7-21 Bridgeville Borough Comprehensive Plan Section 7: Economic Development

The borough should conduct a parking study which would examine in detail the parking availability, capacity, and need within the borough. One possible strategy identified through the planning process would be to offer a satellite parking lot where shoppers could park, get on a trolley, which would loop through the downtown and into nearby shopping centers.

Steps should be taken to ensure better communication between the Bridgeville Parking Authority, Borough Council and business owners to ensure that all needs are being addressed to ensure the economic sustainability of the downtown business district. With better communication, creative strategies could be instituted that require less cost to each entity, such as businesses providing parking vouchers to shoppers, decreasing the hours that the meters are enforced or the Parking Authority providing free or discounted parking for special events or on certain days to encourage shopping.

Traffic congestion on Washington Avenue was also listed as a detriment to the borough. Washington Avenue is used by many commuters as a way to get to and from I-79. The fact that this street is only two lanes through the borough causes traffic to back up through this area, especially during peak hours in the morning and afternoon. The borough should conduct a traffic study in order to find appropriate methods to alleviate the traffic congestion. This topic is also discussed further in Section 5 of this plan.

One issue that was mentioned throughout the planning process was the presence of a business privilege tax in Bridgeville Borough. In 1986, Bridgeville Borough enacted a Business Privilege Tax Ordinance, under authority of the Local Tax Enabling Act (Pennsylvania Law 1257). The Business Privilege Tax Ordinance imposes a business privilege tax for the first tax year and annually thereafter for general revenue purposes on every person engaging in any business in the Borough. The rate of the tax on the gross receipts is two mills on each dollar of volume of the gross annual receipts, which means two dollars ($2.00) per one thousand dollars ($1,000.00) of gross receipts.

Some residents and business owners expressed the opinion that they felt the tax may serve to discourage new businesses from coming to Bridgeville and rather locate in the surrounding municipalities that do not have such a tax. It is recommended that the borough complete a cost / benefit analysis of the business privilege tax to examine the truth of this statement and whether or not it hinders growth and development within the borough. Bridgeville also imposes a mercantile tax on businesses. The mercantile tax was established in the borough in 1978 and applies to all persons engaged in business in Bridgeville. This tax is one and one-half (1 1/2) mills on each dollar of the whole volume of business transacted by retail dealers, and one (1) mill on each dollar of the whole volume of business transacted by wholesale dealers. When completing any cost / benefit analysis of taxes in the borough, Bridgeville officials should analyze both the Business Privilege Tax and the Mercantile Tax.

7-22 Bridgeville Borough Comprehensive Plan Section 8: Parks and Recreation

The provision of parks and recreation are not only vital to a community, but often lie at the very heart of the quality of life of a community. In order to become a place where people desire not only to visit, but also to live, a municipality must provide a recreational outlet. Bridgeville Borough is unique in that it offers not one, but four parks within its geographic boundary of only 1.1 square miles. The parks and recreation that Bridgeville offers have been noted throughout the public participation process as a strong asset to the community. This section will describe the current parks and recreational amenities available within the borough as well as make recommendations for areas of improvement. Each site has been field viewed and a recreation assessment form completed (these forms can be found in Appendix B). While not an recreation audit, the assessments completed can provide sound recommendations to borough council as to which sites and facilities should receive attention and which improvement projects should be pursued.

A. Existing Conditions

Administration

As stated earlier, Bridgeville Borough owns and maintains four (4) parks: Triangle Park, Cook School Park, Chartiers Park, and McLaughlin Run Park. The borough does not have a designated parks and recreation department, but has a parks and recreation committee through borough council. Three borough council members comprise the committee with one of the members acting as chairman. In the summer, the borough employs a resident of the borough to work as a part-time director for the summer recreation program. The parks and Triangle Park (Mackin Photo, 2003) recreational facilities are maintained through the public works department and are open to the public during the months of April through November. Parks are closed and entrances are gated and locked from December through March. Bridgeville parks are home to the Bridgeville Athletic Association.

Facilities

Triangle Park Located in the center of Bridgeville at the corner of Station Street and Railroad Street, Triangle Park is a small passive recreation park. The borough is currently completing a Triangle Park (Mackin Photo, 2003)

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survey of the park to establish the property lines and size of the park. Bounded by the railroad and a steep hillside, the park is a narrow grassy strip of land with a gazebo, picnic benches, and tables . Parking is available in the Railroad Street lot next to the park and the Bridgeville Public Library, that is owned by the Bridgeville Parking Authority with meters operating from 9AM to 9PM. The park is handicapped accessible, however no signing is present at the site. The gazebo is available to the public for rentals for special occasions and permits can be obtained in the borough building.

Cook School Park As the third largest park at 2.8 acres, Cook School Park is located along Cook School Road in a residential neighborhood of the Cooks School Park (Mackin Photo, 2003) borough. Facilities available at this park include a ball field, a basketball court, a swing set, play system, and a pavilion. A parking lot is available at the site containing 18 parking spaces, of which two are handicapped. Signing is present along Cook School Road indicating the name, location and hours of operation. The pavilion and ball field are available to the public for a rental fee. In the spring of 2005 restroom facilities will be available at the park as well.

Chartiers Park Located off of Chartiers Street along Chartiers Creek, the majority of this park is Chartiers Park (Mackin Photo, 2003) located within the municipal boundary of Upper St. Clair. At approximately 27 acres, Chartiers is the largest of the four parks. Recreational amenities offered include: two ball fields, a football / soccer field, a walking trail, horseshoe pits, playground equipment, a play system and a volleyball court; as well as three pavilions, indoor restrooms, a concession stand, and a maintenance shed.

Parking is available, with 75 to 100 spaces in the park, and signing is present at the entrance road to the park on Chartiers Street indicating the park name, location, and hours Chartiers Park (Mackin Photo, 2003)

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of operation. While the park is handicapped accessible with handicapped swings and an ADA compliant walking trail, the entrance road into the park is not. The pavilions, volleyball court, football / soccer field, and the ball fields are available for rent by the public. Chartiers Park is home to the Beadling Soccer Club as well as the Summer Recreation Program.

McLaughlin Run Park The second largest park, McLaughlin Run Park, is 14.5 acres and is located on McLaughlin Run Park (Mackin Photo, 2003) McLaughlin Run Road. Currently, the park offers one ball field, basketball courts, tennis courts, horseshoe pits, a pavilion, and restroom facilities. Parking is available at this site with over 30 spaces in two locations. Signing is present at the entrance and the park is handicapped accessible. The pavilion and ball field are also available to the public for a rental fee.

Private Recreation There are two ball fields located off of Dewey Street behind Bridgeville Commons.

Recreation Programming The Parks and Recreation Committee of Bridgeville Borough operates a summer recreation program. Instituted four years ago, the program is held during the second week of July, Monday through Friday from 9AM to 1PM, at Chartiers Park for borough residents ages 7 through 12. Activities offered to the children include, but are not limited to, arts and crafts and nature hikes. The cost is five dollars per child. As stated earlier, a program director is hired by the borough to run this program annually.

Recreation Organizations Bridgeville is home to the Bridgeville Athletic Association. The Association is overseen by a Board of Directors, which is comprised of a commissioner, president, vice president, treasurer, secretary, and six directors. The Association operates summer programs for children including t-ball (3 and 4-year olds), girls slow and fast pitch softball and boys baseball.

Chartiers Valley Youth Football Association provides a program for boys and girls in grades 3 through 6 who live in Bridgeville and the surrounding municipalities. The Association consists of three board members: president, vice president, and secretary / treasurer. The program is divided into two leagues: Junior Colts (5th and 6th grade students) and the JV (junior varsity) Colts (3rd and 4th grade students). Each division is comprised of two teams.

Bridgeville Community Association is an organization that sponsors various events in Bridgeville such as The Easter Egg Hunt, Community Day, Halloween Parade and Light Up Night. The association also sponsored the Bridgeville Centennial Yearbook.

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B. Analysis

The presence of outdoor recreation in Bridgeville is evident by driving or walking around the community. In only 1.1 square miles, the borough maintains four outdoor recreation parks. At the onset of the planning process, the project steering committee created community development objectives for this plan, which are all outlined in the introduction, and one of those objectives focuses on recreation:

Recognizing the value of recreation and the benefit it brings to a community and its residents, Bridgeville Borough places a strong emphasis on its recreation amenities. As stated in the community development objective, it is the goal of the borough to ensure that the recreation facilities and services provided meet the residents needs now and will continue to do so in the future.

A few questions were included on the public survey, which was mailed to all borough residents as a part of the planning process, that were designed to assess the residents feelings and attitudes regarding existing recreation facilities and services provided by the borough. Two of the questions asked what residents liked most and least about Bridgeville. Nine choices were provided and respondents were asked to rank their top four choices by priority. The nine choices include: Small Town Character; Location; Housing; Appearance; Road Network; Community Services; Special Events; Availability of Recreation; Availability of Jobs. In terms of what residents like most, the availability of recreation ranked last, tied with availability of jobs. When asked what they liked least, the availability of recreation ranked first.

Regarding the issue of whether or not the recreation programs and facilities in Bridgeville are adequate, 24.7% said yes compared to 32.0% that felt they are not adequate. Another 33.6% felt that the borough should offer different types of recreation. When asked what the elected officials should focus on, recreation/parks/open space/trails ranked fifth (out of a possible 11) behind traffic control, roads/parking, reuse/redevelopment of vacant sites, and public safety. Services. It ranked above property maintenance, business park/employment centers, water/sewer systems, senior housing, relationship w/ neighboring areas, and new housing.

When asked if residents were to move outside of Bridgeville, what issues would they look for in a new community, recreation ranked sixth (out of nine). Taxes, housing cost & availability, schools, availability / access to job, and local services were rated above recreation and roads, public water / sewage, and county services were rated below. Over 45% of the respondents stated that they would support partnering with neighboring communities regarding recreation. Full survey results can be found in Appendix C v.

8-4 Bridgeville Borough Comprehensive Plan Section 8: Parks and Recreation

Administration

One weakness identified by residents is that the borough has no separate, designated parks and recreation department. Parks and recreation are currently overseen by a parks and recreation committee as a part of borough council and facilities are maintained through the public works department. The borough should investigate the feasibility of developing a parks and recreation department, which could be a joint effort with neighboring communities. A parks and recreation department and / or a director of parks and recreation for the borough could provide better management of the facilities and services provided by the borough. If a department were to be created, personnel policies should be developed to provide working parameters for the department.

The borough should develop a policy manual for borough-owned parks that describe the hours of operation, renting procedures, order of importance for field usage, etc. It is also recommended that the borough complete a Comprehensive Recreation, Parks and Open Space Plan. The primary purpose of a comprehensive recreation, parks and open space plan is to inventory and evaluate existing recreation facilities and programs, as well as assess the recreational needs of residents. In addition to examining the facilities and programs, the administration, use, maintenance, and need for these facilities and programs is thoroughly analyzed. This plan would provide the borough with a prioritized implementation plan of recommendations for each of the plan elements.

Facilities

The following is the assessment of each of the four municipal parks located in Bridgeville. Assessments are based upon field views as well as public comment received during the planning process.

Triangle Park Triangle Park is a nice, well maintained passive recreation park. It’s location in the center of town and next to the public library allow for the potential to become somewhat of a cultural focus in the borough. Upon field view of the park, there is no signing present that indicates the parks name, location, or hours of operation. It is recommended that the borough place a sign at the park so that residents and visitors alike can identify this park with the name “Triangle Park.” Although small and linear in size, the park can be utilized as a central location for community events, such as Christmas Light Up Night.

Cook School Park Located in a primarily residential Cook School Park (Mackin Photo, 2003) neighborhood, Cook School Park is for the

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most part, in good condition. Signing is present on Cook School Road, however an additional sign could be placed along Bower Hill Road to direct more people to the park. Through the public participation process, the biggest issue that arose regarding this park is that there are no restroom facilities, only a port-a-john is present at the park. Although the basketball court and ball field need attention well beyond regular maintenance, the rest of the facilities are in good condition and parking appears to be sufficient. The borough has received a $15,000 grant and has plans to construct a building that will house restroom facilities, a concession stand, and be used as a storage shed for the borough.

Chartiers Park As the largest park, Chartiers has the most fields and facilities, is used by various recreation organizations, and is home to the Bridgeville Summer Recreation Program. While ample parking is available, a main concern facing the borough and residents is the entrance road into the park. Located off of Chartiers Park (Mackin Photo, 2003) Chartiers Street, this is the only access into the park and presents many obstacles to park goers. The road itself is very steep and extremely windy and there is poor sight distance when exiting the park and turning onto Chartiers Street. Residents have expressed a desire to see this issue resolved as well as developing additional entrances into the park. Although signing is present at the park entrance on Chartiers Street, additional signing could be placed near the intersection of Chartiers Street and Washington Avenue and other major intersections near the park to direct more visitors to it.

While the ball fields are in good condition, some of the playground equipment is outdated and in need of maintenance or replacement. The equipment would appear to not meet the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) standards for safe play equipment. Handicapped swings are available, although residents expressed the need for handicapped access to Chartiers Creek for fishing and other recreational activities. As Chartiers Park is somewhat isolated due to limited access and its location, there is a feeling that the park is unsafe.

It is recommended that the borough apply for funding to conduct a master site plan for Chartiers Creek Park, similar to the one that was completed for McLaughlin Run Park. The master site plan is a comprehensive site-planning tool to be used as a guide for short and long-term construction development based on the public goals and objectives for parks and recreation, in relation to the site, and in conjunction with current and future facilities of the borough. The implementation of the plan may be phased over a number of years to correlate with current public demand, available funding, and/or volunteer labor support levels.

As most of the park lies within the municipal boundary of Upper St. Clair Township, it is

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recommended that Bridgeville take steps to have ownership of this property transferred to the borough. This would require a ballot referendum held by both municipalities.

McLaughlin Run Park Through field views and interviews with residents, McLaughlin Park is in need of the borough’s immediate attention. Playground equipment is old and in need of maintenance and / or replacement and court surfaces are in poor condition. The park has also been the victim of vandalism, graffiti, etc. and residents have stated that the park is unsafe. McLaughlin Run Park (Mackin Photo, 2003)

In 2003, a master plan was completed for McLaughlin Run Park for the borough by their municipal engineer, Gateway Engineers Inc. The master plan outlined three phases of park improvements, totaling $900,000.

Figure 8-1: Conceptual Layout of McLaughlin Run Park (Gateway Engineers Inc.)

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The borough has filed for a grant with the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation of Natural Resources (DCNR) for $374,000 for phases one and two. Plans include the complete renovation of the tennis courts and the construction of three multi-purpose courts, a skateboard park, a sand volleyball court, four pavilions, a large indoor building containing a social hall, and a waterfall.

Figure 8-1 is a conceptual layout for the planned improvements to McLaughlin Run Park that is included in the master plan. The addition of a skateboard park will address some of the residents concerns that there needs to be more diversity in terms of facilities offered in the borough.

Trails

There are no trails within Bridgeville Borough. Residents expressed the desire to develop a trail within the borough and explore the possibility of connecting to the Montour Trail that is in the region. The Montour Trail Council’s headquarters are in the borough. The Comprehensive Recreation, Parks and Open Space Plan would identify potential areas to develop trails and greenways within the borough and connect the existing park system.

One option that Bridgeville may want to explore is the potential to designate Chartiers Creek as a water trail. Water trails are recreational corridors between specific locations and suitable for canoes, kayaks, and small motorized watercraft. They are unique and can capitalize upon the history of the region as well as promoting the conservation of natural resources. Economically speaking, water trails attract people to the area and local communities benefit.

The Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission is the sole agency to designate Official Pennsylvanian Water Trails. In order to have Chartiers Creek designated as a Water Trail, the cooperation of the surrounding municipalities is required along with a local group that is willing to enter into a five-year agreement with the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission for management and stewardship of the trail. Examples of groups that could be approached for sponsorship include the Greater Bridgeville Chamber of Commerce or the Western Pennsylvania Conservancy.

The Fish and Boat Commission is also working in a partnership with DCNR and the Pennsylvania Environmental Council (PEC). Bridgeville and the surrounding municipalities can receive funding and technical assistance from these entities in regards to developing a guide / brochure, signing, promotion, etc for a water trail.

Chartiers Park could be developed as a public access point and boat launch, while additional access points would be needed at least every ten miles along the trail. More information is available from the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission (www.fish.state.pa.us) and PEC (www.pecwest.org).

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Recreation Programming

While the Summer Recreation Program has been a success for four years, residents have expressed the need for additional programming suitable for people of all ages and during all seasons. Residents have cited the lack of a community center as a weakness in the borough in terms of recreation. A community center would allow for more programs all year round as well as a recreational outlet for residents of all ages.

In order to assess the needs and desires of community residents, the Recreation Board should conduct a community wide survey that is specific to recreation needs and services. This survey will provide a forum for communication between borough residents and borough officials.

As recreation programs can be costly to provide, the borough should pursue partnering with the private sector to provide certain programs. The borough could host the programs at one of their parks while a private entity provided the program. A method to assess what new programs should be developed is to create a youth advisory group that can report to the Recreation Board. The advisory group could be comprised of local youth who are tasked with relaying the desires of the community on a regular basis to the borough. This will keep borough officials in touch with the youth and can ensure that it is providing programs that the younger residents desire.

8-9 Bridgeville Borough Comprehensive Plan Section 9: Natural Resources

Determining how to preserve the environmental features of an area is an important step in the development of a comprehensive plan. Because the project area is almost completely built out and a densely populated community, it is essential to identify the natural features and the methods used to protect and conserve them.

The Natural Resource Section of this comprehensive plan will be consistent with and may not exceed those requirements imposed under the following:

(i) Act of June 22, 1937 (P.L.1987, No. 394), known as “The Clean Streams Law”.

(ii) Act of May 31, 1945 (P.L. 1198, No. 418), known as the “Surface Mining Conservation and Reclamation Act”.

(iii) Act of April 27, 1966 (1st SP.SESS., P.L.31, No. 1), known as “The Bituminous Mine Subsidence and Land Conservation Act”.

(iv) Act of September 24, 1968 (P.L.1040, No. 318), known as the “Coal Refuse Disposal Control Act”.

(v) Act of December 19, 1984 (P.L.1140, No. 223), known as the “Oil and Gas Act”.

(vi) Act of December 19, 1984 (P.L.1093, No. 219), known as the “Non-coal Surface Mining Conservation and Reclamation Act”.

(vii) Act of June 30, 1981 (P.L.128, No. 43), known as the Agricultural Area Security Law”.

(viii) Act of June 10, 1982 (P.L.12, No. 6), known as the “Nutrient Management Act,” regardless of whether any agricultural operation within the area to be affected by the plan is a concentrated animal operation as defined under the act.

A. Existing Conditions

Climate

The information for Bridgeville’s climate was acquired from the Pennsylvania DEP and is included in the Allegheny County data. Allegheny County has a humid continental climate. The average daily high temperature is 60º F , with January’s average the lowest at 35º F and July’s average the highest at 83º F. Annual precipitation in the county is 36-40 inches. Summers are generally warm and humid, with precipitation mostly showers. Winter is marked by a succession of freeze/thaw periods occurring every winter. Snowfall ranges from 30-50 inches.

9-1 Bridgeville Borough Comprehensive Plan Section 9: Natural Resources

Topography and Steep Slopes

Rolling hills and sometimes steep topography characterizes this portion of Pennsylvania as a result of the many streams and creeks cutting through the rugged plateau. The topographic relief, or slope of the region, ranges from 1,080 ft on the highest hilltop near the intersection of Missouri and Critchfield streets to the lowest point, which is 800 ft at Chartiers Creek.

Slopes greater than 25% are located in four locations throughout the study corridor. Land in excess of 15% begins to present challenges to development. Land over 25% should not be built upon and those between 15-25% should be built upon with extreme caution and they are particularly prone to landslides.

Refer to Figure 9-1: Development Constraints for steep slope locations.

Geology

Pennsylvania is divided into numerous physiographic provinces. A province is defined as a region in which all parts are similar in geologic structure, climate, relief, and have a unified geomorphic history. The study area is located in the Northwestern Glaciated Plateau Section of the Appalachian Plateau Province. This province covers much of western and southwestern Pennsylvania.

Deep, steep-sided, linear valleys that are partially filled with glacial deposits characterize this section. The uplands are broad and rounded.

The geological formations underlying the study area province are from the Pennsylvanian Period. The periods represents a different time period in the Earth’s geologic history. The specific rock groups and their locations are as identified in Table 9-1.

Table 9-1: SPECIFIC ROCK GROUPS AND FORMATIONS

Period Formation Description Location

Cyclic sequences of shale; siltstone; sandstone; red beds; thin, impure Southeast side of Casselman limestone; and thin, nonpersistant Pennsylvanian borough, away from Group coal. Red beds are associated with Chartiers Creek landslides. Base is at top of Ames limestone.

Cyclical sequences of limestone, Monongahela shale, sandstone, and coal; Northern and western Pennsylvanian Group commercial coals present; base is at areas of the study area. bottom of Pittsburgh Coal

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Mine Subsidence

Mine subsidence is defined by the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (PADEP) as the movement of the ground surface as a result of the collapse or failure of underground mine workings. In active underground mining methods, subsidence can occur concurrently with the mining operation in a predictable manner; however, in abandoned mines, it is virtually impossible to predict if, and when, subsidence would occur.

According to the PADEP, if a site or area has been undermined, there is always potential for mine subsidence. Currently, no methods exist to accurately predict the probability of an area to subside. More general information regarding mine subsidence, including information on mine subsidence insurance, is available on the PADEP Mine Subsidence Internet site (www. pamsi.org).

The majority of Bridgeville has been undermined. The areas that have not been undermined are located under Chartiers Creek and McLaughlin Run. Refer to Figure 9-1: Development Constraints for undermined areas.

Soils

Soil is produced through the interaction of five natural forces: climate, plant and animal life, parent material, topographic relief, and time. The degree and influence of each of these factors differ from place to place and influence characteristics of the soil.

General knowledge of the soil associations within an area is useful for planning. These associations can provide background information for determining suitable land uses for land tracts. In addition, this information is useful for watershed management, forestland management, and community development.

Two soil associations exist within the project area. The area along Chartiers Creek is within the Urban land-Philo-Rainsboro association. This association is deep, well drained soils and urban land on floodplains and terraces adjacent to major rivers. Urban land consists of areas where highly variable fill materials have been placed over soils of the flood plains. Most of this association is used for residential, commercial, and highway and railroad routes. When the natural soils are undisturbed the hazard of flooding and a seasonal high water table are limitations for use. Localized areas within developed areas also are a hazard to flooding.

The remaining area of Bridgeville is within the Culleoka-Weikert-Newark association. This association is shallow and moderately deep, well drained soils underlain by shale and limestone on uplands and deep, somewhat poorly drained soils on flood plains. Constraints related to this association are the hazard of flooding and steep slopes.

Prime Agricultural Soils

These areas have a mixture of soil and landscape attributes that are best suited for

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agricultural purposes. Prime agricultural soils are deep, with good internal drainage, and level or nearly level. This type of soil is sought by developers because of its good drainage and topographically level characteristics. Zoning ordinances and conservation easements could be utilized to assure future use is for agricultural purposes only. In addition, a program entitled Purchase of Development Rights exists within Pennsylvania that pays landowners for the development rights associated with their land. All the locations of prime agricultural soils in Bridgeville are already developed, so protection is not needed. Refer to Figure 9-1: Development Constraints for prime agricultural soil locations.

Hydric Soils

The analysis of hydric soils has recently become an important consideration when performing any type of physical analysis of the community. These soils are important to identify and locate due to the fact that they provide the approximate location where wet areas may be found. Hydric soils are classified as soils which are saturated with water. Wetland areas are lands where water resources are the primary controlling environmental factor as reflected in hydrology, vegetation, and soils. Thus, the location of hydric soils is one indication of the potential existence of a wetland area. The use of fill material has allowed extensive development of the hydric soils throughout the borough. Refer to Figure 9-1: Development Constraints for hydric soil locations.

Waterways

The major landscape feature for water resource studies is the watershed boundary. A watershed is defined by the US Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) as the area of land that catches rain and snow and drains or seeps into a marsh, stream, river, lake, or groundwater. Because watersheds are defined by natural hydrology, they represent the most logical basis for managing water resources. The resource becomes the focal point, and managers are able to gain a more complete understanding of overall conditions in an area and the stressors, which affect those conditions. This entails a strategy that crosses municipal boundaries and requires a great deal of coordination, cooperation, and communication within and between municipalities sharing the same watershed.

A watershed is the area of land where all of the water that is under it or drains off of it goes into the same place. Watersheds are delineated based on topography and ridgelines. Every stream has an individual watershed. Large watersheds such as the Chartiers Creek can be divided into smaller watersheds, such as the Painters Run watershed. If an unnamed tributary (UNT) flows directly into Chartiers Creek, then it is part of the Chartiers Creek

Table 9-2: STREAMS IN THE BRIDGEVILLE BOROUGH STUDY AREA

Stream Name River Mile Drainage Area (mi2) DEP Classification* Chartiers Creek 978.6 277.0 WWF McLaughlin 13.4 7.5 WWF Painters Run 12.9 4.4 WWF * As designated by Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection Chapter 93 Water Quality Standards; TSF = Trout Stocked Fishery; WWF = Warm Water Fishery; CWF = Cold Water Fishery; TON = Threshold Odor Number 9-4 Bridgeville Borough Comprehensive Plan Section 9: Natural Resources

watershed. If an UNT flows into Painters Run then it is part of the Painters Run watershed. Therefore, the UNTs located on the mapping are all a part of the larger Chartiers Creek watershed. A total of three streams exist in Bridgeville. Table 9-2 lists general characteristics of the streams.

Chartiers Creek, forms the largest watershed in the area, originates in the central area of Washington County and discharges into the Ohio River at McKees Rocks. According to the Chapter 93 Water Quality Standards, the PADEP designates this river as a Warm Water Fishery (WWF), meaning that this type of stream maintains and propagates fish species and additional flora and fauna that are indigenous to a warm water habitat. Photo 9-1: Chartiers Creek, Mackin 2004 Riparian buffers, areas of vegetation on and near the shore of a body of water, are extremely important to the stability of the ecosystem for numerous reasons. Riparian buffers function to slow the rate of stream bank erosion, reduce the sediment and pollution that enters the stream from the surrounding uplands, and provide cover and habitat for many plants and wildlife. Where Chartiers Creek flows through Bridgeville, stream bank vegetation is lacking to perform the aforementioned functions (Photo 9-1). Sediment currently cover the stream bank due to frequent Photo 9-2: Streambank sedimentation, Mackin 2004 flooding (Photo 9-2).

Non-Point Source (NPS) pollution is the greatest source of water quality degradation within the United States because it is difficult to measure and highly variable. These are sources that cannot be traced to a specific point of discharge or origin. NPS pollution is typically the result of adjacent land uses including storm water runoff, sedimentation, abandoned mine drainage, and lack of vegetated stream banks. Some sort of NPS pollution impacts many of the streams in the project area, and specific sources are identified and addressed throughout this section of this plan.

Sedimentation, a form of NPS pollution, may result from stream bank agricultural runoff, construction site encroachments, stream bank erosion, and sewage effluent. An excess of sediments can cause severe damage to aquatic ecosystems. Stream channels accumulate sediments resulting in an increased potential for flood events, which in turn creates an increase in stream bank erosion. Sediments can also result in increased turbidity or cloudiness of the waterway. Damage to aquatic life is also a result of sedimentation, including destruction of habitats, smothering of plant life, and clogging of gills on fish. Water treatment plants can also be affected by this accumulation through a reduction in

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storage capacity, a decrease in water quality, and blockage of pipes in the system.

Point source pollution, also known as end of the pipe discharge, occurs when the pollutant involved can be traced to one definable source. Typically these pollutants include industrial discharges and sewage discharges. A Lower Chartiers Creek River Conservation Plan (RCP) was completed in December 2001. The completion of this plan made this portion of Chartiers Creek eligible for listing on the Department of Natural Resources (DCNR) Rivers Registry (Upper Chartiers Creek completed a RCP in March 2003 and is now listed on the Rivers Registry). Being listed on this registry enables municipalities that officially adopt this plan eligible for financial assistance through implementation grants from the Pennsylvania Rivers Conservation Program.

Painters Run is a small watershed with a 4.4 square mile drainage area. The headwaters begin in Upper St. Clair Township and enters Chartiers Creek in the northeast corner of Bridgeville . PADEP Chapter 93 Water Quality Standards designate this stream as a WWF.

A field view was conducted to review the stream conditions of Painters Run. Sediment deposition is minimal; gravel, cobble, and boulder particles are evident. Little to no sign of stream bank erosion is present. In addition, the riparian buffer area contains sufficient vegetation to protect the stream bank and the quality of the water.

McLaughlin Run is a small watershed in the project area with a drainage area of 7.5 square miles. The headwaters begin in the Bethel Park and flow northwest where it enters Chartiers Creek in the northeast corner of Bridgeville. The PADEP has classified McLaughlin Run as a WWF.

A field view was conducted to review the stream conditions of McLaughlin Run. The streambed is in poor condition with cobble, and boulder particles, as well as fill material and household debris. The riparian buffer has poor to no vegetation and provides no streambank stabilization and toxicant retention. The banks are undercut and in spots channelized (Photo 9-3).

Floodplains Photo 9-3: McLaughlin Run, Mackin 2004

Floodplains are the low, flat, periodically flooded lands adjacent to rivers, lakes and oceans and subject to geomorphic (land-shaping) and hydrologic (water flow) processes. As distinguished from the floodplain, a river' floodway is the dry zone typically between levees, which is designed to convey flood waters. The 100 year floodplain is the area that has flooded an average of once every 100 years, and the 500 year floodplain is expected to be covered with water an average of once every 500 years.

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The one hundred and five hundred-year floodplains are generally narrow and restricted by the steep slopes that border some of the corridor. Still, there are areas at great risk for flooding at locations adjacent to Chartiers Creek. Flood management and insurance rates are coordinated through the National Flood Insurance Program. This program, which was established by the National Flood Insurance Act of 1968 and the Flood Disaster Protection Act of 1973, was an effort to reduce the damage and hazards associated with flood events. To accomplish these goals, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) conducts routine flood insurance studies, which investigate the severity and existence of flood hazards throughout the country. The results of these studies are then used to develop risk data that can be applied during land use planning and floodplain development. Refer to Figure 9-2: Hydrologic Resources for one hundred flood plains.

Wetlands

Wetlands can be defined as transitional layers between terrestrial and aquatic environments where the water table often exists at or near the surface, or the land is inundated by water (Cowardin, Carter, Golet, LaRoe, 1979). As such, wetlands frequently exhibit a combination of physical and biological characteristics of each system. Three factors are recognized as criteria for wetland classification: the presence of hydric soils; inundation or saturated conditions during part of the growing season; and a dominance of water-loving vegetation (Environmental Laboratory, 1987). Wetlands perform many valuable functions for a community, such as water retention, sediment trapping, toxic material retention, flood flow alteration, and wildlife and aquatic habitat.

One National Wetlands Inventory (NWI) wetland is located within the study area. Chartiers Creek is designated as a Lower Perennial wetland. Refer to Figure 9-2: Hydrologic Resources for the location of the NWI wetland.

Lower Perennial Wetland - The gradient is low and water velocity is slow. There is no tidal influence, and some water flows throughout the year. The substrate consists mainly of sand and mud. Oxygen deficits may sometimes occur, the fauna is composed mostly of species that reach their maximum abundance in still water, and true planktonic organisms are common. The gradient is lower than that of the Upper Perennial Subsystem and the floodplain is well developed.

Ecological habitats

Bridgeville Borough is mostly developed, wooded forestland is almost non-existent. The wooded forestland that still exists in Bridgeville is located in parks and on steep slopes.

In addition to large forested tracts being essential to wildlife habitats, riparian buffers are crucial to the quality of a stream. A riparian forest buffer is defined as an area of trees, usually accompanied by a scrub/brush component and other vegetation that is adjacent to a body of water. Many of these buffers have been eliminated during past development.

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Natural Heritage Areas According to the Allegheny County Natural Heritage Inventory, two areas near Bridgeville Borough are identified as “Natural Heritage Areas’.

Painter Run Slopes BDA, provides habitat for a population of a state rare plant species. This Special Species Habitat is a small, maturing Mesic Central forest which is located on the steep north facing slopes along Painters Run, a eastern tributary to Chartiers Creek. Painters Run joins Chartiers Creek near the northern borough boundary.

Mayview Valley BDA represents a High Diversity Area with notably significant examples of Mesic Central and Dry-Mesic Acidic Central Forest Communities. Both of these forest communities are small in size and are presently limited to the northwest facing slopes and uplands of the tributary valley that is situated to the east of Chartiers Creek along Morton Road, one mile south of Bridgeville. Sugar maple (Acer saccharum), white ash (Fraxinus americana), hackberry (Celtis occidentalis), American elm (Ulmus americana), and basswood (Tilia sp.) characterize the forest canopy while bladdernut (Staphylea trifolia), sessile trillium (Trillium sessilifolia), wild ginger (Asarum canadensis), bloodroot (Sanguinaria canadensis), Virginia waterleaf (Hydrophyllum virginianum), mayapple (Podophyllum peltatum), and violets (Viola spp.) characterize the diversity and richness of the shrub and ground layers. This forest community gradually changes as elevation increases and soils become drier and more exposed to the elements. The upper slope and upland areas are dominance by red oak (Quercus rubra), white oak (Q. alba), black oak (Q. velutina), American beech (Fagus grandifolia), and shagbark hickory (Carya ovata).

Invasive Plants Invasive vegetation can take over an ecological habitat and destroy the natural habitats. Any plant growing where it is not wanted and having objectionable characteristics, such as aggressive growth, or noxious properties that cause allergic reactions or poisoning are considered as invasive vegetation. The introduction of these invasive species dates back to the earliest arrivals of explorers and settlers to the region. Their ships were carriers of a wide variety of seeds and invasive animals. Seeds were present in hay bales, natural packaging, and in food products.

When invasive species become established in forestlands, on stream banks, or in wetlands, they tend to suffocate out native vegetation. This leads to the reduction of the biological diversity of the area; decrease in wildlife habitat or the area, and in some situations, the degradation of water quality and reduction of the recreational value of an area.

Japanese knotweed (Polygonum cuspidatum), shown in Photo 9-4, and multiflora rose bush (Rosa multiflora) thrive in disturbed situations and in edge areas where light levels are high and competition from woody plants is low. Japanese knotweed is most Photo 9-4: Japanese Knotweed, Mackin 2004

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prevalent along riverbanks and riparian zones. Once established, it forms large monospecific stands, which displace all native vegetation. These stands, which are extremely persistent, have been found to be virtually impossible to eradicate. Japanese knotweed is known to be along Chartiers Creek and is expanding its range. Multiflora rose is found along Chartiers Creek and McLaughlin Run.

Important Bird Areas (IBA) An Important Bird Area is a site that is recognized globally for its bird conservation value. The National Audubon Society administers this program in the United States and these areas are monitored by volunteer efforts. IBAs were established to promote habitat conservation by focusing attention on ways to avoid habitat fragmentation, suburban sprawl, and overbrowsing by deer. No IBA’s are located in Bridgeville.

Air Quality

Air pollution is the nation’s largest environmental health risk. Two hundred million tons of toxic emissions pollute the air in the United States each year. Much of this pollution is created by human influences, such as industry, power plants, cars, and trucks. Since air pollution is not confined to a specific area, it affects everyone.

Bridgeville is in the Southwest Pennsylvania Regional area, and is located within one of the 13 PADEP’s designated air basins—the Allegheny County Air Basin (PADEP, 2003). The Air Quality Index (AQI) for PADEP Southwest Region, which reports on levels of five major air pollutants: ozone, particulate matter, sulfur dioxide, carbon monoxide, and nitrogen dioxide daily, was below 50 when this plan was prepared, signifying the highest rating (good) on PADEP’s website. Numerous sources of air pollution including ozone (O3), nitrogen oxides (NOx), sulfur dioxide (SO2), methane, and fine particulates could affect this area. While each source is produced by different conditions, the burning of fossil fuels, automobile emissions, industries, and power plants are the primary producers of air pollution.

Agricultural Land / Open Space Preservation

The Agricultural Area Security Area Law (Act 43 of 1981) enables landowners to propose the creation of agricultural security areas (ASA) to local units of government. Agricultural security areas consist of 250 or more acres of viable farmland and may be comprised of multiple non-contiguous tracts of land at least ten acres in size. At least 50% of the soils on that land must have a soil capability class of I-IV, as determined by the USDA Soil Survey and zoning shall permit agricultural use, but need not exclude other uses. Incentives to encourage farming and to discourage development in these agricultural areas are provided by the Act. The Agricultural Area Security Area Law authorizes county governments to establish programs for the purchase of development easements. Another important feature of the act is that municipalities are prohibited from enacting laws / ordinances that unreasonably restrict farm practices within the agricultural security area. Bridgeville has no farmland nor any agricultural security areas .

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B. Anaylysis

Topography and Steep Slopes

Slopes are significant factors when determining the extent and type of development to be planned. Land along the river and streams with very little slope is usually also determined to be floodplain, lacking good drainage and poor soils. Land with slopes in excess of 25 percent begins to present problems for development. Valley sides are usually moderately steep except on the upper reaches of streams where the side slopes are fairly gentle.

As shown on Figure 9-1, there are few areas in the borough that have steep slopes. Steep slope regulations prevent buildings and structures from being built on areas identified as having a slope above 25%. The intent of such regulations is to prevent injury or financial loss and to maintain adequate foliage cover on hillsides and preserve open space. Steep slope regulations prevent construction on areas deemed landslide prone by the municipal engineer. Slopes of 25% or greater should be considered for development only if other environmental factors allow development. Slopes exceeding 40% should not be considered for development.

Soils and Geology

In terms of planning efforts, soils are important in determining the suitability of a site for on- lot sewage disposal systems, development opportunities, and areas of high agricultural productivity. Soils usually vary throughout a given profile and are rarely uniform throughout a site. It should be noted that soil testing to determine the soil permeability, bearing capacity, and drainage should be conducted on every development site.

The make up of the soils and geology of a region have a large impact on the suitability of a site or area for development. Soils determine the ability of a site to absorb and filter the effluent from septic systems, the suitability for the construction of foundations or other types of structures, the cost of building roads, and the appropriate type of landscaping. Soil surveys should be checked for suitability with every development project, whether residential, commercial, or industrial in nature.

Waterways

Water quality monitoring will help to identify the quantity and degree of pollutants and begin to focus on clean up efforts where needed most. Development along streams can result in major impacts to the water resources of the region. Riparian buffers should be maintained and replanted where feasible and reasonable. The removal of riparian buffers results in adverse affects on water quality, wildlife and aquatic habitat, stream bank stabilization, and aesthetics of the waterway.

Through Bridgeville Borough, the streambank along McLaughlin Run does not provide the desired functions of a riparian buffer. Vegetation exists along the banks; however, in many

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erosion occurring along portions of the stream in the residential / commercial areas.

The Lower Chartiers Creek River Conservation Plan (Chartiers Nature Conservancy, 2001) provides many recommendations regarding the natural resources outlined in this comprehensive plan. Incorporating these recommendations should be a priority when considering planning for future development, conservation, remediation, and preservation areas within the municipality.

Floodplains

Whenever development occurs in close proximity to a stream, the developer must be aware of the designated floodplain. Buildings and other structures proposed within the floodplain should be either elevated or flood-proofed to or above the elevation of the floodplain. FEMA floodplain mapping should always be consulted prior to approving any development within the region.

Floodplain overlay districts are created to restrict development within areas that are designated as flood prone areas. A floodplain is defined as any land adjoining a river or stream that has or may be expected to be inundated by floodwaters in a 100-year frequency flood. Regional approaches are encouraged when addressing watershed flood plain planning as watershed boundaries cross municipal boundaries. Sections 604, 605 and 609 of the MPC address floodplain management and zoning. It is recommended that floodplain overlay district be developed. This district regulates, restricts or prohibits certain uses within the flood plain.

Wetlands

River wetlands perform several functions including the retention and gradual release of floodwaters and bank stabilization. Wetlands slow flooding by limiting the movement of water through the wetland, increasing retention time, and allowing water to infiltrate into the soil. When floodwaters recede, these wetlands function to gradually release stored water back into the river. Along with forested and riparian corridors, the root systems associated with herbaceous and scrub/shrub wetland vegetation anchors the otherwise unstable alluvial soils of the riverbank.

These ponds serve several functions: water retention, sediment trapping, toxic material retention, flood flow alteration, and wildlife and aquatic habitat. Due to increased development in the region, wetlands are being impacted and loss of habitat and functions is resulting. Efforts should be made to preserve and maintain these systems for future benefits.

Ecological Habitats

Numerous areas, including both public and private lands, could be forged into ecological habitat dedicated protection areas through a variety of landowner agreements, easements, special programs (like the PGC Public access and safety zone programs) or a combination of

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methods. Ultimately, areas set aside now will be the exemplary natural areas of the future, and if planned well and of sufficient size, will become premier areas for biodiversity protection within the region.

Forest lands, stream valleys, and other natural areas will continue to be lost to development if no steps are taken to preserve them. Preserving and enhancing the ecological integrity of the region lies within the ability and commitment of the local governments, public and private agencies, citizens groups, and landowners to agree on specific conservation goals and work together to see them accomplished.

Riparian buffers, areas of vegetation that are maintained along the shore of a water body to protect stream water quality and stabilize stream channels and banks, are essential to good water quality and aquatic habitats. These areas of tree buffers surrounding bodies of water should be preserved or replanted where feasible. Riparian buffers provide additional benefits to landowners and the larger community by:

• Safeguarding water supplies by protecting groundwater recharge areas • Providing flood control • Providing stormwater management potential – natural vegetation provides a basis for innovative stormwater management systems. Stormwater flows from retention basins can be directed to, and allowed to flow through forested buffers to reduce nutrient and sediment loads. • Improving the health of cities, boroughs, and townships by improving water and air quality. • Stimulating economic opportunities such as by providing valuable open space, which may increase land values and, therefore, the tax base. • Providing some federal tax incentives to landowners (depending on a landowner’s financial situation) willing and able to place some of their lands under conservation easements. • Cost savings by reducing grounds maintenance. • Providing recreation opportunities, and associated economic benefits for recreation-related businesses. • Providing educational and research opportunities for local schools and colleges. • Providing windbreak, shade, and visual buffer.

Air Quality

A local producer of air pollution, particularly fine particulates, is residential open burning. Fine particulates are extremely small dust particulates that float in the air. These particles can cause health problems from coughing and eye irritation to damaging lungs, kidneys and the liver.

It is not uncommon across Pennsylvania, including the southwestern portion of the state, to find burn barrels in back yards. This technique has been used for decades to reduce the waste in landfills and is legal under the Air Quality regulations. Open burning is allowed on

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the property of private residences where not more than two families are living. However, the waste can not include demolition waste, home insulation, shingles, treated wood, paint, painted or stained objects, tires, mattresses, box springs, metal, insulted rubber coated copper wire, television sets or appliances, automobiles or parts, and batteries. These items must be disposed of according to the solid-waste regulations.

Other issues related to open burning are left up to the municipal officials. The municipality, under state law, has the right to enact an ordinance with requirements that are equal to or more stringent that state regulations. In today’s society, burning should be minimal. Most waste can be recycled or a commercial hauler can dispose of it properly.

Other sources that contribute to air pollution within or nearby the study area include emissions from car and trucks. Vehicle emissions contribute to health and environmental problems such as urban smog, air toxics, and global warming. Because a high volume of trucks travel SR 50 through the center of Bridgeville, diesel fuel exhaust has an impact on air quality in the borough. The USEPA and the PADEP have several programs in place to tighten emission requirements, produce cleaner fuel, and utilize alternative fuels.

Agricultural Land / Open Space Preservation

As stated earlier, Bridgeville Borough has no agricultural security areas nor any land rural in nature. Bridgeville is almost entirely built-out, with little room for new development. Future planning initiatives including zoning amendments should identify existing open space and greenways within the borough and take measures to preserve these in the future.

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The land use plan for Bridgeville Borough discusses three main elements: existing land use inventory, land characteristics and coverage; the future land use plan; and local land use controls. The existing land use inventory, land characteristics and coverage involves inventorying and identifying the existing land uses within the community. Parcel-based data was used as a base map and the current land uses were identified through a series of field views. The future land use plan identifies probable land use patterns based upon current trends, growth patterns, and natural development constraints. Local land use controls are discussed, both ones that Bridgeville has in place as well as other land use ordinances that may be suitable for the future.

A. Existing Conditions

EXISTING LAND USE INVENTORY

With only 1.1 square miles and 5,341 residents, dense development is characteristic of Bridgeville Borough and residential—single family is the prevalent land use. The borough is a built-out community with little room for expansion. Figure 10-1: Existing Land Use presents a map of existing land uses in Bridgeville Borough.

The following land use categories and corresponding descriptions were used in the existing land use inventory:

Commercial: Included are areas used by private individuals or by organizations for capital gain, which may include retail shopping, automotive, financial, professional, governmental and miscellaneous recreational and service activities to which the public requires direct and frequent access. The central business district is located along Washington Avenue, while smaller districts are located on Station Street, Railroad Street and Baldwin Street in addition there are scattered Railroad Street., Mackin 2003 commercial properties throughout the borough.

Community Facilities: Sites containing any building or structure owned or operated by a governmental agency or nonprofit community service provider open for public uses with or without a fee that provides a service to the public. Included in this category are municipal offices, fire departments, ambulance providers, police departments, post offices, and churches. There are no large concentrations of community facilities within Bridgeville Public Library, Mackin 2003 Bridgeville Borough.

Industrial—Light: Sites involved in such activities as construction, car demolition, warehousing and light manufacturing. The majority of light industrial uses are on Commercial Drive and there is a small light industrial area at the corner of Coulter and Hickman Streets.

Bridgeville Warehouse, Mackin 2003

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Industrial—Heavy: Included are uses such as factories, mills, and earth moving or excavation and transportation companies. The only heavy industrial area in the borough is Silhol Builder’s Supply located at the intersection of Bower Hill Road and Union Street.

Industrial business in Bridgeville, Mackin 2003

Open Space: Open space is defined as unimproved land or developed land that is not built upon or substantially altered which can be publicly or privately owned. These areas may have important ecological functions, natural resources, or cultural resources that are worthy of conservation and protection. As a built out community, there is not a large concentration of open space. The majority of land classified as open space are small pockets of

undeveloped land in residential areas. Open space in Bridgeville, Mackin 2003

Residential—Single Family: This category includes all dwellings used for single-family residential purposes. Residential property accounts for the largest percentage of land use in the project area, with the majority classified as single family residential.

Residential—Two-Family: This category includes all dwellings used for two-family residential purposes (duplexes). Found sporadically in the midst of single family residential areas, duplexes do not comprise a large Single Family Homes in Bridgeville, Mackin 2003 percentage of housing types in the project area.

Residential—High Density: This category includes dwellings inhabited by three or more families (apartments, town homes). Bridgeville does have several large apartment buildings, the majority of which are senior facilities. More information about the senior facilities can be found in Section 6: Housing. Bridgeville Duplex, Mackin 2003 Residential / Commercial: This category includes land that is for both commercial and residential uses. Land classified as residential / commercial are comprised primarily of businesses operated out of a home and buildings that have commercial use on the first floor and housing units on the second and third floors. There is not a lot of this type of development in Bridgeville due to the fact that the zoning ordinance does not easily permit it. Goodwill Manor, Mackin 2003

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Recreation: Land currently used for passive or active recreation purposes. There are four recreation areas in the project area: Chartiers Park, McLaughlin Run Park, Cook School Park, and Triangle Park. Triangle Park is a small passive recreation park located in the heart of the central business district while the other three parks are larger active parks located on the outskirts of the borough.

Transportation: This category includes land that is primarily used for Cook School Park, Mackin 2003 the movement of goods and services within a community, including public and private parking lots. The railroad right-of-ways are classified in this category and the parking lots owned and operated by the Bridgeville Parking Authority are identified on Figure 5-2: Local Transportation.

Vacant Commercial: This category includes land that was used as for commercial uses in the past but is no longer open for business. There are not a lot of vacant businesses in the borough. The ones that due exist are scattered throughout the business districts.

Vacant Land: This land category is defined as that land which has been developed but currently has no structure. Vacant land Parking Lot #2, Mackin 2003 is not prevalent in the project area.

Vacant Residential: This land category is defined as that land which has been developed for residential uses but is currently unoccupied. As most of this data was collected through a windshield survey, the only land categorized as vacant residential were those homes that were visibly recognized as being unoccupied from the outside. It does not appear that there are a lot of vacant residences in the borough.

Table 10-1 identifies the percentage of each land use classification in terms of acres for Bridgeville. These classifications are reflective of those on the existing land use map on Figure 10-1: Existing Land Use. The majority of the existing land use in Bridgeville Borough is being used as single family residential, with 63.1 percent of total available land being used in this capacity. Open space is the second highest category at 14.7 percent. There are a few large wooded areas such as the areas along Union Street, but the majority of open space is small parcels scattered throughout the borough.

Commercial is the third highest land use at 7.8 percent. While this is a relatively small number, it does not reflect the number of businesses due to the fact that the percentages were calculated based on parcel size. A large number of businesses share parcels, such as Bridgeville Plaza and Norwood Center on Station Street.

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Table 10-1: PERCENT LAND USE Land Use Percent Residential - Single Family 63.1 Open Space 14.7 Commercial 7.8 Parks and Recreation 3.8 Residential - Multi-Family 3.1 Community Facility 2.0 Residential - Two-Family 1.2 Industrial - Heavy 1.1 Industrial - Light 0.9 Transportation 0.7 Residential / Commercial 0.5 Vacant Commercial 0.5 Vacant Residential 0.3 Residential / Vacant Commercial 0.2 Vacant Land 0.1

LOCAL LAND USE CONTROLS

A comprehensive plan provides a logical basis for zoning and other land use ordinances. However, plans are dependent upon local laws, ordinances and private actions to implement the concepts and recommendations set forth in the plans.

The Pennsylvania Municipalities Code (MPC) defines “land use ordinance” as “any ordinance or map adopted pursuant to the authority granted in Article IV, V, VI, and VII.” Land use ordinances are legislative actions exercised by the governing body of a municipality. As such, there are four types of land use ordinances:

∗ Official Map ∗ Subdivision and Land Development (SALDO) ∗ Zoning ∗ Planned Residential Development Provisions (PRD) as part of the zoning ordinance

The most common methods of land use control used by municipalities are zoning ordinances and subdivision and land development ordinances. Bridgeville has enacted a Zoning Ordinance, containing provisions for PRDs as well as a SALDO.

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Zoning

Zoning is a land use tool that allows a community to regulate the use of land and the location and intensity of development. A zoning ordinance is used to protect the public health, safety and welfare as well as guide growth. It also is designed to regulate and promote the following:

∗ Uses of land, water courses and other bodies of water; ∗ Size, height, bulk and location of structures; ∗ Areas and dimensions of land to be occupied or to be unoccupied by uses and structures; ∗ Density of population and intensity of use; ∗ A variety of residential dwelling types; ∗ All basic forms of housing; ∗ Protection of natural resources and agricultural land; and ∗ Reasonable overall community growth

Bridgeville Borough adopted their ordinance in 1988 with the most recent amendments and revisions occurring in 2001. The borough is divided into eight (8) zoning districts, as outlined below (see Figure 10-2: Bridgeville Borough Zoning Map).

∗ Business ∗ General Business ∗ Office ∗ Conservation ∗ Industrial ∗ Residential—Single Family ∗ Residential—Two Family ∗ Residential—Multi-Family

Subdivision and Land Development Ordinances (SALDO)

As the second most commonly used land use ordinance in Pennsylvania (other than the zoning ordinance), the SALDO contains regulations for the creation of new lots or changes in property lines as well as the construction of public or private improvements to land. A SALDO offers municipalities a degree of protection against unwise, poorly planned growth. Subdivision regulations are designed to:

∗ Ensure a well-designed subdivision or land development; ∗ Set minimum standards for the layout or design of developments; ∗ Promote coordinated development; ∗ Insure the installation of necessary improvements; ∗ Minimize existing or foreseen problems; and ∗ Manage storm water runoff and erosion.

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Bridgeville Borough adopted their subdivision and land development ordinance in 1970 with the most recent amendments in 1995.

Official Map

An Official Map is a land use ordinance that a municipality adopts to implement recommendations in a comprehensive plan. It is a declaration by the governing body of the projected areas a community needs for public purposes at some point in the future. An Official Map is prepared and adopted in accordance with procedures set forth by Article IV of the MPC. It can provide the following:

∗ A focus for various agencies and boards to identify needed road improvements or widenings, wellhead protection areas, parks, playgrounds and sites for other public purposes; ∗ Help implement the comprehensive plan and capital improvement program; and ∗ Allows for municipalities to reserve private land for certain future public uses.

Planned Residential Development (PRD)

A PRD is a land use control device that combines elements of both the zoning and subdivision and land development ordinances by bringing together mixed residential and non-residential development and open space and recreational facilities. The fundamental idea behind a PRD is for the municipality to establish certain overall density, water supply, sewage disposal, and percentage of open space standards, and the permission for the developer to develop with considerable flexibility within these established criteria. A PRD should be an option only if the developer meets certain criteria. It should not be a form of development specifically mandated by a general ordinance (Governor’s Center for Local Government Services, 2001).

Codes

The adoption of various construction, property maintenance and fire prevention codes has been increasingly recognized as a tool to promote public health, safety and welfare. Codes establish minimum standards for safety to life, health and property. To be effective, the administration of building construction or maintenance codes must be coordinated with zoning regulations or other municipally related programs (Governor’s Center for Local Government Services, 2001). There are four basic types of codes:

∗ Building Code—basic regulation for new construction in the community, the most common is the “BOCA” code (published by the Building Officials and Code Administrators International, Inc.). It also regulates the expansion, alteration and repair of existing structures. ∗ Plumbing and Electrical Codes—used to supplement building codes which control more detailed requirements related to plumbing and electrical systems. ∗ Fire Protection Code—provides for the inspection of existing structures for the purpose of identifying hazardous conditions and provides for the issuance of permits

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for certain specific hazardous uses which are to be located in a building or structure. ∗ Property Maintenance Code—sets responsibilities for cleanliness of structures, for the disposal of garbage and rubbish and for other activities needed to keep the structure and surrounding area in livable condition.

As described further in Section 5—Community Facilities, Bridgeville currently operates under the BOCA code and contracts a third party for enforcement. Beginning in the summer of 2004, however, Act 45, the Uniform Construction Code (UCC), will govern all building codes across the Commonwealth. Under Act 45, local municipalities will be mandated to adopt the UCC and determine how it will be administered and enforced. Municipalities can decide if they will “opt in” and administer and enforce the UCC themselves (or, through a third-party agency) or if they will “opt out”, in which case the Department of Labor and Industry (Department of L&I) will be responsible for administration and enforcement. Although some municipalities currently have building code ordinances, unless these meet and/or exceed UCC requirements, the existing codes will become null and void.

As was mentioned, the UCC will take effect in 2004, and a 90-day municipal opt-in, opt-out period will run from mid April 2004 through mid July 2004. At the time of the adoption of this document, Bridgeville Borough had decided to opt-in to the UCC.

Implications to municipalities that “opt in” include identifying the appropriate person to administer and enforce the UCC, provide certification and ongoing training, and establish the UCC Appeals Board. If a municipality would “opt out”, non-residential construction compliance would be provided by the Department of L&I, while one and two family residential construction compliance will be the responsibility of the property owner (and completed by a certified third-party agency).

Even though there are not very many new developments presently occurring in Bridgeville, the UCC is still important to the community because it governs all types of construction including renovations, residential conversions, additions, etc.

Bridgeville also enforces plumbing and electrical codes as well as fire codes through the third party code enforcement agency. Currently the borough manager enforces the property maintenance code.

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B. Analysis

FUTURE LAND USE PLAN

The future land use plan is a tool that is meant to guide the way land resources are used and provide a blueprint that can manage future growth. The future land use plan becomes the foundation for updating current land use controls, such as zoning ordinances. Figure 10-3: Future Land Use Map depicts the future land use scenario for Bridgeville Borough. The map was developed based upon current and predicted growth trends, public input, and environmental development constraints (see Figure 9-1), such as floodplains and wetlands.

Through the planning process, the following goals were identified as being the most important for Bridgeville in terms of future land use planning:

∗ Revise the current zoning ordinance to allow more flexible zoning ∗ Identify vacant and underutilized property and determine their best use ∗ Ensure future planning efforts encourage infill development and the reuse of existing structures

Based upon these goals, public input and information gathered throughout the planning process, the following definitions were developed.

The future land use categories include the following:

Residential—these areas are characterized primarily by single-family homes in an urban environment. Infill development, which is redevelopment within existing developments, is encouraged in these areas. The majority of land in Bridgeville is recommended for this category.

High Density Residential—development in this area should be geared toward multi-family residential such as condominiums, garden apartments and town homes. The area bounded by Hickman Street to the north and west, Chess Street to the east, and Chartiers Creek to the south has been identified as suitable for this type of development due to the fact that this area is adjacent to the central business district and the major transportation arteries.

Housing Revitalization—efforts in these areas should be focused on property maintenance issues and code enforcement. Bower Hill Road from approximately Bluff Street to approximately Ridge Road as well as Union and Terrace Streets have been identified for inclusion into this category.

Industrial—areas for the development of lands to be used by industries that have high standards of performance and that can locate in close proximity to business uses, and in locations convenient to residential areas, without creating nuisances. Industrial development should be concentrated on Commercial Drive and the area of located near the intersection of Hickman and Coulter Streets.

10-8 Bridgeville Borough Comprehensive Plan Section 10: Land Use

Recreation Enhancement Area—land uses that include private and publicly owned parks and recreation lands for active or passive recreation activities / facilities. Fishing areas in the streams could also be developed in these areas, especially along Chartiers Creek in Chartiers Park.

Recreation Enhancement areas for Bridgeville include all four parks (Chartiers, McLaughlin Run, Cook School and Triangle) as well as the undeveloped land located on the opposite side of I-79. This property currently has no infrastructure, and would be ideal for a passive recreation area with a trail leading into the property.

Corridor Enhancement Area—an area designated to provide a mix of residential, office and commercial activities normally associated with the downtown area. Future development in the downtown area of Bridgeville Borough should be limited primarily to reuse of structures or infill development due to the fact that Bridgeville is primarily built-out and there is not a lot of opportunity for new developments. Vacant buildings or lots can be reused to better benefit the community. Infill development and utilizing vacant lots coincide with the land use goals, which were mentioned earlier and identified as high priority for Bridgeville during the planning process. Tools such as Business Improvement Districts, streetscape plans, weed and seed programs and design guidelines should be utilized in these areas.

Corridor enhancement areas for the borough include McLaughlin Run Road, Bower Hill Road from Union Street to McLaughlin Run Road as well as the existing business districts on Washington Avenue, Baldwin Street, Railroad Street and Station Street.

In March of 1984, the Redevelopment Authority of Allegheny County completed a redevelopment plan for Bridgeville Borough. The project was a cooperative effort by the Borough of Bridgeville, the Bridgeville Parking Authority, the Redevelopment Authority of Allegheny County and the Pennsylvania Department of Community Affairs (now known as the Department of Community and Economic Development). The target area of the plan consisted mainly of the Washington Avenue and Baldwin Street corridors and included provisions for acquisition, demolition, relocation, storm sewer improvements, rehabilitation, and public improvements. The purpose of the project was to:

1. Alleviate deterioration and blight; 2. Prevent further structural deterioration; 3. Increase off-street parking; 4. Alleviate flooding problems; and, 5. Improve aesthetic quality.

The redevelopment project was 63 acres in size and a mixture of vacant land, residential, commercial, industrial, semi-public and public land uses. The proposed land uses for the area consisted of mainly commercial – business along Washington Avenue between Chartiers Street and Bower Hill Road and commercial – general business between Bower Hill Road and the northern boundary. McLaughlin Run Road was slated for commercial – office on the west and industrial on the east while Baldwin Street was slated for entirely commercial – general business.

10-9 Bridgeville Borough Comprehensive Plan Section 10: Land Use

Throughout the planning process, Baldwin Street was mentioned as a possible historic district due to its status as the original business district in Bridgeville. Many discussions were held on this issue with both municipal officials and the public and field views were conducted of the area to determine the suitability of this designation. While a historic district offers many benefits to the community, there are no structures within the area that have significant historic value and Baldwin Street was originally targeted as a redevelopment area. While the Redevelopment Plan is no longer in effect due to the fact that 20 years has expired since the plan’s inception, it is recommended that the Borough review the plan and define to what extent the plan’s recommendations are still valid. The borough should focus on the redevelopment of Baldwin Street and market the area as the town’s first business district to capitalize upon the history of the area without the restrictions that a historic district designation would impose.

Conservation Area—land that should be conserved as open space and undeveloped. The conservation areas identified are the wooded area along Ridge Road between Cook School Park and McLaughlin Run Park, the wooded land at the end of Union Street and the undeveloped land near Critchfield Drive.

Buffer Area—a strip of land that is planted and maintained in shrubs, bushes, trees, grass, or other landscaping material and within which no building or structure is permitted, and is designed to protect adjacent areas (such as a waterway or residential development) as well as create a visual and / or physical barrier between land uses. Buffer areas should be established around the creeks in Bridgeville as well as the area between the industrial development on Union Street and the residential areas on Terrace and Union Streets.

10-10 Bridgeville Borough Comprehensive Plan Section 10: Land Use

Opportunity Sites

Through public participation, a number of opportunity sites were identified in Bridgeville Borough for a variety of uses, including redevelopment and new parking opportunities. These sites are listed below and are identified on Figure 10-4: Opportunity Sites.

1. Vacant land between I-79 and Chartiers Creek—This land was identified as possible public open space, a trail, or some form of recreation (such as a passive park) for the community. 2. High density residential opportunity area—This area was identified as appropriate for some type of multi-family or higher density residential units such as garden apartments, town homes or condominiums. 3. Abandoned railroad corridor—This parcel was identified as a possible site for a multi-level parking structure to serve Washington Avenue, Station Street, Railroad Street, and Baldwin Street business districts. 4. Washington Avenue corridor—This corridor was identified as an economic development opportunity, which would include streetscape improvements as well as marketing for new businesses. 5. Vacant lot—This parcel was identified as a key piece of property due to its location at an entry point into the borough. 6. Rear lots along Baldwin Street corridor—These parcels were identified as areas that needed façade improvements and clean-up due to the fact that one of the borough’s major transportation routes, Bower Hill Road, faces these lots. 7. Baldwin Street corridor—This corridor was identified because it was the borough’s original business district and many of the commercial buildings have fallen into disrepair and / or are vacant. 8. McLaughlin Run Road corridor—This corridor was identified for economic development due to the poor condition of many of the buildings. 9. Eckerd Development block—This block was identified because it is at one of the main entry points into the borough and Eckerd is in the process of building a store at this location. 10. Parking Deck opportunity at back of Lot #2 11. Undeveloped land (3 acres)—This areas was identified due to its location (it is at the end of Commercial Street, which has a number of light industrial and commercial buildings) and the fact that it is one of the few developable parcels left in the borough. 12. Presbyterian Church Parking Lot—There is a potential here for a possible Park-N- Ride. 13. Vacant land behind Washington Commons—This area was identified as a possible parking lot.

10-11 Bridgeville Borough Comprehensive Plan Section 10: Land Use

LOCAL LAND USE CONTROLS

Zoning

As was mentioned in the high priority goals for land use in Bridgeville, it is recommended that Bridgeville Borough revise their current zoning ordinance to reflect changes that have occurred since its inception. The revised zoning ordinance should be in accordance with the recommendations contained in the comprehensive plan and the zoning map should be updated to reflect the future land use map in this plan.

Another option for Bridgeville regarding zoning is to include performance standards in the current ordinance. Traditional zoning establishes zoning districts, under which specific permitted uses are listed. Performance zoning is a zoning variant, which relies on a list of specific quantifiable criteria which must be met by any proposed use rather than a list of specific permitted uses. Performance standards were originally designed for industrial areas to address issues such as particle emissions, noise, glare and vibration. These have been expanded to include other land uses, such as residential. The performance standards typically applied in residential instances include the protection of environmentally sensitive areas, allocation of recreational land and open space, total tract size, density, ratio of impervious surfaces, etc. These performance standards can assist the borough in assuring a high quality of life for its residents while still encouraging responsible new development.

There are distinct advantages to using performance based zoning. There is much more flexibility for developers and municipalities to efficiently use the land available since a range of uses are tolerated as long as the impact of those permitted uses does not detrimentally impact the community or surrounding land parcels. Since all the traditional zoning permits, variances, appeals, and re-zonings are made unnecessary under a performance zoning plan, communities and developers can concentrate more on the impact of land uses rather than whether or how land should be used at all. This flexibility is a great benefit to protecting historic or natural sites since the primary issue is the impact on them from development rather than trying to micromanage away negative effects from future growth by permitting or denying certain uses for adjoining or neighboring land parcels (http://www.investinginland.com/ performance_zoning.htm).

However, the advantage of performance zoning is also its major problem. The subjectivity and flexibility which regulates impact rather than land use also means that developers and communities must enact programs and regulations which control future impacts of development rather than current uses of land. It is relatively simple for a municipality to ban a certain land use on a parcel but much more complicated to regulate not just the current but future impacts of allowable uses for a parcel. The result under such performance zoning scenarios are often very cumbersome or complicated rules, mathematical formulas, or a set of trigger factors ("If X happens, then Z must occur.") that require constant oversight, reporting, and adjustment. The calculations themselves are always open to public review and community comments and legal challenges often occur over arcane measures of land use impacts and obscure mathematical computations and statistics (http://www.investinginland.com/ performance_zoning.htm).

10-12 Bridgeville Borough Comprehensive Plan Section 10: Land Use

Performance zoning allows for greater land use flexibility, easier and more efficient development, and a more cooperative spirit between community activists, developers, and government officials. But most communities experimenting with performance zoning have concluded that a pure performance model is unworkable and combine the best elements of performance zoning with traditional zoning. Their goal is to maximize development flexibility and land use efficiency but also minimize the often intricate and obsessive land use oversight that regulating land activities and the subsequent impacts from that performance entails (http:// www.investinginland.com/performance_zoning.htm).

Codes

As Bridgeville has decided to opt-in to the UCC, it is recommended that the borough continue to contract a third party company to conduct the inspections and explore options to work in conjunction with neighboring communities. The Council of Governments could be a partner in this effort.

The Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED) and Department of L&I are offering incentives to municipalities to choose the intergovernmental option, including funding incentives and different requirements for establishing the required UCC appeals board. Act 45 outlines the specifics relating to the appeals board, however it should be noted that eligible members must be knowledgeable about construction standards and building codes. As this requirement may place a certain hardship filling the required slots on the board, municipalities may fill the position with a person who resides outside of the municipality.

It is also recommended that the borough contract with a third party, preferably partnering with neighboring communities, to provide property maintenance code enforcement. The current method of having this duty fall on the borough manager is not efficient due to the lack of time the manager has to complete the inspections.

10-13 Bridgeville Borough Comprehensive Plan Section 10: Land Use

LOCAL PLANNING ASSISTANCE

There are many agencies and organizations that provide local planning assistance to municipalities. The following are a few that can be a resource to Bridgeville in planning in the future:

The Governor’s Center for Local Government Services (The Center) The Center is the principle state entity responsible for land use assistance and monitoring in Pennsylvania. It can provide information on planning or on planning assistance (either financial or technical).

The Pennsylvania Municipal Planning Education Institute (PMPEI) Created by the Pennsylvania Planning Association (PPA) and the Penn State Cooperative Extension in 1992, the purpose of PMPEI is to bring basic instruction to citizens and local officials who serve on planning agencies and zoning hearing boards.

Pennsylvania Municipal Training Partnership (PMTP) PMPT was created through the partnership of 11 local government, community, and statewide groups to provide education for municipal and community officials. Courses are offered in a variety of subject areas important to local government, including special programs on planning and land use issues.

U.S. Soil Conservation Service Staff can provide municipalities with soil surveys and their interpretation to aid in land use decisions such as identifying agricultural lands, delineating floodplains, or rendering service to protect against erosion, sedimentation and storm water problems.

Allegheny County Department of Economic Development The planning staff for the county is housed within this department. The qualified planning and economic development personnel at the county level can provide municipalities with planning and technical assistance.

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References

Allegheny County Communications Division (2004). History of Allegheny County [On-Line] http://www.county.allegheny.pa.us/comm/county.asp

Allegheny County Department of Economic Development. (2004). [On-Line] http://www. county.allegheny.pa.us/economic/ben.asp

Allegheny County Redevelopment Authority. (2004). [On-Line] http://www.county. allegheny.pa.us/economic/raac/

Bridgeville Community Association. (2001). Bridging the Years: 100th Year Celebration Commemorative Yearbook

Chartiers Valley School Distirct. (2003). Renovation Project Fact Sheet [On-Line] http:// www.cvsd.net/dinfo.php?keyname=factsheet

Classic Development Consultants, Inc. (1988). Bridgeville Borough Traffic Study.

Crumrine, B. (1882). History of Washington County. Philadelphia: L. H Everts and Company.

Governor’s Center for Local Government Services. (March 2003). Home Rule in Pennsylvania. Seventh Edition. Harrisburg, PA: Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development

Governor’s Center for Local Government Services. (1997). Intergovernmental Cooperation Handbook. Harrisburg, PA: Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development

Governor’s Center for Local Government Services. (2000, January). Land Use in Pennsylvania: Practice and Tools An Inventory 1st ed.. Produced by McCormick Taylor and Associates

Governor’s Center for Local Government Services. (2001). Local Land Use Controls in Pennsylvania. Harrisburg, PA. Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development

Minnesota Shade Tree Advisory Committee. (2004). [On-line] http://www.mnstac.org/

Pennsylvania Department of Education. (2003). Enrollment Projections. [On Line] http:// enrlproj.ed.state.pa.us/EnrlRpts.htm

Bridgeville Borough Comprehensive Plan Appendices

Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (2003). Mineral Resources Management [On-Line] http://www.dep.state.pa.us/dep/deputate/minres/bmr/msipage/ msi_info.htm

Pennsylvania Department of Labor and Industry (2004). 2004 Demand Occupations [On- Line] http://www.dli.state.pa.us/landi/cwp/view.asp?a=140&q=161353

Pennsylvania Department of Transportation. (2004). Functional Class Map. Harrisburg, PA: Bureau of Planning and Research

Pennsylvania Department of Transportation. (2004). Future Construction Projects. [On-Line] http://www.dot.state.pa.us/penndot/districts/district11.nsf/Future%20Construction% 20Projects?OpenPage

Pennsylvania Department of Transportation. (2001). Traffic Volume Map. (Type 4-02). Harrisburg, PA: Bureau of Planning and Research

Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission. (2004) [On-Line] http://www.phmc.state. pa.us/

Pittsburgh International Airport. (2004). [On-Line] http://www.pitairport.com/redirect.jsp

Pennsylvania Labor Market Information Database System. (2004). [On-Line] http://www. palmids.state.pa.us/

Performance Zoning. (2004). [On-Line] http://www.investinginland.com/performance_zoning. htm

Rivera, Lisa C. (1997, March). Bridgeville, Pennsylvania: A Pittsburgh Neighborhood.

DeSantis, Victor S. Ph.D. (2004). Municipal Management Systems: Administration and Planning. [On-Line] http://webhost.bridgew.edu/vdesantis/Municipal%20Management %20Chap%202.htm

Southwestern Pennsylvania Commission. (2000). Long Range Forecast Pittsburgh, PA.

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Bridgeville Borough Comprehensive Plan Appendices

APPENDIX A

REFERENCES

Bridgeville Borough Comprehensive Plan Appendices

APPENDIX B

RECREATION ASSESSMENT Bridgeville Borough Comprehensive Plan Appendices

APPENDIX C

PUBLIC INPUT Bridgeville Borough Comprehensive Plan Appendices

APPENDIX C.i

PUBLIC MEETING #1 SWOT RESULTS

Bridgeville Borough Comprehensive Plan Appendices

APPENDIX C.ii.

PUBLIC MEETING #2 COMMUNITY IMAGING EXERCISE RESULTS Bridgeville Borough Comprehensive Plan Appendices

APPENDIX C.iii.

PUBLIC MEETING #2 GOAL RANKING RESULTS Bridgeville Borough Comprehensive Plan Appendices

APPENDIX C.iv.

PUBLIC MEETING #3 PUBLIC COMMENT FORM Bridgeville Borough Comprehensive Plan Appendices

APPENDIX C.v.

PUBLIC SURVEY RESULTS Bridgeville Borough Comprehensive Plan Appendices

APPENDIX C.vi.

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT WORKSHOP RESULTS Bridgeville Borough Comprehensive Plan Appendices

APPENDIX C.vii.

CHARTIERS VALLEY HIGH SCHOOL RESULTS Bridgeville Borough Comprehensive Plan Appendices

APPENDIX D

PROJECT NEWSLETTERS Bridgeville Borough Comprehensive Plan Appendices

APPENDIX E

FUNDING SOURCES AND TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE Bridgeville Borough Comprehensive Plan Recreation Assesment

Site/Facility Name Date Address

Parking Available yes no # of spaces ______Good condition (Surface needs regular routine maintenance) yes no Fair condition (spot repairs are needed) yes no Poor condition (Several areas in need of major repair) yes no

Accessibility Handicapped accessible yes no Visible from main road or housing area yes no Signage is present indicating location and hours yes no

Equipment Good condition (needs regular routine maintenance) yes no Fair condition (Equipment usable but minor repairs are needed) yes no Poor condition (Equipment is in need of major repair - missing elements of equipment) yes no

Courts Good condition (needs regular routine maintenance) yes no Fair condition (minor repairs are needed - patching, stripping) yes no Poor condition (Surface is in need extensive repair/resurfacing - potholes/cracks are present) yes no Bridgeville Borough Comprehensive Plan Public Meeting #1 Results

SWOT Results

Community Facilities and Infrastructure

Goal Statements: • Need better transportation infrastructure to bring people and businesses into the community • Capitalize on the “small town” feeling by providing a community center for families • Market the good school district to bring in more families

Strengths Weaknesses Opportunities Threats Good community run athletic Some sidewalks in poor Utilize vacant lots for Need more space at program condition gardens or public space borough building Responsive and attentive No community center Improve on current water Need more parking municipal workers and sewer lines Strong Volunteer Fire Congested road Expand current library Congested roads Department network make it hard to get around Good library (accessible hours, Parking problems Expand on strong variety of books, inter-library recreation program by loan) building a community center Four Parks Good senior facilities Strong Police Department

Housing

Goal Statements: • Capitalize on affordable housing to bring people in (especially young families) • Address housing maintenance issues before the problems spread through the community • Create a landlord association to educate landlords about their responsibilities in terms of their property and tenants

Strengths Weaknesses Opportunities Threats Affordable housing Some poor housing Open a Bed and Breakfast Empty storefronts maintenance keep people away Close proximity to I-79 Transient renters Capitalize on rental Absentee landlords (landlords aren’t market and create a spreading screening properly) landlord association Level housing lots Variety of housing options Strong homeowner base A lot of young families

1 Bridgeville Borough Comprehensive Plan Public Meeting #1 Results

Land Use

Goal Statements: • Permit landowners to remodel / repair homes along stream • Address present parking issues • Better utilize vacant property to develop housing that is needed by current residents and to attract new residents • Create a “new” image to help market Bridgeville

Strengths Weaknesses Opportunities Threats Parks and Recreation Lack of parking Community Center Mercantile tax New industrial area (on Gas Station (vacant on Presbyterian Church Natural gas area (no Commercial Drive) north side of town) property (develop youth building) activities on Main St.) Library (former railroad station) Stream Gas station property Parking (losing business to other communities Gazebo Topography limits I-79 interchange Growing too big Bank Area (residential) Railroad tressle Condominiums (infill) Underground mine bottleneck subsidence May Ave / Crestview No room for new Fryer Property (vacant Negativity of people (residential) building funeral home) Front Street (commercial – Old Cyclops Building Parking garages (instead Present road system LaBella Bean) land (possibly Collier of lots) (lost identity, Twp.) widening roads) Senior Citizen Housing Railroad ROW Losing Fryer House Recreation parks into business parks

Environment

Goal Statements: • Improve areas prone to flooding • Improve water quality in both streams • Maintain existing parks / open space for quality of life

Strengths Weaknesses Opportunities Threats Chartiers Creek is navigable Air pollution from Baldwin Lake under South Fayette (Riehold Street/McLaughlin Run Bridgeville (mined Chemical) Road flood control out areas) Close to I-79 and City of Mine water into Utilize flood prone Gateways into Pittsburgh McLaughlin Run (1007 property along Chartiers Bridgeville (gas and orange water) Creek for Recreation station is eyesore) Open Space Drainage into Chartiers Chartiers Park (better Improve traffic flow Creek ingress & egress & access from South Fayette needed) Parks Universal Cyclops Streams McLaughlin Road

2 Bridgeville Borough Comprehensive Plan Public Meeting #1 Results

Transportation

Goal Statements • Identify traffic flow • Investigate parking expansion opportunities and management / allocation amongst competing demands

Strengths Weaknesses Opportunities Threats Three major bus routes Heavy truck traffic Centrally located External developments Proximity to I-79 Traffic is heavy and high Need intermodal study Southern Beltway (interchange and access) (may force or increase traffic) Borough has sidewalks Back road cut through Bike paths Port Authority (loss (“through traffic”) of Public Transit) Access to Pgh. Lack of traffic lanes Need to be more Need better International Airport attractive to stop traffic management of road in borough construction High traffic Trucks getting off of I-79 to Need study to find out Morganza to avoid weigh where traffic is coming station from and where it is going Centrally located South end of I-79 traffic Available land for parking facilities Speeding Future mass transit linkages (light rail) Signage – Directional arrows More pedestrian not working? (Station & education Washington) Blind intersection by post Ensure efficient access office (Washington and to and within all modes Hickman) of transportation (pedestrian, public, car, etc.) Pedestrian crossings are only marked yield Difficult pedestrian access Sidewalks in poor condition Bus flow through town is poor No bike paths or facilites No Park-N-Ride Parking is a problem (commercial and residential)

3 Bridgeville Borough Comprehensive Plan Public Meeting #1 Results

Recreation

Goal Statements: • Need improvements to Chartiers Park • Improve park management • Provide more recreation options and attract diverse groups

Strengths Weaknesses Opportunities Threats Good facilities / plentiful Need better maintenance (too Market to outsiders Lack of money-too many facilities to maintain) much to spend money on Access to recreation No separate parks department Diversify facilities and No use attracts poor facilities groups use Cook School Road Park is Public bathrooms at recreation Provide pedestrian used a lot facilities are poor access to facilities to increase use Recreation brings in McLaughlin Park is in bad families shape Soccer fields are heavily Chartiers park is isolated & used there is no feeling of “safety” Generates money Vandalism Variety of public and Chartiers park needs alternate private programs entrance (access & signage is poor) No alternative recreation (skate boarding, etc.)-Need diversity

4 Bridgeville Borough Comprehensive Plan Public Meeting #1 Results

Community History

Goal Statements: • Improve the aesthetic appearance of Bridgeville Borough by encouraging the historic preservation of the area • Promote the historic awareness within the borough and market the area as a tourist area • Enhance the aesthetics of the borough by making the waterways and natural resources accessible and more attractive • Promote a friendly atmosphere as a community / business district • Ensure proper planning for roadways to provide access to areas within the borough

Strengths Weaknesses Opportunities Threats Library Lost some historic sites / Embrace renters resources Brick streets Market and promote area Small town atmosphere Create a place to show history (museum,offices,etc.) Location is central (focal Make Baldwin St. an point of area) historic dist. (oldest business dist. In area) Modern stores Thematic signing First Baptist Church is 98 Access money / funding years old and potential to renovate historic historic site buildings Diverse Beautify/capitalize on culture/ethnic/political natural resources Borough should obtain funding for projects

5 Bridgeville Borough Comprehensive Plan Public Meeting #1 Results

Economic Development

Goal Statements: • Look for new areas for parking and for current system to support downtown • Redo the zoning ordinance to allow more flexible zoning • Encourage business owners to extend store hours • Develop community center • Utilize available parking lots and market lots better to attract visitors and new businesses • Make one-way streets through (Hickman and Baldwin) to facilitate economic development

Strengths Weaknesses Opportunities Threats Wide variety of businesses Empty storefronts in business Increase quality of Big-Box retail takes districts businesses away from local stores Ease of shopping High turnover rate of Promote tourism Lack of parking and businesses high cost Walkable downtown Bad use of locations-space Need drug store available Parking costs brings money Business Privilege tax in Bring in specialty / in for the borough Bridgeville but not adjacent niche markets townships Zoning ordinance doesn’t Develop Community support on-site or off street Center parking High traffic and speeding Advertise local takes away from local stores/small town businesses atmosphere Ideal location for medical/health care Utilize railways as transportation means and potential historic ride Reuse vacant car wash Bring in multi-cultural hair salons

6 Bridgeville Borough Comprehensive Plan Public Meeting #2—CIE Results

Efforts should be made to preserve the following resources

Average Slide # Title Score * 3 1.1042 Historic / Library

5 1.5102 Waterway

4 2.1429 Open Space

Historic (Library) 6 2.3469 Wetland

The following issues should be addressed by municipal officials

13 1.2653 Alleys

10 1.2857 Dumping

9 1.5532 Erosion

12 1.6200 Property Maintenance

11 1.7551 Junk Yards Deteriorating Roads

8 1.9787 Stream Monitoring

Municipal officials should encourage the following development

Commercial with 15 1.4082 Landscaping

18 1.9400 Bed and Breakfast

17 2.3000 Industrial Parks

16 2.8600 Strip Commercial Commercial w/Landscaping

1 Bridgeville Borough Comprehensive Plan Public Meeting #2—CIE Results

Support development of the following transportation services/facilities

21 1.2200 Sidewalks

20 1.2400 Sidewalks and Crosswalks

27 1.7200 Pedestrian Pathway

28 1.7551 Public Transit

22 1.7600 Traffic Calming Sidewalks

26 1.8000 Bike Route Signing

23 1.8776 Traffic Calming

32 1.8800 Trail along railroad

29 1.9184 Bus Shelter

31 2.2000 Parking Garage

30 2.2400 Park and Ride Lot

24 2.5200 Bike Lane / Buffer

Sidewalks/Crosswalks 25 2.5400 Designated Bus Route

I support sharing the following with neighboring communities ROAD MAINTENANCE

61 2.3800 Road Maintenance

59 2.7083 Police

60 2.7400 Fire

63 2.8800 Code Enforcement POLICE

64 3.1200 Zoning

62 3.4286 Municipal Government

2 Bridgeville Borough Comprehensive Plan Public Meeting #2—CIE Results

Officials should encourage the following types of housing 34 1.6200 Single-Family Residential

44 1.6600 Historic Homes Mixed Use (Residential/ 45 1.7551 Commercial) 35 2.4200 Multi-Family Residential

41 2.4400 Duplex Single Family Residential 39 2.8000 Townhomes

42 3.0408 Conservation Subdivision

43 3.1020 Estate Lots

38 3.1200 Assisted Living Facilities

40 3.1800 Condominiums

36 3.2000 High Density Apartments

37 3.2600 Senior Housing

46 4.6800 Mobile Home Parks Historic Homes

We need the following facilities

49 1.7400 Community Center

48 1.8200 Community Playground

50 1.9600 Paved Trails

51 2.1800 Sports Fields

57 2.3061 Fishing Spots

52 2.7800 Amphitheatre

54 2.7959 Swimming Pool

Community 55 2.8000 Tennis Courts Center

53 2.9000 Skate Park

56 2.9200 Deck Hockey

3 Bridgeville Borough Comprehensive Plan Public Meeting #2—CIE Results

The following services should be improved

67 1.6400 Library

71 2.0000 Street Maintenance

66 2.3000 Schools

76 2.3000 Sewer

74 2.5600 Recycling Public Library 70 2.6400 Fire

73 2.6400 Garbage

75 2.7200 Water

77 2.7600 Cable

68 2.7800 Administration

72 2.8000 EMS

78 2.8200 Gas Street Maintenance 79 2.9000 Electric

69 2.9200 Police

The following improvements are needed

92 1.7600 Building Façade

85 1.9000 Landscaping

89 2.0000 Lighting / Street Trees

87 2.0200 Street Trees Gateway Treatment 81 2.0400 (landscaped) Gateway Treatment 82 2.1000 Building Façades (Rendering)

83 2.1400 Gateway Treatment (brick) 86 2.4800 Community Banners

91 2.1600 Decorative Lighting 88 2.4800 Street Furniture Traffic Signal/Street Sign 90 2.1800 (design) 84 2.8571 Business Park Entryway

4 Bridgeville Borough Comprehensive Plan Public Meeting #2—Goals Ranking Results

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT Priority Priority Priority Total GOAL PWR 1 2 3 Votes Promote the business friendly atmosphere to encourage the development and 28 11 1 40 16.6 marketing of new businesses

Expand the parking capacity in the 14 16 17 47 14.1 downtown business areas

Encourage business owners to extend their 21 8 8 37 13.5 hours of operation Utilize existing parking lots more 4 17 13 34 9.1 efficiently Identify potential niche markets that are appropriate to Bridgeville and the 5 8 17 30 7.4 surrounding region Capitalize upon regional tourism as an 3 13 11 27 7.1 economic development tool

HOUSING

Priority Priority Priority Total GOAL PWR 1 2 3 Votes

Encourage the construction of a variety of housing types as new residential 21 14 18 53 17.0 opportunities arise

Address issues associated with landlords regarding their responsibilities in terms of 20 19 9 48 16.7 property and tenants

Increase residential property maintenance 10 21 20 51 14.3 standards

Direct marketing efforts that promote a variety of affordable housing options in 15 9 11 35 11.5 Bridgeville Develop flexible standards to allow for second story residential development in the 5 7 15 27 6.9 downtown area

1 Bridgeville Borough Comprehensive Plan Public Meeting #2—Goals Ranking Results

NATURAL RESOURCES Priority Priority Priority Total GOAL PWR 1 2 3 Votes

Preserve existing parks / open space as 30 19 10 59 21.3 green space to ensure a good quality of life

Improve areas prone to flooding 20 10 11 41 14.0

Improve the water quality in both streams 9 17 22 48 12.8

Enhance the aesthetics of the borough by making the waterways and natural 11 16 17 44 12.7 resources accessible and more attractive

Preserve shade trees to minimize pollution 4 10 10 24 6.5

COMMUNITY FACILITIES Priority Priority Priority Total GOAL PWR 1 2 3 Votes

Explore the feasibility and need for a 38 13 4 55 19.5 community center

Improve and maintain existing water and 7 16 9 32 8.4 sewer lines

Support efforts to expand the public library 13 7 8 28 8.3

Establish community based beautification 9 8 15 32 7.9 programs / strategies

Explore opportunities to work cooperatively with neighboring 8 10 9 27 7.2 communities to provide municipal facilities / services

Continue the effective and efficient 6 9 10 25 6.2 provision of municipal services

Promote the quality educational system 4 10 11 25 5.8 available to potential residents

Improve the existing municipal building 3 6 13 22 4.6

2 Bridgeville Borough Comprehensive Plan Public Meeting #2—Goals Ranking Results

TRANSPORTATION Priority Priority Priority Total GOAL PWR 1 2 3 Votes Improve the operation of existing intersections to improve traffic flow and 14 23 13 50 16.3 safety Explore options to enhance traffic 19 7 8 34 12.7 circulation Ensure pedestrian safety in locations 11 12 16 39 11.8 deemed to be hazardous

Explore options to relieve downtown 5 18 12 35 10.1 congestion Improve the communication between the parking authority, borough council and the 14 3 10 27 9.3 public Explore the feasibility of providing alternative modes of transportation (i.e. 6 5 11 22 6.3 bike lanes, paths, trails, etc.)

LAND USE

Priority Priority Priority Total GOAL PWR 1 2 3 Votes

Revise the current zoning ordinance to 34 15 10 59 21.8 allow more flexible zoning

Identify vacant and underutilized property 21 30 13 64 20.9 to determine the best use

Ensure future planning efforts encourage infill development and the reuse of existing 8 22 30 60 15.1 structures

Explore the feasibility of annexing land in 7 4 9 20 5.8 surrounding communities

Provide opportunities for the continued 2 3 9 14 3.2 education of zoning board members

3 Bridgeville Borough Comprehensive Plan Public Meeting #2—Goals Ranking Results

PARKS AND RECREATION Priority Priority Priority Total GOAL PWR 1 2 3 Votes Provide diverse recreation facilities / 15 11 8 34 11.3 programs Improve the existing recreational park 15 7 11 33 10.5 system Improve management and maintenance of 14 8 11 33 10.4 borough recreation facilities and programs Explore the feasibility of connecting 11 13 9 33 10.2 Bridgeville to the Montour Trail Investigate the feasibility of developing trails within existing parks along 7 13 6 26 8.0 McLaughlin Run Identify areas to improve Chartiers Park 8 10 6 24 7.5 Promote the abundance of recreation 4 10 8 22 6.0 facilities within the borough Explore the feasibility of sharing parks and recreation services (I.e. maintenance, 6 1 10 17 4.5 management, provision of facilities and programs) with surrounding municipalities

HISTORY AND CHARACTER Priority Priority Priority Total GOAL PWR 1 2 3 Votes Improve the aesthetics of downtown 51 10 6 67 28.4 Bridgeville

Encourage the historic preservation of the 11 30 6 47 15.7 borough

Identify a location to house the Historical 3 17 20 40 10.0 Society

Establish thematic signing throughout the 2 10 25 37 8.1 borough

Promote the ethnic diversity of the 3 5 11 19 4.8 borough

4 Bridgeville Borough Comprehensive Plan Public Meeting #3—Public Comment Form

Please use the space provided below for any comments you have regarding the Bridgeville Borough Comprehensive Plan. All comments must be received in writing no later than Friday, August 13, 2004 by 4:00 PM to be taken into account for the final plan. A copy of the draft plan is available at the Borough Building for public review. A public hearing will be held at the next Borough Council meeting after that date and will be legally advertised in the local newspapers.

______

If you have any questions, please contact Amy Senopole of Mackin Engineering at (412) 788-0472 or [email protected].

Thank you! Bridgeville Borough Comprehensive Plan Public Survey Results

Approximately 2,228 surveys were distributed to borough residents and business owners. 247 surveys were returned for an approximate return rate of 11%.

Q1. Place of Residence

• 93.1% Bridgeville Borough residents • 1.2% Business owners • 3.2% Other

Q2a. Age

• 0.4% 18 or under • 1.6% 19-25 • 19.8% 26-40 • 58.7% 41-58 • 12.1% 59-64 • 25.5% 65+

Q2b. Sex

• 36.8% Male • 43.3% Female

Q3. Internet

• 60.3% Connected to Internet • 36.0% Not connected to Internet

Q4. Housing stock is in good condition

• 20.6% Agree • 49.8% Somewhat Agree • 23.5% Somewhat Disagree • 5.7% Disagree

Q5. The road network is in good condition

• 32.8% Agree • 44.9% Somewhat Agree • 15.8% Somewhat Disagree • 4.9% Disagree

Q6. The appearance of Bridgeville’s business district is appealing

• 17.0% Agree • 44.5% Somewhat Agree • 23.5% Somewhat Disagree • 13.8% Disagree

1 Bridgeville Borough Comprehensive Plan Public Survey Results

Q7. I visit Bridgeville’s business District

• 22.3% Once / Day • 9.3% Once / Week • 23.5% 2 or more times a week • 26.3% 1 – 2 times a month • 22.3% Rarely

Q8. The recreation programs and facilities in Bridgeville

• 24.7% Adequate • 32.0% Not Adequate • 33.6% Offer different types

Q9. I would support ordinances that

• 8.1% Leave things the same • 35.6% Encourage flexible standards • 15.8% Provide stricter oversight and more control • 33.6% Increase property maintenance standards

Q10. I visit Bridgeville for

• 51.0% Shopping • 68.4% Dining • 69.2% Professional services • 45.3% Personal services • 19.4% Non-profit or government agency services • 0.8% Education • 15.0% Employment • 36.0% Special Events • 15.4% Other

Q11. I go to places other than Bridgeville for

• 93.5% Shopping • 87.9% Dining • 74.5% Professional services • 67.6% Personal services • 25.1% Non-profit or government agency services • 21.5% Education • 49.8% Employment • 58.3% Special Events • 3.2% Other

Q12. I am willing to support partnering with neighboring communities regarding

• 43.3% Police services • 44.5% Fire services • 35.6% Water services 2 Bridgeville Borough Comprehensive Plan Public Survey Results

• 39.7% Sewer service / repair • 40.5% Street maintenance / repair • 45.7% Recreation • 23.5% Code enforcement • 19.4% Zoning • 3.6% Other

Q13. The things I like most about Bridgeville

Weighted 1 2 3 4 Score Small Town Character 45.7% 21.9% 12.6% 4.1% 686 Location 35.2% 36.0% 8.1% 2.4% 661 Housing 1.6% 8.5% 12.6% 12.1% 171 Appearance 1.6% 4.9% 13.8% 12.1% 150 Road Network 2.4% 5.3% 10.1% 9.3% 136 Community Services 2.8% 2.0% 8.1% 4.5% 94 Special Events 0.4% 0.8% 0.8% 4.9% 26 Availability of Recreation 0.0% 0.0% 2.4% 2.8% 19 Availability of Jobs 0.0% 0.8% 2.0% 1.2% 19

Q14. The things I like least about Bridgeville

1 2 3 4 Weighted Score Availability of Recreation 13.1% 13.8% 10.5% 6.5% 298 Road Network 19.0% 8.9% 5.7% 2.8% 289 Availability of Jobs 13.0% 9.7% 6.1% 6.5% 246 Appearance 12.1% 8.9% 8.1% 3.6% 235 Community Services 3.6% 8.9% 10.9% 7.3% 174 Special Events 3.6% 5.3% 6.9% 10.1% 140 Housing 3.2% 4.5% 5.3% 5.3% 104 Small Town Character 1.2% 0.8% 0.8% 1.2% 25 Location 0.0% 1.6% 1.2% 0.8% 20

Q15. I would like to see more of the following types of development in Bridgeville

1 2 3 4 Weighted Score Retail 36.8% 21.5% 9.3% 8.1% 589 Restaurants 16.6% 32.4% 17.4% 5.7% 504 Professional Services 8.1% 13.4% 14.2% 9.7% 273 Offices 3.2% 10.1% 15.4% 14.6% 219 Single-Family Residential 7.3% 8.1% 10.1% 7.3% 200 Town homes 4.9% 4.9% 5.7% 11.3% 140 Industrial 4.9% 2.0% 9.3% 4.9% 121 Apartments 4.0% 6.9% 3.2% 4.5% 118 None 1.6% 1.2% 0.0% 2.0% 33

3 Bridgeville Borough Comprehensive Plan Public Survey Results

Q16. The elected officials of Bridgeville should focus on

1 2 3 4 Weighted Score Traffic control 18.2% 13.0% 12.1% 6.9% 353 Roads/parking 16.2% 12.1% 9.7% 6.5% 314 Reuse/redevelopment of 6.9% 15.8% 16.6% 9.3% 290 vacant sites Public safety services 13.0% 9.7% 4.5% 4.9% 234 Recreation/parks/open 12.1% 6.5% 8.1% 8.9% 230 space/trails Property maintenance 7.3% 9.3% 10.9% 12.1% 225 Business park/employment 3.6% 7.7% 6.9% 9.7% 151 centers Water/sewer systems 4.5% 2.0% 5.3% 1.6% 93 Senior housing 4.0% 0.4% 1.6% 0.8% 53 Relationship w/ neighboring 0.4% 1.2% 2.8% 6.9% 44 areas New housing 0.4% 2.4% 2.0% 0.8% 34

Q17. The most important transportation issue is

1 2 3 4 Weighted Score Need for more parking 32.4% 17.0% 13.0% 4.5% 521 Better maintenance of existing 17.0% 17.4% 13.8% 7.3% 383 roads More pedestrian & bike paths 10.5% 13.8% 9.7% 8.5% 275 Better winter maintenance of 4.5% 11.7% 8.9% 8.5% 196 roads Need for more roads 9.3% 7.3% 4.0% 3.6% 175 Increased public transportation 5.3% 4.9% 6.9% 6.5% 138

Q18. If you were moving outside of Bridgeville, what would be important to you

1 2 3 4 Weighted Score Taxes 27.9% 20.6% 12.6% 5.7% 505 Housing cost & availability 25.5% 12.6% 9.3% 6.9% 408 Schools 13.4% 12.1% 5.3% 5.3% 267 Availability / access to job 8.9% 8.1% 10.5% 10.1% 181 Local services 3.6% 6.9% 13.8% 9.3% 178 Recreation 4.0% 6.5% 9.3% 6.9% 151 Roads 1.2% 8.5% 6.9% 13.8% 143 Public water / sewage 1.6% 6.5% 7.7% 6.5% 118 County services 0.0% 0.8% 1.6% 3.6% 23

4 Bridgeville Borough Comprehensive Plan Economic Development Workshop Results

OPPORTUNITIES

• Improve parking and meter problem • There is a lack of parking spaces • Permit parking lots • Need some meters on Baldwin Street • Identify parking lots / spaces • Free parking would be abused • Purchase parking vouchers • Put parking lots on the website • Better cooperation is needed between the parking authority, council and business owners • Parking on both sides of the old bridge at Sarasnick’s would be an asset • Hi rise lot on the back section of Lot #2 is needed • Run a shuttle (trolley) that loops through the Bridgeville downtown • Could start at the Chamber of Commerce Building McLaughlin Run Road • Go to hotels in S. Fayette as well • A roadmap and business directory should be posted in the business district • A Main Street group or Business Development Group is needed • There is a current BDA through Borough Council • There are opportunities for a Bed and Breakfast • A place for skateboarders is needed • The #5 opportunity site is going to be a dry cleaner—this is an opportunity for a gateway as well • There should be stricter codes for building aesthetics • Council could set up a workshop through the Pennsylvania Downtown Center • The scholarship program mentioned in the funding sources could benefit Holy Child School • Borough doesn’t have the money to maintain streetscape—need funding for upkeep and beautification efforts

1 Bridgeville Borough Comprehensive Plan Economic Development Workshop Results

ACTION STEPS

1. Identify new parking sites within the borough to address current problems and improve the parking system to support the downtown. • Investigate a parking garage at Lot #2 • Offer trolley service to loop through downtown and the neighboring motels • Utilize private parking lots for leases (i.e. church lots) • The zoning ordinance may need to be updated to allow this

2. Revise the current zoning ordinance to allow more flexible zoning. • The B-2 classification causes a hindrance for people who want to convert from a residential use to a commercial use (need to provide on-site off-street parking—a six month process to get a variance) • Zoning ordinance does need to be updated

3. Encourage business owners to extend store hours • Have businesses agree on a day to extend hours • Work with the Parking Authority to provide free parking in the evenings or on some days of the month • Conduct an open house that rotates to different businesses each month • Make Bridgeville more aesthetically pleasing to people driving through • Thematic Banners • Street furniture • Plants • Use the whole town for a community day and not just the park • Close down some streets for pedestrian access only • Need a media person to work for the borough to market the events going on

4. Utilize existing parking lots more efficiently and market the lots better to attract shoppers and new businesses. • Add metered parking to lot on Baldwin Street (currently it’s all leases) • Reduce lease fees in fringe lots to encourage business workers to park there and not in the main lots • Run a trolley through downtown (shuttle)

5. Consider alternative traffic patterns to facilitate economic development along Main Street • Investigate the possibility of one-way streets through the downtown (not everyone agrees) • Implement signing to direct people to alternate routes off of Washington Ave. • Talk to PENNDOT—Washington Ave. is a State Route (there are limitations on what you can do)

2 Bridgeville Borough Comprehensive Plan Economic Development Workshop Results

6. Promote tourism as an economic development tool • Capitalize on the availability of great old homes for Bed and Breakfasts • Reinstitute the Summer Garden Tours • Provide Summer House Tours • Take advantage of events and attractions in neighboring communities • S. Fayette is developing coal mining museum • Veterans cemetery • Host festivals around historic events that occurred in the region • Whiskey Rebellion • Toll Bridge

7. Provide and promote a business friendly atmosphere to encourage the development and marketing of new businesses. • Investigate the Business Privilege Tax—has some problems

8. Identify potential niche markets that are appropriate to Bridgeville and the surrounding region. • Develop a market study • Look at business that have left the area to find out why • No pharmacy on the main street • No grocery / convenience store downtown • Multi-cultural shops • Deli / bakery

9. Improve infrastructure to support new economic development opportunities • Alcosan replacing sewer systems on a 10-year plan

3 Bridgeville Borough Comprehensive Plan High School Focus Group Results

Mackin met with 26 Bridgeville 10-12 graders at Chartiers Valley High School on Thursday, March 18th for a focus group discussion. They were asked to talk about their likes and dislikes of their neighborhood as well as what they would like to see added.

• All of the students plan on going to college • About 1/2 are going to college in the Western PA region • Most drive, but a few catch the “T” in Mt. Lebanon—say buses take too long • A majority would stay in Bridgeville after they graduate if they had a job

Assets

• Good youth baseball program • West Wing shot an episode in Bridgeville at the Caboose • Chartiers Park (needs attention—better access, updated facilities, better access to Lynch Pond etc.) • Roller rink (needs attention)

Needs

• Public swimming pool (they have to go to Scott Township’s pool) • Nice basketball court (the one at McLaughlin Run Park needs to be fixed) • More entertainment • More land around the houses • More stores downtown geared toward young people (right now they use the downtown to get hunting licenses and eating at the restaurants) • Downtown buildings need façade improvements • More promotion / awareness of what the borough has to offer young people • “Clean Up” programs • Roads and sidewalks are in disrepair • Chartiers Creek and Lynch pond need cleaned up • Baldwin Street needs attention • One-lane bridge on McLaughlin Run Road needs to be replaced • Property maintenance issues (especially on Coolidge Road) • Intersections need improvement (Bank Street, entrance to Chartiers Park, Commercial Drive and Bower Hill Road, Left arrow needed on Washington Avenue at Station Street, Need better traffic signal timing on Washington Avenue—especially at Chartiers Street) • Improve and maintain brick streets • Clean creek behind Dairy Delight • Chartiers Park • Connect to Panhandle and Montour Trail • Need trails in borough to ride bikes, roller blade, and skateboard • Sportsman Club (nearest one is in Collier Twp.) • Community Center (not a lot of indoor recreation—do have a bowling alley and pool hall— a lot of the students belong to the JCC) • Abandoned industrial land near Union and Chess Streets needs to be developed

1 Bridgeville Borough Comprehensive Plan High School Focus Group Results

• Nice restaurants • Chain clothing stores • Larger, modern, up-scale housing • Jobs (only jobs now are minimum wage—only five of the students have parents that work in Bridgeville)

2 Fall 2003

ISSUE 1 OF 2 Bridgeville Borough Comprehensive Plan Newsletter www.mackinengineering.com

What is the Bridgeville Borough Comprehensive Plan? As communities in Pennsylvania are becoming more aware of how their available land and resources will be used in the future, they are utilizing legislation that enables them to guide development in a way that is an equitable and economic benefit to the landowner and the public.

The Pennsylvania Municipalities Planning Code (MPC) allows municipalities to prepare and adopt land use plans that strengthen their ability to sustain economic viability and improve the quality of life for its residents. Bridgeville Borough is presently working on the update to their comprehensive plan and has hired Mackin Engineering Company to help facilitate this process. Source: http://www.geocities.com/bridgevillepennsylvania/Pagehtml

When completed, the Bridgeville Borough Comprehensive Plan will guide future development that complements local characteristics, enhances the historical and cultural qualities of the borough, encourages the efficient use of public infrastructure and strengthens the local tax base.

Comprehensive Plan A Direction for the Plan! Steering Committee Community Development Objectives guide • Develop innovative strategies to capitalize

the policy decisions made in the develop- on the existing housing stock and provide • Ed Pelino ment of the plan. These objectives were more housing options such as garden • Chris Hollenden developed in part by the steering commit- apartments, townhouses, and condomini- • Dr. Andy Huwe tee and were presented for review at the ums and allow for mixed-use commercial • Dr. Michael Huwe first public meeting held on October 9, and residential districts. • Frank Daily 2003. The objectives are outlined below: • Work with surrounding municipalities to • Kevin Biber provide coordinated public services and in- • Rocky Raco • Improve, update, and maintain the cur- frastructure to ensure the highest quality of • Ray Gergich rent recreation facilities and services life for borough residents. • Mary Weise available to meet the changing needs of • Deborah Colosimo the borough while improving and provid- • Promote an aesthetically pleasing downtown environment to attract new busi- • Nino Petrocelli, Sr. ing better access to these facilities for all nesses. residents. • Paul Amic • Nicole Ciesielski • Capitalize on the existing transportation • Make the business districts of Bridgeville more accessible to residents and visitors. • Collen Rogosz network and proximity to major highways • Jennifer Smith and public transportation providers, while • Foster better relationships with local indus- • Lisa LaValle providing a safe and pedestrian friendly tries to promote a safe and healthy environ- • Kim Eckles atmosphere. ment for borough and surrounding munici-

• John McCans palities’ residents. • Encourage residents and visitors alike to • Allie Baker visit downtown by improving the existing • Preserve the historic integrity of Bridgeville parking system. Borough and promote tourism of existing and potential historic sites. Fall 2003 Page 2

What Borough Residents are Talking About!

Local residents had an opportunity to A few of the themes that came out ⇒ Allow more flexible zoning voice their opinions about their com- of the meeting are listed below: ⇒ Encourage business owners munity at the first Comprehensive Plan to increase store hours public meeting held on October 9, ⇒ Address traffic and parking is-

2003 at the Bridgeville Volunteer Fire sues Department. Everyone who attended ⇒ Provide a community center for A visioning exercise was also con- participated in a Strengths, Weak- borough residents ducted with the meeting atten- nesses, Opportunities and Threats ⇒ Create landlord association to dees in order to get input on what (SWOT) and Visioning exercises. The educate landlords on their re- the vision statement should be exercises will be used to develop the sponsibilities for Bridgeville and the compre- vision and the goals, objectives and hensive plan. ⇒ Market Bridgeville’s assets recommendations of the plan. ⇒ Utilize vacant property Please look for the finalized vision The meeting attendees broke into four ⇒ Improve water quality in statement in future information groups to participate in the SWOT exer- streams regarding the comprehensive cise. Each group discussed two plan plan. ⇒ Increase maintenance in parks elements (the plan elements are the sections of the comprehensive plan ⇒ Provide diverse recreation op- If you would like to see the full set and include: Community Facilities, tions of results from the meeting, Community History , Economic Devel- ⇒ Encourage historic preserva- please visit the Bridgeville Bor- opment, Environment, Housing, Land tion to improve aesthetics of ough Comprehensive Plan project Use, Recreation, and Transportation) the borough website.

Be on the Lookout ! ? Want to Learn More ? As the plan for Bridgeville Borough attending the second public progresses, Mackin Engineering meeting, or by visiting the Please visit the project web site at Company will be conducting stake- Mackin Engineering web site. http://www.mackinengineering.com/ holder interviews, compiling re- Upcoming Events: projects.htm sults from public surveys, drafting sections of the plan, and holding a ⇒ Next public meeting - early and click on the Bridgeville second public meeting during the 2004 Comprehensive Plan link first few months of 2004.

⇒ Second newsletter—Spring or call Brandi Rosselli at Mackin Please stay involved in the proc- (412-788-0472). ess. You can do this through com- of 2004 pleting the enclosed public survey, ⇒ Draft Plan—Spring of 2004 Public Survey: What Do YOU Think? Your input is important! Enclosed is a survey to obtain information from residents as to what you like and don’t like about your community. There is also space for you to tell us what you would like your community to look like in the future. Please take the time to complete the survey and return it to us before November 7, 2003. Bridgeville Borough Comprehensive Plan Community Survey

Your input is extremely important to the development of the Bridgeville Borough Comprehensive Plan! Please take a few minutes to fill out this survey. The address is provided on the bottom for you. Please return the survey by November 7, 2003. We would like to thank you in advance for your time and participation and hope to see you at future public meetings! 1. I am a: 9. I am willing to support ordinances (land use regulations) _____ Resident of Bridgeville Borough* that: (Check no more than 1) What street ______Leave things the same _____ Business owner in Bridgeville Borough* ___Encourage flexible standards _____ Other, please list ______Provide stricter oversight and more control ___Increase property maintenance standards 2. I am: ___ 18 or Under ___ 19-25 ___ 26-40 10. I visit Bridgeville* for: (check all that apply) ___ 41-59 ___ 59-64 ___ 65 and over ___Shopping ___Dining ___Male ___Female ___Professional Services (attorneys, consultants, doctors, dentists, banking etc.) 3. Is your household connected to the internet? ___Personal Services (salon, barber shop, dry cleaning, ___Yes ___No travel agency, etc.) ___Non-profit or government agency services 4. The housing in Bridgeville* is in good condition and well ___Education (college, training, etc.) maintained: ___Employment (site of work location) ___ Agree ___Special Events ___ Somewhat Agree ___Other ______Somewhat Disagree ___ Disagree 11. I go to places OTHER than Bridgeville* for: (check all that apply) 5. The road network in Bridgeville* is in good condition and ___Shopping well maintained: ___Dining ___ Agree ___Professional Services (attorneys, doctors, dentists, ___ Somewhat Agree banking etc.) ___ Somewhat Disagree ___Personal Services (salons, barber shop, dry cleaning, ___ Disagree shop repair, travel agency, etc.) ___Non-profit or government agency services 6. The appearance of the Bridgeville business district (this ___Education (college, training, etc.) does not include the Chartier’s Shopping Center, which is ___Employment (site of work location) outside of the borough boundaries) is attractive: ___Special Events ___ Agree ___Other______Somewhat Agree ___ Somewhat Disagree 12. I am willing to support partnering with neighboring com- ___ Disagree munities regarding the following: (check all that apply) ___Police services 7. I visit the Bridgeville business district: ___Fire services ___ Once a day ___Water service ___ Once a week ___Sewer service / repair ___ 2-or more times a week ___Street maintenance / repair ___ 1 or 2 times a month ___Recreation ___ Rarely ___Code enforcement ___Zoning 8. The recreation programs/facilities in the borough: (Check ___Other no more than 1) ___Are adequate ___Are not adequate ___Should offer different types of recreation OVER

*Bridgeville Borough is 1.1 square miles comprised of the land surrounded by Chartier’s Creek - located between the two bridges on the north and south end of town. 13. The things I like MOST about Bridgeville* are: (Rank 16. The elected officials of Bridgeville* should focus on: the top four with 1 being the most important) (Rank the top four with 1 being the most important) ___ Small town character ___ Recreation / parks / open space / trails ___ Location ___ Water / sewer systems ___ Availability of recreation ___ New housing ___ Availability of jobs ___ Senior housing ___ Appearance ___ Public safety services (police/fire) ___ Road network ___ Roads / parking ___ Community services ___ Traffic control ___ Housing ___ Property maintenance ___ Special events ___ Relationship with neighboring communities ___ Other ______Business park/employment center development ___ Reuse or redevelopment of vacant sites 14. The things I like LEAST about Bridgeville* are: (Rank ___ Other ______the top four with 1 being the most important) ___ Small town character 17. The most important transportation issues are: ___ Location (Rank the top four with 1 being the most important) ___ Availability of Recreation ___ The need for more roads ___ Availability of Jobs ___ Better maintenance of existing roads ___ Appearance ___ Better winter maintenance of roads ___ Road network ___ Building more pedestrian & bicycle pathways ___ Community services ___ Increased public transportation services ___ Housing ___ The need for more parking ___ Special events ___ Other ______Other ______18. If you were moving outside of Bridgeville*, which of the 15. I would like to see more of the following types of devel- following would be important to have in your new com- opment in Bridgeville*: (Rank the top four with 1 be- munity? (Rank the top four with 1 being the most im- ing the most important) portant) ___ Retail ___Schools ___ Professional services (doctor, lawyer, etc) ___Taxes ___ Restaurants ___Public water / sewage ___ Industrial ___Recreation ___ Offices ___Roads ___ Single-family Homes ___Housing cost & availability ___ Apartments ___Local services ___ Town homes ___County services ___ None ___Availability / access to job ___ Other ______Other ______

Please list any concerns or issues you feel are important regarding the future of your community: ______

Return Address Place Stamp

Here Mackin Engineering Company Attn: Brandi Rosselli R.I.D.C. Park West 117 Industry Drive Pittsburgh, PA 15275—1015 Winter 2004

ISSUE 2 OF 2 Bridgeville Borough www.mackinengineering.com Comprehensive Plan Newsletter Come One...Come All! WHEN: THURSDAY, MARCH 25, 2004—7:00 PM WHERE: BRIDGEVILLE VFD—CHARTIERS ROOM WHAT: PUBLIC MEETING #2—BRIDGEVILLE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN WHY: WE HEARD WHAT YOU SAID—DID WE GET IT RIGHT? Back on October 9, 2003, the first public meeting for the Bridgeville Borough Comprehensive Plan was held, in which 45 people attended. We would like to triple that number for the second public meeting!! We need you to help provide the overall direction for your community, and all we are asking for is approximately one hour of your time! Based upon public input at the October meeting, stakeholder interviews, and public survey results, we have developed a number of goals to guide the borough over thenext 10 years. Did we get it right? Come out to the meeting on March 25 and let us know!

Need more reasons to attend?

• “But I came to the last meeting!” - Come to the second one and build upon the ideas you provided at the first meeting in October! • “I forget what we said at the first meeting!” No problem—just visit the project website at: www.bridgevilleboro.com and click on the link for the comprehensive plan! • “I already filled out a public survey!” Come and see what recommendations were developed from your input!

What’s been happening since October? Throughout the first six months of the planning process, Mackin En- gineering Company, the firm facilitating the comprehensive plan, has Comprehensive Plan been collecting background information and public input through a Steering Committee Members variety of methods: ⇒ Public survey • Dr. Andy Huwe ⇒ First public meeting • Frank Daily ⇒ Stakeholder interviews ⇒ Economic development workshop • Colleen Rogosz ⇒ Field work • Kevin Biber • Jennifer Smith • Rocky Raco • Lisa LaValle • Mary Weise Be on the Lookout! • Kim Eckles • Deborah Colosimo With only 6 months remaining in the planning process, the Bridge- • John McCans • Nino Petrocelli, Sr. ville Borough Comprehensive Plan will include the following events: • Paul Amic

⇒ Second Public Meeting—March 25, 2004 New Additions ⇒ Draft Plan—Spring of 2004 ⇒ Public Hearing—Summer of 2004 • Mary Lou Petronsky • Eric Davidson ⇒ Adoption of the Plan—Summer of 2004 • Lorraine Hohman • Pasquale DeBlasio, Sr. Winter 2004 Page 2 Economic Development Workshop Held on January 8, 2004 On Thursday, January 8, 2004, an Eco- 1. Identify new parking sites 6. Promote tourism as an economic Development Workshop was held at within the borough to address nomic development tool. the Bridgeville Volunteer Fire Department current problems and improve • Develop Bed and Breakfasts Chartiers Room. All Bridgeville Borough • Reinstitute the Summer Garden business owners were invited to attend the the parking system to support Tours breakfast meeting, held from 7AM—9AM to the downtown. discuss current issues facing economic de- • Investigate a parking garage • Provide Summer House Tours velopment within the borough and develop • Offer trolley service • Take advantage of events and attractions in neighboring communi- possible strategies to address these is- • Utilize private parking lots for leases ties sues. Attendees also identified opportunity • Host festivals around historic sites for future economic development 2. Revise the zoning ordinance. within the borough—a map of these sites events • Allow more flexibility can be viewed on the Bridgeville Borough website . 7. Provide and promote a busi- 3. Encourage business owners to ness friendly atmosphere to Out of the over 200 invited, approximately extend store hours. encourage the development 20 business owners attended the work- • Have businesses agree on a day and marketing of new busi- shop and despite the small turnout, partici- • Provide free parking on certain days pants were engaged in a very positive dis- • Conduct an open house nesses. cussion. The following are some of the • Make Bridgeville more attractive • Investigate the Business Privilege strategies developed at the workshop. • Market the borough Tax

4. Utilize existing parking lots 8. Identify potential niche mar- more efficiently . kets appropriate to Bridge- • Add metered parking ville. • Reduce lease fees in fringe lots • Develop a market study • Run a trolley through downtown • Look at business that have left the (shuttle) area

5. Consider alternative traffic pat- 9. Improve infrastructure to sup- terns to facilitate economic de- port new economic develop- velopment. ment opportunities. Economic Development Workshop Participants • Investigate one-way streets • Alcosan replacing sewer systems on (Mackin, 2004) • Implement signing a ten-year plan

Storm Water Runoff within Bridgeville Borough Every time it rains, large quantities of pollutants wash into our area streams and rivers, causing pollution that is harmful to our aquatic life and the quality of our streams. These pollutants include fertilizer washed from lawns; oil, antifreeze and other automotive fluids washed from the streets; soil and sediment; and even trash and litter. What goes down those drains flows directly to our streams and rivers!

Our residents and business owners can have a significant impact in reducing this pollution.

⇒ Do not apply fertilizer to your lawn if rain is in the forecast in the next several days. The fertilizer will be washed away, and your lawn will not benefit. ⇒ Take used oil, antifreeze and batteries to local repair shops or auto parts stores. Never dump these down the drains or storm sewers. ⇒ Pick up trash in and around your yard and dispose of it properly. This will prevent pollution and improve the appearance of your neighborhood! ⇒ Finally, storm drains should never be used to dispose of leaves or grass clippings. A small corner of your yard can be utilized as a compost area to allow these materials to naturally decompose and develop into a rich, dark topsoil that has many uses around your yard. A homemade or commercially made compost bin can help hasten this process.

A little prevention can have a big impact in cleaning up our area streams and rivers. Use your brain before the drain! Bridgeville Borough Comprehensive Plan Community Survey Results

We would like to thank all those who returned a survey for your time and participation! Your input is extremely important to us and we hope to see you at the public meeting on March 25, 2004! Out of the 2,200 surveys mailed, we received 247 completed surveys, for a response rate of 11%. Congratulations—you surpassed our goal of 7%! The results are below. Q1. Place of Residence Q9. I would support ordinances that · 93.1% Bridgeville Borough residents · 8.1% Leave things the same · 1.2% Business owners · 35.6% Encourage flexible standards · 3.2% Other · 15.8% Provide stricter oversight and more control · 33.6% Increase property maintenance standards Q2a. Age · 0.4% 18 or under Q10. I visit Bridgeville for · 1.6% 19-25 · 51.0% Shopping · 19.8% 26-40 · 68.4% Dining · 58.7% 41-58 · 69.2% Professional services · 12.1% 59-64 · 45.3% Personal services · 25.5% 65+ · 19.4% Non-profit or government agency services · 0.8% Education Q2b. Sex · 15.0% Employment · 36.8% Male · 36.0% Special Events · 43.3% Female · 15.4% Other

Q3. Internet Q11. I go to places other than Bridgeville for · 60.3% Connected to Internet · 93.5% Shopping · 36.0% Not connected to Internet · 87.9% Dining · 74.5% Professional services Q4. Housing stock is in good condition · 67.6% Personal services · 20.6% Agree · 25.1% Non-profit or government agency services · 49.8% Somewhat Agree · 21.5% Education · 23.5% Somewhat Disagree · 49.8% Employment · 5.7% Disagree · 58.3% Special Events · 3.2% Other Q5. The road network is in good condition · 32.8% Agree Q12. I am willing to support partnering with neighboring · 44.9% Somewhat Agree communities regarding · 15.8% Somewhat Disagree · 4.9% Disagree · 43.3% Police services · 44.5% Fire services Q6. The appearance of Bridgeville’s business district is ap- · 35.6% Water services pealing · 39.7% Sewer service / repair · 17.0% Agree · 40.5% Street maintenance / repair · 44.5% Somewhat Agree · 45.7% Recreation · 23.5% Somewhat Disagree · 23.5% Code enforcement · 13.8% Disagree · 19.4% Zoning · 3.6% Other Q7. I visit Bridgeville’s business District · 22.3% Once / Day The final part of the survey asked respondents to rank their · 9.3% Once / Week top four choices for questions 13 through 18. The answers · 23.5% 2 or more times a week are ranked in order for each question below. · 26.3% 1 – 2 times a month · 22.3% Rarely Q13. The things I like most about Bridgeville

(1) Small town character (6) Community services Q8. The recreation programs and facilities in Bridgeville (2) Location (7) Special events · 24.7% Adequate (3) Housing (8) Availability of recreation · 32.0% Not Adequate (4) Appearance (9) Availability of jobs · 33.6% Offer different types (5) Road Network

Bridgeville Borough Comprehensive Plan Community Survey Results - Continued -

Q14. The things I like least about Bridgeville Q17. The most important transportation issue is

(1) Availability (5) Community services (1) Need for more parking of recreation (6) Special events (2) Better maintenance of existing roads (2) Road network (7) Housing (3) More pedestrian and bike paths (3) Availability of jobs (8) Location (4) Better winter maintenance of roads (4) Appearance (5) Need for more roads (6) Increased public transportation Q15. I would like to see more of the following types of development in Bridgeville Q18. If you were moving outside of Bridgeville, what would be important to you (1) Retail (5) Single-family residential (2) Restaurants (6) Town homes (1) Taxes (3) Professional services (7) Industrial (2) Housing cost and availability (4) Offices (8) Apartments (3) Schools (9) None (4) Availability / access to job (5) Local services Q16. The elected officials of Bridgeville should focus on (6) Recreation

(1) Traffic control (7) Roads (2) Roads / parking (8) Public water / sewage (3) Reuse / redevelopment of vacant sites (9) County services (4) Public safety services (5) Recreation / parks / open space / trails (6) Property maintenance (7) Business park / employment centers (8) Water / sewer systems (9) Senior housing (10) Relationship with neighboring areas (11) New housing

First Class Mail U.S. Postage Paid Permit No. 5 Bridgeville, PA

Address Label Bridgeville Borough Comprehensive Plan Funding Sources and Technical Assistance

Grant Contact Information Description and Eligibility Act 101 Host Municipality Tom Woy at 717-787-7381 This ongoing program is available to Independent Review of Waste municipalities in which landfills are Permits being proposed. Army Corp of Engineers U.S. Army, Corps of Technical and management Engineers expertise, emphasizing Pittsburgh District governmental responsibilities while 2032 William S. Moorhead working in partnership with our Federal Building clients and private industry on 1000 Liberty Avenue projects that include water and land Pittsburgh, PA 15222-4186 related natural resources, PHONE: 412-395-7500 engineering, facility design, disaster FAX: 412-644-2811 relief, environmental restoration and Community-based Restoration U.S. Department of Provides funds for small-scale, Program (CRP) Commerce National Oceanic locally driven habitat restoration and Atmospheric projects that foster natural resource Administration Office of stewardship within communities. Habitat Conservation, FHC3 1315 East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD 20910 (301) 713-0174 chris. [email protected] or robin. [email protected]

Conservation Reserve Program U.S. Department of Voluntary program that offers long- (CRP) Agriculture, Farm Service term rental payments and cost-share Agency, Conservation assistance to establish long-term, Reserve Program Stop 0513, resource-conserving cover on Washington, DC 20250-0513 environmentally sensitive cropland (202) 720-6221 or, in some cases, marginal [email protected] pastureland.

Department of Community and DCED Customer Service-1- Economic Development- 800-379-7448 Community Revitalization Grant Department of Community and DCED Customer Service-1- Creation of regional fire service Economic Development-Land Use 800-379-7448 areas, fire service associations or and Technical Assistance Program multi-municipal fire company or ambulance mergers or Department of Conservation and Rivers Conservation Program Funding and technical assistance to Natural Resources Division of Conservation river support groups and Partnerships municipalities for planning, 717-787-2316 implementation, acquisition and www.dcnr.state.pa.us/rivers/ development riverhome

Downtown Research & 28 West 25th St., 8th Floor Development Center New York, NY 10010 212- 228-0246 Fax: 212-228-0376 www.downtowndevelopment.

1 Bridgeville Borough Comprehensive Plan Funding Sources and Technical Assistance

Grant Contact Information Description and Eligibility Downtown Research & Development 28 West 25th St., 8th Floor Center New York, NY 10010 212- 228-0246 Fax: 212-228-0376 www.downtowndevelopment. com EMS Operating Funds (EMSOF) Division of Emergency Medical Services, Department of Health 717-787-8740 Environmental Protection Agency Superfund Hotline (800-424- A federal agency that provides Superfund 9346 reimbursement program for emergency services that respond to Haz-Mat incidents. Environmental Quality Incentives U.S. Department of Provides voluntary Program (EQIP) Agriculture Natural Resources conservation programs for Conservation Service P.O. farmers and ranchers to Box 2890, Washington, DC address significant natural 20013-9770 (202) 720-1873 resource needs and objectives.

Farmland Protection Program U.S. Department of Voluntary program that helps Agriculture Natural Resources farmers and ranchers keep their Conservation Service P.O. land in agriculture and Box 2890, Washington, DC prevents conversion of 20013-9770 (202) 720-1873 agricultural land to non- Please contact by telephone or agricultural uses. The program mail provides matching funds to organizations with existing farmland protection programs that enable them to purchase Federal Property Reimbursement United States Fire Assists local emergency Program Administration, Emmitsburg, organizations to determine if MD they are eligible for 1-800-238-3358 reimbursement of expenses incurred while providing services on federal property Federal Surplus Property Program 1-800-235-1555 Five-Star Restoration Program U.S. Environmental Protection Provides funds to the National Agency Office of Wetlands, Fish and Wildlife Foundation Oceans and Watersheds and its partners, the National (4502F) Ariel Rios Bldg., Association of Counties, 1200 Pennsylvania Ave., NW, NOAA’s Community-based Washington, DC 20460 (202) Restoration Program and the 260-8076 [email protected] Wildlife Habitat Council, to make subgrants to support community-based projects.

2 Bridgeville Borough Comprehensive Plan Funding Sources and Technical Assistance

Grant Contact Information Description and Eligibility Flood Mitigation Assistance Federal Emergency Helps states and communities Program (FMA) Management Agency identify and implement measures to Mitigation Directorate 500 C reduce or eliminate the long-term risk Street, SW, Washington, DC of flood damage to homes and other 20472 (202) 646-4621 Please structures insurable under the NFIP. contact by telephone or mail

Governor's Center for Local 1-888-223-6837 Technical assistance and funding Government Services Information PSAB PA State Association of Boroughs Nicole Faraguna 1-800-232- Offers various support services and 7722 X 44 publications regarding grants and International Downtown 1250 H. Street, NW 10th Floor Association Washington D.C. USA 20005 202-393-6801Fax: 202-393- International Economic 734 15th St NW, Suite 900 Technical Assistance, Funding and Development Council Washington DC 2005 Education Opportunities to support 202-223-7800 economic development activities International Society of http://www.isa-arbor.org Information to assist with Arboriculture landscaping/tree plantings Local Government Academy 800 Allegheny Avenue, Suite Serving all of Southwestern 402 Pennsylvania, the Local Government Pittsburgh, PA 15233 Academy's purpose is to promote 412-237-3171 excellence in government by Fax: 412-237-3139 providing educational opportunities to assist public officials, employees, and citizens in effectively meeting the needs of their communities; to develop in elected officials the skills needed for effective leadership and responsible policy making, professional management, supervision, and the efficient and effective delivery of public services; to promote, wherever possible, the concepts and methods of intergovernmental cooperation including resource sharing and coordinated planning; and to achieve these objectives by working with elected officials, public employees, educational institutions and government agencies in the design Local Government Capital Sharon Grau at 1-888-223-6837 Provides low-interest loans for the Projects Loan Program or email [email protected] equipment and facility needs for small local governments. Local governments with populations of 12,000 or less

3 Bridgeville Borough Comprehensive Plan Funding Sources and Technical Assistance

Grant Contact Information Description and Eligibility National Fish and Wildlife Grants program that awards challenge Foundation General Matching grants to projects that (1) address Grants priority actions promoting fish and wildlife conservation and the habitats on which they depend; (2) work proactively to involve other conservation and community interests; (3) leverage available funding; and (4) evaluate National Institute of Standards 100 Bureau Drive, Stop 3460 NIST funds industrial and academic and Technology Gaithersburg, MD 20899- research in a variety of ways. Our 3460. Advanced Technology Program co- 301-975-6478 funds high-risk, high-payoff projects with industry. The Small Business Innovation Research Program funds R&D proposals from small businesses. Also offers other grants to encourage work in specific fields: precision measurement, fire research, and National Telecommunications Technology Opportunities As an agency of the U.S. Department of and Information Program, National Commerce, NTIA is the Executive Administration, US Dept of Telecommunications and Branch's principal voice on domestic Commerce Information Administration, and international telecommunications U.S. Department of and information technology issues. Commerce, 1401 Constitution NTIA works to spur innovation, Avenue, NW, HCHB, Room encourage competition, help create jobs 4096, Washington, DC and support policies that provide 20230; or hand-delivered to consumers with more choices and better Technology Opportunities quality telecommunications products and Program, National services at lower prices. TOP supports Telecommunications and this mission through funding Information Administration, demonstrations of new U.S. Department of telecommunications and information Commerce, HCHB, Room technology applications for the provision 1874, 1401 Constitution of "educational, health care, or public Avenue, NW, Washington, information" in the Nation's public and Partners for Fish and Wildlife U.S. Department of the Provides technical and financial Program Interior, U.S. Fish and assistance to private landowners to Wildlife Service Branch of restore fish and wildlife habitats on their Habitat Restoration, Division lands. Pennsylvania Association of 2941 North Front Street Provides technical assistance to Boroughs Harrisburg, PA 17110 Pennsylvania Boroughs across the state 1-800-232-7722 in efforts to pursue funding and 717-236-8164 (Fax) complete grant applications.

PA Cleanways 105 West Fourth Street A non-profit organization that helps Greensburg, PA 15601 communities take action against illegal 724-836-4121 dumping and littering. 724-836-1980 (Fax)

4 Bridgeville Borough Comprehensive Plan Funding Sources and Technical Assistance

Grant Contact Information Description and Eligibility PA Humanities Council 1-800-462-0442 Grants to host exhibitions or events encouraging programs on Pennsylvania Pennsylvania Department of Pennsylvania Department The Community Conservation Partnerships Conservation and Natural of Conservation and Program is a combination of several funding Resources Natural Resources sources and grant programs: the PO Box 8475 Commonwealth’s Keystone Recreation, Park Harrisburg, PA 17105 and Conservation Fund (Key 93), the 717-787-7672 Environmental Stewardship and Watershed Protection Act (Growing Greener), and Act 68 Snowmobile and ATV Trails Fund. The Program also includes federal funding from the Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) and the Recreational Trails component of the Transportation Equity Act for the Twenty-first Century (TEA-21). Pennsylvania Department of Alternative Fuels Incentive Grant program to fund alternative fuel Environmental Protection Grant Program oriented items Bureau of Air Quality 717-772-3429 Pennsylvania Department of Growing Greener: Funding to clean up abandoned mines, Environmental Protection Environmental Stewardship restore watersheds, and provide new and and Watershed Protection upgraded water and sewer systems Act 1-877-PAGREEN or www. Pennsylvania Department of Watershed Restoration Technical assistance for development of Environmental Protection Bureau of Abandoned Mine rehabilitation plan for watershed problems Reclamation related to mine land impacts 1-717-783-2267 Pennsylvania Department of Source Water Protection Grants for the start-up and development of Environmental Protection Grant Program local, voluntary source water protection Bureau of Watershed programs Management 717-787-5259 Pennsylvania Department of Nonpoint Source Pollution Funding for projects that restore or protect Environmental Protection Control impaired waters through education, Bureau of Watershed monitoring or practices to control or reduce Management 717-787-5259 nonpoint sources of pollution Pennsylvania Department of Stream Improvement State provided design and construction Environmental Protection Program projects to eliminate imminent threats due to Bureau of Waterways flooding and stream bank erosion Pennsylvania Department of Stormwater Management Grants and technical assistance for planning Environmental Protection Program and implementing stormwater control Bureau of Watershed Pennsylvania Department of Wetlands Replacement Funding and technical assistance for the Environmental Protection Program restoration of wetlands Bureau of Watershed Pennsylvania Fish and Boat www.fish.state.pa.us Commission

5 Bridgeville Borough Comprehensive Plan Funding Sources and Technical Assistance

Grant Contact Information Description and Eligibility Pennsylvania 717-783-6798 Provides low interest loans for the design Infrastructure Investment www.penn-vest.state.pa.us and engineering of drinking water, Authority (PENNVEST) wastewater and stormwater infrastructure projects Pennsylvania Terri Dickow, training Provides low-interest loans and grants for Infrastructure Investment coordinator, PA Association of new construction or for improvements to Authority (PENNVEST) Boroughs, at 1-800-232-7722 or publicly or privately owned drinking email [email protected] water or sewage treatment facilities. Pennvest can also fund municipally owned stormwater management systems. Regional Police Assistance Dale Frye at 1-888-223-6837 or Provides grants for a period of up to three Grant Program email [email protected] years for the start-up of consolidated police departments. Any two or more municipalities that regionalize Rural Community Fire DCNR: Bureau of Forestry Fire Protection Protection: 717-787-2925 Section 902 Grants PA DEP Regional Planning and Grants for recycling program Recycling Coordinators implementation. Funding is also available to all municipalities and counties for a wide spectrum of equipment, containers, and educational outreach. Section 904 Recycling PA DEP Regional Planning and Grants are awarded to provide incentives Performance Grants Recycling Coordinators to counties and municipalities, awarding more money for more successful recycling programs. Shared Municipal Services Fred Redding at 1-888-223-6837 Provides grant funds to promote or email cooperation among municipalities, Two [email protected] or more local governments or Councils of Governments. Program Code Enforcement To assist local governments or COG’s, Initiative Grants for the purpose of undertaking programs Governor’s Center for Local of inter-municipal cooperation, to defray Government Services at 1-888- the initial admin expenses. 223-6837 State Surplus Property State Surplus Property Program Used equipment available to local Program 717-787-4083 governments and volunteer fire State Wildlife Program U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Provides grants to states, territories, and (Non-Tribal) (USFWS) State Wildlife Grant D.C. for wildlife conservation. Targeted Watershed EPA EPA will ask Governors and tribal leaders Grants Program for nominations and select up to 20 watershed organizations to receive grants to support innovative watershed based approaches to preventing, reducing, and eliminating water pollution.

6 Bridgeville Borough Comprehensive Plan Funding Sources and Technical Assistance

Grant Contact Information Description and Eligibility

The National Main 1785 Massachusetts Avenue, Street Center of the N.W. National Trust for Washington, DC 20036 Historic Preservation 202-588-6219 Fax: 202-588-6050 Email: [email protected]

The National Urban 120 Wall Street New York, League, Inc. NY 10005 212-558-5300 Fax: 212-344-5332

The Pennsylvania Rehabilitation Investment Tax program that encourages private investment Historic and Museum Tax Credit in rehabilitating historic properties Commission 1-800-201-3231 www.phmc.state.pa.us

Community Preservation Technical assistance with the designation of Program historic districts 1-800-201-3231

PENNDOT District PA Department of 11-0 Transportation District 11—0 51 Fox Chapel Road Pittsburgh, PA 15238 412-781-3260

US Department of 400 Maryland Ave, SW The U.S. Department of Education (ED) is Education Washington, DC 20202 providing about $36 billion this year to states 800-872-5327 and school districts, primarily through formula- Fax: 202-401-0689 based grant programs, to improve elementary and secondary schools and meet the special needs of students. ED is providing about $2.5 billion to help strengthen teaching and learning in colleges and other postsecondary institutions and about $3.3 billion to support rehabilitation, research and development, statistics, and Volunteer Firefighter’s Auditor General’s Office Relief Associations 717-787-1308 Volunteer Loan State Fire Commissioner’s Finance new and used equipment and structures Assistance Program Office for ambulance and fire companies Water Quality U.S. Environmental Provided to help states, Indian tribes, interstate Cooperative Protection Agency Office of agencies, and other public or nonprofit Agreements Wastewater Management organizations develop, implement, and (4203) Ariel Rios Bldg., 1200 demonstrate innovative approaches relating to Pennsylvania Ave., NW, the causes, effects, extent, prevention, reduction, Washington, DC 20460 (202) and elimination of water pollution. 260-9545

7 Bridgeville Borough Comprehensive Plan Funding Sources and Technical Assistance

Grant Contact Information Description and Eligibility Watershed Protection and Department of Agriculture Provides technical and financial Flood Prevention Program Natural Resources assistance to address water resource and Conservation Service P.O. related economic problems on a Box 2890 Washington, DC watershed basis. 20013-9770 (202) 720-3534 [email protected]

Western Pennsylvania Field 304 Forbes Ave, 2nd floor The Western Pennsylvania Field Institute Pittsburgh, PA 15222 Institute is a not-for-profit organization 412-255-0564 dedicated to making the outdoor recreation community a vibrant centerpiece of this region. Western Pennsylvania John Dawes 814-669-4847 Match funding for the preservation and Watershed Protection Program restoration of water resources and watersheds 3M 3M Corporate Headquarters 3M's national Vision Grants provide 3M Center start-up funding for new academic St. Paul, MN 55144-1000 programs that bring students and faculty 1-888-364-3577 together while connecting learning to the community.

8 Bridgeville Borough Comprehensive Plan Acknowledgements

Mackin Engineering Company would like to thank the Bridgeville Borough Council, Staff, and Planning Commission; as well as those people who volunteered their time to serve on the Bridgeville Borough Comprehensive Plan Steering Committee:

∗ Paul Amic ∗ Kevin Biber ∗ Lori Collins ∗ Deborah Colosimo ∗ Frank Daily ∗ Pasquale DeBlasio, Sr. ∗ Kim Eckles ∗ Dr. Andy Huwe ∗ Lisa LaValle ∗ John McCans ∗ Nino Petrocelli, Sr. ∗ Mary Lou Petronsky ∗ Rocky Raco ∗ Colleen Rogosz ∗ Jennifer Smith ∗ Mary Weise

The Bridgeville Comprehensive Plan was prepared by Mackin Engineering Company R.I.D.C. Park West 117 Industry Drive Pittsburgh, PA 15275 412-788-0472