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CONEWAGO TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN

South Londonderry Township

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Londonderry Township Mount Joy Township Lancaster County k e R re E C F o F g a O w e H n o C

Elizabethtown Borough Adopted October 14, 2009

CONEWAGO TOWNSHIP

COMPREHENSIVE PLAN

Adopted October 14, 2009

Prepared for the Conewago Township Board of Supervisors

John D. Rochat, Chairman Jay M. Brandt, Vice Chairman Galen Shelly, Supervisor

TABLE OF CONTENTS

CHAPTER PAGE

1 Introduction to the Comprehensive Plan Planning as a Concept ...... 1-2 Legislative Authority ...... 1-3 Legal Base for the Plan ...... 1-3 Plan Organization ...... 1-4 Public Involvement – Community Public Meeting ...... 1-4 Public Involvement – Planning Commission Review Meetings ...... 1-5 Vision Statement ...... 1-6 Overriding Goals ...... 1-7 Expected Outcomes ...... 1-8

2 Socioeconomic Profile Historic Population Trends ...... 2-1 Population Projections ...... 2-4 Age Distribution of the Population ...... 2-7 Population Density ...... 2-11 Average Household Size ...... 2-12 Educational Attainment ...... 2-12 Employment by Occupation ...... 2-14 Employment by Industry...... 2-16 Household Income ...... 2-18 Per Capita Income ...... 2-20

3 Housing Profile Historic Housing Unit Construction ...... 3-1 Recent Residential Construction ...... 3-3 Type of Housing ...... 3-4 Tenure and Occupancy Statistics ...... 3-6 Value of Housing ...... 3-8

4 Community Facilities Profile Public Schools ...... 4-1 Conewago Township Municipal Building ...... 4-3 Police Protection ...... 4-3 Fire Protection and Emergency Services ...... 4-3 Refuse Disposal and Recycling ...... 4-7 Road Maintenance ...... 4-7 Water System ...... 4-8 Sewerage System ...... 4-8 Parks and Recreation ...... 4-9 Churches and Faith Based Organizations ...... 4-10

5 Transportation Profile Regional Access ...... 5-1 Roadway Functionality ...... 5-1 Traffic Volume ...... 5-2 i

Level of Service ...... 5-3 Township Functional Classification ...... 5-4 Design Standards ...... 5-6 Crash Corridors ...... 5-6 Transportation Improvement Program ...... 5-7 Twelve Year Program ...... 5-7 Bridges ...... 5-7 Public Transportation ...... 5-7 Park-and-Ride Facilities ...... 5-8 Aviation ...... 5-8 Rail ...... 5-8 Bicycle and Pedestrian...... 5-8 Travel Times to Work ...... 5-9

6 Existing Land Use Profile Land Use Classifications and Descriptions ...... 6-1 Composition of Land Use ...... 6-3

7 Natural and Historic Resources Profile Climate ...... 7-1 Physiography ...... 7-1 Topography and Steep Slopes ...... 7-2 Geology ...... 7-2 Water Resources ...... 7-3 Forested Areas and Woodlands ...... 7-7 Soils ...... 7-7 Wildlife ...... 7-12 Historical Perspective ...... 7-13 Historic and Cultural Resources ...... 7-14

8 Future Land Use Plan Maintaining Consistency ...... 8-1 Community Policies and Recommendations ...... 8-1 Goal and Objectives ...... 8-2 Future Land Use Classifications ...... 8-2 Agriculture ...... 8-3 Rural Resource ...... 8-3 Low Density Residential ...... 8-4 Medium Density Residential ...... 8-5 Commercial/Light Industrial ...... 8-6 Industrial ...... 8-7 The Overlay Concept ...... 8-7 Conservation Overlay ...... 8-8 Eleemosynary Overlay ...... 8-8 Distribution of Land Uses ...... 8-9 Toolbox ...... 8-10 Statement of Municipal Interrelationships and Consistency ...... 8-14 Statement of Plan Interrelationships ...... 8-16

9 Natural and Historic Resources Plan Goal and Objectives ...... 9-1 Overview of Key Findings ...... 9-2 Interrelationship of Natural Resources to Other Plan Elements ...... 9-4 Conservation Overlay ...... 9-5 Development Styles that Support the Conservation of Natural Features ...... 9-7 Water Resources Protection Toolbox ...... 9-8 Historic and Cultural Resources Preservation Plan ...... 9-15

10 Housing Plan Goal and Objectives ...... 10-1 Overview of Key Findings ...... 10-2 Interrelationship of Housing to Other Elements of the Comprehensive Plan ...... 10-4 Housing Projections ...... 10-5 Analyzing Housing Cost Burden and the Need for Affordable Housing ...... 10-6 Toolbox – Reducing Barriers to Affordable Housing ...... 10-9 Preserving Existing Housing Stock ...... 10-11 Housing Choices Toolbox ...... 10-11

11 Community Facilities Plan Goal and Objectives ...... 11-1 Overview of Key Findings ...... 11-2 Interrelationship of Community Facilities to Other Plan Elements ...... 11-3 Community Needs Assessment ...... 11-4

12 Transportation Plan Goal and Objectives ...... 12-1 Overview of Key Findings ...... 12-1 Interrelationship of Transportation to Other Elements of the Comprehensive Plan ...... 12-4 Transportation Improvement Needs ...... 12-6 Township Road Functional Classification ...... 12-11 Transportation Planning Toolbox ...... 12-12

13 Implementation Introduction ...... 13-1 Organization ...... 13-1 Capital Improvements Plan ...... 13-1 Reviewing and Updating the Planning Program ...... 13-2 Implementation – Land Use Plan ...... 13-3 Implementation – Natural and Historic Resources Plan ...... 13-4 Implementation – Housing Plan ...... 13-6 Implementation – Community Facilities Plan ...... 13-8 Implementation – Transportation Plan ...... 13-10

iii

APPENDIX – Public Outreach Results

1 Public Outreach Initiative Common Themes ...... Appendix-1 Identified Issues by Topic ...... Appendix-2 Identified Strengths by Topic ...... Appendix-6 Preliminary Overriding Goals ...... Appendix-8

INTRODUCTION Chapter 1

Conewago Township is located in southeastern Dauphin County on the boundary of Lancaster and Lebanon Counties. The township was formed by an Act of State Assembly on April 2, 1850, from Londonderry and Derry Townships in Dauphin County, and was named for the creek that forms its southern boundary. Today the township covers approximately 17 square miles and it contained an estimated 2,926 people in 2005.1 State Routes (SR) 743 and 341 serve as the major transportation thoroughfares for the township. The Pennsylvania Turnpike and SR 283 travel through the township, although neither is accessed within the township. The closest turnpike interchange is the Harrisburg East Interchange, located in Dauphin County. SR 283 is accessed in Londonderry Township, and in Mount Joy Township in Lancaster County via SR 743.

Figure 1-1: Regional Location of Conewago Township

Sources: Pennsylvania Department of Transportation; RETTEW Associates, Inc.

1 U.S. Census Bureau 2005 population estimates

CONEWAGO TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN October 14, 2009 1-1 Conewago Township recognizes the necessity of developing a plan that is comprehensive in nature to guide the township through the next ten to fifteen years. Planning is not a new concept to Conewago Township. This plan will serve as an update to the 1981 Comprehensive Plan, and the township has also adopted a zoning ordinance, subdivision and land development ordinance, and an Act 537 Sewage Facilities Plan. However, the comprehensive plan, which serves as the township’s primary policy document, does not adequately address the current growth pressures that the township is facing.

Conewago Township is part of the Lower Dauphin School District, and recognizes the effectiveness of planning on a regional level. The township was initially part of the Lower Dauphin Area Regional Planning Group (LDARPG), a steering committee for the Lower Dauphin Area Regional Comprehensive Plan. However, as the plan was developed, the goals set forth in the plan did not accurately reflect the desires of Conewago Township in the future, and as such, the Township did not adopt the Lower Dauphin Area Regional Comprehensive Plan.

The Conewago Township Comprehensive Plan will take into consideration the influences of the Lower Dauphin Area as a region, but will work to form a plan that focuses on the protection and preservation of the township’s rural heritage, while encouraging and implementing smart growth policies recommended and supported by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.

The comprehensive plan is a policy guide for decisions and for the orderly development and redevelopment of the township. The plan’s primary objective is to promote and improve the quality of life, health, safety, and conveniences for residents of Conewago Township, as reflected in the following mission statement for the plan:

The Conewago Township Comprehensive Plan will encourage and maintain the preservation and continuance of the agricultural and rural character that has defined the township, while maintaining the quality of life for all Conewago residents through improvements to the health, safety, and welfare of the community.

The plan is intended to organize and coordinate the interrelated collection of people, ideas, land, facilities, services, infrastructure, agricultural preservation efforts, land uses, and environmental elements that comprise the township as a whole. Thus, the term “comprehensive” is used to express the scope of the plan’s content.

PLANNING AS A CONCEPT

The comprehensive plan is a tool to be used by township officials as a roadmap to guide them through future decisions. It should be noted that when changes and conditions evolve within the area, the comprehensive plan should be modified to address these changes and recognize demands.

The plan charts the course for municipal growth and change by: Expressing the aims and ambitions of area residents and businesses; Being responsive to change; Providing a framework necessary for continual review and revision; Delineating the municipal forms and character they seek to achieve.

CONEWAGO TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN October 14, 2009 1-2 In part, the comprehensive plan is a factual report that examines how the past has led to the present; it is a report that can be used to chart the municipality’s future, as well as a report of the plans and actions necessary to achieve its objectives for the future. Often, much of the value in a community’s comprehensive plan is found in the decisions that are made in the process of preparing the plan and the actions that are taken to implement the plan.

LEGISLATIVE AUTHORITY

Pennsylvania local governments receive legislative authority from the Pennsylvania Municipalities Planning Code, Act 247, as amended, to manage and plan for development within their respective municipal boundaries. This legislation sets forth general guidelines, as well as specific administrative and procedural requirements, that municipalities must adhere to in developing and implementing municipal or multi-municipal comprehensive plans. The Pennsylvania Municipalities Planning Code states that the municipal comprehensive plan shall include the following: A statement of objectives of the municipality concerning its future development; A plan for land use; A plan to meet the housing needs of present residents and of those individuals and families anticipated to reside in the municipality; A plan for the movement of people and goods; A plan for community facilities and utilities; A statement of the interrelationships among the various plan components; A discussion of short- and long-range plan implementation strategies; Either a statement indicating that the existing and proposed development of the municipality is compatible with the existing and proposed development and plans in contiguous portions of neighboring municipalities, or a statement indicating measures which have been taken to provide buffers or other transitional devices between disparate uses, and a statement indicating that the existing and proposed development of the municipalities is generally consistent with the objectives and plans of the county comprehensive plans; A plan for the protection of natural and historic resources to the extent not preempted by federal or state law; and A plan for the reliable supply of water.

LEGAL BASE FOR THE PLAN

The right of a municipality to exercise its authority in legislating regulations governing the use of the land has been upheld by the state and federal courts. The courts grant that a municipality has the right to manage development and growth activities within certain legal constraints. The primary method, upheld by the United States, to protect and provide for the best interest of citizens of a municipality is through the adoption of a zoning ordinance. However, this method of safeguarding the public welfare is not sufficient by itself. It must be supplemented by the adoption of certain other mutually supportive codes and ordinances; in particular, a subdivision and land development ordinance, building and housing codes, etc.

In order to provide for the management of land uses as prescribed in the zoning ordinance, the courts acknowledge the need for a municipality to properly evaluate the use of all land within its political jurisdiction and give consideration to land uses in areas adjacent to its borders. To ensure that zoning districts are not arbitrarily determined, the courts require evidence that the various land use districts established in the community are related to an overall land use plan for the entire municipality.

CONEWAGO TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN October 14, 2009 1-3

Through the adoption of the Municipalities Planning Code, the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania has granted local governments the authority to enact a zoning ordinance to implement the comprehensive plan. Therefore, a properly adopted “comprehensive plan” for land use and development is clearly needed to provide the proper foundation for its implementation through zoning and other related land management ordinances.

PLAN ORGANIZATION

The Conewago Township Comprehensive Plan has been organized into three main sections. Part I includes chapters 1-7 and analyzes current and recent trends to provide a profile of the community. For this reason, Part I is referred to as the Community Profile. Part II includes chapters 8-12 which comprise the plan for the township moving forward. Part II, the Plan, develops a plan for the township, and provides a series of tools that the township may consider as it implements the plan. Part III, Implementation, lays out a schedule for implementation of the plan. It itemizes specific actions for the township to focus on over the next 10 years. The Implementation section is condensed into one chapter, chapter 13, and details specific actions by indicating the lead party responsible, projected time frame for implementation, and potential were identified as priorities at the time of the plan’s adoption, the township should be reviewing and updating the list of actions on an annual basis to ensure that the list remains current and is modified as conditions in the township change.

PUBLIC INVOLVEMENT – COMMUNITY PUBLIC MEETING

The purpose of this plan is to develop a set of broad policies and supporting strategies that will guide Conewago Township over the next ten years, and allow the township to achieve its goals. Successful planning initiatives begin with a solid plan to engage the public and local municipal officials. Failure to engage the public and keep them engaged will result in a plan that does not represent a common vision, and therefore, has a greater potential to fail. A community public meeting was conducted as part of this plan, and the plan also references a community survey and previous planning initiatives that involved Conewago Township.

Conewago Township held a community public meeting on June 12, 2007 at Conewago Elementary School. Approximately 100 residents attended the meeting. The meeting was designed to gain public input on several topics in the community including housing, land use, transportation, natural resources, community facilities, and economic development. Meeting attendees were asked to identify strengths and weaknesses or issues related to each of these topics. Participants were then asked to vote on the issues they felt to be the most important. The identified strengths were not ranked. In addition to the strengths and weaknesses exercises, residents had an opportunity to comment on the preliminary overriding goals of the township.

Information collected at the meeting was utilized in developing the plan components. The plan will focus on capitalizing upon, sustaining, or enhancing the identified strengths, while working to address or guard against any identified current or potential issues that are affecting the township.

CONEWAGO TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN October 14, 2009 1-4 Common Themes

After analyzing the results of the meeting, several common themes emerged from the items that were commented on. These themes are further described below. Raw data collected at the meeting, in the form of comments made by members of the public, is presented in Appendix I.

Agriculture and the Rural Character of the Region In general, meeting attendees seem to appreciate agriculture and the rural character that defines the township. People considered agriculture to be a strength in the community and expressed a need to maintain rural development patterns. Concerns were expressed regarding the potential for additional residential and commercial development to encroach upon the farmland.

Route 743 The Route 743 corridor received much attention under a variety of topic areas. Many people indicated that they were fearful of Route 743 turning into another Route 39, which has seen a great deal of commercial and residential development in the past decade. People discussed the need for turning lanes or traffic lights in certain locations, and indicated that they did not want to see additional commercial or residential development in this area.

Development Needs Many comments that were received at the meeting leaned against encouraging development. People indicated that they do not want more housing and they feel they have enough commercial developments. They do not want to see development encouraged and feel that there is a need to limit high density housing. They are also aware of the associated impacts that development brings with it, including impacts to the schools and transportation infrastructure.

Enhanced Community Facilities Many attendees indicated that they would like to see the community facilities, utilities, and services in the township improved. Specific concerns related to frequent power outages, improved coordination between emergency service providers, and an addressing project to ensure that emergency services personnel are able to find all residences in the township. Technological improvements regarding high speed internet access and the prefix of phone numbers were also expressed as items that needed to be addressed. Residents also expressed a need to know who emergency service providers were for different locations in the township, and a need for additional assistance for seniors.

PUBLIC INVOLVEMENT – PLANNING COMMISSION REVIEW MEETINGS

A draft of the comprehensive plan was completed in August of 2008. The MPC required meeting of the planning commission was held at Conewago Elementary School in October of 2008 to present and receive comments on the draft plan. Residents that attended this meeting expressed concerns over the proposed configuration of the future land use plan.

In response to feedback received at the October 2008 meeting, the Board of Supervisors decided to hold another public meeting to present and discuss the plan. The meeting was held

CONEWAGO TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN October 14, 2009 1-5 on November 19, 2008 at the Conewago Elementary School. The purpose of this meeting was to further explain and clarify the comprehensive planning process, discuss the relationship between the comprehensive plan and the zoning ordinance, and to present key recommendations of the plan. The township felt that this meeting was important to ensure that the plan accurately reflected the desires of the Conewago Township community.

As a result of public input received at this meeting and further review by the planning commission, the township Board of Supervisors authorized the revision of the draft future land use map to more closely align the future land use configuration with the township’s existing zoning ordinance. Changes at this stage of the plan involved removing a proposed “mixed use” future land use classification in an area along SR 743 that is proposed to have public sewer, and incorporating an additional area of land classified as medium density residential into the southwestern portion of the township. This area is not planned for public sewer, but could accommodate medium density residential development if a small flow treatment facility were proposed and approved by the Board of Supervisors for this location.

VISION STATEMENT

An important benefit of the community public meeting and steering committee discussions is the development of a vision statement. The vision statement must be based on an accurate understanding of current conditions and must reflect the varied perspectives of the township. The vision statement should be built through careful dialogue and thought, and should be supported by implementable plans that when executed, result in the fortification and maintenance of all aspects of the vision for the region. In this sense, a vision statement is the framework around which goals and objectives are developed. Without a strong vision guiding the township, there will be no follow-through. The vision statement for Conewago Township was developed around the results of the public participation process and through input from steering committee members. The vision statement is the mental image generated by residents and leaders of the region that describes the way it should appear and function in the future.

Imagine, 10 to 15 years from now… Conewago Township is a rural and agricultural community that has retained its character and the charm of yesteryear. While many of the surrounding municipalities have seen a large influx of commercial and residential growth, development in Conewago Township has been minimal, and has occurred in a coordinated fashion, based on the future land use plan and designated water and sewer service areas. New residents in the township recognize that much of Conewago is a farming community, and they value and support the agricultural traditions that drew them to the township. Transportation improvements and the reclassification of township roads in the subdivision and land development ordinance have helped to increase safety for motorists, pedestrians, farm equipment, equestrians, and bicyclists in the township. Conewago remains a close knit community; people know their neighbors and greet them as they pass by. Conewago Elementary School and the new township community park further unite the community. These places offer opportunities for community interaction, education, and recreation. Communication in the township has been improved by enhancements to the community newsletter and township website. In addition to improvements in communication with residents, the township has also been successful in communicating its needs with the utility company providers. Although power outages are still known to occur during heavy storms, their frequency and duration have decreased. Natural resources in the township are valued and respected and the township continues to work with various non-profit groups and the county and state governments to ensure their long term sustainability. Overall, the

CONEWAGO TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN October 14, 2009 1-6 composition and character of the community has not changed much in the past ten years. Conewago Township remains a peaceful and well connected rural and agricultural community.

OVERRIDING GOALS

A goal identifies what the township tends to accomplish in a broad sense, without identifying specific objectives or actions. In each plan element, the goal for that element has been expanded upon to include a series of objectives to meet the goal. Specific actions in the implementation section further support the objectives and the overriding goals. The goals are oriented to achieving the vision for the township. One goal cannot be implemented and the others discarded; they must all complement each other in order to achieve the vision for Conewago Township.

Community Character Encourage and maintain the preservation and continuance of the agricultural and rural character that has defined the township, while enhancing the quality of life for all Conewago residents through improvements to the health, safety, and welfare of the community.

Land Use Preserve the agricultural heritage of the township that allows for coordinated community growth

Transportation Encourage a safe, coordinated network of roadways that provide increased mobility for residents, agricultural and farm equipment, and goods movement in the township.

Housing Provide a desirable mix of safe and well maintained housing that meets the needs of current and future township residents of all incomes and family sizes.

Community Facilities Support appropriate community facilities and utilities that adequately serve residents and businesses in the township, in a systematic manner that supports current and future development.

Parks, Recreation, and Open Space Utilize the adopted Conewago Township Parks and Recreation Plan to increase passive and active parks and recreation opportunities for township residents.

Natural and Historic Resources Preserve and enhance the Conewago Creek, and other historic, cultural, and natural resources that exist in the township, and support initiatives that promote education and increased awareness of the value of these resources.

Economic Development Support the variety of businesses that operate in the township and those that operate in the region and provide employment to township residents, while sustaining the prevalence of agriculture in the local economy.

CONEWAGO TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN October 14, 2009 1-7

EXPECTED OUTCOMES

The ultimate outcome of this planning effort is a policy document to guide future growth to areas of the township that can support it; protect historic and cultural features; protect prime farmland and groundwater resources; and retain the rural heritage that makes the township a quality place to live. The plan will consist of a set of implementation actions to be undertaken to carry out the policies and achieve the objectives of this plan.

CONEWAGO TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN October 14, 2009 1-8 BEAVER

Derry Township BACHMANVILLE PHEASANT

WHITE PINE AB743 DEER RUN

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HEMLOCK

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OLD HERSHEY

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ROUNDTOP CHESTNUT

Iron Run BRANDT BASLER OAK BORDER

COLEBROOK RHOADS

Hoffer Creek

BLUE RIBBON

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Mount Joy Township Municipal Boundary Lancaster County AB283 State Road/Highway

AB230 Local Road

HOFFER Stream Conewago Creek Elizabethtown Borough

CONEWAGO TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN Map 1-1 October 14, 2009

Conewago Township PA State Plane South, NAD 1983 Base Map Source: ® Copyright (c) 2006. Dauphin County GIS Copyright (c) 2007. Tri-County GIS Copyright (c) 2009. RETTEW Associates, Inc. 01,250 2,500 5,000 7,500 10,000 Feet J:\05\05-01141-007\GIS\1_1_hillshade17X22_may19_08.mxd PROJECT NO. 05-01141-007 SOCIOECONOMIC PROFILE Chapter 2

HISTORIC POPULATION TRENDS

Communities constantly change as the residents mature and marry, have children, and go through the various life stages. In addition, people are continually moving to and from the community. By studying demographic trends, a community can better understand the changes taking place and plan for the future needs of its residents. This section provides a picture of regional and municipal growth trends and changes that are affecting Conewago Township now, and are likely to affect it in the future. Analyses of population and socioeconomic trends, coupled with an analysis of housing provides a context for making decisions about land use and the nature and intensity of development to be either encouraged or discouraged.

Table 2-1: Historic Population Counts, 1960-2005

1960 1970 1980 1990 2000 2005 est.* % Change, 1960-1970 % Change, 1970-1980 % Change, 1980-1990 % Change, 1990-2000 % Change, 2000-2005 Pennsylvania 11,319,366 11,793,909 4.19 11,863,895 0.59 11,881,643 0.15 12,281,054 3.36 12,429,616 1.21 Dauphin County 220,255 223,713 1.57 232,317 3.85 237,813 2.37 251,798 5.88 253,995 0.87 Conewago Township 1,353** 1,124** -16.93 2,471 119.84 2,832 14.61 2,847 0.53 2,926 2.77 Derry Township 12,388 16,045 29.52 18,115 12.90 18,048 -0.37 21,273 17.87 21,814 2.54 Londonderry Township 3,053 3,453 13.10 5,138 48.80 4,962 -3.43 5,224 5.28 5,203 -0.40 Mount Joy Township, Lancaster County 4,135 4,228 2.25 5,128 21.29 6,227 21.43 7,944 27.57 10,232 28.80

South Londonderry Township, Lebanon County 2,911 3,754 28.96 3,777 0.61 4,502 19.20 5,458 21.24 6,688 22.54 * represents 2005 U.S. Census Bureau population estimates ** There are discrepancies with the U.S. Census historical population data for Conewago Township in 1960 and 1970. Source: U.S. Census Bureau; Conewago Township Comprehensive Plan 1981

Table 2-2: Population Change, 1960-2005 Total Change, % Change, 1960 2005 est.* 1960-2005* 1960-2005* Pennsylvania 11,319,366 12,429,616 1,110,250 9.81 Dauphin County 220,255 253,995 33,740 15.32 Conewago Township 1,353** 2,926 1,573 116.26 Derry Township 12,388 21,814 9,426 76.09 Londonderry Township 3,053 5,203 2,150 70.42 Mount Joy Township, Lancaster County 4,135 10,232 6,097 147.45

South Londonderry Township, Lebanon County 2,911 6,688 3,777 129.75 * Represents 2005 U.S. Census Bureau population estimates ** There are discrepancies with the U.S. Census historical population data for Conewago Township in 1960 and 1970. Source: U.S. Census Bureau; Conewago Township Comprehensive Plan, 1981

CONEWAGO TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN October 14, 2009 2-1 Figure 2-1: Historic Population of Conewago Township, 1960-2005

3,500

3,000

2,500

2,000

1,500

1,000

500

0 1960 1970 1980 1990 2000 2005 est.

Source: U.S. Census Bureau; Conewago Township Comprehensive Plan 1981

Figure 2-2: Historic Population of Conewago and Surrounding Municipalities, 1960-2005

25,000

Conew ago Tow nship 20,000

Derry Tow nship

15,000 Londonderry Tow nship

Mount Joy Tow nship, Lancaster County 10,000 South Londonderry Tow nship, Lebanon County

5,000

0 1960 1970 1980 1990 2000 2005 est.

Source: U.S. Census Bureau; Conewago Township Comprehensive Plan 1981

CONEWAGO TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN October 14, 2009 2-2 State and County Statistics and Trends The increase in the population of Pennsylvania was less than 5% in each decade since 1960. During the 1970s and 1980s, population growth in the state was nearly stagnant. Population growth increased slightly during the 1990s, when the state saw a 3.36% increase in population. Between 2000 and 2005, it is estimated that the state increased its population by 1.21%.

Conewago Township and Regional Trends Conewago Township saw the greatest increase in population during the 1970s. Between 1970 and 1980, the township more than doubled its population. This came after a decline in population between 1960 and 1970. This rapid growth is reflected in the percentage of population increase between 1970 and 1980, a percentage increase in population of 119.84%. This percentage increase can be attributed to two main factors: The township has a relatively low population count, so a moderate increase in the absolute number of people can result in a large relative increase. The number of residents in the township increased by 1,347 between 1970 and 1980, compared to increases of 2,070 and 1,685 in Derry and Londonderry Townships, respectively, during this same time period. The large percentage influx of residents that was seen between 1970 and 1980 was compounded by the fact that the township lost population during the previous decade. The total percentage population increase in the township between 1960 and 2005 is also over 100%, even though the township saw the smallest influx of residents in the area. Growth in the township during the 1970s and 1980s can largely be attributed to the Laurel Woods, Chestnut Road, and Cedar Woods developments. Although the township saw a lot of growth during the 1970s, the population has since somewhat leveled off. Conewago Township has maintained a lower population than its surrounding municipalities in each decade since 1960; however, the rate of growth in Conewago Township between 1960 and 2005 was greater than that in Derry or Londonderry Townships. Derry and South Londonderry Townships have and continue to experience growth as a direct result of the economic and tourism successes of the Hershey attractions and Hershey Medical Center. More recently, South Londonderry Township has been viewed as a less costly alternative to living in Derry Township Mount Joy Township experienced significant growth from 1960 through 2005 and saw the greatest percentage increases in population of the municipalities in the region. The Conewago Creek acts as a significant boundary and natural barrier to any growth that is occurring in Lancaster County. Derry and South Londonderry Townships exert greater pressures for residential growth on Conewago Township than Mount Joy or Londonderry Townships, but the SR 283 interchanges that are located in these two municipalities may encourage growth in the township in the future. According to the U. S. Census Bureau population estimates, the township contained 2,926 people in 2005, which represents an increase of 79 residents, or 2.77% from 2000. The Hills of Waterford Subdivision consists of 73 lots in the township. Applying the 2000 U.S. Census average household size of 2.79 persons per household, the township can expect to see approximately 204 residents migrate into the township as residences in

CONEWAGO TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN October 14, 2009 2-3 the Hills of Waterford are occupied. All but a few of the lots in this development have been built upon and occupied since 2000. Considering these figures alone, when the Hills of Waterford is completely built out, the township will have increased its population by 204 residents as families move into the newly constructed homes in this subdivision. This estimated increase of 204 residents since 2000 represents a 7.2% increase in the population of the township (since the 2000 census). Recognizing that this estimate only pertains to one subdivided piece of land in the township, an increase of 7.2% may actually be an underestimation of recent population increases for the entire township. This indicates that Conewago Township is currently the second fastest growing population in the region, behind South Londonderry Township. (In this case, the region is considered to be Conewago Township and its contiguous municipalities).

POPULATION PROJECTIONS

The Tri-County Regional Planning Commission developed population projections for the Dauphin County Comprehensive Plan using the Pennsylvania State Data Center total county population projections for the following reasons: The methodology used considers the three critical components of population projection: birth rates; death rates; and migration trends. As the official projection of the Commonwealth, there will be consistency with commonwealth agencies that will likely utilize the projections on state related policies. Tri-County Regional Planning Commission is an affiliate of the State Data Center.

Although the total county projection is from the State Data Center, municipal allocations were prepared by Tri-County Regional Planning Commission. In order to maintain consistency with the Dauphin County Comprehensive Plan, these projections are being used to estimate the future population of Conewago Township.

CONEWAGO TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN October 14, 2009 2-4 Table 2-3: Population Projections, 2000-2020

2000-2005 2005-2010 2010-2015 2015-2020 2000-2020 2000 Change Change Change Change Change Census 2005* # % 2010 # % 2015 # % 2020 # % # % Dauphin County 251,798 259,932 8,134 3.23 264,379 4,447 1.71 268,908 4,529 1.71 273,485 4,577 1.70 21,687 8.61 Conewago Township 2,847 3,021 174 6.11 3,116 95 3.14 3,213 97 3.11 3,311 98 3.05 464 16.30 *The population projections were generated before the U.S. Census released 2005 population estimates. As a result, the 2005 figure shown in this table represents a projection and is different than the U.S. Census population estimate for 2005. Source: Pennsylvania State Data Center; Tri-County Regional Planning Commission

Figure 2-3: Projected Population of Conewago Township, 2000-2020

Conewago Township

3,400

3,300

3,200

3,100

3,000

2,900

2,800

2,700

2,600 2000 Census 2005 2010 2015 2020

Source: Pennsylvania State Data Center; Tri-County Regional Planning Commission

CONEWAGO TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN October 14, 2009 2-5 Figure 2-4: Historic Population and Projected Population of Conewago Township, 1960- 2020

3,500

3,000

2,500

2,000 Historic Census Data Population Projection 1,500

1,000

500

0 1960 1970 1980 1990 2000 2005 2010 2015 2020

* The 2005 Historic Census Data represents the 2005 U.S. Census estimated population. The 2005 Population Projection represents the Tri-County Regional Planning Commission population projection based on allocation of the PA State Data Center Dauphin County Population Projection using 1990 U.S. Census data. Source: U.S. Census; Pennsylvania State Data Center; Tri-County Regional Planning Commission

Trends Conewago Township is projected to increase its population by over 16% between 2000 and 2020. This is nearly twice the relative projected increase that is expected in Dauphin County as a whole. The population projection for Conewago Township was developed prior to the U.S. Census 2005 population estimates. Looking at the estimated population of the township in 2005, it can be seen that this number is slightly lower than the population figure that was projected for 2005.

CONEWAGO TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN October 14, 2009 2-6 AGE DISTRIBUTION OF THE POPULATION

Classifying the population of a community by age indicates what particular facilities, services, or housing types may be needed. An area in which a high percentage of the population is comprised of senior citizens will express different needs than an area which contains a lot of families with small children or an area in which there are a lot of single working adults. Examining the distribution of the population across the different age cohorts will give an indication as to which types of facilities and services will be needed by the community now and in the future. Examining the change in the composition of the population over a period of time will provide an indication of how the population is changing and will help to define socioeconomic trends.

The overall composition of the population is best viewed using population pyramids. The pyramid graphically depicts the distribution of the population in the various age groupings, and by sex. By comparing the population pyramids at two different times, in this case the 1990 and 2000 censuses, one can see how the composition of the population has changed, By comparing the population pyramids of two or more geographic locations, one can see spatial differences in the composition of the population and determine how the composition of the local population compares to the composition of the population on a county or statewide scale.

CONEWAGO TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN October 14, 2009 2-7 Figure 2-5: Distribution of the Population of Pennsylvania by Age and Sex, 1990

1990

85 + 85 + 80 to 84 80 to 84 75 to 79 75 to 79 70 to 74 70 to 74 65 to 69 65 to 69 60 to 64 60 to 64 55 to 59 55 to 59 50 to 54 50 to 54 45 to 49 45 to 49 Female 40 to 44 40 to 44 Male 35 to 39 35 to 39 30 to 34 30 to 34 25 to 29 25 to 29 20 to 24 20 to 24 15 to 19 15 to 19 10 to 14 10 to 14 5 to 9 5 to 9 Under 5 Under 5

600,000 400,000 200,000 0 200,000 400,000 600,000

Source: U.S. Census Bureau

Figure 2-6: Distribution of the Population of Pennsylvania by Age and Sex, 2000

2000

600,000 400,000 200,000 0 200,000 400,000 600,000

Source: U.S. Census Bureau

CONEWAGO TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN October 14, 2009 2-8 Figure 2-7: Distribution of the Population of Dauphin County by Age and Sex, 1990

1990

15,000 10,000 5,000 0 5,000 10,000 15,000

Source: U.S. Census Bureau

Figure 2-8: Distribution of the Population of Dauphin County by Age and Sex, 2000

2000

15,000 10,000 5,000 0 5,000 10,000 15,000

Source: U.S. Census Bureau

CONEWAGO TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN October 14, 2009 2-9 Figure 2-9: Distribution of the Population of Conewago Township by Age and Sex, 1990

1990

200 150 100 50 0 50 100 150 200

Source: U.S. Census Bureau

Figure 2-10: Distribution of the Population of Conewago Township by Age and Sex, 2000

2000

200 150 100 50 0 50 100 150 200

Source: U.S. Census Bureau

CONEWAGO TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN October 14, 2009 2-10 Table 2-4: Median Age of the Population, 2000 Both Sexes Male Female Pennsylvania 38 36.5 39.4 Dauphin County 37.9 36.6 39 Conewago Township 38.6 38.2 38.9 Derry Township 40.2 38.8 41.5 Londonderry Township 38.3 38.3 38.3 Mount Joy Township, Lancaster County 35.5 35.1 35.9

South Londonderry Township, Lebanon County 38.6 37.8 39.2 Source: U.S. Census Bureau

State and County Statistics and Trends Comparisons of the 1990 and 2000 population pyramids for Pennsylvania show little change. The number of older adults in Pennsylvania increased between 1990 and 2000, while the percentage of young adults, mainly those in their twenties, declined. There were also fewer youth under age 5 in 2000 than there were in 1990. The median age found in Dauphin County is very similar to the median age in Pennsylvania. The shape of the population pyramid in Dauphin County is also similar to that of the state indicating that the percentage of people in the various age groupings is similar.

Conewago Township and Regional Trends The median age of the population of Conewago Township is slightly older than the median age found in Dauphin County and the median age of the state. The composition of the population of the township changed significantly between 1990 and 2000. Similar to the state and the county, the township saw a decrease in the number of young adults. This decrease was more apparent in the township. As the number of young adults decreased, the number of adults in their late thirties, forties and early fifties increased. The percentage of children under five decreased. The median age in Conewago Township is similar to the surrounding townships, especially Londonderry and South Londonderry. The median age in Mount Joy Township is slightly younger and the median age in Derry Township is slightly older. Trends show that the number of children under age 10 in the township is decreasing. This trend may reverse itself if new homes are constructed that attract families, such as those in the Hills of Waterford.

POPULATION DENSITY

Table 2-5: Population Density, 2000 Total Population Persons per 2000 Area (sq. mi.) square mile Conewago Township 2,847 16.73 170.1 Derry Township 21,273 27.31 784 Londonderry Township 5,224 26.86 229.4 Mount Joy Township, Lancaster County 7,944 27.96 284.1 South Londonderry Township, Lebanon County 5,458 24.08 226.8 Source: U.S. Census Bureau

CONEWAGO TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN October 14, 2009 2-11 Trends Conewago Township has the lowest population density of its contiguous municipalities. The township also has the smallest land area, encompassing 16.73 square miles. Derry Township has the highest population density at 784 persons per square mile. Londonderry, Mount Joy, and South Londonderry Townships have similar population densities, and these three municipalities and Derry Township are all similar in land area.

AVERAGE HOUSEHOLD SIZE

Analyzing trends in the average size of a household, or the average number of people per household show that household size is decreasing across the state. This trend can be attributed to two main factors: families are having less children and the number of older people living alone is increasing. Household sizes tend to be the largest in more rural areas and in farming communities where additional hands are needed to help with farming duties. Larger household sizes are also characteristic of impoverished urban areas.

Table 2-6: Average Household Size, 1990-2000 % 1990 2000 Change Pennsylvania 2.64 2.48 -6.16 Dauphin County 2.50 2.39 -4.26 Conewago Township 2.91 2.79 -4.14 Derry Township 2.39 2.32 -2.92 Londonderry Township 2.74 2.6 -5.15 Mount Joy Township, Lancaster County 2.87 2.74 -4.56 South Londonderry Township, Lebanon County 2.77 2.61 -5.79 Source: U.S. Census Bureau

State and County Statistics and Trends The average household size in Pennsylvania decreased by 6.16% between 1990 ad 2000. In 2000, the average household size in Pennsylvania was 2.48 persons per household. Dauphin County has a slightly lower average household size than Pennsylvania. Decreases in household size in the county between 1990 and 2000 were less than in the state.

Conewago Township and Regional Trends Conewago Township had the largest household size of the municipalities in the area in both 1990 and 2000. The decrease in household size in the township between 1990 and 2000 was less than the county and state decreases, and was less than all of the municipalities surrounding it, with the exception of Derry Township. Derry Township had the smallest average household size in both decades and saw the smallest decrease in household size.

EDUCATIONAL ATTAINMENT

Data relating to educational attainment are presented according to the highest level of attainment. Therefore, someone who received an Associates Degree before going on and completing a Bachelors Degree would only be counted as having attained a Bachelors Degree,

CONEWAGO TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN October 14, 2009 2-12 as opposed to being represented as having attained all other levels prior to attaining a Bachelors Degree. Data on educational attainment can provide an indication of how the township compares to the rest of the county or the state. It can also be linked to employment and other socioeconomic statistics.

Table 2-7: Educational Attainment for the Population Age 25 Years and Older, 2000

High School Master's or Less than High Graduate Some College, No Associates Bachelor's Professional School Diploma (includes Degree Degree Degree Degree equivalency)

Total % Total % Total % Total % Total % Total % Pennsylvania 1,496,105 18.10 3,150,013 38.11 1,284,731 15.54 487,804 5.90 1,153,383 13.95 694,248 8.40 Dauphin County 28,547 16.62 64,174 37.36 27,902 16.24 10,780 6.28 25,279 14.72 15,101 8.79 Conewago Township 271 14.36 713 37.78 238 12.61 65 3.44 340 18.02 260 13.78 Derry Township 1,311 8.72 3,880 25.81 2,054 13.66 892 5.93 3,492 23.23 3,403 22.64 Londonderry Township 680 18.74 1,713 47.20 557 15.35 225 6.20 307 8.46 147 4.05 Mount Joy Township, Lancaster County 636 12.26 2,214 42.67 717 13.82 320 6.17 875 16.86 427 8.23

South Londonderry Township, Lebanon County 613 16.28 1,484 39.42 577 15.33 271 7.20 462 12.27 358 9.51 Source: U.S. Census Bureau

Figure 2-11: Educational Attainment of the Population Age 25 Years and Older, 2000

100%

90% Master's or Professional 80% Degree

70% Bachelor's Degree

60%

50% Associates Degree

40%

30% Some College, No Degree 20%

10% High School Graduate (includes 0% equivalency)

a y p p ip p Less than High i h i ani unt shi s v nsh n nship nsh School Diploma Co w w wn w syl o ow o o n T T T T ry y Pen uphin go Jo rry To a a er t e D D d ew onderry n d oun on n M C ondo Lo L th Sou

Source: U.S. Census Bureau

CONEWAGO TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN October 14, 2009 2-13 State and County Statistics and Trends The educational attainment of residents of Dauphin County is roughly in line with the educational attainment of the entire state.

Conewago Township and Regional Trends In general, residents of Conewago Township have attained higher educational levels than residents of the county and the state. With the exception of Derry Township, Conewago Township has a higher percentage of individuals who have attained either a Bachelor’s Degree or have completed education beyond a Bachelor’s Degree, than its surrounding municipalities. The township has lower percentages of residents who have completed some college but attained no degree, and of residents with an Associate’s Degree. These figures are lower than the county and state percentages, and are lower than any of the surrounding municipalities, indicating that residents who pursue educational opportunities beyond high school are looking to attain at least a Bachelor’s Degree. The percentage of township residents who have not received a high school diploma is less than county and state percentages. Compared to the surrounding municipalities, there are a higher percentage of people without a high school diploma in Conewago Township than there are in Derry and Mount Joy Townships, but Londonderry and South Londonderry Townships have greater percentages of people who have not attained a high school diploma than in Conewago Township.

EMPLOYMENT BY OCCUPATION

Data on employment by occupation is collected on the long form of the census which is distributed to a sample of the population. The data collected reflects the occupational category with which the resident responder most closely identifies himself or herself. Because of the variety of occupational categories and the potential to be identified with more than one category (e.g. the category “farmers and farm managers” compared to the category “farming, fishing, and forestry occupations”), examining other employment characteristics in addition to employment by occupation, such as employment by industry, are helpful in analyzing the workforce composition of the township.

CONEWAGO TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN October 14, 2009 2-14 Table 2-8: Employment by Occupation for the Employed Civilian Population, Age 16 and Older, 2000

Total Employed Civilian

Population Age 16 and Over Management, business, and financial operations occupations except farmers and farm managers Farmers and farm managers Professional and related Service Sales and office Farming, fishing, and forestry Construction, extraction, and maintenance Production, transportation, and material moving Pennsylvania 5,653,500 11.87 0.45 20.25 14.83 26.98 0.47 8.86 16.30 Dauphin County 122,805 14.09 0.21 20.58 14.05 28.78 0.36 7.68 14.24 Conewago Township 1,516 11.54 0.53 23.42 13.92 22.36 0.00 11.54 16.69 Derry Township 10,098 19.83 0.00 35.08 11.67 20.11 0.07 4.70 8.55 Londonderry Township 2,550 10.75 1.06 15.10 8.67 25.49 1.61 16.82 20.51 Mount Joy Township, Lancaster County 4,322 12.08 2.06 18.88 15.57 19.99 1.71 12.10 17.61

South Londonderry Township, Lebanon County 2,882 9.13 0.80 23.91 13.74 25.09 0.17 9.44 17.73 Source: U.S. Census Bureau

Figure 2-12: Employment by Occupation for the Employed Civilian Population, Age 16 and Over, Conewago Township, 2000 Management, business, and financial operations occupations except farmers and farm managers Farmers and farm managers

Professional and related occupations 22.36% 0.00% 11.54% 13.92% Service occupations

16.69% Sales and office occupations

23.42% 0.53% 11.54% Farming, fishing, and forestry occupations

Construction, extraction, and maintenance occupations

Production, transportation, and material mov ing occupations

Source: U.S. Census Bureau

CONEWAGO TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN October 14, 2009 2-15 Trends The occupations of workers in Conewago Township are very similar to the state and county, which is common among municipalities in the Lower Dauphin region. That is to say that in Conewago Township and other municipalities in the Lower Dauphin School District, the percentages of workers in each of the occupational categories are similar to trends in the county and the state.

EMPLOYMENT BY INDUSTRY

The U.S. Census Bureau states that, “information on industry relates to the kind of business conducted by a person’s employing organization.” Examining employment characteristics by type of industry will provide an indicator of what kinds of businesses are needed to support workers in the region. Coupling data of employment with the location of employment and top employers in the region will help to determine where deficiencies may exist in the types of employment opportunities available in the area.

Table 2-9: Employment by Industry for the Employed Civilian Population, Age 16 and Over, 2000 (1 of 3)

Agriculture, forestry, fishing Construction Manufacturing Wholesale Trade and hunting, and mining

Total % Total % Total % Total % Pennsylvania 73,459 1.30 339,363 6.00 906,398 16.03 201,084 3.56 Dauphin County 906 0.74 6,249 5.09 13,604 11.08 4,536 3.69 Conewago Township 12 0.79 145 9.56 237 15.63 46 3.03 Derry Township 13 0.13 323 3.20 1,432 14.18 266 2.63 Londonderry Township 107 4.20 200 7.84 409 16.04 111 4.35 Mount Joy Township, Lancaster County 210 4.86 344 7.96 857 19.83 157 3.63

South Londonderry Township, Lebanon County 28 0.97 191 6.63 663 23.00 73 2.53 Source: U.S. Census Bureau

Table 2-9: Employment by Industry for the Employed Civilian Population, Age 16 and Over, 2000 (2 of 3) Finance, Transportation, Insurance, Real Retail Trade Warehousing, Information Estate, and and Utilities Rental and Leasing

Total % Total % Total % Total % Pennsylvania 684,179 12.10 304,335 5.38 148,841 2.63 372,148 6.58 Dauphin County 12,942 10.54 8,322 6.78 3,480 2.83 10,245 8.34 Conewago Township 143 9.43 93 6.13 37 2.44 97 6.40 Derry Township 837 8.29 383 3.79 139 1.38 652 6.46 Londonderry Township 329 12.90 215 8.43 61 2.39 171 6.71 Mount Joy Township, Lancaster County 315 7.29 237 5.48 162 3.75 159 3.68 South Londonderry Township, Lebanon County 256 8.88 176 6.11 32 1.11 125 4.34 Source: U.S. Census Bureau

CONEWAGO TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN October 14, 2009 2-16 Table 2-9: Employment by Industry for the Employed Civilian Population, Age 16 and Over, 2000 (3 of 3) Professional, Arts, Scientific, Entertainment, Management, Educational, Recreation, Public Administrative, Health, and Social Other Services Accommodation, Administration and Waste Services and Food Management Services Services Total % Total % Total % Total % Total % Pennsylvania 478,937 8.47 1,237,090 21.88 397,871 7.04 235,767 4.17 274,028 4.85 Dauphin County 9,802 7.98 23,314 18.98 8,973 7.31 14,779 12.03 5,653 4.60 Conewago Township 80 5.28 399 26.32 113 7.45 68 4.49 46 3.03 Derry Township 779 7.71 3,345 33.13 962 9.53 587 5.81 380 3.76 Londonderry Township 105 4.12 391 15.33 127 4.98 214 8.39 110 4.31 Mount Joy Township, Lancaster County 227 5.25 920 21.29 276 6.39 136 3.15 322 7.45

South Londonderry Township, Lebanon County 206 7.15 611 21.20 223 7.74 170 5.90 128 4.44 Source: U.S. Census Bureau

Figure 2-13: Employment by Industry for the Employed Civilian Population, Age 16 and Older, 2000

100% Other Services

Public Administration 80%

Arts, Entertainment, Recreation, Accommodation, 60% and Food Services

Educational, Health, and Social Services

40% Professional, Scientific, Management, Administrative, and Waste Management Services 20% Finance, Insurance, Real Estate, and Rental and Leasing

Inf or mation 0%

ia ip ip ip an sh ship n nsh nsh Transportation, Warehousing, ylv wn w w ns in County o ow T To and Utilities en y To P go T r oy rry Township a erry t J e Dauph D new un ond o d C Mo Retail Trade Londonder

outh Lon S

Source: U.S. Census Bureau

CONEWAGO TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN October 14, 2009 2-17 State and County Statistics and Trends The most drastic difference between the state and Dauphin County when examining the distribution of the employed population by industry is that there are almost three times the relative amount of people employed in Public Administration in the county than there are in the state. This is a direct result of Harrisburg’s position as the state capital and its location in Dauphin County.

Conewago Township and Regional Trends The percentages of people employed in the different industries in the township are very similar to the state. There are a slightly higher percentage of people employed in the Educational, Health, and Social Services Industries in the township, which is not surprising, considering the township’s proximity to the Penn State Hershey Medical Center.

HOUSEHOLD INCOME

The U.S. Census Bureau defines a household as all of the people who occupy a housing unit as their usual place of residence. This section will analyze the median household income and its change over time, considering both the absolute change, and the change that results when the numbers are adjusted for inflation. The median represents the middle value (if the total number of values is an odd number) or the average of two middle values (if the total number of values is an even number) in an ordered list of data values. The median divides the total frequency distribution (total list of values) into two equal parts: one-half of the cases fall below the median and one-half of the cases exceed the median.

Household income data can be analyzed in conjunction with data on the value of housing and other factors to gain an understanding of the economic stability of an area to determine if adequate, affordable housing opportunities exist.

Table 2-10: Median Household Income, 1990-2000

Median Median household Median

household income in household % income in 1989 income in % Change, 1989 Adjusted 1999 Change Adjusted Pennsylvania 29,069 38,952 40,106 37.97 2.96 Dauphin County 30,985 41,520 41,507 33.96 -0.03 Conewago Township 38,457 51,532 58,922 53.22 14.34 Derry Township 36,514 48,929 52,290 43.21 6.87 Londonderry Township 33,397 44,752 42,804 28.17 -4.35 Mount Joy Township, Lancaster County 38,231 51,230 52,410 37.09 2.30

South Londonderry Township, Lebanon County 37,408 50,127 51,699 38.20 3.14 *1989 values have been adjusted using the Consumer Price Index to account for inflation Source: U.S. Census Bureau

CONEWAGO TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN October 14, 2009 2-18 State and County Statistics and Trends When considering adjustments made for inflation, the median household income in Pennsylvania rose nearly 3% between 1989 and 1999. The median household income in Dauphin County actually decreased during this time, when considering adjustments for inflation. In 1989 and 1999, the median household income in Dauphin County was slightly higher than the state median household income.

Conewago Township and Regional Trends In Conewago Township, the median household income increased by nearly 15% between 1989 and 1999 when considering adjustments to the data to account for inflation. When considering the raw numbers, the increase in median household income in the township was over 50%. Conewago Township’s increase in median household income far exceeded the increases in the state and surrounding municipalities. The median household income in Dauphin County and Londonderry Township, when adjusted for inflation, declined between 1989 and 1999. Conewago Township had a higher median household income than the state, county, and every surrounding municipality in 1989 and 1999.

Figure 2-14: Household Income, 1999

100% $200,000 or more $150,000 to $199,999 90% $125,000 to $149,999 80% $100,000 to $124,999 $75,000 to $99,999 70% $60,000 to $74,999 60% $50,000 to $59,999

50% $45,000 to $49,999 $40,000 to $44,999 40% $35,000 to $39,999 30% $30,000 to $34,999 $25,000 to $29,999 20% $20,000 to $24,999 10% $15,000 to $19,999 $10,000 to $14,999 0% Less than $10,000 ip ip h hip vania nsh ns yl ownship ow enns o Tow P oy T ag Dauphin County Derry Towns new Co Mount J Londonderry Township

outh Londonderry T S

Source: U.S. Census Bureau

CONEWAGO TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN October 14, 2009 2-19 Trends The distribution of household income in Dauphin County is similar to the distribution of household income in Pennsylvania. In general, Conewago Township has a higher percentage of households with a higher income than the county, state, or surrounding municipalities. The distribution of household income in Conewago Township is very similar to the distribution of household income in Derry Township. The main difference between these two municipalities in terms of household income is that Derry Township has a greater percentage of households with very high or very low household income and Conewago Township has a greater percentage of households whose income falls in the middle ranges.

PER CAPITA INCOME

Per capita income represents an average obtained by dividing aggregate income by the total population of an area. Analyzing per capita income can provide an indication of the financial well-being of the population.

Table 2-11: Per Capita Income, 1989-1999 % 1989 % Change, 1989 Adjusted* 1999 Change Adjusted Pennsylvania 14,068 18,851 20,880 48.42 10.76 Dauphin County 14,890 19,953 22,134 48.65 10.93 Conewago Township 17,050 22,847 26,898 57.76 17.73 Derry Township 19,594 26,256 31,365 60.07 19.46 Londonderry Township 13,013 17,437 20,055 54.12 15.01 Mount Joy Township, Lancaster County 14,628 19,602 22,380 52.99 14.17

South Londonderry Township, Lebanon County 14,305 19,169 24,296 69.84 26.75 Source: U.S. Census Bureau

State and County Statistics and Trends The absolute and adjusted changes in per capita income in the county and the state between 1989 and 1999 were similar. Per capita income in Dauphin County increased by 10.93% when adjusted for inflation, and per capita income in the state increased by 10.76% when adjusted for inflation. Per capita income was higher in Dauphin County than it was in the state in both 1989 and 1999.

Conewago Township and Regional Trends The change in per capita income in Conewago Township between 1989 and 1999 was 17.73% when adjusted for inflation, exceeding both the county and the state. When compared to surrounding municipalities, the increase in per capita income in Conewago Township between 1989 and 1999 was higher than the increases in Mount Joy or Londonderry Townships, but lower than the increase in Derry and South Londonderry Townships. In 1989 and 1999, per capita income in Conewago Township was higher than the per capita income in Dauphin County and the state. It was also higher than all of the surrounding municipalities, with the exception of Derry Township in both years.

CONEWAGO TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN October 14, 2009 2-20 HOUSING PROFILE Chapter 3

The quality and condition of housing are extremely important to the quality of life and prosperity of a community. Attractive, affordable housing that is well maintained will assure a sound tax base that will continue to appreciate in value and provide residents with one component of an environment that is conducive to a healthful and pleasing life. By analyzing existing and historic housing characteristics, those areas of the township which require attention can be identified and recommendations for appropriate actions can be made.

HISTORIC HOUSING UNIT CONSTRUCTION

Table 3-1: Total Housing Units, 1990-2000 Total 1990 2000 Change % Change Pennsylvania 4,938,140 5,249,750 311,610 6.31 Dauphin County 102,684 111,133 8,449 8.23 Conewago Township 1,012 1,069 57 5.63 Derry Township 8,164 9,481 1,317 16.13 Londonderry Township 2,240 2,095 -145 -6.47 Mount Joy Township, Lancaster County 2,213 2,947 734 33.17

South Londonderry Township, Lebanon County 1,679 2,138 459 27.34 Source: U.S. Census Bureau

Table 3-2: Year of Housing Unit Construction, 1939-2000

Built 1990 to Built 1980 to Built 1970 to Built 1960 to Built 1950 to Built 1940 to Built 1939 or March 2000 1989 1979 1969 1959 1949 earlier

Total % Total % Total % Total % Total % Total % Total % Pennsylvania 546,277 10.41 531,986 10.13 709,768 13.52 595,897 11.35 752,400 14.33 522,749 9.96 1,590,673 30.30 Dauphin County 13,443 12.1 12,702 11.43 18,379 16.54 13,607 12.24 17,697 15.92 10,747 9.67 24,558 22.10 Conewago Township 143 13.38 199 18.62 361 33.77 94 8.79 92 8.61 68 6.36 112 10.48 Derry Township 2,048 21.6 1,622 17.11 1,887 19.90 1,518 16.01 859 9.06 575 6.06 972 10.25 Londonderry Township 246 11.76 295 14.10 537 25.67 174 8.32 414 19.79 134 6.41 292 13.96 Mount Joy Township, Lancaster County 829 28.04 569 19.24 509 17.21 241 8.15 174 5.88 89 3.01 546 18.46

South Londonderry Township, Lebanon County 453 21.19 447 20.91 322 15.06 140 6.55 187 8.75 131 6.13 458 21.42 Source: U.S. Census Bureau

CONEWAGO TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN October 14, 2009 3-1 Figure 3-1: Year of Housing Unit Construction, 1939-2000

100%

90%

80%

70% Built 1939 or earlier Built 1940 to 1949 60% Built 1950 to 1959 50% Built 1960 to 1969 Built 1970 to 1979 40% Built 1980 to 1989 30% Built 1990 to March 2000

20%

10%

y p p hip hi ount ns ns C wnship ow To ry T Pennsylvania auphin D Derry Township onewago C Mount Joy Tow Londonderry Townshi

outh Londonder S

Source: U.S. Census Bureau

State and County Statistics and Trends Pennsylvania still contains a lot of older homes; in 2000, over 30% of the homes in the state were constructed prior to 1939. Next to older homes, housing units from the 1950s and the 1970s comprise the second and third largest percentages of the housing stock. Dauphin County contains slightly newer homes than the state. There are a smaller percentage of homes in the county that were constructed prior to 1939.

Conewago Township and Regional Trends The largest decade for housing unit construction in the township was the 1970s. In 2000, over one third of all of the housing units in the township were constructed during the 1970s. Although the housing stock in Conewago Township is newer than Londonderry Township, the 1970s was also the largest decade of housing unit construction in Londonderry Township. Of the surrounding municipalities, Conewago Township has the largest percentage of homes that were constructed since 1970. Mount Joy has the largest percentage of homes that were constructed since 1980 and of homes that were constructed since 1990. Conewago Township has a larger percentage of homes constructed in each decade since 1970 than the county and the state.

CONEWAGO TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN October 14, 2009 3-2 RECENT RESIDENTIAL CONSTRUCTION

Building permit data from Conewago Township and its contiguous municipalities in Dauphin County were analyzed for the years 1995 to 2005 to examine recent trends in residential construction.

Table 3-3: Recent Residential Construction* for Conewago Township and Contiguous Dauphin County Municipalities, 1996-2005 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 Total Conewago Township 12 8 14 14 15 9 7 11 33 39 162 Derry Township 229 251 160 127 104 109 134 117 111 113 1,455 Londonderry Township 26 28 20 17 12 32 14 30 17 10 206 * Residential Construction based on building permit data Source: Dauphin County Planning Commission Annual Report, 2005

Figure 3-2: Recent Residential Construction* in Conewago Township, 1996-2005

Conewago Township

Dwelling Units Dwelling 15

0 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 Year

* Residential Construction based on building permit data Source: Dauphin County Planning Commission Annual Report, 2005

CONEWAGO TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN October 14, 2009 3-3 Conewago Township and Regional Trends Between 1996 and 2003, residential construction in Conewago Township ranged from seven to fifteen new dwellings per year. The township has seen an increase in new residential construction every year since 2002. In 2004 and 2005, there were 33 and 39 new dwelling units, respectively. Increases during this time largely represent construction of new units in the Hills of Waterford. The amount of recent residential construction in Conewago Township is comparable to that which has occurred in Londonderry Township. Although Londonderry Township had a greater amount of residential construction for the period 1996 to 2005, residential construction in Londonderry Township has declined since 2003. Derry Township continues to see a greater amount of residential construction than Conewago Township. Between 1996 and 2005, Derry Township added nearly nine times the amount of new dwelling units than Conewago added. In 2005, 33 of the 39 new dwellings in Conewago Township were single family detached dwellings. The other six new units were mobile homes.

TYPE OF HOUSING

This section examines that type of housing units that existed in the township at the time of the 2000 U.S. Census. It is important to examine the types of housing units that are available to residents and to perspective residents to determine if an adequate supply of different housing choices is available.

Table 3-4: Type of Housing, 2000

Single Family, Single Family, 10 or more Mobile home 2 to 4 Units 5 to 9 Units Detached Attached units and other

Total % Total % Total % Total % Total % Total % Pennsylvania 2,935,248 55.91 940,396 17.91 515,543 9.82 179,909 3.43 415,405 7.91 263,249 5.01 Dauphin County 54,748 49.26 22,613 20.35 11,159 10.04 6,612 5.95 12,042 10.84 3,959 3.56 Conewago Township 815 76.24 43 4.02 48 4.49 4 0.37 0 0.00 159 14.87 Derry Township 4,588 48.39 1,876 19.79 996 10.51 600 6.33 1,262 13.31 159 1.68 Londonderry Township 1,389 66.40 59 2.82 101 4.83 0 0.00 0 0.00 543 25.96 Mount Joy Township, Lancaster County 2,028 68.58 414 14.00 184 6.22 69 2.33 26 0.88 236 7.98 South Londonderry Township, Lebanon County 1,478 69.13 201 9.40 139 6.50 38 1.78 0 0.00 282 13.19 Source: U.S. Census Bureau

CONEWAGO TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN October 14, 2009 3-4 Figure 3-3: Type of Housing, 2000

100%

90%

80% 70% Mobile home and other

60% 10 or more units 5 to 9 Units 50% 2 to 4 Units 40% Single Family, Attached 30% Single Family, Detached 20%

10%

p p nia i i ip ship sh va n n l w sy wnship o w n in County o ownsh o T en y T P ry ry Townsh o ago T r J Dauph t derry T w Der n

Cone Moun ndo Londonde Lo th ou S

Source: U.S. Census Bureau

State and County Statistics and Trends Single family detached housing is the dominant housing type in the state, followed by single family attached housing units. Multi-family housing units account for approximately 20% of the housing stock in the state. Mobile homes account for nearly 5% of the housing stock in the state.

Conewago Township and Regional Trends Over 75% of the housing units in Conewago Township are single family detached homes. This is much higher than the county, and state, and is also higher than any of the surrounding municipalities. Single family detached housing units are often more common in more rural and agricultural areas. The second most common type of housing in the township is the mobile home. Mobile homes in Conewago Township account for 14.87% of the housing stock, compared to 3.56% in the county and 5.01% in the state. Conewago Township has a higher percentage of mobile homes than the surrounding municipalities, with the exception of Londonderry Township. There are fewer single family attached and multi family housing units located in Conewago Township than in surrounding municipalities. This is primarily due to the lack of public water and sewer systems that this type of development requires. With the expansion of public sewer to the Hills of Waterford and the Laurel Woods area, and the potential expansion of public water and public sewer in the area of SR 743, there is an elevated potential for this type of development to come into the township. Although South Londonderry Township offers slightly more multi family housing opportunities, it has the most similar composition of housing units to Conewago.

CONEWAGO TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN October 14, 2009 3-5 All of the municipalities in the area, with the exception of Derry Township, offer a higher percentage of single family detached housing units than the county and the state. Derry Township has more single family attached and multi family housing units as a result of housing units that were built to accommodate factory workers and medical center students and employees.

TENURE AND OCCUPANCY STATISTICS

Tenure refers to the distinction between owner occupied and renter occupied housing units. Although it is important to provide rental opportunities, a sense of pride is often instilled with home ownership, encouraging better maintenance of a property. Blighted conditions and uninhabitable structures often result from absentee landlords, careless tenants, or outright neglect of a property.

The U.S. Census states that a housing unit is vacant if, “no one is living in it at the time of enumeration, unless its occupants are only temporarily absent. Units temporarily occupied at the time of enumeration entirely by people who have a usual residence elsewhere are also classified as vacant. Vacancy status is determined by the terms under which the unit may be occupied, e.g. for rent, for sale, or for seasonal use only.”

Occupancy and vacancy rates are key indicators of the health of a community’s housing market and can have an affect on local economic stability. A high occupancy rate can be indicative of limited housing availability in a community and an inability to absorb new residents moving into a community. A sudden growth of a single company or a new industry could conceivably require the development of new homes or increase the travel time for workers, thus adding to commuting costs and stress on the transportation system. Conversely, a high vacancy rate can be an indicator of too many units which can lead to deflated prices and lower demand.

Generally, a vacancy rate between 4% and 6% is considered a healthy rate. Below 4% is an indicator of too few housing units, which may lead to inflated prices, higher demand for new housing and increased development potential; whereas, a vacancy rate greater than 6% is an indicator of too many units, which may lead to deflated prices and lower demand.

It is important to remember that the vacancy rate in an area is constantly changing as new units are constructed, units come on the market, and units are sold. Homes that are considered vacant for recreational, seasonal, or occasional use may also cloud the true picture in some instances. This is not the case in Conewago Township, however; at the time of the 2000 U.S. Census, there were only two homes in the township that were placed in this category. The vacancy rates that are collected by the U.S. Census represent the status of homes in the municipality at a single point in time and although they serve as a guide, it is important to recognize that they are constantly fluctuating.

CONEWAGO TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN October 14, 2009 3-6 Table 3-5: Tenure and Occupied Status of Housing Units, 2000

Occupied Housing Owner Occupied Renter Occupied Vacant Units

% of % of % of % of Total Total Total Total Total Total Total Total Pennsylvania 4,777,003 90.99 3,406,337 64.89 1,370,666 26.11 472,747 9.01 Dauphin County 102,670 92.38 67,136 60.41 35,534 31.97 8,463 7.62 Conewago Township 1,019 95.32 851 79.61 168 15.72 50 4.68 Derry Township 8,861 93.46 5,518 58.20 3,343 35.26 620 6.54 Londonderry Township 2,004 95.66 1,762 84.11 242 11.55 91 4.34 Mount Joy Township, Lancaster County 2,896 98.27 2,407 81.68 489 16.59 51 1.73 South Londonderry Township, Lebanon County 2,062 96.45 1,776 83.07 286 13.38 76 3.55 Source: U.S. Census Bureau

Figure 3-4: Tenure and Occupancy Status, 2000

100%

90% Vacant 80% Renter Occupied 70% Ow ner Occupied

60%

50%

40%

30%

20%

10%

ty ip h un s ship

in Co own own T T ph y ry Pennsylvania o t J er Dau Derry Township d ewago Township un n n o do Co M Londonderry Township Lon th ou S

Source: U.S. Census Bureau

State and County Statistics and Trends Dauphin County is roughly in line with the state in the distribution of housing units classified as owner-occupied, renter occupied, or vacant. There is a slightly larger percentage of renter occupied housing in the county than in the state, and slightly lower percentages of owner occupied housing and vacant housing units in the county than in the state. Although an initial review of the vacancy rates in the county and the state appear high, adjusting these rates to account for the influence of seasonal housing results in 7.12% of

CONEWAGO TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN October 14, 2009 3-7 all units in the county, and 6.21% of all units in the state vacant for other reasons. After the adjustment, these numbers are still somewhat high.

Conewago Township and Regional Trends In 2000, the vacancy rate in Conewago Township was 4.68%, which is considered healthy. The vacancy rate in Conewago Township was lower than the county and the state, but higher than all of the surrounding municipalities, with the exception of Derry Township. Conewago Township also has a greater relative percentage of owner occupied housing units than the county and the state. Compared to the surrounding municipalities, Conewago Township has a higher percentage of owner occupied housing units than Derry Township, but the other three surrounding municipalities have slightly higher owner occupancy rates. Conewago Township has a lower renter occupancy rate than the county or the state. Considering the high percentage of single family detached dwellings in the township, it is surprising that the renter-occupancy rate in the township is not lower.

VALUE OF HOUSING

Considering the value of the housing in a region can indicate a number of characteristics relating to the type and condition of housing opportunities in an area. Places that have a more expensive housing stock may indicate that there are not enough housing units that are considered to be affordable by the population of the area. On the contrary, areas that possess housing units which are significantly lower in value may indicate that the area contains dilapidated properties or older homes that are in need of remediation. The United States Bureau of the Census collects information relating to the value of specified owner-occupied homes, which are defined as, “the total number of owner occupied housing units described as either a one family house detached from any other house or a one family house attached to one or more houses on less than ten acres, with no business on the property.” The value of specified owner occupied units, and the median value of housing units in the township and in the region are shown in the following tables.

The median represents the middle value (if the total number of values is an odd number) or the average of two middle values (if the total number of values is an even number) in an ordered list of data values. The median divides the total frequency distribution (total list of values) into two equal parts: one-half of the cases fall below the median and one-half of the cases exceed the median.

In the following tables, the 1990 Adjusted values represent U.S. Census 1990 median values that have been adjusted using the Consumer Price Index (CPI) to their value in 2000 dollars. The CPI is a measure of the average change in prices over time in a market basket of goods and services.

CONEWAGO TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN October 14, 2009 3-8 Table 3-6: Median Value of Housing, 2000 % Change, % 1990 1990 1990 2000 Change, Adjusted* Adjusted* to 1990-2000 2000 Pennsylvania 69,100 91,212 97,000 40.38 6.35 Dauphin County 71,100 93,852 99,900 40.51 6.44 Conewago Township 94,900 125,268 146,300 54.16 16.79 Derry Township 106,800 140,976 151,300 41.67 7.32 Londonderry Township 77,500 102,300 107,500 38.71 5.08 Mount Joy Township, Lancaster County 91,700 121,044 121,800 32.82 0.62 South Londonderry Township, Lebanon County 88,600 116,952 131,100 47.97 12.10 * Represents 1990 median values adjusted to year 2000 dollar equivalents by use of the CPI. Source: U.S. Census Bureau

State and County Statistics and Trends The median value of housing units in Dauphin County was slightly higher than the state median values in 1990 and 2000. The increase in the median value of housing in Dauphin County was slightly larger than the state increase, although the increases were very similar.

Conewago Township and Regional Trends The median value of housing in the township was higher than all of the surrounding municipalities with the exception of Derry Township in both 1990 and 2000. The median value of housing in the township was also considerably higher than the county and the state values in both 1990 and 2000. The percentage increase in the median value of housing in Conewago Township between 1990 and 2000 was higher than increases in any of the surrounding townships, and was higher than the county and the state increases. All of the municipalities in the region had higher median values than the county and the state in both 1990 and 2000.

Table 3-7: Value of Housing, 2000 (1 of 3)

Less than $100,000 to $125,000 to Total $50,000 $50,000 to $124,999 $149,999 $99,999 Total % Total % Total % Total % Pennsylvania 2,889,484 435,193 15.06 1,079,698 37.37 392,826 13.60 310,267 10.74 Dauphin County 59,315 5,789 9.76 23,951 40.38 10,874 18.33 6,945 11.71 Conewago Township 634 4 0.63 95 14.98 116 18.30 120 18.93 Derry Township 5,000 71 1.42 770 15.40 772 15.44 859 17.18 Londonderry Township 1,209 41 3.39 472 39.04 304 25.14 158 13.07 Mount Joy Township, Lancaster County 1,954 8 0.41 520 26.61 516 26.41 375 19.19 South Londonderry Township, Lebanon County 1,427 0 0.00 403 28.24 253 17.73 234 16.40 Source: U.S. Census Bureau

CONEWAGO TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN October 14, 2009 3-9 Table 3-7: Value of Housing, 2000 (2 of 3) $150,000 to $175,000 to $200,000 to $250,000 to $300,000 to Total $174,999 $199,999 $249,999 $299,999 $399,999 Total % Total % Total % Total % Total % Pennsylvania 2,889,484 209,382 7.25 134,790 4.66 138,295 4.79 76,517 2.65 61,608 2.13 Dauphin County 59,315 4,146 6.99 2,406 4.06 2,341 3.95 1,318 2.22 1,036 1.75 Conewago Township 634 71 11.20 69 10.88 77 12.15 29 4.57 37 5.84 Derry Township 5,000 520 10.40 557 11.14 618 12.36 318 6.36 240 4.80 Londonderry Township 1,209 40 3.31 44 3.64 100 8.27 15 1.24 35 2.89 Mount Joy Township, Lancaster County 1,954 205 10.49 150 7.68 95 4.86 69 3.53 7 0.36 South Londonderry Township, Lebanon County 1,427 159 11.14 236 16.54 99 6.94 27 1.89 16 1.12 Source: U.S. Census Bureau

Table 3-7: Value of Housing, 2000 (3 of 3) $400,000 to $500,000 to $750,000 to $1,000,000 or Total $499,999 $749,999 $999,999 more Total % Total % Total % Total % Pennsylvania 2,889,484 22,817 0.79 18,113 0.63 5,541 0.19 4,437 0.15 Dauphin County 59,315 256 0.43 157 0.26 52 0.09 44 0.07 Conewago Township 634 0 0.00 8 1.26 8 1.26 0 0.00 Derry Township 5,000 128 2.56 100 2.00 21 0.42 26 0.52 Londonderry Township 1,209 0 0.00 0 0.00 0 0.00 0 0.00 Mount Joy Township, Lancaster County 1,954 9 0.46 0 0.00 0 0.00 0 0.00 South Londonderry Township, Lebanon County 1,427 0 0.00 0 0.00 0 0.00 0 0.00 Source: U.S. Census Bureau

CONEWAGO TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN October 14, 2009 3-10 Figure 3-5: Value of Housing, 2000

100%

90% $1,000,000 or more $750,000 to $999,999 80% $500,000 to $749,999 70% $400,000 to $499,999

60% $300,000 to $399,999 $250,000 to $299,999 50% $200,000 to $249,999 40% $175,000 to $199,999 $150,000 to $174,999 30% $125,000 to $149,999 20% $100,000 to $124,999 10% $50,000 to $99,999 Less than $50,000 0%

y a ip p unt h hi ns ns n Co To wnship Tow Township Tow y y Pennsylvani r rr auphi ago er D D onde Mount Joy Conew ond L

South Londonderry Township

Source: U.S. Census Bureau

State and County Statistics and Trends Housing values in Dauphin County very closely resemble housing values in the state.

Conewago Township and Regional Trends Housing values in Conewago Township are generally higher than those in the state and the county. Housing values in Conewago Township very closely resemble the value of housing units in Derry Township. Derry Township has a slightly higher percentage of units valued at less than $100,000 and a slightly higher percentage of units valued at $400,000 or more. Compared to housing values in the other surrounding townships, housing values in Conewago Township are higher.

CONEWAGO TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN October 14, 2009 3-11 COMMUNITY FACILITIES PROFILE Chapter 4

There are numerous public facilities and services, which must be provided by local government to meet the health, safety, convenience and cultural needs of the community. The need for these services and the degree to which they are provided is dependent upon the size and density of development, the distribution of the population, and the financial resources available. The following inventory of existing community facilities, in conjunction with population and housing projections, will help to determine the future needs of the township. The adequacy and availability of these services and facilities are extremely important to all area residents as they reflect the quality, convenience, and general character of the community as a place to live.

PUBLIC SCHOOLS

The Pennsylvania General Assembly is charged by the State Constitution to provide “for the maintenance and support of a thorough and efficient system of public education to serve the needs of the Commonwealth.” School Boards are provided broad authority by the Pennsylvania School Code to establish, equip, furnish, and maintain the public schools in the district. To support these activities, school boards are provided authority to levy taxes, borrow funds, obtain grants, and expend funds as outlined in the Pennsylvania School Code and other state and federal laws.

Conewago Township is a member of the Lower Dauphin School District which provides public education for students in Hummelstown Borough and Conewago, Londonderry, South Hanover, and East Hanover Townships. The school district has elementary schools in each municipality in the district, but the “flexible boundaries” that the district employs keeps class sizes balanced with an average class size in the low to mid twenties. Elementary school students, those in grades kindergarten through fifth grade, in Conewago Township attend Conewago Elementary School, or Londonderry Elementary School. Any students with special needs in Conewago Township attend Londonderry Elementary School. The middle school accommodates grades 6- 8 and the high school contains grades 9-12. Both the Lower Dauphin Middle School and the Lower Dauphin High School are located in Hummelstown Borough. The mission of the Lower Dauphin School District is “to ensure that all students develop the knowledge, skills, and attitudes which enable them to reach their potential as productive and responsible citizens, family members, and lifelong learners.”

Conewago Elementary is located at: 2809 Hershey Road Elizabethtown, PA 17022

Londonderry Elementary School is located at: 260 Schoolhouse Road Middletown, PA 17057

School District Trends Conewago Elementary School is the smallest of the elementary schools in the school district. In the 2005-2006 school year, Conewago Elementary enrolled 195 students. Londonderry Elementary School had the largest enrollment in the district with 423 students.

CONEWAGO TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN October 14, 2009 4-1 Conewago Elementary School was identified as being over capacity in the 2001-2002 school year. The capacity of Conewago Elementary School is 181 students and the capacity at Londonderry Elementary is 556 students. Analyzing recent enrollment trends shows that Conewago Elementary continues to operate slightly over capacity. Total enrollment in the district decreased between the 2001-2002 school year and the 2004-2005 school year, but the student population increased in the 2005-2006 school year. The Pennsylvania Department of Education publishes enrollment projections based upon past trends and resident live births. The total enrollment in the district is expected to decrease every school year through the 2015-2016 school year. Between the 2005- 2006 and 2015-2016 school years, the district is projected to see a decrease in enrollment of 355 students, a percentage decrease of 8.9%. Currently, the school district is awaiting the results of a feasibility study that would determine the location of growth areas in the school district. The study could assist the district on decisions involving expansion or renovation at its facilities. There are not any immediate plans to expand Conewago Elementary School. The school only has 10 to 12 classrooms currently, but the lack of public sewer facilities in the area has prohibited the school’s expansion.

The Influence of Home School and Internet School In the 2004-2005 school year, there were 71 students in the Lower Dauphin School District enrolled in home school programs. This was the second greatest amount of students, of all the districts in the county. The Dauphin County Comprehensive Plan reports that there are 50 private elementary schools and 11 private secondary schools operating in Dauphin County. Statewide, the number of children enrolled in internet schools is increasing. Although these schools offer a different method of education, they do pose a direct financial burden on the school district. The school district receives tax dollars directly from the state. For every student that is living in the district, but attending internet schooling, a certain dollar value is taken from the total amount that the school district would receive, and is given to the internet school. Currently, the school district has several virtual learning opportunities including Math Masters and Study Island. Math Masters is a summer program whereby elementary school students, either at school or at home, can practice their math skills. Study Island is a computer-based program intended to prepare students for the PSSA tests. Home schooled students and those attending cyber schools that live in the Lower Dauphin School District are invited to participate in extracurricular activities, such as athletics.

Colleges and Universities Conewago residents have access to several institutions of higher learning. Although there are no colleges or universities located within the township, there are several colleges and universities located in proximity to the township. The following colleges, universities, and institutions of higher learning are located within a 30 mile radius of the township1: Central Penn College (Cumberland County) Dixon University Center (Dauphin County) Elizabethtown College (Lancaster County) Evangelical School of Theology (Lebanon County) Franklin and Marshall College (Lancaster County) Harrisburg Area Community College (Dauphin County)

1 Epodunk.

CONEWAGO TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN October 14, 2009 4-2 Lancaster Bible College (Lancaster County) Lancaster Theological Seminary (Lancaster County) Lebanon Valley College (Lebanon County) Messiah College (Cumberland County) Millersville University (Lancaster County) Penn State Harrisburg (Dauphin County) Penn State York (York County) Pennsylvania College of Art and Design (Lancaster County) Pennsylvania College of Medicine – Penn State University Hershey Medical Center (Dauphin County) Temple University – Harrisburg Campus (Dauphin County) Thaddeus Stevens College of Technology (Lancaster County) Kaplan Career Institute (Dauphin County) Widener University – Harrisburg Campus (Dauphin County) York College of Pennsylvania (York County)

CONEWAGO TOWNSHIP MUNICIPAL BUILDING

Conewago Township’s Municipal Building is located at the southeast corner of Ridge Road and Old Hershey Road, and is considered to be in good structural condition. The building contains offices and a meeting room where the Board of Supervisors, Planning Commission and other committee meetings are held. In addition, the township’s equipment is serviced in the garage area and yard adjacent to the municipal building. The salt shed was recently upgraded to better serve all roads in the township during the winter months.

POLICE PROTECTION

Troop H of the Pennsylvania State Police provides police coverage for all areas of the township. Troup H Headquarters is located at 8000 Bretz Drive in Harrisburg.

FIRE PROTECTION AND EMERGENCY SERVICES

There are no fire companies or emergency services providers located in Conewago Township, but the township receives fire protection services and basic and advanced life support emergency services from several surrounding organizations. Basic life support (BLS) services refer to the level of service provided to stabilize patients for further care at a doctor’s office or hospital. BLS services are provided by Emergency Service Technicians (EMTs). Advanced life support (ALS) services are administered by paramedics, who are able to administer medicine. ALS services are required in emergency situations when the patient requires immediate intensive care. Conewago Township is served by five fire companies.

CONEWAGO TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN October 14, 2009 4-3 Elizabethtown Fire Company The Elizabethtown Fire Company provides service to the southern part of the township, specifically the area located east of Old Hershey Road, south of the Pennsylvania Turnpike, and west of Bellaire Road. It is estimated that the Elizabethtown Fire Company responds to between 10 and 20 calls in Conewago Township, annually. Many of these calls involve vehicular assistance on SR 743 or the Pennsylvania Turnpike. The average response time to Conewago customers is 10 minutes. The company is comprised entirely of volunteers, and Conewago Township does provide funding to the organization. Apparatus includes two engines, an aerial unit, and two squad vehicles. The company acquired a new engine in March of 2007. The company considers its service to Conewago Township to be adequate and there were no immediate needs that were identified by the company.

Lawn Fire Company / Lawn EMS The Lawn Fire Company is located in South Londonderry Township, Lebanon County, and provides service to the portion of the township south of Brandt Road and east of Bellaire Road. The Lawn Fire Company estimates that it responds to between 30 and 40 calls annually, most of which are vehicle accidents. The estimated average response time is between 6 and 8 minutes. In addition to fire services, the Lawn Fire Company EMS provides basic life support services. The company is operated by approximately 20 volunteer staff. Several staff members have been trained as Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs) and Vehicle Rescue Technicians, or have received Firefighter 1 Certification. Apparatus for the company includes a pumper tanker and an older compressed foam unit, which is planned for replacement. Future needs of the company include replacement of the current pumper tanker, and purchase of an additional pumper tanker. The Lawn Fire Company receives funding from Conewago Township.

Londonderry Fire Company / Londonderry EMS The Londonderry Fire Company and Londonderry EMS serve the southwest portion of Conewago Township. The company acts as the first responder for those areas of the township west of Old Hershey Road and south of Colebrook Road, and provides service to the entire length of SR 283 in the township. The company is staffed with approximately 50 volunteers that provide fire and basic life support EMS services. Approximately 15 volunteers are trained as EMTs. It is estimated that the company responds to between 25 and 50 calls annually, many of which are vehicle accidents. The average response time is about 10 minutes. Apparatus of the Londonderry Fire Company and EMS includes an engine rescue, a pumper tanker, an open interface engine, a utility truck, a duty officer vehicle, a seven person boat, and an ambulance. The Londonderry Fire Company receives funding from Conewago Township. Additional funds are received from fundraisers such as bingo nights and chicken barbecues. The company considered its manpower and apparatus to be sufficient to adequately serve Conewago Township and the rest of its service area, and there were no immediate needs that were identified by the company.

CONEWAGO TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN October 14, 2009 4-4 Campbelltown Volunteer Fire Company / QRS The Campbelltown Fire Company provides service to the northeast portions of Conewago Township, specifically, those areas of the township located east of SR 743 and north of Schoolhouse Road. The company has over 100 volunteers; approximately 40 volunteers are active. The company has a quick response unit which provided basic life support services. Approximately 5 volunteers are trained as EMTs and 4 are trained as first responders. Apparatus of the company includes two 4,000 gallon tankers, one of which is a year 2006 model. Other apparatus include two engines, a heavy rescue, a utility vehicle, a chief’s vehicle, a quick response unit, and a trailer and golf cart. The golf cart tends to be used in situations that occur in more rural areas, such as in wooded locations. All of the vehicles are in good condition. The engines get pump tested annually. In addition to the tanker that the company purchased in 2006, the company purchased a new rescue truck in 2007. It is estimated that the 1973 fire engine will be replaced in the next 5 to 10 years. The estimated response time for a location in Conewago Township is 8 to 9 minutes. The average annual number of calls that the company responds to in Conewago Township is approximately 20. The company currently has sufficient manpower, but notes that they never turn volunteers away. Because many of the volunteers have full-time jobs, the number of responders that are available on any given evening varies. In addition to Conewago Township, the Campbelltown Volunteer Fire Company also serves as a first responder to portions of South Annville and South Londonderry Townships in Lebanon County. The company receives fireman’s relief funding from all three of these municipalities. South Londonderry Township levies a fire tax of 1.5 mills, which generates approximately $40,000 annually for the Campbelltown Fire Company, after being split with another fire company in the township. The company also raises funds through bingo nights, spaghetti dinners, and chicken barbecues. The company has approximately three volunteers which have their Firefighter 1 certification; some of the volunteers have also been trained in advanced vehicle rescue. In addition to the plans that the company has for the purchase of new apparatus, there were no other future plans or needs identified by the company.

Hershey Volunteer Fire Company The Hershey Volunteer Fire Company serves as a first responder for the northwestern portion of Conewago Township. The company has 82 volunteers; approximately 35 of those volunteers are considered to be active. The company considers a volunteer to be active when he or she responds to 10% or more of the total number of calls; the average volunteer of the company responds to 18% of all calls. The company also had 16 state certified EMTs at the end of the summer of 2007. The EMTs of the Hershey Volunteer Fire Company are dispatched for medical assistance in situations where the University EMS has an extended response time. The Hershey Volunteer Fire Company responds to approximately 30-40 calls annually in Conewago Township, and has a response time of 8-12 minutes for most locations in its service area in the township. Apparatus owned by the company includes four engines, a 95 foot tower truck, a rescue vehicle, an air and light truck, a chief’s van, a duty vehicle, a utility vehicle, and a special unit for fire police use and fire prevention training. All of the vehicles are equipped with a laptop with GPS navigational equipment and mapping of all hydrant locations. The company is in the process of having the tower truck refurbished. Mutual aid from Hummelstown and Elizabethtown fire companies and others will support the company in any situations that require a tower truck while the vehicle is being refurbished.

CONEWAGO TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN October 14, 2009 4-5 There are several volunteers of the company that have had special training, including Hazmat Training. The company has members on the Dauphin County Hazmat Team at the technician and operations levels, and received national recognition for the train wreck in Hershey in 2006 that involved hazardous materials. The company is also highly involved with fire prevention training, especially during October, which is National Fire Prevention Month. Fire prevention training, including a smoke tower, is held annually at several locations including Conewago Elementary School. The company receives funds in the form of Fireman’s Relief from Conewago Township, and from a mail solicitation to its residents. The majority of funds for the company come from fundraisers and corporate donors. Several corporations in the Hershey Area, such as the Hershey Medical Center provide financial support, while other corporations, such as the Hershey Foods Corporation and Hershey Entertainment and Resorts Corporation offer an in-kind service by letting their employees respond to calls while at work. Manpower at the company is more than adequate. The company admits that it is very fortunate to have such a solid volunteer base that includes 13 junior members. In fact, the company has so many members that there is an equipment shortage in that the number of members exceeds that number of seats on the apparatus. Other than the plans to refurbish the tower truck, the company does not have any current plans to purchase or replace equipment. There have been preliminary discussions relating to the hiring of an administrative person for the department. This position, if approved, would be the only paid position of the department. The company also admits that there are some limitations geographically and that response times to locations such as the Stone Creek Development on Middletown Road, and the Pennsylvania Turnpike in Conewago Township, can be excessive. Preliminary discussions have occurred that include plans for a second Hershey station that would be located adjacent to Conewago Township, although the costs associated with opening a new station dampen the possibility. The new station would service the area known as “The Hills”, which is considered to be the hills behind the Hershey Medical Center in Derry Township, and the areas along Middletown Road. These discussions are in their infancy and opening a second station is considered to be a long term possibility.

Northwest EMS Northwest EMS is based out of Elizabethtown and provides basic and advanced life support services to the portion of Conewago Township located east of Old Hershey Road and south of the Pennsylvania Turnpike, in addition to many areas in northwestern Lancaster County. The company is also responsible for advanced life support services for the portions of the township which receive basic life support services from Londonderry Fire Company EMS and Lawn Fire Company EMS. Northwest EMS responded to 37 calls in Conewago Township in 2006, most of which involved general medical problems. The average response time for calls in Conewago Township is six minutes. Northwest EMS employs 50 paid staff and 15 volunteers, including several staff members that have special training in medic and advanced cardiac life support (ACLS) services. The unit operates six ambulances, two wheelchair vans, and two quick-response units, all of which are functioning. The unit recently received a four-wheel drive ambulance and a conventional ambulance. In addition to purchasing new equipment, the unit is also expanding one of its buildings to add eight new ambulance bays and a training center. Conewago Township does not currently provide funds to the Northwest EMS. The company has indicated that although they feel that they are adequately able to respond

CONEWAGO TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN October 14, 2009 4-6 to calls in Conewago Township, any potential funds received from the township would be welcomed and could be allocated towards equipment and fuel.

University EMS University EMS is located in Hershey and provides basic and advanced life support services to those areas in the township located north of the Pennsylvania Turnpike. University EMS employs 64 staff, both full-time and part-time. Response time in Conewago Township is approximately eight minutes. The company has six transport units, one non-transport unit, one squad car, two wheelchair vans, and one disaster trailer in active service. University EMS does not currently receive funding from the township. The response to the township is considered adequate and the company has no immediate or future plans for vehicle replacement or upgrades within the company.

REFUSE DISPOSAL AND RECYCLING

Private companies and individuals are responsible for refuse collection and disposal in the township through individual contracts with waste haulers.

Dauphin County Recycling has located a drop-off bin at the Conewago Township Municipal Building. The recycling center is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week and accepts: Corrugated Cardboard Newspapers and Inserts Magazines and Catalogs Telephone Books Plastic #1 and Plastic #2 (empty food, beverage, and household containers) Metal Cans Clear, Green, and Brown Glass

The Dauphin County Solid Waste Management and Recycling Department has noted that the recycling center in the township is heavily used. Because of the high degree of use, it is important that the residents of the township and those using the center properly prepare their recyclables and place them in the bins to ensure cleanliness in the area. The Dauphin County Recycling Hotline provides information on proper ways to prepare recyclables and can be accessed by calling 717-780-6351.

ROAD MAINTENANCE

The township road maintenance equipment includes three dump trucks, three snowplows and cinder spreaders, a grader, a roller, and a front-end loader. The grader also has a snowplow on it, allowing the township to utilize four snowplows. The township maintains a garage and yard where equipment and supplies are stored, located behind the Conewago Township Municipal Building at Ridge Road and Old Hershey Road. The township also services equipment at this location.

CONEWAGO TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN October 14, 2009 4-7 WATER SYSTEM

There is no public water supply currently available to Conewago Township residents, except for residents in the Laurel Woods and Hills of Waterford developments located in the northwest corner of the township. Individual wells provide water for the remainder of township residents and businesses. Pennsylvania American Water Company is considering servicing new areas in the township. These areas could include portions of SR 743, Old Hershey Road, Ridge Road, and Roundtop Road.

SEWERAGE SYSTEM

Public sewerage systems are installed in the areas of the township discussed below. The rest of the township relies solely on on-lot sewage systems to provide sanitary waste disposal. The use of on-lot sewerage is typical of most rural communities of low density.

Conewago Township adopted an Act 537 Sewage Facilities Plan in 1998. The plan includes an evaluation of sewage disposal methods currently in use, limitations for on-lot disposal, groundwater characteristics, natural resources, community planning, and sewage disposal alternatives. The Board of Supervisors elected the following alternatives for implementation:

Laurel Woods / Basler Road / Roundtop Road (Phase I) Alternative 3B to implement within 0 to 5 years. This alternative included two pump stations with a force main in Sand Hill Road. Alternative 3E will be considered a possible optional layout to be determined at the preliminary design stage. This alternative included one pump station on Roundtop Road that pumps to Church Road to a gravity interceptor and connects to the sewer in Jacob’s Creek subdivision in Derry Township.

PA Route 743 / Old Hershey Road / Roundtop Road / Ridge Road (Phase II) On-lot disposal system management program for 0 to 5 years. Alternative 4A within 5 to 10 years. This alternative includes a mostly gravity system with one pump station and a gravity interceptor connecting to Jacob’s Creek subdivision in Derry Township.

Since the adoption and DEP approval of the Act 537 Plan, these alternatives have been implemented. The sewer improvement areas, referred to as A-1 and A-2 respectively, are graphically displayed in Map 4-1.

The plan also indicated that proper wastewater disposal should be promoted on a township- wide basis through the following non-structural initiatives or policies: Problems in the Deodate and Bachmanville areas included older systems in use, relatively small lot sizes, and fecal coliform bacteria detected in the groundwater. Because public sewer is not a foreseeable option for these and other areas of the township, the Board of Supervisors determined that an on-lot sewage disposal system management program is necessary for all areas outside of the future sewer service areas. The program was designed to address the following maintenance responsibilities: The removal of septage to avoid the overflow of sludge or solids into the absorption field. Septic tanks would be required to be pumped within three years of adoption and DEP approval of the plan and at least once every five years thereafter. Maintenance of surface contouring.

CONEWAGO TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN October 14, 2009 4-8 Requirements for water conservation devices if such systems are found to be malfunctioning as a result of hydraulic overload. Maintenance of electrical, mechanical, and chemical components. Documentation of septage pumping and hauling which indicates disposal at a DEP permitted site. Small flow treatment facilities will be permitted by the Board of Supervisors on a case-by- case basis outside of the five year sewer service area subject to the requirements of the state code. The township will adopt a retaining tank ordinance similar to the DEP draft holding tank ordinance. The township will permit the use of wastewater dentrification systems provided that the Board of Supervisors approves a maintenance agreement which shall be attached to the deed of the property.

PARKS AND RECREATION

The Board of Supervisors adopted the Conewago Township Parks and Recreation Plan in July of 2005. The plan was developed to ensure that residents of the township have reasonable access to active and passive recreation opportunities regardless of age or other factors. The plan consisted of the following elements: Community-wide survey Inventory and analysis of existing facilities Identification of deficiencies and projected needs Recommendations Implementation Strategies

The only two publicly owned recreation facilities in the township are the Danny Fisher Memorial Field and Conewago Elementary School. Both of these facilities are centrally located in the township, but the Danny Fisher Memorial Field has not been developed for active recreation use.

Conewago Elementary School is the predominant recreation provider in the township; however, it is primarily used for school-related activities. The Lower Dauphin School District does have a use policy established by which private groups can request use of any of its school recreational or meeting facilities.

The Hills of Waterford Mini Park and the Mount Calvary Christian School recreational facilities are privately controlled recreational facilities. Although these two facilities will provide additional recreational opportunities, their private ownership status will limit their availability to a select group of residents in the township.

Analysis and Conclusions of the Parks and Recreation Plan National Recreation and Parks Association guidelines indicate that the township is lacking in the amount of land acreage that is being used for various types of park facilities. In general, responses from the citizen survey supported parks and recreation in the township. The plan set forth an overriding goal and a series of objectives to address parks and recreation needs of the township. Among the objectives set forth in the plan is the development of a centralized community park for use of the residents in the township.

CONEWAGO TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN October 14, 2009 4-9 As a result of this plan, the township has amended their subdivision and land development ordinance to update the land dedication and fee in lieu of land dedication requirements, and has established an advisory Parks and Recreation Board.

CHURCHES AND FAITH BASED ORGANIZATIONS

There are several churches and faith based organizations located in the community and attended by township residents. Churches in the township include: Shenk’s Union Church – Schoolhouse Road Stauffer’s Mennonite Church – Bachmanville Road Bachmanville Church of the Brethren – Schoolhouse Road

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Municipal Boundary î Church Parcel State Road å School Local Road Mount Joy Township Community Water and Sewer k e e Stream R Lancaster County E Cr Phase 1 Sewer Service Area F o F g wa HO e Municipal Building n Phase 2 Sewer Service Area Co Elizabethtown Borough Park Ultimate Water Service Area Map 4-1 CONEWAGO TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN October 14, 2009 COMMUNITY FACILITIES PA State Plane South, NAD 1983 Base Map Source: ® Copyright (c) 2006. Dauphin County GIS Copyright (c) 2007. Tri-County GIS Copyright (c) 2009. RETTEW Associates, Inc. 01,250 2,500 5,000 7,500 10,000 Feet J:\05\05-01141-007\GIS\4_1_comm_facilities_may19_08.mxd PROJECT NO. 05-01141-007 TRANSPORTATION PROFILE Chapter 5

A safe and efficient transportation system is essential for the free flow of people and goods within and through the community. It also provides for necessary and efficient response by public and emergency services personnel. The location, quality, and availability of transportation facilities have a significant impact and an influence on where future growth and development is likely to occur. Therefore, understanding the composition, efficiency, and adequacy of a community’s transportation system is essential. This section of the comprehensive plan will inventory the township’s existing transportation system. Additional information concerning county-wide and regional transportation planning can be found in the Dauphin County Comprehensive Plan and the 2030 Regional Transportation Plan for the Harrisburg Area Regional Transportation Study.

Conewago Township has 50.37 miles of public highways and roads. Of this existing road mileage, the Pennsylvania State Department of Transportation (PennDOT) maintains 17.95 miles.

REGIONAL ACCESS

Several major roads pass through the township, providing access in a number of directions. Elizabethtown-Hershey Road (SR 743) is a straight, two-lane arterial traversing the township in a north-south direction. It provides access to Derry Township and the Hershey area in the north and Mount Joy Township, Lancaster County and the Elizabethtown area to the south. Colebrook Road (SR 341) serves as the main east-west thoroughfare in the township. Colebrook Road provides access to Londonderry Township to the west and South Londonderry Township, Lebanon County to the east. Many of the residential properties in the township are located in the northeastern portion of the township and are accessed by Ridge Road and Roundtop Road.

The Harrisburg–Lancaster Expressway (SR 283) and the Pennsylvania Turnpike (Interstate 76) pass through the township but are not accessed in the township. The closest Pennsylvania Turnpike interchange is the Harrisburg East Interchange located in Lower Swatara Township in Dauphin County. The Pennsylvania Turnpike provides access to Pittsburgh and points west and Philadelphia and points east. SR 283 is accessed just south of Conewago Township in Mount Joy Township, via SR 743. SR 283 is also accessed in Londonderry Township via the Toll House Road Interchange. SR 283 connects to Lancaster in the east and the Harrisburg East Interchange of Interstate 76. The SR 283 interchange on SR 743, coupled with the connection that SR 743 provides to the Hershey amenities in Derry Township to the north, make SR 743 in Conewago Township heavily traveled by both residents and visitors to the area.

ROADWAY FUNCTIONALITY

Several functional classifications are used in transportation planning to describe a roadway, or a section of roadway in terms of capacity, access, and design characteristics. Table 5-1 represents the functional classification system utilized by the Tri-County Regional Planning Commission.

CONEWAGO TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN October 14, 2009 5-1 Figure 5-1: Functional Classification Characteristics Characteristic Arterial Collector Local Limited Access / Interstate Major Sub-Classifications Other Principal Arterials None Minor Minor Arterials Mobility and land access of equal Land access of utmost Mobility vs. Access Mobility of utmost importance importance importance Typically used for longer trips (inter Short to medium distance intra- Typically used for short trips and intra-state, inter-region and Trip Distance regional trips and for accessing and for accessing higher order longer intra-region and intra-county arterial and local systems systems trips) Highest volume roadways; Traffic Volumes moderate to high volume on most Generally moderate volumes Low volume roadways arterials Limited, partial and unlimited No access controls; moderate to No access controls; minimum access controls: widest right-of- minimum right-of-way, cartway and right-of-way, cartway and Design Features way, cartway and shoulders; often shoulder widths; often 2-lane shoulder widths; often 2 lane 3 to 4 lane facilities facilities facilities Speeds Typically 45-65 mph Typically 35-45 mph Typically 25 mph Minimal interference to through Through/Local Through travel discouraged; travel; local travel discouraged, Balanced through and local travel Traffic local travel encouraged especially on limited access roads Most important connections with Connects with Arterials and Locals. Primarily connects with other other arterials and collectors, Relation to Other Collector/Arterial intersection often locals and collectors. Most usually via grade separated Systems signalized. Collector/Local intersection of locals with other interchanges or signalized intersections often stop controlled. roadways are stop controlled. intersections Source: PennDoT; Tri-County Regional Planning Commission

Interstate 76 and SR 283 and 743 are the arterial roads in the township. SR 743 is considered a minor arterial and SR 283 and Interstate 76 are considered major arterials. Colebrook Road, Bachmanville Road, and Schoolhouse Road are the collector roads in the township. All three are considered minor collectors with the exception of the portion of Colebrook Road west of SR 743, which is considered a major collector. The remaining roads in the township are considered local roads. The functional classification of roadways in the township is shown in Table 5-3.

TRAFFIC VOLUME

PennDOT collects and maintains traffic counts for state roadways and publishes data on the Average Annual Daily Traffic (AADT) for segments of roadways. AADT is considered to be the typical daily amount of traffic, in both directions, on a particular road segment. Monitoring AADT flows on roadways is important because roadways of different functional classifications are designed to handle different volumes of traffic.

Arterials are roads designed to carry larger volumes of traffic, specifically “through” traffic, at higher speeds, and with limited access. The roads with the highest volumes of traffic in the township are the two principal arterials (I-76 and SR 283). As mentioned previously, neither of these roadways are accessed in the township. SR 743 has a significantly lower volume of traffic than these two thoroughfares, but the AADT of 12,000 vehicles signifies the level of importance that this road has to both residents of Conewago Township and to visitors connecting to SR 283 or amenities in Hershey.

Collector roads are designed to carry less traffic and at lower speeds than arterials. Traffic on collector roads usually represents a mix of local and through traffic and the road has a greater number of access points than arterials. AADT on the western portion of SR 341 is 1,600 vehicles. Traffic volume on the eastern portion of SR 341 is 1,100 vehicles daily. Bachmanville Road (SR 2011) has an AADT volume of approximately 800 vehicles and is classified as a

CONEWAGO TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN October 14, 2009 5-2 minor collector; Schoolhouse Road (SR 2013) is also classified as a minor collector and carries an AADT of 300 vehicles.

Local roads are designed to carry the least amounts of traffic, specifically local traffic, have the lowest speeds and provide direct access. SR 2007, 2008, 2009 and 2013 are all designated as local roads. Local roads with the highest daily traffic volumes are SR 2007 and 2013, with 550 and 500 AADT respectively, followed by SR 2008 and SR 2009 which carry 200 and 350 vehicles respectively.

Traffic volume can be used in conjunction with other information such as intersection configuration and signalization to determine the level of service for existing roadways and intersections.

LEVEL OF SERVICE

According to the Dauphin County Comprehensive Plan, Level of Service (LOS) is a qualitative measure describing the operational conditions within a roadway’s traffic stream. It is based on service measures such as speed, travel time, freedom to maneuver, traffic interruptions, comfort, and convenience. Standards that define the minimum acceptable operating LOS for arterials, collectors and local roads have been developed. Determining where a particular roadway may fall below the acceptable LOS is a useful technique to identify congestion and areas where deficiencies need to be addressed and remedied. Levels of service are identified by alphanumeric designations ranging from “A” through “F”, with “A” being the best and “F” being the worst. The various LOS for roadways generally include:

LOS A - Excellent traffic flow, favorable progression, most vehicles do not stop at all. LOS B - Very good traffic flow, short delays, more vehicles stop than under LOS A causing higher levels of delay. LOS C - Traffic flow is still good, but the number of vehicles stopping is significant. Many vehicles still proceed without stopping. LOS D - The influence of congestion becomes noticeable. Few vehicles advance through the intersection without stopping. LOS E - The limit of acceptable delay for many agencies. Virtually no vehicles proceed without stopping. LOS F - Traffic volumes exceeds available capacity. All vehicles must stop at least once, and possibly must wait through several signal cycles before proceeding.

With the exception of SR 283, all of the state roadways in the township are rated as LOS A or B during their peak traffic hour. All of the state owned and maintained roadways, with the exception of SR 283, are operating at or above an acceptable LOS and are capable of handling the current daily traffic volumes.

Table 5-2: PennDOT Acceptable Levels of Service Rural Level & Rural Mountain & Highway Type Rural Rolling Urban/Suburban Freeway B C Arterial B C Collector C D Local D D Source: PennDOT

CONEWAGO TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN October 14, 2009 5-3 Table 5-3 lists the names, roadway numbers, functional classifications, road segment, volume, peak hour level of service, and required rights-of-way of state owned and maintained roadways in the township. The functional classification and traffic volumes found on state roadways are graphically displayed on Map 5-1.

Table 5-3: Functional Classification, Volume, Level of Service and Required Width of PennDOT Roadways in Conewago Township Peak Hour Roadway 1 Required Right- Roadway Name Classification Segment Volume Level of Number of-Way Width Service Pennsylvania I-76 Principal Arterial Entire Township 28,000 B Varies Turnpike Harrisburg – Lancaster SR-283 Principal Arterial Entire Township 41,000 C Varies Expressway Elizabethtown Road SR-743 Minor Arterial Entire Township 12,000 B 60' Western Township Colebrook Road SR-341 Major Collector 1,600 A 60' border to SR-743 SR-743 to Eastern Colebrook Road SR-341 Minor Collector 1,100 A 60' Township border Bachmanville Road SR-2011 Minor Collector Entire Township 800 A 60' Schoolhouse Road SR-2013 Minor Collector SR-743 to SR-2011 300 A 60' SR-341 to Western Deodate Road SR-2007 Local 550 A 50' Township border SR-2009 to Eastern Mapledale Road SR-2008 Local 200 A 50' Township border SR-341 to Southern Belair Road SR-2009 Local 350 A 50' Township border SR-2011 to Eastern Schoolhouse Road SR-2013 Local 500 A 50' Township border Source: Tri-County Regional Planning Commission; PennDOT

TOWNSHIP FUNCTIONAL CLASSIFICATION

In the 1981 Conewago Township Comprehensive Plan, the township developed its own functional classification system. This system differs slightly from the Tri-County Regional Planning Commission and PennDOT system listed above. The roadway name, number and classification are indicated in Table 5-4 below. It should be noted that the township’s current Subdivision and Land Development Ordinance sets forth roadway standards for new streets in subdivisions and developments based upon the recommendations and functional classification system listed in the 1981 comprehensive plan.

Arterial Street (Class 1): A major street or highway with fast or heavy traffic volumes of considerable continuity and used primarily as a traffic artery for intercommunications among large areas. Collector Street (Class 2): A major street or highway which carries traffic from minor streets to arterial streets including the principal entrance streets of residential development and streets for circulation within such a development. Minor Street (Class 3): A local street used primarily for access to abutting properties.

1 2002 Average Annual Daily Traffic

CONEWAGO TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN October 14, 2009 5-4 Table 5-4: Functional Classification of Conewago Township Roads (Existing, est. 1980) Required Length Classification Right-of- Roadway Name Roadway Number (Miles) Number Classification Way Azalea Drive T-333 0.17 3 Minor 50’ Bachmanville Road SR-2011 2 Collector 60’ Ballyshannon Drive* T-314 3 Minor 50’ Basler Road T-567 0.26 3 Minor 50’ Beagle Road T-311 0.80 3 Minor 50’ Beaver Road* T-340 0.15 3 Minor 50’ Beechwood Lane* T-329 0.10 3 Minor 50’ Bellaire Road SR-2009 2 Collector 60’ Blue Ribbon Drive* T-350 0.08 3 Minor 50’ Border Lane T-335 0.12 3 Minor 50’ Brandt Road T-688 0.70 3 Minor 50’ Castle Maine Court* T-316 3 Minor 50’ Cedar Road T-326 1.91 3 Minor 50’ Chestnut Road T-568 1.45 3 Minor 50’ Church Road T-565 0.70 3 Minor 50’ Colebrook Road SR-341 1 Arterial 60’ Deer Run Road* T-339 0.18 3 Minor 50’ Deodate Road T-317 & SR-2007 0.45(T) 2 Collector 60’ Dogwood Drive T-334 0.67 3 Minor 50’ Elizabethtown Road SR-743 1 Arterial 60’ Elm Road T-315 0.93 3 Minor 50’ Fox Chase Drive* T-337 0.15 3 Minor 50’ Foxglove Circle T-307 0.06 3 Minor 50’ Gates Road T-572 1.40 3 Minor 50’ Glenmede Lane* T-319 3 Minor 50’ Harrisburg-Lancaster Expressway SR-283 1 Arterial Varies Hertzler Road T-303 0.83 3 Minor 50’ Hemlock Court* T-323 0.08 3 Minor 50’ Hill Road T-304 1.01 3 Minor 50’ Hoffer Road T-309 0.15 3 Minor 50’ Kirby Drive* T-328 0.10 3 Minor 50’ Koser Road T-570 0.50 3 Minor 50’ Laurel Drive T-312 0.15 3 Minor 50’ Mapledale Road T-571 & SR-2008 2.42(T) 3 Minor 50’ Meadow Lane T-573 1.0 3 Minor 50’ Sand Hill Road T-566 0.10 3 Minor 50’ Mill Road T-564 2.18 3 Minor 50’ Nye Road T-347 0.39 3 Minor 50’ Oak Road T-336 0.11 3 Minor 50’ Old Hershey Road T-602 4.43 3 Minor 50’ Pennsylvania Turnpike I-76 1 Arterial Varies Pheasant Drive* T-338 0.17 3 Minor 50’ Primrose Drive T-331 0.36 3 Minor 50’ Rhoads Road T-569 0.08 3 Minor 50’ Ridge Road T-325 2.44 3 Minor 50’ Risser Road T-702 0.28 3 Minor 50’ Roundtop Road T-327 1.76 3 Minor 50’

CONEWAGO TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN October 14, 2009 5-5 Required Length Classification Right-of- Roadway Name Roadway Number (Miles) Number Classification Way Schoolhouse Road T-318 & SR-2013 0.38(T) 2 Collector 60’ Valley Road T-305 1.68 3 Minor 50’ Vista Road T-703 0.13 3 Minor 50’ Walnut Road T-322 0.08 3 Minor 50’ Westhampton Terrace* T-313 3 Minor 50’ White Pine Drive* T-324 0.59 3 Minor 50’ Woodbine Drive T-331 0.36 3 Minor 50’ Source: Conewago Township Comprehensive Plan, 1981 *Roads listed on PennDOT’s 2nd Class Township Type 5 Map for Conewago Township, Dauphin County, apparently added since 1981 comprehensive plan

DESIGN STANDARDS

If insufficient right-of-way or cartway widths exist on township or state roadways, the township does and should continue to require developers to dedicate land for additional right-of-way during the subdivision and land development process. Building setbacks should be measured from the ultimate right-of-way to ensure that buildings are appropriately setback from the street when the township or PennDOT initiates improvements to their roadways.

CRASH CORRIDORS

The Tri-County Regional Transportation Plan (RTP) identifies general locations of frequent and severe crashes that should be considered community planning priorities. The plan identifies certain corridors in Conewago Township that experience crashes at a higher rate than the statewide average for that type of facility, as well as those that experience serious crashes (those resulting in fatality or major injury) at a higher rate than would be expected. The plan utilized PennDOT accident data from 1996 to 2001. The following areas in the township were identified in the RTP:

Portions of the PA Turnpike and SR 283 within the township were identified as severe and frequent crash corridors. Both highways are limited access principal arterials, designed to accommodate large volumes of traffic and at higher speeds. Deodate Road (SR 2007) from the intersection with SR 341 southwest to the township boundary was noted for the frequency and severity of crashes. This road carries the largest volume of traffic of the four PennDOT local roads in Conewago Township. SR 341 from its intersection with SR 743 to the intersection with Belaire Road (SR 2009) was a listed crash corridor for severity of crashes. This section is listed as a minor collector and carries over 1,100 vehicles per day. Schoolhouse Road (SR 2013) from the intersection with SR 743 to the intersection with Bachmanville Road (SR 2011) has been identified for the frequency of crashes. This roadway is classified as a local road, and carries the second largest volume of traffic of the four state-owned local roads in the township.

CONEWAGO TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN October 14, 2009 5-6 TRANSPORTATION IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM

According to the Dauphin County Comprehensive Plan and the Harrisburg Area Regional Transportation Study FY 2005-2008 Transportation Improvement Program included one project that may involve portions of SR 283 in Conewago Township. The SR 283 Reconstruction Project is scheduled for Preliminary Engineering at a cost of $1,265,000 in FFY 2006, and Final Design at costs of $1,000,000 and $1,300,000 in FFY 2007 and 2008 respectively. This planned improvement may help relieve the frequency and severity of the crashes along the corridor, while improving the LOS.

TWELVE YEAR PROGRAM

PennDOT’s State Twelve (12) year program lists improvements to SR 283 and SR 2011, Bachmanville Road. SR 283 is scheduled for highway restoration improvements and Bachmanville Road is scheduled for disaster initial response. These scheduled improvements may be located within the township.

BRIDGES

In addition to the information listed in the Dauphin County Comprehensive Plan and the 2030 Regional Transportation Plan for the Harrisburg Area Regional Transportation Study, according to PennDOT’s Bridge Management System, there are two Township-owned bridges posted with maximum weight limits:

Table 5-5: Bridges Posted with Maximum Weight Limits Weight Limit Roadway Name Roadway Number Feature Crossed Owner (1 lane) Length Conewago Hertzler Road T-303 Conewago Creek tributary (stream) 15 tons 23’ Township Conewago Valley Road T-305 Conewago Creek tributary (stream) 10 tons 23’ Township Source: Tri-County Regional Planning Commission

PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION

Currently, there is no public transit service to Conewago Township. The Cumberland-Dauphin- Harrisburg Transit Authority, also called Capital Area Transit (CAT), nearest service area runs east along US 322 and US 422 extending into Derry Township (Hershey area) a few miles north of Conewago Township. Additionally, the Red Rose Transit Authority (RRTA) in Lancaster County provides public transit service to Elizabethtown (Lancaster County) a few miles south of Conewago Township. It should be noted that Conewago Township is connected to both areas being served by public transit, by SR 743.

The Hershey Intermodal Transportation Center is currently under construction in Derry Township. The Transportation Center is proposed as a multi-level parking garage that is scheduled to accommodate 600 vehicles, offer a pedestrian bridge across Norfolk Southern Railroad, and future plans for a pedestrian and bicycle trail and a trolley and tram system. The center is intended to bring together various transportation systems into one central location as accommodations for Capital Area Transit, County of Lebanon Transit, and Capitol Trailways bus

CONEWAGO TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN October 14, 2009 5-7 service. Once the proposed Hershey Intermodal Transportation facility is constructed, a possible connection between the CAT and RRTA service could be extended along SR 743 between Hershey and Elizabethtown through Conewago Township.

The Dauphin County Area Agency on Aging maintains a listing of public and private partnership van service companies to provide transportation to residents age 60 or over. There is no van service provided to Conewago Township residents currently, but Londonderry and Derry Townships both have van service for their older residents. Hummelstown Borough, West Hanover, and East Hanover Townships also offer the service to their residents.

PARK-AND-RIDE FACILITIES

Currently, there are no park-and-ride facilities in the township that would encourage carpooling. There is a park and ride facility located Mount Joy Township, Lancaster County, along SR 743 prior to the SR 283 interchange.

AVIATION

There are no airport facilities in Conewago Township. The Harrisburg International Airport (HIA) is located within a short commute of Conewago Township in Lower Swatara Township. The airport provides the region with direct and connecting commercial air passage and airfreight service to national and international destinations. There is a general aviation airport, Reigle Airport, located in nearby South Londonderry Township, Lebanon County.

RAIL

There are no active rail lines or rail service in Conewago Township. The nearest passenger rail service terminals are in Middletown, Elizabethtown, and the Harrisburg Transportation Center in downtown Harrisburg. Amtrak train service is available at these locations and provides service to Philadelphia and points east, as well as Pittsburgh and points west. From these hubs, riders can transfer to Amtrak’s nationwide rail network.

BICYCLE AND PEDESTRIAN

Although the township Subdivision and Land Development Ordinance requires sidewalks to be installed in all new subdivisions or land developments, the vast majority of Conewago Township, due to its rural nature, lacks a network of bicycle and pedestrian facilities.

The Dauphin County Comprehensive Plan identifies SR 743 and SR 341 from its intersection with SR 743 to the township’s western border as roadways possessing the need for bicycle and/or pedestrian facilities. These facilities have been indicated as roadway based facilities.

CONEWAGO TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN October 14, 2009 5-8 TRAVEL TIMES TO WORK

In 1990, the mean travel time to work for Conewago Township residents was 19.5 minutes. This figure was slightly higher than Dauphin County, which had a 1990 mean travel time to work of 19.0 minutes. The 2000 Census indicated a three minute increase to 22.5 minutes. Dauphin County’s mean travel time to work also increased to 21.1 minutes. The absolute and percentage increase in travel times of Dauphin County residents were not as great as those in Conewago. These increases can be attributed to increased congestion along the major roadways in the region.

CONEWAGO TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN October 14, 2009 5-9 Derry Township BEAVER

BACHMA

PHEASANT

OUSE NVILLE H WHITE PINE

DEER RUN

SCHOOL

HEMLOCK

CEDAR

NYE South Londonderry Township

ELIZABETHTOWN Lebanon County LAUREL G ATES WOODBIN PRIMROSE

OLD HERSHEY

WITMER E

HERSHEY

CHURCH DOWN TH DOGWOOD

E LANE

ROUNDTOP CHESTNUT

Iron Run BRANDT

AB743 D

O BASLER OAK B

COLEBROOK RHOADS

Hoffer Creek

BLUE RIBBON

RIDGE

KIRBY

MEADOW

AB341 ELL B COLEBROOK

PENNSYLVANIA TURNPIKE DEODATE PENNSYLVANIA TURNPIKE

¨¦§76

HERSHEY

Brills Run

OAK KNOLL

LONDON PRO MAPLEDALE

SPEC

KOSER

MILL

Londonderry Township VALLEY PA 283

AB283 AB283 O M LD EL PA 2 8 ek 3 HE o Cre Conewag R S H E Y

Legend LL

LL I Municipal Boundary H BEAGLE Parcel Stream Principal Arterial, 41,000 AADT Principal Arterial, 28,000 AADT Minor Arterial, 12,000 AADT Mount Joy Township k e e Collector, 1,100 to 1,600 AADT R E Cr Lancaster County F o F g wa HO e n Collector, 300 to 800 AADT Co Elizabethtown Borough Local Road Map 5-1 CONEWAGO TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN FUNCTIONAL CLASSIFICATIONS October 14, 2009 AND PA State Plane South, NAD 1983 Base Map Source: Copyright (c) 2006. Dauphin County GIS ® TRAFFIC VOLUMES Copyright (c) 2007. Tri-County GIS Copyright (c) 2007. Pennsylvania Department of Transportation Copyright (c) 2009. RETTEW Associates, Inc. 01,250 2,500 5,000 7,500 10,000 J:\05\05-01141-007\GIS\5_1_transportation_volume_class17X22_may19_08.mxd Feet PROJECT NO. 05-01141-007 EXISTING LAND USE PROFILE Chapter 6

Economic influences, historical development trends, cultural attitudes and physical features of the landscape all contribute to the existing land use patterns of a community. As one of the major components of the comprehensive plan, the Existing Land Use Profile provides important information regarding the general development patterns and characteristics of the township. Information collected in the existing land use inventory will serve as an important component of the township’s inventory of resources. Grouped with other studies, this analysis will form the basis for recommendations regarding future land uses in the township.

To provide a detailed land use inventory and resulting analysis, several information sources were utilized. Dauphin County Geographic Information Systems (GIS) data were used to map the parcels of the township. This data was combined with Dauphin County Tax Assessment data and input from the steering committee for this plan to determine appropriate land use categories for the township.

The following discussion and analysis describes the categories used to inventory and report existing land uses in Conewago Township. It should be noted that this is a general representation of the land uses in the township. The composition of land uses in the township in terms of amount of acreage is listed in Table 6-1 and is graphically displayed in Figure 6-1. The spatial arrangement of land uses is shown in Map 6-1.

LAND USE CLASSIFICATIONS AND DESCRIPTIONS

Single Family Residential

The single family residential land use category includes single family detached and single family attached dwelling units and stand alone mobile homes. Included in this category are 1 story, 1½ story, 2 story, 3 story, split level, and bi-level housing units. A variety of architectural styles and structural types of single family dwellings can be found throughout the township.

Single family residential land uses are scattered throughout the township, but the greatest concentrations are located in the northwest corner of the township. There are also residential clusters located in the northeastern portion of the township, along Colebrook Road, and in the area of the township south of SR 283.

Multi-Family Residential

The multi-family residential land use category includes residential units that are designed to house more than one household or family at a time. These types of units include apartment buildings, townhouses, duplexes, and single family dwellings that have been converted into a multi-family dwelling or apartment.

In Conewago Township, there are two properties that are classified as multi-family residential units. These properties comprise just over six acres of the township and account for 0.06% of the total land in the township.

CONEWAGO TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN October 14, 2009 6-1 Mobile Home Park

This category includes mobile homes and manufactured housing units located within a mobile home park that consists of two or more units. A mobile home can be considered as, “a transportable, single-family detached dwelling intended for permanent occupancy, contained in one (1) unit or in two (2) or more units designed to be joined into one (1) integral unit capable of again being separated for repeated towing, which arrives at site complete and ready for occupancy except for minor and incidental unpacking and assembly operations, and constructed so that it may be used without a permanent foundation.”1

In Conewago Township, Oak Knoll Mobile Home Park located off of Valley Road in the southern portion of the township is represented in this land use category.

Commercial

The Commercial land use category is comprised of gas stations, retail stores, offices, banking institutions, personal services, hair and nail salons and barbers, restaurants and taverns, and similar facilities.

There are several commercial properties located throughout the township. The largest concentrations of commercial properties are located in strip patterns along SR 743 in the central part of the township. Commercial properties account for 2.19% of the land in the township.

Recreation

Recreation uses in Conewago Township include public or private parks and recreation facilities. This category can also include private recreational facilities such as fitness clubs, golf courses, or businesses that provide a source of recreation.

The only property in the township with this designation currently is the Danny Fisher Memorial Field located near the Conewago Township Municipal Building on Ridge Road.

Agriculture

The Agriculture land use category includes land that is being used for agriculture or agricultural related purposes. Land in this category may or may not have building improvements located on the land.

Agriculture is the predominant land use in the township and can be found in many areas of the township. Agricultural land uses account for 76.84% of the total land acreage in the township.

Forest

Areas that are considered as forest or woodlands are those that contain a wooded land cover and are not used for other purposes, such as residential. The greatest concentrations of the forest land use classification are located in the northwestern quadrant of the township, although other patches of woodland areas exist throughout the township.

1 Conewago Township Zoning Ordinance definition of “Mobilehome”

CONEWAGO TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN October 14, 2009 6-2 Public / Semi-Public

Uses that fall under the land use category Public / Semi-Public include municipal structures, land owned by the municipality or municipal authority, schools, cemeteries, and non-profit organizations which are exempt from taxation. Most parks and public recreation facilities and churches and faith based organizations can also be considered public / semi-public, but have been placed in a separate category for this analysis. The predominant public / semi-public uses in the township are the Conewago Township Municipal Building and the Conewago Elementary School, which is part of the Lower Dauphin School District.

Church / Synagogue

This category includes religious institutions and faith based organizations. Although these uses are sometimes considered as a part of the public / semi-public land use category because of their tax exemption status, the committee recognized the significance that these uses have in the township and felt that it was most appropriate to consider them as a separate use. Land in this category accounts for just over 0.12% of the total land acreage in the township.

COMPOSITION OF LAND USE

Table 6-1: Existing Land Use Composition in Conewago Township

Land Use Acres Percent of Total Acres

Single Family Residential 1,484.471 14.37% Multi-Family Residential 6.422 0.06% Mobile Home Park 18.257 0.18% Commercial 226.726 2.19% Recreation 1.532 0.01% Agriculture 7,938.334 76.84% Forest 630.670 6.10% Municipal / Public 11.911 0.12% Church / Synagogue 12.346 0.12% Total 10,330.669 100.00% Source: Dauphin County GIS; Dauphin County Tax Assessment Data; Conewago Township; RETTEW Associates, Inc.

CONEWAGO TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN October 14, 2009 6-3 Figure 6-1: Existing Land Use of Conewago Township

Conewago Township Existing Land Use

Single Family Residential

Multi-Family Residential 76.84%

Mobile Home Park

Commerc ial

Recreation

6.10% Agriculture 0.12% 0.01% 14.37% Forest 0.12% 2.19%

0.18% Municipal / Public

0.06% Church / Synagogue

Source: Dauphin County GIS; Dauphin County Tax Assessment Data; Conewago Township; RETTEW Associates, Inc.

CONEWAGO TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN October 14, 2009 6-4 Derry Township BEAVER

BACHMANVILLE

PHEASANT

OUSE H WHITE PINE

DEER RUN

SCHOOL

HEMLOCK

CEDAR

NYE South Londonderry Township

ELIZABETHTOWN

LAUREL G Lebanon County ATES WOODBIN PRIMROSE

OLD HERSHEY

WITMER E

HERSHEY

CHURCH DOWN THE LANE DOGWOOD

ROUNDTOP CHESTNUT

Iron Run BRANDT

AB743 D

O BASLER OAK B

COLEBROOK RHOADS

Hoffer Creek

BLUE RIBBON

RIDGE

KIRBY

MEADOW

AB341 ELL B COLEBROOK

PENNSYLVANIA TURNPIKE DEODATE PENNSYLVANIA TURNPIKE

¨¦§76

HERSHEY

Brills Run

OAK KNOLL

LONDON PRO MAPLEDALE

SPEC

KOSER

MILL

Londonderry Township VALLEY PA 283

AB283 AB283 O M LD EL PA 2 8 ek 3 HE o Cre Conewag R S H E Y

Legend

MI Existing Land Use LL Municipal Boundary I H BEAGLE State Road Single Family Residential Local Road Multi-Family Residential Stream Mobile Housing Park Commercial Recreation Agriculture Mount Joy Township k e e Forest R E Cr Lancaster County F o F g wa HO e n Municipal / Public Co Elizabethtown Borough Church / Synagogue

CONEWAGO TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN Map 6-1 October 14, 2009

EXISTING LAND USE PA State Plane South, NAD 1983 Base Map Source: ® Copyright (c) 2006. Dauphin County GIS Copyright (c) 2007. Tri-County GIS Copyright (c) 2007. Pennsylvania Department of Transportation Copyright (c) 2009. RETTEW Associates, Inc. 01,250 2,500 5,000 7,500 10,000 J:\05\05-01141-007\GIS\6_1_elu17X22_may19_08.mxd Feet PROJECT NO. 05-01141-007 NATURAL AND HISTORIC RESOURCES PROFILE Chapter 7

The Natural Resources Profile is designed to identify and analyze the vast assortment of natural resources that are found within or have an influence on Conewago Township. These resources and features include the physical geography; topography; soils; geologic formations and physiographic provinces; water resources; woodlands; and wildlife. The value of these resources to economic pursuits, such as agriculture, and to the township’s overall environmental quality will be examined.

The purpose of the profile is to help local, regional, and state government officials and decision- makers, developers, and citizens make more informed planning decisions. Sensitive environmental resources, threats to resource existence and function, the impacts of development, and different types of protection techniques are of specific interest. Understanding these parameters will aid in the identification of natural resources in need of remediation, the location and types of features that impose constraints to development, key areas to be preserved, and areas that are well-suited for development. Map 7-7 summarizes the environmental constraints that exist in the township and may hinder development potential.

CLIMATE

The climate of Dauphin County, as in other parts of the Susquehanna River Valley, is quite variable. This is due mainly to the prevailing westerly winds which usher in both low and high pressure systems every few days. Generally, however, Blue Mountain moderates the effect of weather systems approaching from the northwest, thus explaining why the southern portion of the county has a milder and drier climate than the valley and ridge province to the north. The annual average temperature is 53 degrees. Sub-zero temperatures are occasionally attained in the winter, and temperatures in excess of 100 degrees are reached in humid summer months.

The growing season between the last killing frost in the spring and the first in the fall normally extends from mid-April to the latter part of October and ranges between 142 to 239 days in southern Dauphin County.

Precipitation is spread out fairly evenly during the year, and ranges from 38-40 inches annually. Sixty percent of this moisture arrives in the form of thunderstorms and showers during the growing season. During severe storms, runoff and the potential for erosion are high. The precipitation is less concentrated during the rest of the year. Much of the precipitation from late November to March is in the form of snowfall and yearly totals average about 30 inches.1

PHYSIOGRAPHY

Conewago Township is located in the Gettysburg-Newark Lowlands Section of the Piedmont Province. This section consists mainly of rolling hills and valleys developed on red sedimentary rock. There are also isolated higher hills developed on diabase, baked sedimentary rock, and conglomerates. The basic drainage pattern is dendritic, or branching, and soils are usually red. Relief is generally in the area of 100 to 200 feet, but locally is up to 600 feet on some of the isolated hills. Elevation in the section ranges from 20 to 1,355 feet. The section is made up of

1 Climatic information is taken from the 1981 Conewago Township Comprehensive Plan

CONEWAGO TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN October 14, 2009 7-1 sedimentary rocks that were deposited in a long, narrow island basin that formed when the continents of North America and Africa separated more than 200 million years ago. The section extends from the Pennsylvania-Maryland boundary in Adams County to the Delaware River in Bucks County.

TOPOGRAPHY AND STEEP SLOPES

The topography of a landscape greatly affects the degree of development that is possible. Areas of steeper slope are more susceptible to erosion than shallow slopes and flatlands. Erosion concerns need to be considered prior to development approval and may result in limits to site disturbance. Additionally, soils on steep slopes are often slightly to severely rocky. These constraints typically discourage agricultural uses and more intensive development from locating in these areas, leaving them naturally covered with woodlands and forests.

In Conewago Township, the steepest areas of slope, those slopes greater than 25%, are found in the northernmost parts of the township. There are also areas of cautionary slope, those 15% to 25% that are located in the northern parts of the township and along the diabase geologic formation that cuts through the township in a southwest to northeast direction. Although cautionary and steep slopes are found in the township in select areas, in general, the township does not have a lot of relief. Areas of steep and cautionary slope are displayed in Map 7-7.

GEOLOGY

The geology of Conewago Township is graphically displayed in Map 7-1. The township is underlain primarily by members of the Gettysburg Formation, with small sections in the northern part of the township of Gettysburg conglomerate, and diabase intrusions forming the linear ridges. The following information is taken from the 1981 Conewago Township Comprehensive Plan regarding the geology of the township.

Rocks exposed in the Conewago area depict a rich history of geologic events including submergence and submarine sedimentation, widespread folding and thrust faulting during mountain building episodes, extensive igneous activity, and repeated cycles of uplift and downwasting.

Following the late Triassic (180-225 million years ago) period, the red sandstones and shales of the Gettysburg formation were laid down in structural troughs. The reddish color is indicative of terrestrial deposits. It indicates an oxidizing arid condition and is a derivation of Pre-Cambrian Age crystalline and Cambrian quartzose rock highlands to the south. The continuing deposition of sediments in the basins caused a gradual deepening of the troughs due to the weight of the sediments. Associated with this subsidence is faulting along the northwest boundaries of the troughs. This same sequence of deposition, subsidence and faulting occurred along a stretch from what is now New Jersey into Pennsylvania, Maryland and Virginia. These are known as Newark deposits and have an estimated thickness of nearly 16,000 feet. After consolidation of these sediments an intrusion of diabase bodies welled up along zones of relative weakness. Since the end of the Triassic period, the area has witnessed continuing erosion, faulting and regional uplift, which have created the mosaic of landforms present today.

Nearly 85% of the township’s area is underlain by an upper member of the Gettysburg Group, the Gettysburg Formation. This is comprised of a brown to red quartz sandstone with red shale interbeds. The sandstone is more weather resistant than the shale beds and thus forms low

CONEWAGO TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN October 14, 2009 7-2 blocky hills. Both formations impart a deep reddish color to the overlying soils. A coarser- grained member of the Gettysburg Formation is a grey quartz pebble conglomerate that forms the conspicuous “Sand Hill”. The Gettysburg sediments have been intruded by diabase dikes. They are dark gray, medium to coarse grained igneous rocks. This material has a greater resistance than the surrounding materials and forms prominent linear ridges. At the contact of the diabase dikes and the Gettysburg, high temperature metamorphism has resulted in the formation of a bluish-gray porcelain-like material. The Paleozoic Age rocks are covered irregularly by a blanket of colluvial slope debris. Valleys are covered by recent alluvial silts, sands, and basal gravels. The wide valley of the Conewago Creek is comprised of such surficial flood plain deposits.

Thick sandstone beds of the Gettysburg formation (brownstone) have in the past been quarried extensively for building stone. A quarry near Waltonville remained active until the late 1920s. Locally, thick sandstone beds could be exploited in the future for the same purpose. Trap rock (diabase) was exploited as a dark building stone (used in Soldier’s Monument in Harrisburg). A quarry near the Pennsylvania Railroad Bridge over the Conewago Creek was worked until 1917. Iron ore deposits have long been recognized to be associated with the contacts between igneous bodies and surrounding parent materials. Other rock and mineral resources which may be located in the township include hematite, magnetite, copper carbonate, and zinc blend.

Table 7-1: Geologic Formations in Conewago Township Name Geologic Period Description Groundwater High groundwater potential with wells Made up of reddish brown shale, ranging from 200 to 550 feet in depth. Gettysburg Formation Triassic mudstone, siltstone, and beds of Wells must be limited due to the fact that green and brown shale. wells 2000 feet apart generally show interference with other wells. A coarser member of the Gettysburg Gettysburg Formation with larger Triassic Same as Gettysburg Formation Conglomerate stones of grey quartz pebble conglomerate. Small yields (10 gpm or less) are Diabase dike intrusions; dark common from wells drilled to 150 feet in Diabase Intrusion Jurassic gray to black and dense; medium depth; fractured zones, sometimes to coarse grained igneous rocks. represented by stream valleys or gulleys, are best well sites. Sources: Dauphin County Comprehensive Plan; Conewago Township Comprehensive Plan, 1981; Pennsylvania Geological Survey

WATER RESOURCES

An understanding of a community’s natural water resources is critical to planning for future land use and community facilities and services. Water resources provide on-lot and public water systems with domestic and commercial/industrial water supplies; provide recreational opportunities; support fire protection services; and have inherent value to the environment. Protecting the area’s water supplies by strategically directing development to suitable areas, promoting safe use and disposal of pollutants, such as fertilizers, industrial wastes, sewage effluent from septic systems, and minimizing excessive erosion, is crucial in municipal planning.

Water resources can generally be described as groundwater or surface water. Groundwater is water contained in the soils and rock formations. Groundwater is derived from precipitation that has infiltrated and percolated through the soil. After reaching the water table, groundwater slowly moves toward points of discharge, such as surface waters, springs, and man-made wells. The pumping of wells draws water from all directions, changing the natural groundwater flow. These areas of modified groundwater flow are called discharge areas. Surface water is water on the surface of the ground and consists of perennial and intermittent streams, lakes, reservoirs,

CONEWAGO TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN October 14, 2009 7-3 ponds, wetlands, springs, natural seeps and estuaries, and excludes water at facilities approved for wastewater treatment and constructed wetlands used as part of a wastewater treatment process.

Groundwater

The Department of Environmental Protection defines groundwater as, “water beneath the surface of the ground within a zone of saturation, whether or not flowing through known and definite channels or percolating through underground geologic formations, and regardless of whether the result of natural or artificial recharge. The term includes water contained in aquifers, artesian and nonartesian basins, underground watercourses and other bodies of water below the surface of the earth.” Groundwater is an extremely valuable resource and needs to be monitored closely.

Pennsylvanians ultimately depend on groundwater for drinking water. Public water companies use wells and springs to supply residents with water; residential homes, primarily in rural areas, use private wells and springs; and almost half of all Pennsylvanians get at least part of their water directly from the groundwater. Groundwater is a vital resource, and it is essential that measures are taken to ensure that it is kept clean from pollution and wisely used.

If groundwater becomes contaminated, the rate at which the substance reaches groundwater and the rate and extent at which the plume of contamination will travel and disperse depends on the thickness of the unsaturated zone and the nature of the rock itself. Groundwater can become polluted from a variety of human activities including mismanagement of on-lot sewage disposal systems, mineral extraction activities, leakage from underground tanks, and commercial agricultural production. In rural areas, nitrates and bacteria from household sewage and wastewater chemicals that are dumped into septic systems can contaminate groundwater when systems are not properly installed or maintained. Any water resource may also be threatened from a site specific hazardous materials spill or incident. Problems arise in that in any given area, it is difficult to determine exactly where the groundwater travels underground, the rate at which it travels, or what unknowingly might be added to it along the way.

Aquifers

The Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection defines an aquifer as a formation, group of formations, or part of a formation that contains sufficient saturated, permeable material to yield significant quantities of water to wells and springs. Hydrogeologists have identified four principle types of aquifers in the state: sand and gravel; sandstone and shale; carbonate rock; and crystalline rock.

Conewago Township is underlain by sandstone and shale aquifers. Sandstone and shale aquifers contain the sandstones, silts, stones, and shales that are the predominant component of Pennsylvania’s bedrock. In the bedrock, these components are interlayered and there can be more than one waterbearing zone in a vertical thickness. Where sandstones are dominant the water is soft; where shales are dominant the water is hard. Yields from these aquifers range from 5-20 gal/min for shales and 5-60 gal/min for sandstones. However, drilling on a fracture intersection can increase these yields substantially.2

The greatest potential for groundwater resources lies within the coarse grained sandstones and conglomerates of the Gettysburg formation. These formations yield moderate to large quantities

2 Groundwater: A Primer for Pennsylvanians

CONEWAGO TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN October 14, 2009 7-4 of water; however, there can be great variability in the yields of these materials. Baked sedimentary rocks (metamorphosed by igneous intrusives and igneous rocks) are more impervious and consequently are poorer aquifers. Small quantities can be expected at the base of weathered and decomposed bedrock (saprolite).

Figure 7-1: Aquifers of Pennsylvania

Source: PA League of Women Voters; excerpt from Groundwater: A Primer for Pennsylvanians

Surface Water

The Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection defines surface water as “water on the surface of the earth, including water in a perennial or intermittent watercourse, lake, reservoir, pond, spring, wetland, estuary, swamp or marsh, or diffused surface water, whether such body of water is natural or artificial. The term does not include re-circulated processed water or wastewater stored in an off-stream impoundment, pond, tank or other device unless such water or wastewater is withdrawn and used by a person other than the person who initially withdrew the water from a water resource or obtained such water from a public water supply agency.”

Surface water is intricately connected to groundwater. The two “feed” one another, and also have the potential to contaminate one another. Run-off and ground-based pollutants often percolate into the water table, degrading groundwater. Contaminated groundwater, emerging from springs, wells, and marshes can pose threats to surface water.

The Conewago Creek, a tributary to the Susquehanna River, is the most significant surface water feature in the township. Hoffer Creek, Brills Run and Iron Run also flow through portions of the township, as do tributaries to these streams and to Spring Creek. Named streams that are not considered to be tributaries are labeled on all of the maps in this plan.

Floodplains

Floodplains are defined by the severity of storm needed to flood an area. The most common measure of floodplain is the 100-year floodplain which delineates an area that is expected to flood during a storm which occurs on average, once every 100 years. Adequate floodplain management is crucial to municipalities that have extensive floodplain areas. Preserving

CONEWAGO TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN October 14, 2009 7-5 floodplain areas from development disturbances minimizes potential damages to property and risk of injury due to extensive flooding. Allowing the floodplain areas to remain in their natural state will also minimize any major changes to the balance of the hydrologic system and provide a protective buffer to the waterways, thereby reducing pollutant levels which may reach the waterway. The unplanned encroachment of structures and land filling activities in floodplain areas has the potential of reducing the floodplain land area and water carrying capacity, thus increasing water heights, velocities, and flood hazards in areas beyond these encroachments. Incorporating conservation areas in the landscape along watercourses will be effective in preserving floodplain areas. A community's agreement to adopt and enforce floodplain management ordinances, particularly with respect to new construction, is an important element in making flood insurance available to home and businesses owners. Additionally, communities can mitigate risk by reclaiming floodplains as older homes deteriorate or are destroyed by flooding.

The only major flooding that occurs in the township is along the Conewago Creek, although other creeks and streams in the township overflow their banks on occasion. Floodplains in Conewago Township are shown in Map 7-2, Hydrology, and Map 7-7, Environmental Constraints.

Wetlands

The Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection, the United States Environmental Protection Agency, and the United States Army Corps of Engineers define wetlands as, “areas that are inundated or saturated by surface or groundwater at a frequency and duration sufficient to support, and that under normal circumstances do support, a prevalence of vegetation typically adapted for life in saturated soil conditions, including swamps, marshes, bogs and similar areas”3. Wetlands are identified by hydric soils, hydrophytic vegetation, and the presence of water during the growing season.

Wetlands are important for a number of reasons. They provide habitat for most threatened and endangered species. Wetlands provide food for game fish and other animals, including nesting birds. They function to reduce flooding by absorbing additional waters and slowing the pace of water to neighboring creeks and streams. Wetlands also act to buffer creeks and streams from excessive erosion and sedimentation. The following listing outlines several other socioeconomic values and environmental functions of wetlands.

Socioeconomic Values Flood Control Erosion Control Groundwater Recharge Recreation Aesthetics Education/Research

Environmental Quality Values Sediment Removal Oxygen Production Nutrient Recycling Chemical and Nutrient Absorption Aquatic Productivity

3 Pennsylvania Code 93.1

CONEWAGO TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN October 14, 2009 7-6 Wildlife Values Habitats for fish and waterfowl birds, mammals, plants, insects, and other forms of life wildlife

Wetlands in Conewago Township are displayed in Map 7-2, Hydrology, and Map 7-7, Environmental Constraints.

FORESTED AREAS AND WOODLANDS

Forested areas of Pennsylvania provide multiple benefits to the citizens of the Commonwealth. These include: Improvements in air quality Improving water quality Providing habitat for a variety of plant and animal species Providing recreation and scenic opportunities Supporting a dynamic forest products industry that supports many rural communities and is an economic driving force in the Commonwealth.

Forests offer protection from floods and erosion. The forest floor, covered with leaves and twigs, also called litter, acts as a protective layer to the soil and reduces the possibility of erosion. The litter decays into humus, which helps to form a highly permeable layer of soil, which causes infiltration rates to usually exceed rainfall intensities. This helps to reduce downstream flood peaks. The forest floor becomes disturbed through construction and building activities. By disturbing litter and humus, soil erosion and flooding are more likely. The wooded areas on steep slopes and along streams should be preserved to prevent erosion and reduce flooding downstream. Although forests offer protection from floods and erosion, during the growing season they can contribute to some of the depletion of stream flows.

Woodlands in Dauphin County are primarily located in the northern sections of the county, but there are small sections of woodlands located in the southern part of the county and in Conewago Township. In the county, the most common variety of forest cover is mixed oak- hickory stands consisting mainly of white oak, red oak, hickory, black oak, and chestnut oak trees. Other tree species that may be found in the county include yellow poplar, shagbark hickory, white ash, red maple, beech, elm, birch, sycamore, hemlock, white pine, and Virginia pine.4

SOILS

The qualities of soils determine a soil’s capability of supporting various types and intensities of land uses. For example, agriculture typically requires soils that are level, well-drained and fertile. Residential development in general is adaptable to a wider range of conditions, though the intensity of residential development can be limited by the soil’s suitability for on-lot disposal systems and the cost of excavation. Industrial uses favor soils that are sturdy enough to withstand the heavy weights associated with the construction and operation of large industrial plants. These qualities of soils are inventoried in this section to inform the land use portion of the comprehensive plan with areas of suitability, sensitivity and hazard to future development. Map 7-3 represents a general map of the different types of soils in the township.

4 Dauphin County Comprehensive Plan

CONEWAGO TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN October 14, 2009 7-7 Hydric Soils

In recent years, wetlands have been given increased attention as a valuable resource. One of the decisive indicators of wetlands is the presence of hydric soils. The values of wetlands are further discussed in the “Water Resources” section of this chapter.

The USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) defines hydric soils as, “soils that form under conditions of saturation, flooding or ponding long enough during the growing season to develop anaerobic conditions in the upper part. The concept of hydric soils includes soils developed under sufficiently wet conditions to support growth and regeneration of hydrophytic vegetation. Soils that are sufficiently wet because of artificial measures are included in the concept of hydric soils. Also, soils in which the hydrology has been artificially modified are hydric if the soil, in an unaltered state, was hydric. Some series, designated as hydric, have phases that are not hydric depending on the water table, flooding, and ponding characteristics.”

When describing hydric soils, it is helpful to know the drainage conditions of the soil. The NRCS considers soils to be somewhat poorly drained if water is removed slowly enough that the soil is wet for significant periods during the growing season. A soil is poorly drained if water is removed from the soil so slowly that the soil is saturated periodically during the growing season or remains wet for long periods of time. A soil is considered very poorly drained if water is removed from the soil so slowly that free water remains at or on the surface during most of the growing season.5

There are relatively few areas of hydric soils in the township. Most areas of hydric soils are located around the Conewago Creek and other watercourses of the township. Hydric soils in Conewago Township are listed in Table 7-2 and are graphically displayed in Map 7-2. All of the hydric soils that are present in the township are designated as such because they are poorly drained or very poorly drained and have a water table at a depth of 1.0 foot or less during the growing season if permeability is less than 6.0 in/hr in any layer within a depth of 20 inches.6

Table 7-2: Hydric Soils in Conewago Township Map Symbol Name AbA Albrights silt loam, 0 to 3 percent slopes At Atkins silt loam Bb Barbour silt loam Bc Basher silt loam Cr Croton silt loam KaB2 Klinesville shaly silt loam, 3 to 8 percent slopes, moderately eroded KaC2 Klinesville shaly silt loam, 8 to 15 percent slopes, moderately eroded KaD2 Klinesville shaly silt loam, 15 to 25 percent slopes, moderately eroded LhB2 Lehigh silt loam, 3 to 8 percent slopes, moderately eroded Ph Philo silt loam RdB2 Readington silt loam, 3 to 8 percent slopes, moderately eroded Wa Watchung silt loam Wc Watchung very stony silt loam Source: United States Department of Agriculture, Natural Resource Conservation Service; Tri-County GIS data

5 USDA, NRCS 6 United States Department of Agriculture, Natural Resources Conservation Service

CONEWAGO TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN October 14, 2009 7-8 Prime Agricultural Soils

The U.S. Department of Agriculture recognizes that responsible levels of government, as well as individuals, should encourage and facilitate the wise use of our nation’s “prime farmland”. Prime farmland is of major importance in meeting the nation’s short and long-range needs for food and fiber.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Natural Resource and Conservation Service classifies certain soils as Prime Farmland soils based on the following definition. Farmland of Statewide Importance is another agriculturally significant classification given to certain soils.

“Prime Farmland is land that has the best combination of physical and chemical characteristics for producing food, feed, forage, fiber, and oilseed crops and is also available for these uses. It could be cultivated land, pastureland, forestland, or other land, but it is not urban or built-up land or water areas. The soil quality, growing season, and moisture supply are those needed for the soil to economically produce sustained high yields of crops when proper management, including water management, and acceptable farming methods are applied. In general, prime farmland has an adequate and dependable supply of moisture from precipitation or irrigation, a favorable temperature and growing season, acceptable acidity or alkalinity, and acceptable salt and sodium content, and few or no rocks. The water supply is dependable and of adequate quality. Prime farmland is permeable to water and air. It is not excessively erodible or saturated with water for long periods, and it either is not frequently flooded during the growing season or is protected from flooding. Slope ranges mainly from 0 to 6 percent.”

“In addition to prime farmland, there are soils that are considered to be “farmland of statewide importance” for the production of food, feed, fiber, forage, and oilseed crops. The criteria for defining and delineating farmland of statewide importance are determined by the appropriate state agencies. Generally this land includes areas of soils that nearly meet the requirements for prime farmland and that economically produce high yields of crops when treated and managed according to acceptable farming methods. Some areas may produce as high a yield as prime farmland if conditions are favorable. Farmland of statewide importance may include tracts of land that have been designated for agriculture by state law.”7

In Conewago Township, the majority of the landscape is covered with prime farmland soils. The greatest concentration of these soils exists in the southeastern quadrant of the township. There are also significant areas of farmland of statewide importance, scattered throughout the township. Areas of no agricultural significance are found in the township in areas of greater relief, such as on and around Roundtop Hill in the northwestern quadrant of the township and in an area protruding northward into the township coming up from the Conewago Creek. The suitability of soils for agriculture can be seen in Map 7-4, and in Map 7-7, Environmental Constraints.

7 Ibid.

CONEWAGO TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN October 14, 2009 7-9 Table 7-3: Agricultural Significance of Soils

Map Symbol Name Agricultural Significance of Soil AbA Albrights Prime Farmland AsB2 Athol Prime Farmland At Atkins Farmland of Statewide Importance Bb Barbour Prime Farmland Bc Basher Prime Farmland BrB2 Brecknock Prime Farmland BrC2 Brecknock Farmland of Statewide Importance Cr Croton No Agricultural Significance KaB2 Klinesville Farmland of Statewide Importance KaC2 Klinesville No Agricultural Significance KaD2 Klinesville No Agricultural Significance KaE2 Klinesville No Agricultural Significance LhB2 Lehigh Prime Farmland LrB2 Lewisberry Prime Farmland LrC2 Lewisberry Farmland of Statewide Importance LrD2 Lewisberry No Agricultural Significance LsD Lewisberry No Agricultural Significance LsF Lewisberry No Agricultural Significance NeC2 Neshaminy Prime Farmland NsB Neshaminy No Agricultural Significance NsD Neshaminy No Agricultural Significance PeB2 Penn Prime Farmland PeC2 Penn Farmland of Statewide Importance Ph Philo Prime Farmland RdB2 Readington Farmland of Statewide Importance Ub Urban Land No Agricultural Significance W Water No Agricultural Significance Wa Watchung No Agricultural Significance Wc Watchung No Agricultural Significance Source: United States Department of Agriculture, Natural Resource Conservation Service; Tri-County GIS data

Suitability of Soils for On-lot Sewage Disposal

Because public sewerage systems are not provided for the entire township, many residents in Conewago rely on on-lot sewage disposal systems. It is important to consider the different soil types present and their suitability for on-lot sewage disposal systems. The United States Department of Agriculture, Natural Resource Conservation Service (NRCS) determines the degree and kind of soil limitations that affect on-lot disposal systems. The rating class terms indicate the extent to which the soils are limited by all of the soil features that affect these uses. Not Limited indicates that the soil has features that are very favorable for the specified use. Good performance and very low maintenance can be expected. Somewhat Limited indicates that the soil has features that are moderately favorable for the specified use. The limitations can be overcome or minimized by special planning, design, or installation. Fair performance and moderate maintenance can be expected. Very Limited indicates that the soil has one or more features that are unfavorable for the specified use. The limitations generally cannot be overcome without major soil reclamation, special design, or expensive installation procedures. Poor performance and high maintenance can be expected.

The NRCS determines the kind of soil limitations that affect septic tank absorption fields and sewage lagoons. Septic tank absorption fields are areas in which effluent from a septic tank is distributed into the soil through subsurface tiles or perforated pipe. The ratings for septic tank

CONEWAGO TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN October 14, 2009 7-10 absorption fields are based on the soil properties that affect the absorption of the effluent, construction and maintenance of the system, and public health. Saturated hydraulic conductivity, depth to a water table, ponding, depth to bedrock or a cemented pan, and flooding all affect absorption of the effluent. Stones and boulders, ice, and bedrock or a cemented pan interfere with installation. Subsidence interferes with installation and maintenance. Excessive slopes may cause lateral seepage and surfacing of the effluent in areas that are down slope.

Sewage lagoons are shallow ponds constructed to hold sewage while aerobic bacteria decompose the solid and liquid wastes. Lagoons should have a nearly level floor surrounded by cut slopes or embankments of compacted soil. Nearly impervious soil material for the lagoon floor and sides is required to minimize seepage and contamination of ground water. Considered in the ratings are slope, saturated hydraulic conductivity, depth to a water table, ponding, depth to bedrock or a cemented pan, flooding, large stones, and content of organic matter.8

The degree of suitability of the soils in Conewago Township for on-lot disposal systems is listed in Table 7-4 and is graphically displayed in Map 7-5. None of the soils in the township are considered “Not Limited” for septic tanks or sewage lagoons. The majority of the soils are considered to be “Very Limited” but there are some areas where the soils are considered to only be “Somewhat Limited” for either or both septic tanks and sewage lagoons. Areas that are considered to be “Somewhat Limited” are mostly located in the northwestern and northeastern corners of the township and in the central area of the township.

There are several alternative methods to standard septic system designs that reduce the effects of limiting soil types. Alternatives include elevated sand mounds, oversized drain fields, individual spray irrigation systems, and system management. These techniques are designed to compensate for soil characteristics such as permeability which is too slow or too rapid and shallow depth to bedrock or high water table. Technological advances have allowed the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Resources (DEP) to expand the authorized on-lot sewage system designs permitted in Pennsylvania to a matrix of conventional, alternate, and experimental sewage systems.

8 United States Department of Agriculture, Natural Resource Conservation Service

CONEWAGO TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN October 14, 2009 7-11 Table 7-4: Suitability of Soils for On-Lot Disposal Systems Septic Tank and Map Symbol Name Absorption Fields Sewage Lagoons AbA Albrights Very Limited Very Limited AsB2 Athol Somewhat Limited Somewhat Limited At Atkins Very Limited Very Limited Bb Barbour Very Limited Very Limited Bc Basher Very Limited Very Limited BrB2 Brecknock Somewhat Limited Somewhat Limited BrC2 Brecknock Somewhat Limited Very Limited Cr Croton Very Limited Very Limited KaB2 Klinesville Very Limited Very Limited KaC2 Klinesville Very Limited Very Limited KaD2 Klinesville Very Limited Very Limited KaE2 Klinesville Very Limited Very Limited LhB2 Lehigh Very Limited Somewhat Limited LrB2 Lewisberry Somewhat Limited Very Limited LrC2 Lewisberry Somewhat Limited Very Limited LrD2 Lewisberry Very Limited Very Limited LsD Lewisberry Very Limited Very Limited LsF Lewisberry Very Limited Very Limited NeC2 Neshaminy Very Limited Very Limited NsB Neshaminy Very Limited Somewhat Limited NsD Neshaminy Very Limited Very Limited PeB2 Penn Very Limited Very Limited PeC2 Penn Very Limited Very Limited Ph Philo Very Limited Very Limited RdB2 Readington Very Limited Very Limited Ub Urban Land Not Rated Not Rated W Water Not Rated Not Rated Wa Watchung Very Limited Very Limited Wc Watchung Very Limited Very Limited Source: United States Department of Agriculture, Natural Resource Conservation Service; Tri-County GIS data

WILDLIFE

The Pennsylvania Science Office of the Nature Conservancy compiled a Natural Areas Inventory of Dauphin County in 2000. The natural areas of Dauphin County were evaluated by botanists, wildlife biologists, and ecologists and ranked in order of importance for conservation of biodiversity at a statewide level. The size and quality, condition, landscape context, and rarity of the species or natural community were factors used to assign ranks for each site.

The Natural Areas Inventory recognizes two primary levels of significance for the protection of biodiversity: sites of statewide importance and sites of local significance. Sites of statewide importance support species of special concern, or have exemplary natural communities. Locally significant sites provide locally significant habitat and may be suitable for environmental education, parks, or preserves. No species of special concern or exemplary communities have been identified at the locally significant sites, but the absence of species of concern cannot be proven in these potential habitats.

CONEWAGO TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN October 14, 2009 7-12 There is one site of statewide significance that is partially located in Conewago Township.

The Conewago Creek at Koser Run – Located in Conewago Township and Mount Joy Township, Lancaster County An aquatic animal species of special concern was found in this portion of the Conewago Creek on the Dauphin and Lancaster County lines. It supports one animal species of special concern that is sensitive to pollution and excessive sedimentation.

HISTORICAL PERSPECTIVE

Conewago Township was created by an Act of the State Assembly on April 2, 1850 from parts of the original Derry and Londonderry Townships with an area of four and a quarter miles in length and three and a half miles in width. The township takes its name from the creek, which forms its entire southern boundary. Conewago or Conewaugha, in Iroquois, means “at the place of the rapids”. The central Pennsylvania area has several streams named Conewago emptying into the Susquehanna River.

The earliest settlements in the area occurred primarily in the northern and central sections of the township, where springs gushing out of the conspicuous sandhills dotting the area provided a steady source of running water. Some of the early families in Deodate were the Shenks, Grubbs, Brandts, Bowers, Clarks, Moyers, Hoffers and Foltzes. In Bachmanville, the early families were the Ebys, Bachmans, Harps, Yetters, Balmers, Longeneckers, Bosers, Glendeatners, Zimmermans, and Stauffers. In 1799 Goss’s Mill, which was both a grist and saw mill, was erected. Around 1780 distilleries were built on the farms of John Risser and Benjamin Longnecker. Risser’s mill was built in 1770 and Redsecker’s mill in 1776.

The township originally had two separate post offices. The Bachmanville post office was established in 1872. The post office was discontinued in 1937 and mail delivery was from Hershey by a rural carrier. The post office in Deodate was established in 1886. The residents of Deodate and the surrounding areas came to Foltz’s store to pick up their mail once a week. The post office was given the name Deodate because its original name, Mt. Harrison, was too close to an already established major town in the state (today’s Harrisburg).

Two villages came into being during this period – Bachmanville, in the northeast part of the township, and Deodate near the center. Bachmanville was named for the Bachmans who erected the first building of any importance – a hotel built in 1852. Deodate was first known as Mt. Harrison or Foltz’s Store. It was named Mt. Harrison during the Harrison presidential campaign of 1840. Deodate was the stopping point for drivers of horses, sheep, mules and cattle from stockyards of Middletown to the stockyard in Lawn. Three gristmills served the township populace: Risser’s Mill, built in 1770 and located along Prospect Road in the southeastern corner; Redsecker’s Mill, now Aberdeen Mill, built in 1776 and located along Mill Road in the southwestern part; and Goss’s Mill, now Shiffer’s Mill, built in 1799 and located along Schoolhouse Road in the central area of the township.

There were three early churches. The Mennonite Meetinghouse (today’s Stauffers Mennonite Church) was built in 1780 and is located along Bachmanville Road. The German Baptist Brethren Church (today’s Conewago Church of the Brethren) was built in 1854 and is located along Schoolhouse Road. The original Brethren Church was located near Deodate. The Union Meetinghouse (today’s Shenks Union Church) was built in 1869 and is located along Schoolhouse Road.

CONEWAGO TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN October 14, 2009 7-13 The first school was taught by ministers in the area. In 1790 there were only five schools in the area, all of which were mainly German. In 1795 an English school was organized near what is now Shenks Church. In later years there were six one-room schoolhouses, namely Bachmanville, Deodate, Witmer’s, Mapledale, Hertzler’s and Fuhrman’s. The present elementary school was built in 1957 on grounds donated by Glenn and Evelyn Farver and the Hershey Estates. In 1960 the Lower Dauphin School was built and all high school students were transported to Hummelstown. Before the high school was built, students went to Hershey High School. Many rode the trolley to school. A few students went to Elizabethtown High School.

In 1900, the population of Conewago Township was 830 persons as given by the U.S. Census returns. In 1904 the assessed valuation of all real estate within the township was $548,480. At this time there were six schoolhouses in the township, with a total enrollment of 184 pupils.

From early settler days, through the turn of the century and up to the present day, Conewago Township has retained an essentially rural character, with agriculture serving as the chief industry and one of the major occupations of the populace. Despite the construction in the middle part of the last century of the Pennsylvania Turnpike and the Harrisburg – Lancaster expressway (Interstate 283), which traverse the township in the central and southern portions, very little commercial and residential development had occurred. Development began in the early 1970’s with Laurel Woods, followed by the Chestnut Road development and Cedar Woods in the 1980’s, and then The Pines in the 1990’s and Hills of Waterford in 2003. These developments were mainly due to the emergence of the nearby Hershey Foods Company, Hershey Entertainment and Resorts Company and the Hershey Medical Center as major commercial, employment, and tourist activity centers.

HISTORIC AND CULTURAL RESOURCES

Although there are many locally significant historical buildings in Conewago Township, there are no places which are listed on or considered eligible for listing on the National Register of Historic Places. There are also no state designated historic markers located within the township.

In order to preserve sites of historical significance, they must first be identified. Potential sites to be included in a list of identified local historically significant properties may include those listed below as well as several cemeteries. These locally historically significant properties are shown in Map 7-6.

Stauffers Mennonite Church – built in 1780 as the Mennonite Meetinghouse Conewago Church of the Brethren – built in 1854 as the German Baptist Brethren Church, originally located near Deodate Shenks Union Church – built in 1869 as the Union Meetinghouse Shiffer’s Mill – built in 1799 and originally known as Goss’s Mill Aberdeen Mill – built in 1776 and originally known as Redsecker’s Mill

CONEWAGO TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN October 14, 2009 7-14 Derry Township BEAVER

BACHMANVILLE

HEASANT OUSE H WHITE PINE

DEER RUN

SCHOOL

HEMLOCK

CEDAR

NYE South Londonderry Township ELIZABETHTOWN Lebanon County LAUREL G ATES WOODBIN PRIMROSE

OLD HERSHEY

WITMER E

HERSHEY

CHURCH DOWN TH DOGWOOD

E LANE

ROUNDTOP CHESTNUT Iron Run BRANDT

AB743 D

O BASLER OAK B

COLEBROOK RHOADS

Hoffer Creek

BLUE RIBBON

RIDGE

KIRBY

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AB341 ELL B COLEBROOK

PENNSYLVANIA TURNPIKE DEODATE PENNSYLVANIA TURNPIKE

¨¦§76

HERSHEY

Brills Run

OAK KNOLL

LONDON PRO MAPLEDALE

SPEC

KOSER

MILL

Londonderry Township VALLEY PA 283

AB283 AB283 O M LD EL PA 2 ek 83 HE o Cre Conewag R S H E Y

LL I H BEAGLE Legend

Municipal Boundary State Road Local Road Stream Geologic Formation Diabase Mount Joy Township k e e Gettysburg Formation R E Cr Lancaster County F o F g Gettysburg Conglomerate wa HO e n Co Elizabethtown Borough

CONEWAGO TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN Map 7-1 October 14, 2009

GEOLOGY PA State Plane South, NAD 1983 Base Map Source: Copyright (c) 2006. Dauphin County GIS ® Copyright (c) 2007. Tri-County GIS Copyright (c) 2006. United States Department of Agriculture, Natural Resource Conservation Service. Copyright (c) 2007. Pennsylvania Department of Transportation 01,250 2,500 5,000 7,500 10,000 Copyright (c) 2009. RETTEW Associates, Inc.

Feet J:\05\05-01141-007\GIS\7_1_geology17X22_may19_08.mxd PROJECT NO. 05-01141-007 SWATARA CREEK WATERSHED

Derry Township BEAVER

BACHMANVILLE

EASANT

WHITE PINE

DEER RUN LITTLE CONEWAGO CREEK SPRING CREEK SCHOOLHOUSE WATERSHED WATERSHED

HEMLOCK

CEDAR

NYE South Londonderry Township

ELIZABETHTOWN Lebanon County LAUREL GATES WOODBINEPRIMROSE

OLDHERSHEY

WITMER

HERSHEY

CHURCH DOWN TH DOGWOOD

E LANE

ROUNDTOP CHESTNUT

Iron Run BRAN

AB743 D

O BASLER OAK B IRON RUN WATERSHED COLEBROOK RHOADS

Hoffer Creek

BLUE RIBBON

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KIRBY

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AB341 ELL B COLEBROOK

PENNSYLVANIA TURNPIKE DEODATE PENNSYLVANIA TURNPIKE

¨¦§76

HERSHEY

CONEWAGO CREEK WATERSHED

Brills Run

OAK KNOLL CONEWAGO CREEK

LONDON WATERSHED PR

MAPLEDALE O

MILL

LLEY SER Londonderry Township VA PA 283

AB283 AB283 O M LD EL PA 2 ek 83 HE o Cre Conewag R S H LYNCH RUN E Y WATERSHED CONEWAGO CREEK WATERSHED

LL I H BEAGLE Legend LITTLE CHICKIES CREEK WATERSHED Municipal Boundary Watershed State Road Conewago Creek Local Road Conoy Creek Stream Hoffer Creek Wetland Iron Run

Floodplain CONOY CREEK Little Chickies Creek Mount Joy Township WATERSHED k Water Feature Little Conewago Creek e e ER Cr Lancaster County o Hydric Soil Lynch Run FF g wa HO e n Spring Creek Co Elizabethtown Borough Swatara Creek

CONEWAGO TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN Map 7-2 October 14, 2009

HYDROLOGY PA State Plane South, NAD 1983 Base Map Source: Copyright (c) 2006. Dauphin County GIS ® Copyright (c) 2007. Tri-County GIS Copyright (c) 2007. Pennsylvania Department of Transportation Copyright (c) 2006. United States Department of Agriculture, Natural Resource Conservation Service 01,250 2,500 5,000 7,500 10,000 Copyright (c) 2009. RETTEW Associates, Inc.

Feet J:\05\05-01141-007\GIS\7_2_hydrology17X22_may19_08.mxd PROJECT NO. 05-01141-007 Derry Township BEAVER

BACHMANVILLE

HEASANT OUSE H WHITE PINE

DEER RUN

SCHOOL

HEMLOCK

CEDAR

NYE South Londonderry Township

ELIZABETHTOWN Lebanon County LAUREL G ATES WOODBIN PRIMROSE

OLD HERSHEY

WITMER E

HERSHEY

CHURCH DOWN TH DOGWOOD

E LANE

ROUNDTOP CHESTNUT Iron Run BRANDT

AB743 D

O BASLER OAK B

COLEBROOK RHOADS

Hoffer Creek

BLUE RIBBON

RIDGE

KIRBY

MEADOW

AB341 ELL B COLEBROOK

PENNSYLVANIA TURNPIKE DEODATE PENNSYLVANIA TURNPIKE

¨¦§76

HERSHEY

Brills Run

OAK KNOLL

LONDON PRO MAPLEDALE

SPEC

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Londonderry Township VALLEY PA 283

AB283 AB283 O M LD EL PA 2 ek 83 HE o Cre Conewag R S H E Y

LL MI Legend

LL I H BEAGLE Municipal Boundary Cr NsB State Road KaB2 NsD Local Road KaC2 PeB2 Soil Symbol KaD2 PeC2 AbA KaE2 Ph AsB2 LhB2 RdB2 At LrB2 Ub Bb LrC2 Wa Mount Joy Township k Bc LrD2 Wc e e R E Cr Lancaster County F o BrB2 F g LsD Water Feature wa HO e n BrC2 LsF Stream Co Elizabethtown Borough BtA NeC2

CONEWAGO TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN Map 7-3 October 14, 2009

SOILS PA State Plane South, NAD 1983 Base Map Source: Copyright (c) 2006. Dauphin County GIS ® Copyright (c) 2007. Tri-County GIS Copyright (c) 2007. Pennsylvania Department of Transportation Copyright (c) 2006. United States Department of Agriculture, Natural Resource Conservation Service. 01,250 2,500 5,000 7,500 10,000 Copyright (c) 2009. RETTEW Associates, Inc.

Feet J:\05\05-01141-007\GIS\7_3_soils17X22_may19_08.mxd PROJECT NO. 05-01141-007 Derry Township BEAVER

BACHMANVILLE

HEASANT OUSE H WHITE PINE

DEER RUN

SCHOOL

HEMLOCK

CEDAR

NYE South Londonderry Township

ELIZABETHTOWN Lebanon County LAUREL G ATES WOODBIN PRIMROSE

OLD HERSHEY

WITMER E

HERSHEY

CHURCH DOWN TH DOGWOOD

E LANE

ROUNDTOP CHESTNUT Iron Run BRANDT

AB743 D

O BASLER OAK B

COLEBROOK RHOADS

Hoffer Creek

BLUE RIBBON

RIDGE

KIRBY

MEADOW

AB341 ELL B COLEBROOK

PENNSYLVANIA TURNPIKE DEODATE PENNSYLVANIA TURNPIKE

¨¦§76

HERSHEY

Brills Run

OAK KNOLL

LONDON PRO MAPLEDALE

SPEC

KOSER

MILL

Londonderry Township VALLEY PA 283

AB283 AB283 O M LD EL PA 2 ek 83 HE o Cre Conewag R S H E Y

LL I H BEAGLE Legend Municipal Boundary State Road Local Road Agricultural Significance of Soil Prime Farmland Farmland of Statewide Importance k Mount Joy Township e e R E Cr Lancaster County F o No Agricultural Significance F g wa HO e n Water Feature Co Elizabethtown Borough Stream

Map 7-4 CONEWAGO TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN AGRICULTURAL October 14, 2009

PA State Plane South, NAD 1983 SIGNIFICANCE Base Map Source: Copyright (c) 2006. Dauphin County GIS ® Copyright (c) 2007. Tri-County GIS OF SOILS Copyright (c) 2008. Pennsylvania Department of Transportation Copyright (c) 2006. United States Department of Agriculture, Natural Resource Conservation Service. 01,250 2,500 5,000 7,500 10,000 Copyright (c) 2009. RETTEW Associates, Inc.

Feet J:\05\05-01141-007\GIS\7_4_prime_ag_soils11X17_may20_08.mxd PROJECT NO. 05-01141-007 Derry Township BEAVER

BACHMA

PHEASANT

OUSE NVILLE H WHITE PINE

DEER RUN

SCHOOL

HEMLOCK

CEDAR

NYE South Londonderry Township

ELIZABETHTOWN Lebanon County LAUREL G ATES WOODBIN PRIMROSE

OLD HERSHEY

WITMER E

HERSHEY

CHURCH DOWN TH DOGWOOD

E LANE

ROUNDTOP CHESTNUT

Iron Run BRANDT

AB743 D

O BASLER OAK B

COLEBROOK RHOADS

Hoffer Creek

BLUE RIBBON

RIDGE

KIRBY

MEADOW

AB341 ELL B COLEBROOK

PENNSYLVANIA TURNPIKE DEODATE PENNSYLVANIA TURNPIKE

¨¦§76

HERSHEY

Brills Run

OAK KNOLL

LONDON PRO MAPLEDALE

SPEC

KOSER

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Londonderry Township VALLEY PA 283

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CONEWAGO TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN Map 7-6 October 14, 2009

PA State Plane South, NAD 1983 HISTORICAL RESOURCES Base Map Source: ® Copyright (c) 2006. Dauphin County GIS Copyright (c) 2007. Tri-County GIS Copyright (c) 2007. Pennsylvania Department of Transportation Copyright (c) 2009. RETTEW Associates, Inc. 01,250 2,500 5,000 7,500 10,000 J:\05\05-01141-007\GIS\7_6_historical_resources17X22_may20_08.mxd Feet PROJECT NO. 05-01141-007 Derry Township BEAVER

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Map 7-7 CONEWAGO TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN ENVIRONMENTAL October 14, 2009

CONSTRAINTS TO PA State Plane South, NAD 1983 Base Map Source: Copyright (c) 2006. Dauphin County GIS ® Copyright (c) 2007. Tri-County GIS DEVELOPMENT Copyright (c) 2007. Pennsylvania Department of Transportation Copyright (c) 2006. United States Department of Agriculture, Natural Resource Conservation Service. 01,250 2,500 5,000 7,500 10,000 Copyright (c) 2009. RETTEW Associates, Inc.

Feet J:\05\05-01141-007\GIS\7_7_env_constraint17x22_may20_08.mxd PROJECT NO. 05-01141-007 FUTURE LAND USE PLAN Chapter 8

The future land use plan for Conewago Township formally establishes the desired land uses and general development patterns for the township. The future land use plan has been formulated from a variety of resources including the Dauphin County Comprehensive Plan, previous municipal comprehensive plans, municipal zoning regulations, and the various profile chapters in this comprehensive plan with particular emphasis given to the existing land use development patterns, existing and proposed water and sewer service areas, and any existing environmental or other constraints that prohibit development. The location and adequacy of the transportation system and the projected future population of the township were also considered in developing the future land use plan. Ultimately it is the intent of this plan to develop a set of land classifications that can be easily implemented and administered by the township.

Public input from members of the community was sought throughout the development of this plan. General themes that were expressed at the community public meeting were integrated into the future land use plan for the township, as well as the other planning elements, where appropriate. Many residents who contributed their thoughts indicated that they like their community and that the township has many strengths, perhaps the most notable being its agricultural and rural heritage. The township has made it the mission of this plan to retain that character, as described in the mission statement below:

MAINTAINING CONSISTENCY

The Pennsylvania Municipalities Planning Code, Act 247 of 1968, as amended, requires municipal comprehensive plans to be generally consistent with the county comprehensive plan. The general future land use patterns that were presented in the Dauphin County Comprehensive Plan were used as a guideline for consistency in the development of the future land use plan for the township.

The MPC also states that the municipal comprehensive plan shall include, “A plan for land use, which may include provisions for the amount, intensity, character and timing of land use proposed for residence, industry, business, agriculture, major traffic and transit facilities, utilities, community facilities, public grounds, parks and recreation, preservation of prime agricultural lands, flood plains and other areas of special hazards and other similar uses.”

COMMUNITY POLICIES AND RECOMMENDATIONS

An inherit value of the future land use plan is its potential for motivating property owners, developers, and decision makers towards achieving the highest and best use of the land.

Chapter 1 establishes and articulates overriding goals for the future of the township. Policy statements and objectives have been established to enhance the region’s physical, social, and environmental components. This chapter establishes final growth and preservation strategies,

CONEWAGO TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN October 14, 2009 8-1 and includes tools that may enhance the effectiveness of the implementation of the comprehensive plan. These policies and strategies form the conceptual framework for delineating areas designated for agricultural use, areas for commercial or industrial uses, and areas to accommodate the current population and any necessary future growth.

GOAL AND OBJECTIVES

Goal

Preserve the agricultural heritage of the township that allows for coordinated community growth.

Objectives

Preserve the rural and agricultural character of the township and ensure that agriculture remains a viable industry. Incorporate natural resources protection initiatives into the future land use plan. As a result of public input, planning commission reviews, and the subsequent direction of the Board of Supervisors, more closely align the future land use plan with the township’s existing zoning. Encourage new development to be consistent with existing development types and densities.

FUTURE LAND USE CLASSIFICATIONS

The following land use classifications have been developed as part of the future land use plan for Conewago Township. Each of these classifications will be further discussed in this chapter. Although the names of the classifications are different, the intent of the land classifications generally follows the township’s existing zoning regulations, with a few modifications. The names of the land classifications were changed from those of the current zoning ordinance to better reflect the intent of the classification, e.g. the term “rural resource” better reflects the rural nature of these areas, as opposed to “residential country” which is contradictory in itself.

Agriculture Rural Resource Low Density Residential Medium Density Residential Mixed Use Commercial/Light Industrial Industrial

In addition to the primary classifications, two overlays have been established. In areas where the overlay is present, the land is classified as the primary underlying use; the overlays indicate that there are special circumstances to take into consideration when determining the use of the land. The two overlays that have been developed for portions of the township include:

Conservation Overlay Eleemosynary Overlay

CONEWAGO TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN October 14, 2009 8-2 AGRICULTURE

Historically, agriculture has played an important role in the development and economy of the township. As stated in the Conewago Township Zoning Ordinance, “Agricultural land is considered a special, non-replaceable resource within the township which, if lost, is not reclaimable…Agricultural activities are an integral part of the culture and economy of Conewago Township and area therefore deserving of preservation. The agriculture classification is intended and designed to preserve and promote agricultural activities in areas of productive soils and active farming as an on-going and viable major component of the township’s economy and lifestyle. It is further intended to prevent adverse effects resulting from encroachment by guiding development types and intensities incompatible with agricultural operations into more appropriate (areas).”

Agriculture and related uses are considered the primary uses; community related uses such as churches and municipal buildings, and residential uses are considered secondary. Non- agricultural uses that are permitted to develop in these areas should be aware of and accept nuisances which are a normal adjunct to farming and related operations, including noise, dust, smoke, and fumes.

Suggested Design Standards

Conewago Township currently has sliding scale provisions in place in the zoning ordinance that effectively preserve the size of tracts to help to sustain their use for agriculture. Sliding scale zoning can be used to reduce the density of non-farm dwellings as the size of the parcel increases. It is recommended that the township continue its sliding scale provisions in areas classified as agriculture in the future land use plan, to support the viability of farming in the township.

With the exception of single family detached dwellings and accessory structures, the recommended minimum lot size is one acre. For single family detached dwellings, the recommended minimum lot size is 1.5 acres and the recommended maximum lot size is 3 acres.

Location and Land Area

The agricultural classification is located in large contiguous areas throughout the township. The largest concentration of land classified as agriculture is in the southeastern quadrant of the township. The southwestern and northeastern quadrants of the township also have significant land areas classified as agriculture. As noted previously, much of the land that is classified as agriculture is located on prime agricultural soils or soils of statewide significance for agriculture. The agriculture classification contains parcels of many different sizes, but the classification as a whole encompasses approximately 5,600 acres of land. This accounts for nearly 55% of the land in the township.

RURAL RESOURCE

The rural resource classification has a similar purpose to the Residential-Country (R-C) zoning district, but with a name that is less contradictory, and with an emphasis on preserving and supporting agriculture and the rural lifestyle. The intent of the rural resource classification is to encourage the continued use of the land for agricultural purposes and to permit low density

CONEWAGO TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN October 14, 2009 8-3 residential development which will not require extensive public services or facilities. These areas are designed to support rural living. They are designated separately from the agriculture classification because they are either predominantly wooded or not conducive to agriculture, or are located in proximity to existing or planned residential areas. Certain portions of the township included in this classification are productive agricultural areas. Use of these areas for a residence should be with the condition that residents are aware of the potential nuisances that may result from living in a rural and agricultural area. The rural resource classification is not intended to encourage or accommodate large influxes of residential growth.

Suggested Design Standards

The rural resource classification is generally intended to allow agriculture and related uses, but also allows for single family detached residential dwellings and related community oriented uses such as municipal buildings and churches.

It is recommended that the lot size provisions from the Conewago Township Zoning Ordinance for the R-C district be applied to the lands classified as rural resource: The minimum lot size for single family detached dwellings utilizing an on-lot disposal system is 1.5 acres. The minimum lot size for single family detached dwellings with public sewer is 30,000 square feet. The minimum lot size for non-residential uses is 30,000 square feet, to be increased as necessary and determined by the ordinance.

Location and Land Area

Areas of the township classified as rural resource are, for the most part, not served by public utilities and are either rural or agricultural in nature. The rural resource classification is located in many areas of the township that are currently zoned R-C. This includes areas of Bachmanville and Deodate, and other clusters of land located in the western and northeastern portions of the township. Land in the rural resource classification is located on approximately 3,150 acres of land, and accounts for approximately 30% of the land in the township.

LOW DENSITY RESIDENTIAL

The low density residential land use classification has a similar purpose to the Residential Suburban (R-S) zoning district, but the name has been changed to better reflect the intent of this classification to remain low density, to support compatibility with existing development patterns, and to avoid excess pressures exerted on the road infrastructure.

The purpose of the low density residential classification is to provide reasonable standards for the orderly expansion of low density residential development, to prevent the overcrowding of land, and to exclude commercial or industrial activities that are considered to be incompatible with low density residential development. The low density residential classification is meant to allow for agriculture and related uses, single family detached and semi-detached dwellings and related uses, and community related uses such as municipal buildings or churches. Other uses including health services, libraries, museums, and greenhouses may be allowed with certain conditions.

CONEWAGO TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN October 14, 2009 8-4 Agricultural activities are permitted in these areas, and residents living in the low density residential areas of the township should be made aware of the consequences of living in an agricultural or rural area.

Suggested Design Standards

This area is not intended to accommodate medium or high density residential development. However, the existing road infrastructure may need to be improved to accommodate additional low density residential development in these areas. Open space design should be encouraged when it can effectively preserve large contiguous tracts of open space. Single family detached or semi-detached dwellings should be permitted at a density that does not compromise the existing character of the neighborhood.

It is recommended that areas classified as low density residential absorb the current lot size regulations as noted in the zoning ordinance: The minimum lot size for single family detached dwellings varies from 20,000 square feet to 1.5 acres, depending on the availability of public water and public sewer. Single family semi-detached dwellings are only allowed in areas with public sewer. Minimum lot size requirements vary from 15,000 to 20,000 square feet, depending on the availability of public water. The minimum lot area for non-residential uses is 30,000 square feet, to be increased as determined by the ordinance.

Location and Land Area

Land classified as low density residential is located in areas of the township that are served, or are planned to be served by public sewer and/or public water, in the northwestern quadrant of the township. This land classification is intended to support development of similar scale and density to that which has occurred in this area, and which will be made possible with the extension of public water and public sewer. Land in this area encompasses approximately 1,000 acres in the township, accounting for approximately 10% of the land in the township.

MEDIUM DENSITY RESIDENTIAL

The intent of the medium density residential classification is similar to that of the Residential- Multifamily (R-M) zoning district, and the purpose and recommended uses are consistent with the R-M zoning district regulations. The purpose of the medium density residential classification is to provide for the orderly expansion of higher density residential development and to exclude commercial or industrial activities that are considered to be incompatible with residential development.

The medium density residential classification allows for single family detached and semi- detached dwellings, two-family detached dwellings, single family attached dwellings, apartments, and community related uses. Other residential uses, including mobile home parks, may be permitted with certain conditions.

CONEWAGO TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN October 14, 2009 8-5 Suggested Design Standards

Where there is no public sewer or public water, it is recommended that single family detached dwellings are the only type of residential use permitted. For residential uses, minimum lot sizes range from 10,000 square feet to 1.5 acres, depending on the type of residence and available utilities. The minimum lot size for non-residential uses ranges from 10,000 square feet to 30,000 square feet depending on the utilities available, and may need to be increased as necessary.

Location and Land Area

The medium density residential land classification is located in two separate areas of the township. One instance of medium density residential land is located north of Valley Road, to the east of SR 743 in the southern part of the township. This area is currently being used for a mobile home park. The other medium density residential area is located south of Deodate Road and west of Mill Road in the southwestern part of the township. The township’s adopted Act 537 plan does not include plans for public sewer in this area. If this area is to accommodate future medium density residential development, the Board of Supervisors will have to consider amending the Act 537 plan to include the extension of sewer into this area, or permitting a small flow treatment facility at this location. In total, this use encompasses approximately 1% of the land in the township, and covers just under 100 acres.

COMMERCIAL/LIGHT INDUSTRIAL

The intent of the commercial/light industrial land classification is similar to the intent of the Commercial-General (C-G) zoning district. The name was modified to reflect the fact that many of the existing and permitted uses in these areas are of a light industrial nature. The intent of the commercial/light industrial classification is to provide reasonable standards for general commercial and light industrial type uses where these uses exist and where expansion of these uses is feasible.

Residential development should not be encouraged in these areas, and necessary buffers should be installed on commercial or light industrial uses that abut a residential use or district to minimize conflicts between these uses.

Suggested Design Standards

The minimum lot size established in the current zoning ordinance for the C-G zoning district ranges from 15,000 square feet to 1.5 acres, depending on the availability of public utilities and the type of use. The township may consider that in the commercial/light industrial classification, a minimum lot size may not be necessary for non-residential uses, where public utilities are available; the use would dictate the necessary lot size.

Location and Land Area

The commercial/light industrial district is located along SR 743 east of Old Hershey Road and north of Schoolhouse Road, and in the southern part of the township along SR 743 in the area of Valley Road, and along Old Hershey Road between Valley Road and SR 283. Many commercial and light industrial type uses currently exist in these areas, especially in the northern section of the township. Existing uses that are of a light industrial nature include the

CONEWAGO TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN October 14, 2009 8-6 self storage facility and Parmer’s Concrete. Existing uses that are of a commercial nature include Steve Heinz’s store, Adventure Sports, Martin’s Country Kitchen, and Warburton Greenhouses. Land in the commercial/light industrial classification accounts for nearly 4% of the land in the township, and covers approximately 375 acres.

INDUSTRIAL

The purpose of the industrial classification is similar to that of the W-M zoning district. The intent of the industrial classification is to allow for industrial, wholesale, and manufacturing uses of the land. Due to the industrial nature of this classification and the potential for conflicts between this type of use and a residential use, it is not recommended for residential dwellings.

Suggested Design Standards

The minimum lot size established in the current zoning ordinance for non-residential uses is one acre. The minimum lot area for an accessory single family dwelling using on-lot septic and well is one acre. Where public sewer and/or public water are available, the minimum lot area for an accessory single family dwelling ranges from 20,000 square feet to one acre. As noted previously, residential dwellings should not be encouraged in these areas.

Location and Land Area

Land classified as industrial is located in the extreme southern part of township, south of Valley Road and to the west of SR 743. The industrial classification is located on nearly 60 acres and accounts for approximately one half of one percent of the land in the township.

THE OVERLAY CONCEPT

In addition to the primary land classifications that have been established for the township, two special classifications have been created to function as overlays. In places where an overlay is located, the underlying use prevails, but the overlay indicates that there are other considerations to take into account in these areas.

The two overlays that have been created for Conewago Township function very differently from one another. The conservation overlay has been created to note locations where significant natural features exist, and to indicate that these areas may warrant further protection. This implies that in areas of the conservation overlay, the land may not be able to be used as intensively as it would have in an area that has the same underlying classification and is not covered by the conservation overlay.

The eleemosynary overlay functions differently. Rather than imposing additional restrictions on a certain land use, the eleemosynary overlay allows for additional uses to be permitted in certain areas, regardless of the underlying use. Both of these overlays are further described in the following sections.

CONEWAGO TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN October 14, 2009 8-7 CONSERVATION OVERLAY

In order to adequately reflect the importance of the natural resources in the township, the conservation overlay was developed to indicate that lands in these areas have unique natural features that mandate attention and require more stringent regulations. Overlay districts are often applied to municipal ordinances that regulate land use and development as a way to protect environmental features, and to impose additional regulations or restrictions on the development and use of the land. As this classification is integrated into the future land use for the township, the township may consider applying it as an overlay district in the zoning ordinance to ensure conservation and protection of these unique areas. This plan recommends that the conservation overlay in the future land use plan be developed as an overlay district in the Conewago Township Zoning Ordinance to ensure protection of the township’s natural resources.

The conservation overlay was developed as an overlay through a compilation of the township’s most unique and sensitive environmental features, which are listed below. The significance of these features as natural resources, and need for protection are further described in the natural and historic resources plan. These features are shown individually as environmental constraints to development on Map 7-7. Grouped together, these features comprise the conservation overlay, which is shown on Map 8-1, the Future Land Use map.

Steep slopes Stream corridors Floodplains Wetlands Surface water

ELEEMOSYNARY OVERLAY

As defined by Merriam-Webster’s Dictionary, the term eleemosynary means, “of, relating to, or supported by charity”. The eleemosynary overlay is located on certain tracts of land owned by the Milton Hershey School Trust, and is designed to allow for the long term expansion of Milton Hershey School facilities. There are no known short term plans to alter the existing use of the land in these areas. The overlay is located in areas of the township that are close to the existing school campus in Derry Township, and would therefore ensure consistency and compatibility between the bordering uses in the two townships.

CONEWAGO TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN October 14, 2009 8-8 DISTRIBUTION OF LAND USE

The spatial distribution of land use is graphically displayed on Map 8-1. The following table shows the compositional make up of the future land use plan in the township. The percentages of land included in the conservation overlay and the eleemosynary overlay are calculated separately because of their function as overlays.

Table 8-1: Composition of Land Use Future Land Use Classification Total Acres % Agriculture 5,578 53.99 Rural Resource 3,110 30.11 Low Density Residential 1,104 10.69 Medium Density Residential 98 0.95 Commercial/Light Industrial 385 3.72 Industrial 56 0.55 Total 10,332 100 Source: Dauphin County GIS; RETTEW Associates, Inc. All figures have been rounded

Figure 8-1: Composition of Future Land Use

Agriculture

Rural Resource 53.99% 30.11% Low Density Residential

Medium Density 10.69% Residential Commercial/Light Industrial 0.55% 0.95% Industrial 3.72%

Source: Dauphin County GIS; RETTEW Associates, Inc.

CONEWAGO TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN October 14, 2009 8-9 TOOLBOX

As comprehensive plans are developed, planning committees, municipal officials, and the public should be cognizant of the full range of planning tools available to them. It has been demonstrated that many municipal comprehensive planning efforts fail to take advantage of these tools during the implementation phase of the plan. It is hoped that by providing this toolbox, the implementation of the comprehensive plan will be more effective. Not all of the tools presented will be applicable to this plan, but implementation of as many of the tools as necessary will ensure that the broad policies outlined in the Conewago Township Comprehensive Plan come to pass. The items presented in this tool box represent items that the township may consider as it moves forward with implementation of the plan.

Designated Growth Areas This tool delineates a specified growth area within a municipality in which development at higher densities is encouraged. Within a designated growth area, infrastructure, such as roads, water, and sewer, is available or planned to support such development. Designated growth areas should accommodate all relevant uses, industrial, commercial, residential, etc.

Development Incentives Density bonuses may be offered to developers to encourage open space within their developments, or to provide additional investment in public improvements and recreational facilities.

Cluster Development This preservation tool is designed to allow residences to be grouped on a portion of a development site to preserve the remainder of the site as open space. For example, on a theoretical four acre parcel, instead of developing four homes on four one acre lots, cluster development would encourage the development of four homes on half-acre lots, leaving the remaining two (2) acres of the parcel as permanent open space. Cluster developments tend to reduce the amount of infrastructure needed to develop a site, providing a positive cost offset for developers. There is debate about whether or not “clustering” should be mandatory or voluntary within municipal ordinances.

Conservation by Design/Open Space Development Conservation by design, or open space development is an enhanced variation of the cluster zoning technique in which a higher percentage of the site is dedicated to open space. This type of development style is suited for protecting woodland habitat, historic sites, open space, and scenic views.

Agricultural Zoning Rural municipalities will often create a specified Agricultural Zone within their ordinances. Uses within these zones are limited to agriculture, horticulture and related uses. Sometimes small, farm related businesses are permitted within these zones.

Agricultural Security Areas (ASA) These areas can be designated to help protect blocks of agricultural land. Initiated by homeowners, an agreement is reached to keep the specified land in agricultural use. The size of the ASA must be at least 250 acres, but it does not need to be contiguous.

CONEWAGO TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN October 14, 2009 8-10 Agricultural Conservation Easements Using this methodology, a municipality or other government entity purchases easements on land currently used for agriculture. Usually the entity pays the difference in value of the land if used for agricultural purposes and if used for its highest and best use. The conservation easement is recorded at the appropriate county recorder of deeds office.

Sliding Scale Zoning This type of zoning can be used to reduce the density of non-farm dwellings as the size of the parcel increases. For example, in a typical sliding scale district, one buildable lot may be permitted on the first three acres, an additional unit on the next 5 acres, and one unit for every 10 acres above 8. It may be most effective in areas with a wide range of parcel sizes.

Performance Zoning This type of zoning focuses on permissible impacts of development rather than on uses. Residential – This zoning includes incentives like cluster and open space zoning. Instead of minimum lot sizes, a performance based residential zoning ordinance would focus on three main areas: Density – To control the number of dwelling units per acre. Impervious Surface Ratio – To control the amount of the site that may be covered with impervious surfaces such as buildings and pavement. Open Space Ratio – To require a minimum percentage of community open space. Industrial/Commercial - In this type of performance zoning, uses within a district are not specified, but rather measurable performance standards for noise, light, emissions, odor, etc. are established. Most uses that are able to meet the performance standards are permitted, although certain uses may be excepted.

Traditional Neighborhood Development Traditional neighborhood development seeks a return to the mixed-use type of community. The main idea is to recreate the small town/village environment by locating residential, professional, light commercial, retail, and recreational opportunities within an easy walking distance of one another. Pedestrian facilities such as sidewalks and trails are vital to such communities in order to encourage residents to utilize their cars less when accomplishing daily tasks. On street parking and narrow streets are utilized as traffic calming measures and to limit “cut-through” traffic.

Transfer of Development Rights This technique works best if the development rights are transferred to existing urban/developed areas and therefore do not contribute to sprawl. A successful TDR program requires the designation of both “sending” and “receiving” areas. Areas that are generally limited in development, such as agriculturally zoned areas, are assigned development rights at a certain rate. These areas are the sending areas. Other areas, where higher density development may not strain infrastructure or natural resources are designated as receiving areas. Developers in these receiving areas can purchase the development rights of landowners in the sending areas and thereby develop receiving area land at a higher density.

Official Map In order to facilitate the planning, acquisition and implementation of community facilities and transportation improvements, an Official Map may be developed. The Official Map is a useful but underutilized planning tool. Its purpose is to identify public and private lands for which the public has a current or future need. It can be used to legally establish the

CONEWAGO TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN October 14, 2009 8-11 location of existing and proposed streets, waterways, parks, bikeways, pedestrian paths, floodplains, stormwater management areas, public facilities, intersections needing improvement, and historic sites. Any or all of these features may be shown on the Official Map. The land that is shown on the map is not a “taking” from the landowner. The municipality must at all times be prepared to compensate the owner for the fair value of the land. The reservation on the map merely gives the municipality the first opportunity to purchase the identified property. The property owner must notify the municipality in writing of the intent to develop or subdivide the property. From the date that the municipality receives the notice it has one year to purchase the property, obtain easements, or seek condemnation. The properties and routes on the map need not be surveyed to reserve them. Until 1988, a metes and bounds survey was required, but the current standard is that the methods used to identify the property sufficiently describe the location of the plan components.

Transportation Impact Fees Traditional standards in Pennsylvania presently do not allow for a municipality to assess fees for “offsite” transportation improvements that serve a development or the municipality in general. The exception to this general standard is if the municipality adopts an Impact Fee Ordinance following the procedures outlined in Section V of the Municipalities Planning Code. The procedure utilized for establishment of the ordinance includes the establishment of an impact fee advisory committee, completion of a roadway sufficiency analysis, completion of a set of governing land use assumptions, development of a transportation capital improvements plan, and adoption of an impact fee ordinance.

Park and Open Space Dedication Municipalities may include provisions in their ordinances that require developers to set aside a certain portion of land for parks and open space, or alternatively, pay a fee in lieu of land dedication. Municipalities may also provide for parks and open spaces on an official map, reserving the opportunity to purchase identified lands for development into community open space.

Greenway Planning Rivers and streams can be a significant asset to a municipality in terms of maintaining open space, biological/ecological diversity and in terms of attracting tourism and development. The areas along these rivers and streams are often ideally suited for providing bikeways, pedestrian trails, etc. that serve not only an environmental benefit by protecting the waterway, but add to the community by making it more livable. To that extent, a greenway plan, which preserves and enhances these corridors, can be a significant planning tool.

Maximum Lot Sizes This technique may be used to help preserve agricultural lands or encourage compact development. By establishing a maximum as well as a minimum lot size for an area, the municipality is effectively able to control the density of development.

Overlay Districts Specific areas of a municipality may be targeted for or may be appropriate for a particular type of development. These areas may benefit from the provision of an overlay district. A zoning overlay provides regulations in addition to or superseding those of the underlying district. The intent of these provisions is most often to encourage a particular type of development, or to encourage redevelopment of the subject area. Looking at it

CONEWAGO TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN October 14, 2009 8-12 another way, the overlay is intended to recognize the unique characteristics of a specific area, and pay special attention to what is required in that area to facilitate development.

Historic Preservation Zoning Acts 67 and 68 which amended the municipalities planning code have provided specifically for historic and cultural resources preservation to be included among the purpose(s) of zoning. This legislative addition to the MPC may provide municipalities with the authority needed to zone locally for historic preservation, including the ability to require architectural review in areas designated by the township as historic. It remains to be seen whether or not the courts will uphold this approach.

Conditional Use Zoning In a zoning district, a conditional use is one that is not considered to be permitted by right, but it may be appropriate under certain circumstances. Conditional uses may be brought before the governing body of the municipality for review and comment. Conditional uses add flexibility to a zoning ordinance by providing for innovative design, while ensuring that the overall intent of the district in which the conditional use is being allowed is protected. Examples of some uses that are often subject to conditional use proceedings include open space development, traditional neighborhood development, non-agricultural uses in agriculturally zoned districts, etc.

Property Maintenance/Building Code Evaluation One significant method of providing for future growth, without encouraging future sprawl, is to protect the assets already available to a municipality. By ensuring that property maintenance codes are enforced, the attractiveness of existing residential, commercial and industrial areas is maintained. Good property maintenance practices help to keep housing prices stable, encourage in-fill development into existing neighborhoods and promote a sense of pride and community.

Best Management Practices (BMPs) Traditional Pennsylvania stormwater management has focused on the control of quantity increases in flows post-development. By implementing within its ordinances some or all of the available BMPs, however, municipalities can begin to address stormwater quality issues. BMPs may include the establishment of riparian buffers, the use of infiltration trenches, wet ponds, wetland establishment, use of grassed swales to remove pollutants, pervious pavements, and others. One of the most important requirements of establishing effective BMPs is that the individual(s) responsible for operation and maintenance must be firmly and legally established.

Capital Improvements Plan A municipality may develop a schedule of all planned capital expenditures for a particular period (5 to 10 years). The plan should include estimated costs for each project, proposed sources of funding, and the priority of the project within the plan. Such a schedule helps to ensure that yearly budgeting and spending priorities are coordinated with the comprehensive plan of the municipality.

CONEWAGO TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN October 14, 2009 8-13 STATEMENT OF MUNICIPAL INTERRELATIONSHIPS AND CONSISTENCY

The Pennsylvania Municipalities Planning Code, Act 247 of 1968 as amended, requires municipal comprehensive plans to be generally consistent with the county comprehensive plan. The general future land use patterns that were presented in the Dauphin County Comprehensive Plan were used as a guideline for consistency in the development of the future land use plan for Conewago Township.

This plan was developed at the municipal level, which results in it showing much greater detail than the county future land use plan. In general, the future land uses described in this plan are consistent with the Dauphin County Comprehensive Plan of 2008. The township future land uses are more specific in the areas designated for residential or rural resource type development, as well as commercial/light industrial development.

In addition to recognizing the county planning efforts, this plan was prepared to be consistent and not exceed the requirements of several state enacted policies, such as the State Water Plan. Lawful activities such as extraction of minerals may impact water supply sources and such activities are governed by statutes regulating mineral extraction that specify replacement and restoration of water supplies affected by such activities. Additionally, in implementing the recommendations of this plan, zoning regulations and any subsequent policy actions shall be consistent with, and may not exceed, those requirements imposed under the following Acts:

The Clean Streams Law Surface Mining Conservation and Reclamation Act The Bituminous Mine Subsidence and Land Conservation Act Coal Refuse Disposal Control Act Oil and Gas Act Non-coal Surface Mining Conservation and Reclamation Act Agricultural Area Security Law An Act protecting agricultural operations from nuisance suits and ordinances under certain circumstances Nutrient Management Act.

Municipal Comprehensive Plans

Derry Township, Dauphin County Derry Township borders Conewago Township to the north. Derry Township has a comprehensive plan that was adopted in 1991. The designated future land uses in Conewago Township at the Derry Township border are low density residential, rural resource, and agricultural. The low density residential use in Conewago Township borders a suburban residential area in Derry Township, which is consistent. The rural resource area abuts land classified as suburban residential, neighborhood commercial, Milton S. Hershey School Campus, and agriculture/conservation. It is not likely that the rural resource classification will pose negative impacts on these uses, but the uses in Derry Township may be more intense than the intent of the rural resource classification in Conewago Township. The agricultural area of Conewago Township abuts Milton S. Hershey School property in Derry Township. In Conewago, this area is included in the eleemosynary overlay, making the bordering uses consistent.

CONEWAGO TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN October 14, 2009 8-14 Londonderry Township, Dauphin County Londonderry Township borders Conewago Township to the west. Londonderry Township has a comprehensive plan that was adopted in 1991. The land uses in the two townships are consistent for the most part. On the northern part of the border, low density residential uses in Conewago Township abut residential low density uses in Londonderry Township. A small area of Londonderry Township along Iron Run is designated as conservation, and this area is included in the conservation overlay in Conewago. Agricultural areas of Londonderry Township abut agricultural and rural resource areas of Conewago Township. Londonderry Township does not have a classification that is comparable to the rural resource classification in Conewago Township. A small area of land near the Pennsylvania Turnpike in Londonderry Township is classified as residential low density, and this abuts rural resource areas of Conewago Township. There is a small area of Londonderry Township in the south that is classified as medium/high density residential. This area is located in the area of Hoffer Road and Hertzler Road, and borders an agricultural area in Conewago. There may be a potential for conflicts between the agricultural and residential uses in these areas, but the residential area abuts an agricultural area in Londonderry Township as well.

South Londonderry Township, Lebanon County South Londonderry Township, Lebanon County, borders Conewago Township to the east. South Londonderry Township adopted a comprehensive plan in 2001. In Conewago Township, almost all of the land that borders South Londonderry Township has a future land use classification of agriculture, with the exception of a small portion of land north of Schoolhouse Road that is classified as rural resource. This is consistent with the bordering land uses in South Londonderry Township, which are agricultural and rural in nature. South Londonderry Township does not have any current plans to change the intent of the land use in these areas.

Mount Joy Township, Lancaster County Mount Joy Township adopted a comprehensive plan in 1998, and is currently involved in the development of a multi-municipal comprehensive plan that includes Elizabethtown Borough, West Donegal Township, and Conoy Township in addition to Mount Joy Township. Mount Joy Township borders Conewago Township to the south. In Conewago Township, the future land use designation along with southern border is primarily agricultural, with the exception of the commercial/light industrial and industrial areas that are located adjacent to SR 743. Between SR 283 and Mill Road, there is an area that is classified as rural resource in the future land use. These uses are, for the most part, consistent with the uses in Mount Joy Township. The Mount Joy Township Zoning Ordinance classifies the land along the border with Conewago as agricultural east of Mill Road, and as Conservation Residential and Rural west of Mill Road. These uses are generally consistent, but there may be the potential for conflicts in the area of SR 743 where the land classified as commercial/light industrial and industrial abuts agricultural land. A look at existing land use patterns in Mount Joy Township shows that an area of multi-family residential development is located just south of the border on the east side of SR 743. Conewago Township can help to mitigate potential conflicts by ensuring that any commercial/light industrial or industrial businesses that are looking to come into the township implement proper buffering techniques. Additionally, the Conewago Creek forms the entire southern border, and acts as a physical barrier between the two municipalities, helping to mitigate conflicts.

CONEWAGO TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN October 14, 2009 8-15 Methods to Address Land Use Conflicts

Every attempt has been made through the development of this plan to eliminate land use inconsistencies and the potential for conflicts between dissimilar uses within and adjoining Conewago Township that may occur with future development.

The township may consider the following strategies to eliminate or lessen the impact of dissimilar uses:

Review and update the subdivision and land development ordinance and zoning ordinance. Create a buffer area to separate dissimilar uses. Establish landscaping requirements that utilize new and existing vegetation to reduce the visibility between uses. Establish setback requirements that prevent building, parking and storage areas from being constructed close to property lines. Buildings should be designed around the environment to limit unnecessary disturbance. Roof mounted systems, such as HVAC units, should be screened from view. Natural areas and connectors between the natural areas should be retained to create wildlife corridors throughout the development that do not interfere with traffic patterns.

STATEMENT PLAN INTERRELATIONSHIPS

Section 301(a)(4.1) of the Pennsylvania Municipalities Planning Code requires a statement of plan interrelationships among the various plan components. This statement ensures that the plan elements are integrated and do not conflict with each other. This section provides a brief explanation of the consistent interrelationships that exist between the various plan elements. These relationships are expanded upon and further discussed in the various plan components.

Throughout the development of each of the plan components, the Dauphin County Comprehensive Plan and other relevant studies at the county or regional level were utilized to maintain consistency between the recommendations presented in those plans and the recommendations presented in this plan. This plan considers the regional or county level recommendations and analyzes their application and relevance to the local level of this plan. Population projections developed by the Tri-County Regional Planning Commission and included in the Dauphin County Comprehensive Plan were used in this plan to maintain consistency. These projections were also used to calculate the housing needs projections.

The transportation plan includes several recommendations that will augment the future land use, natural resources, community facilities, and housing plans. Recommendations include addressing those issues that are located in proximity to areas that are currently developed or may be developed as dictated by the future land use plan, and designating them as priority issues. Encouraging the priority improvements will support the future land use plan and improve safety in the community.

The future land use plan applies a conservation overlay that consists of sensitive environmental features and notes that additional restrictions on the use of the land may apply in these areas. In this way, the future land use plan supports the natural resources plan.

The future land use plan also supports agricultural preservation and the compatibility of agriculture and the rural resource areas by recognizing the conflicts that may exist between

CONEWAGO TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN October 14, 2009 8-16 residential development and agriculture, and by recommending that potential new residents are made aware of the impacts of living in an agricultural and rural area.

CONEWAGO TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN October 14, 2009 8-17 Derry Township BEAVER

BACHMANVILLE

HEASANT

WHITE PINE

DEER RUN

SCHOOLHOUSE

HEMLOCK

CEDAR

NYE South Londonderry Township ELIZABETHTOWN Lebanon County LAUREL G ATES WOODBIN PRIMROSE

OLD HERSHEY

WITMER E

HERSHEY

CHURCH DOWN TH DOGWOOD

E LANE

ROUNDTOP CHESTNUT

Iron Run BRANDT

AB743 D

O BASLER OAK B

COLEBROOK RHOADS

Hoffer Creek

BLUE RIBBON

RIDGE

KIRBY

MEADOW

AB341 ELL B COLEBROOK

PENNSYLVANIA TURNPIKE DEODATE PENNSYLVANIA TURNPIKE

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HERSHEY

Brills Run

OAK KNOLL

LONDON PRO MAPLEDALE

SPEC

KOSER

MILL

Londonderry Township VALLEY PA 283

AB283 AB283 O M LD EL PA 2 8 ek 3 HE o Cre Conewag R S H E Y

LL I H BEAGLE

Legend

Municipal Boundary Future Land Use Parcel Agriculture State Road Rural Resource Local Road Low Density Residential Mount Joy Township k e e R Stream Medium Density Residential E Cr Lancaster County F o F g wa HO e n Conservation Overlay Commercial/Light Industrial Co Elizabethtown Borough Eleemosynary Overlay Industrial

CONEWAGO TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN Map 8-1 October 14, 2009

FUTURE LAND USE PA State Plane South, NAD 1983 Base Map Source: ® Copyright (c) 2006. Dauphin County GIS Copyright (c) 2007. Tri-County GIS Copyright (c) 2007. Pennsylvania Department of Transportation 01,250 2,500 5,000 7,500 10,000 Copyright (c) 2009. RETTEW Associates, Inc.

Feet J:\05\05-01141-007\GIS\8_1_flu11x17_Oct14_09.mxd PROJECT NO. 05-01141-007 NATURAL AND HISTORIC RESOURCES PLAN Chapter 9

Natural features, open space, and historic resources have been recognized as important assets that contribute to the township’s environmental health, diversity, character, and overall quality of life. These resources are also interrelated with other components of the comprehensive plan including the plans for land use, community facilities, and housing. Because these natural resources play a major role in the quality of life in the community, they must be recognized, protected, enhanced, and maintained for future generations.

Section 301 of the Pennsylvania Municipalities Planning Code (MPC) states that the municipal comprehensive plan must include a “plan for the protection of natural and historic resources to the extent not preempted by federal or state law. This clause includes, but is not limited to, wetlands and aquifer recharge zones, woodlands, steep slopes, prime agricultural land, flood plains, unique natural areas, and historic sites.” The MPC also states, “the comprehensive plan shall include a plan for the reliable supply of water, considering current and future water resources availability, uses and limitations, including provisions adequate to protect water supply sources.” Both of these requirements are addressed in this plan component.

GOAL AND OBJECTIVES

Goal

Preserve and enhance the Conewago Creek, and other historic, cultural, and natural resources that exist in the township, and support initiatives that promote education and increased awareness of the value of these resources.

Objectives

Ensure that municipal ordinances and regulations adequately support the protection, preservation, and enhancement of natural resources. Educate residents on the importance of protecting and conserving natural resources in their daily lives. Promote and manage the health of the Conewago Creek and streams in the township by limiting nutrient pollution, farm runoff, and development in areas prone to erosion and by improving operation and maintenance of on-lot disposal systems. Encourage environmental education initiatives that raise awareness of the natural resources that are assets to the township and encourage conservation. Support the preservation of agriculture and viability of farming in the township. Establish a network of greenways and open space to protect important ecological resources, preserve sensitive wildlife habitats, and provide for passive recreational opportunities. Encourage the identification, documentation, and preservation of historic resources in the township.

CONEWAGO TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN October 14, 2009 9-1 OVERVIEW OF KEY FINDINGS

This section revisits the information discussed in the Natural and Historic Resources Profile, and discusses other relevant studies that have been undertaken that pertain to natural resources in the township.

Natural Resources Profile

The Natural and Historic Resources Profile provides a wealth of information on the natural and historic resources that exist in the township including information on water resources, climate, physiography, geology, and soils, wildlife, and woodlands. The following key points provide an indication of the wealth of natural resources in the township.

The steepest areas of slope in the township are found in the northernmost parts of the township. There are also areas of cautionary slope in the northern parts of the township, and along the geologic diabase intrusions that cut through the township in a southwest to northeast direction. Geology in the township includes the Gettysburg Formation, Gettysburg Conglomerate, and Diabase intrusions. The greatest potential for groundwater resources lies within the coarse grained sandstones and conglomerates in the Gettysburg Formation. The Conewago Creek is the most significant surface water feature in the township. Hoffer Creek, Brills Run, and Iron Run also flow through portions of the township, as do tributaries to these streams and to Spring Creek. The only major flooding that occurs in the township is along the Conewago Creek, although other creeks and streams in the township overflow their banks on occasion. The majority of the township is covered with prime agricultural soils, with the greatest concentration of these soils located in the southeastern quadrant of the township. In many locations, the degree of suitability of the soils in the township for on-lot disposal systems is considered to be “Very Limited”. There are some areas that are considered to be “Somewhat Limited” for either septic tanks or sewage lagoons. The Dauphin County Natural Areas Inventory identifies the Conewago Creek at Koser Run as a site of statewide significance. Conewago Township has a rich history, but there are no sites that have been recognized as historically significant at the state or national level. Sites of local historical significance are identified in the profile.

Other Relevant Studies

The Pennsylvania State University Environmental Resources Research Institute prepared, for the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (DEP), the Total Maximum Daily Loads (TMDLs) Plan for the Conewago Creek Watershed. The plan was prepared in 2001 and revised in 2006. The plan was developed to improve the water quality in the Conewago Creek Watershed.

It was first determined that Conewago Creek was not meeting its designated water quality uses for protection of aquatic life based on a 1994 aquatic biological survey, and was again found to be impaired in a 1997 survey. As a consequence, Pennsylvania listed Conewago Creek on the 1996 and 1998 Section 303(d) Lists of Impaired Waters. The 1998 list included, among other sections, all of the Conewago Creek in Conewago Township, Hoffer Creek, and the unnamed tributary to the Conewago Creek west of Hoffer Creek in the township.

CONEWAGO TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN October 14, 2009 9-2 A TMDL sets a ceiling on the pollutant loads that can enter a waterbody so that the waterbody will meet water quality standards, which are state regulations with two components. The first component is a use, such as warm water fisheries, or recreation. The protected uses of the watershed are water supply, recreation, and aquatic life. In Conewago Township, Iron Run is designated as a warm water fishery and the Conewago Creek is designated as a trout stocking fishery. The second component relates to instream conditions necessary to protect the uses. These criteria are physical, chemical, or biological characteristics, such as the temperature, minimum concentration of dissolved oxygen, and the maximum concentrations of toxic pollutants. If the criteria are being exceeded, the uses are not being met, and the water is said to be violating water quality standards.

The approach to TMDL development in Pennsylvania involves comparing nutrient and sediment loads of the impacted watershed to those of a healthy reference watershed or watersheds. In this study, the reference watersheds were the Lehman-Muddy Run watershed and a portion of the Little Swatara Creek watershed. Based on the predominance of agricultural land use, nutrients and sediments are the most likely pollutants that are causing Conewago Creek to violate the aquatic life use. Therefore, the TMDLs propose reducing the phosphorus and sediment loadings in Conewago Creek to levels consistent with those found in the reference watersheds. Because of the similarities in size and land use existing between the subbasins and the reference watersheds, achieving nutrient and sediment loadings in the Conewago Creek TMDL will ensure that the aquatic life use is achieved and maintained as evidenced in the reference watersheds.1

The Conewago Creek Watershed was determined to be impaired from excess nutrient and sediment contributions and the proposed plan provides calculations of the stream’s total capacity to accept nitrogen, phosphorus, and sediments. All of the pollution in the watershed comes from non-point sources of pollution and the pollutants come primarily from overland runoff.

The pollutant reductions in the TMDLs are entirely allocated to agricultural activities in the watershed. Implementation of best management practices (BMPs) in the affected areas should achieve the established loading reduction goals. The plan notes the following practices that may be utilized to reduce the amounts of sediments and phosphorus entering the water. These practices are supported in the comprehensive plan. The planting of riparian buffer zones, contour strips, and cover crops help to reduce sediment pollution and will also help to reduce phosphorus pollution. The installation of more effective animal waste management systems and stone ford cattle crossings will also help to reduce phosphorus amounts. Streambank stabilization and fencing can also help to reduce phosphorus and sediment.

The plan notes that further testing will assess the extent of existing BMPs and determine the most cost effective and environmentally positive combination of BMPs required to meet the nutrient and sediment reductions.

1 TMDL Plan for the Conewago Creek Watershed. Pennsylvania State University, Environmental Resources Research Institute, 2006.

CONEWAGO TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN October 14, 2009 9-3 INTERRELATIONSHIP OF NATURAL RESOURCES TO OTHER PLAN ELEMENTS

As mentioned previously, the natural resources plan is directly related to other components of the comprehensive plan. This section discusses these interrelationships and their implications to natural resources in the township.

Future Land Use Plan

The plan for future land use in the township is probably the most directly related to natural resources of all of the plan elements. The type and location of land uses will be pertinent in ensuring natural resources protection. The ways in which the land is used, for example, BMPs in agricultural operations, will have an influence on waterways and other natural resources in the township. Land uses that adversely affect natural resources have the potential to endanger certain wildlife sensitive habitats, and will eventually lead to a reduced quality of life for residents.

For these reasons, a conservation overlay has been integrated into the future land use plan to protect the most sensitive environmental resources in the township. It is discussed in more detail later in this plan, but its purpose as an overlay is to indicate areas which may require additional protection or restrictions on development, when considering the designated underlying use.

Furthermore, land use strategies that work to enhance the relationship between land uses and natural resources are discussed in the land use toolbox section of the future land use plan. These tools are meant to serve as options for the township to consider in managing growth and can assist the township in recognizing the effects of development on natural resources. Because these tools relate to land use and growth more directly than they do natural resources, they are included in the future land use plan. Conservation by design or open space development is another land use tool, but because of its direct relationship to natural resources conservation, it is discussed in this plan in conjunction with the conservation overlay.

Housing Plan

The design and placement of new housing developments have the potential to impact natural resources in the township. Efforts should be made to conserve sensitive features in the design of a site for a residence, and larger housing developments may consider open space conservation in their design to preserve large contiguous tracts of open space that foster wildlife habitat. Additionally, when natural resources are incorporated into specific site designs, they have the potential to benefit the homeowner by reducing energy consumption.

Other Plan Elements

Other plan elements are also related to natural resources. These features should be considered in the placement and design of roadways, and greenways have the potential to provide pedestrian connections throughout the township. In these ways, natural resources are related to certain aspects of the transportation plan.

Natural resources in the township may also be related to community facilities, including schools and emergency services providers. A good water source will assist fire protection service

CONEWAGO TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN October 14, 2009 9-4 providers deliver quality services when called upon. Natural resources in the township may also provide alternative methods of education for the youth in the township.

CONSERVATION OVERLAY

In order to protect the most sensitive natural resources in the township, a conservation overlay has been developed and incorporated into the future land use plan. It accounts for floodplains, wetlands, stream corridor protection, and areas of steep slope. Because the conservation classification has been developed as an overlay, it indicates areas of unique natural features that mandate attention and may require more stringent regulations. For example, areas along the Hoffer Creek stream corridor may require additional protection and may not be able to be developed in the same manner as areas of the township which are located further from these sensitive areas.

Overlay districts are often applied to municipal ordinances that regulate land use and development as a way to protect environmental features, and impose additional regulations or restrictions on the development and use of the land. This plan recommends that the conservation overlay in the future land use plan be developed as an overlay district in the Conewago Township Zoning Ordinance to ensure protection of the area’s natural resources.

The conservation overlay was developed with information shown in Map 7-7, Environmental Constraints. Prime agricultural soils and farmland of statewide importance are also shown on this map. Each of these features is discussed in detail in the profile. Those features included in the conservation overlay are described in this section.

Slope Protection

The areas of steepest slope, those slopes greater than 25%, are found in the northernmost parts of the township. There are also areas of cautionary slope, those 15% to 25%, that are located in the northern parts of the township and along the diabase intrusion that traverses a large part of the township in a southwest to northeast direction. The comprehensive plan recognizes steep slopes and hillsides as unique areas which are fragile and susceptible to erosion, landslides, mudslides, and degradation of their natural vegetation. Conventional development practices often increase these threats. By protecting this asset, the township intends to: Guide development away from steep slopes Minimize grading and other site preparation in steep areas Provide a safe means for ingress and egress while minimizing scaring from hillside construction Preserve natural conditions in steep areas Prevent flooding and the deteriorating effects of erosion to streams and drainage areas.

It is recommended that areas of prohibitive slopes, those slopes 25% and greater, and cautionary slopes, those slopes 15% to 25%, be subject to regulations that will control the intensity of development that can occur in these sensitive areas. Prohibitive slopes and cautionary slopes are included in the conservation overlay, shown in Map 8-1. Their specific locations are shown in Map 7-7.

CONEWAGO TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN October 14, 2009 9-5 Stream and Surface Water Protection

The comprehensive plan identifies and recognizes streams and the natural areas around them as important hydrological assets that support sensitive ecological habitats. It is the intent of this plan to preserve natural and man-made waterways. By protecting this asset, Conewago Township intends to: Protect wildlife Reduce human exposure to high water and flood hazards Preserve existing vegetation along waterways, lakes, and ponds Minimize the negative effects on waterways from agriculture and development related runoff and erosion Minimize scenic degradation Protect water quality by reducing stormwater runoff Protect the integrity of ponds and lakes as functioning wetland habitat areas

Stream protection has been included in the conservation overlay by applying a 100 foot buffer to all of the streams and watercourses in the township, as shown in Map 8-1. Additional water resources protection tools are described later in this chapter.

Wetland Protection

Wetlands are unique places that have several socioeconomic, environmental quality, and wildlife values associated with them. As such, the comprehensive plan recognizes that wetlands are a sensitive hydrologic natural resource that should be preserved. Damaging or destroying wetlands threatens public safety and the general welfare. Because of their importance, wetlands are to be protected from negative impacts of development and other activities. It is the intent of this plan to: Require planning to avoid and minimize damage of wetlands whenever prudent or feasible Require that activities not dependent upon wetlands be located on other sites Allow wetland losses only where all practical or legal measures have been applied to reduce these losses that are unavoidable and in the public interest.

There are not many areas of wetlands that have been delineated in the township, but individual site investigations may result in additional designated areas. Wetlands are included in the conservation overlay, as shown in Map 8-1. The specific location of wetlands is shown on Map 7-7, Environmental Constraints.

Floodplain Protection

Preserving floodplain areas from development is crucial in minimizing potential damages to property and the risk of injury caused by flooding. Allowing floodplain areas to remain in their natural state will also minimize any major changes to the balance of the hydrologic system and allow for groundwater recharge. Areas identified in the 100-year floodplain have been included in the conservation overlay. Currently, Conewago Township employs a floodplain management overlay district in the zoning ordinance.

CONEWAGO TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN October 14, 2009 9-6 DEVELOPMENT STYLES THAT SUPPORT THE CONSERVATION OF NATURAL FEATURES

The future land use plan identifies several strategies, or tools, that Conewago Township may consider during implementation. This section looks more specifically conservation by design, due to its direct relationship with natural resources and open space preservation.

Conservation by Design / Open Space Development

Description Conservation by design, or open space development, is an enhanced variation of the cluster zoning technique in which a higher percentage of the site is dedicated to open space. The purpose of this advanced technique is to preserve a larger amount of land for conservation uses, while still allowing full-density development. In contrast to cluster development, where the emphasis is more often placed on providing active recreational areas, open space zoning is more suited for protecting farmland, woodland habitat, historic sites, and scenic views. Under this technique, developers of a subdivision are required to dedicate a significant portion of their unconstrained land to permanent open space uses. Housing is designed to compliment the aesthetic views of the preserved land and streets are designed to access the residential community in a manner that minimizes disturbance of natural areas. How it Works Conservation subdivisions can be formalized within an ordinance. One of the more popular methods is a four step process that first identifies primary and secondary conservation areas, then designs open space to protect them, next arranges houses outside of those protected areas, and finally lays out streets, lots, and infrastructure. Open space regulations can also be implemented through a zoning ordinance. The number of dwellings permitted is based on the net acreage of buildable land and the underlying density in the zoning district. Easements are then placed on the open space to ensure that it will not be further subdivided or developed. Conservation by design is fully supported by the Natural Lands Trust, and is detailed in the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources publication, Growing Greener – A Conservation Planning Workbook for Municipal Officials in Pennsylvania. Pros and Cons Benefits of development through conservation by design include: Open space design achieves a community goal of preserving open space at the same density standard. None of the land is taken for public use unless the developer/owners want it to be. There are a variety of ownership choices. If implemented under a plan and with conservation as the motivation, potential benefits lie in things that are not included or required as a result of the plan. For example, the design does not require public expenditure of funds, depend on landowner charity, involve complicated regulations for shifting rights to other parcels, or depend on the cooperation of two or more adjoining land owners to make it work. Conservation by design does not work in all areas or for all communities. Negative aspects that should be considered include: Conservation by design should take place with a planning framework and conservation goals in place. These subdivisions should connect to a broader network of conservation areas to prevent a “chopped up” landscape.

CONEWAGO TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN October 14, 2009 9-7 Conservation subdivisions that are not attached to already developed areas and are not connected to services may result in poor land use practices. Conservation subdivisions do not always decrease the need for the automobile and may not provide affordable housing.

WATER RESOURCES PROTECTION TOOLBOX

An understanding of a community’s water resources is critical to achieve balance among human, economic, and environmental needs. The most significant challenge for preserving future water resource goals is growth patterns and activities on land. Protecting water supplies by strategically directing growth and development to suitable areas, promoting safe use and disposal of pollutants, such as fertilizers, industrial wastes, sewerage effluent from septic systems, and minimizing excessive erosion, is crucial in municipal planning.

This section presents a series of tools that the township may consider as it moves forward with implementing the plan. Not all of these tools will applicable to the township’s current situation, but these tools are meant to assist the township with understanding the resources that are available to them. These tools include:

Critical Aquifer Recharge Area Identification Water Budget and Groundwater Availability Analysis Wellhead Protection Well Drilling Techniques Groundwater Management Plans Water Supply Plans Stormwater Management Plans Integrated Water Resources Plan Water Conservation Plan

The Hydrologic Cycle

The occurrence and interrelationship of water from and to the atmosphere, on the land surface, and in the ground is known as the hydrologic cycle, shown in Figure 9-1. Understanding the pathways and impact from human activities is fundamental to proper management of water resources. Surface waters consist of perennial and intermittent streams, lakes, reservoirs, ponds, wetlands, springs, and natural seeps. Groundwater is water contained in the soils and rock formations of the township. Most groundwater is derived from precipitation that has infiltrated and percolated through the soil after recharging the aquifer. The rates of recharge vary by location due to the diverse properties of soils in the underlying bedrock. After reaching the water table, groundwater moves towards points of discharge, such as surface waters, springs, and wells.

CONEWAGO TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN October 14, 2009 9-8 Figure 9-1: The Water Cycle

Source: United States Geological Survey

While surface water and groundwater are often characterized separately, it is important to acknowledge that they represent one resource. The two “feed” one another, and also have the potential to contaminate one another. Run-off and ground-based pollutants often percolate into the water table, degrading the groundwater. Contaminated groundwater, emerging from springs, wells, and marshes, can pose threats to surface water.

Several water resources protection strategies are discussed in the TMDL report for the Conewago Creek watershed, and are mentioned in the section of this chapter that discusses that report. Additional strategies are listed and described below:

Critical Aquifer Recharge Area Identification (CARA)

Groundwater recharge refers to areas where water is added to the groundwater. These are areas where precipitation sinks into the ground, or a stream dives underground, sometimes called a swallow. Recharge occurs wherever the land surface is pervious and the water table is below the surface. However, some areas are characterized by features that provide an exceptional amount of recharge to the aquifer per unit area. These are termed critical aquifer recharge areas (CARAs). These areas are more vulnerable to contamination that could affect the potability of the water.

One indication of a high recharge area is a watershed containing a low tributary density. The high permeability results in a water table with a low gradient under the land surface, thus fewer perennial streams. Other features are very deep soils or weathered zones that lie above bedrock aquifers. These areas are high volume storage areas that allow slow percolation of

CONEWAGO TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN October 14, 2009 9-9 water from the shallow groundwater zone into the deeper aquifer. Groundwater aquifers associated with high recharge areas are also at a higher risk of becoming contaminated.

Identifying and maintaining CARAs will maximize recharge and the amount of groundwater available for utilization. The following steps can be followed in identifying and protecting CARAs: Identify where groundwater resources are located Analyze the susceptibility of the natural setting where groundwater occurs Inventory existing potential sources of groundwater contamination Classify the relative vulnerability of groundwater to contamination events Designate areas that are most at risk to contamination events Protect by minimizing activities and conditions that pose contamination risks Ensure that contamination prevention plans and best management practices are followed Manage groundwater withdrawals and recharge impacts to: Maintain availability for drinking water sources Maintain stream base flow from groundwater to support in-stream flows, especially for salmon-bearing streams.2

Water Budget and Groundwater Availability Analysis

A water budget analysis provides an understanding of water flows through an area by treating the water resources of an area as an account, with recharge (income); withdrawals and instream flow needs (expenses); and storage (savings). Water budgets are useful for evaluating surface and groundwater resources available for development, troubleshooting water supply and well interference issues, and planning for future water needs. A groundwater availability analysis provides an assessment of the total volume of water withdrawn from (demand) and recharged to (supply) aquifers in a defined area, providing an indication of stress upon aquifers and stream base flow. When compared to projected demand in a defined area, a municipality can better prepare for targeting growth areas.

Wellhead Protection

Pennsylvania’s Wellhead Protection (WHP) Program is a proactive effort designed to apply proper management techniques and various preventive measures to protect groundwater supplies, thereby ensuring public health and preventing the need for expensive treatment of wells to comply with drinking water standards. The underlying principle of the program is that it is much less expensive to protect groundwater than it is to try to restore it once it becomes contaminated.

A wellhead protection plan should detail the provisions of the local program including a schedule for implementation and demonstrate the commitment needed to support the ongoing efforts necessary for a successful local wellhead protection program. Therefore, the plan should not only describe how sources will be protected, but also document the resources necessary to implement the plan, thus linking implementation and management to finances. In order to be considered for DEP approval, a wellhead protection plan must have the following elements: Steering committee and public participation Wellhead protection area delineation Contaminant source inventory Wellhead protection area management and commitment Contingency planning New source planning

2 Critical Aquifer Recharge Areas Guidance Document, Washington State Department of Ecology.

CONEWAGO TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN October 14, 2009 9-10

Well Drilling Techniques

State law requires drillers to have a valid rig permit and a Water Well Drillers License. They must also give the state and homeowner a copy of the Water Well Completion report. This report describes where, when, and how the well was constructed. However, when a new well is drilled, no state requirements for construction materials, yield, or quality apply. Pennsylvania is second among states in the number of residences served by private water wells, with more than a million households relying on private wells. Pennsylvania is also among only four states that do not have private water well construction standards. Poor well construction is increasingly the prime suspect in the presence of bacterial contamination. A properly constructed well minimizes the threat of contamination entering the well, and keeps people healthy who might otherwise get sick from their own well water.

A few local and county governments have adopted standards for private water supplies, e.g. Chester and Montgomery Counties. Those rules and regulations have established minimum standards for the location, construction, modification, or abandonment of water wells and installation; required a permit for the construction of a water supply including production wells, test wells, test borings, and monitoring wells, and/or the installation of pumping equipment; and required a license for well contractors and pump installation contractors.

Other specific situations may also require additional regulations, including instances in which mortgages associated with federal housing may require certain water analyses for the well. Other lending institutions also may have sampling requirements, but for the most part, private well owners must take responsibility for their own water quality and for maintaining their well.

Groundwater Management Plans

Groundwater management plans provide a thorough understanding of the watershed’s hydrogeologic characteristics to protect and improve water supply reliability. The plan should address three components: identify existing and anticipated quantity and quality groundwater problems and management issues; recommend a series of actions needed to ensure the sustainability of the watershed; and address impacts on the resource, including those from growth and development, droughts, current and past mining, transfers out of watersheds, unknown and unregulated uses, and management measures. Components of the plan may include monitoring, as well as identification of wellhead protection areas and appropriate areas for development of groundwater models.

Water Supply Plans

The goal of a water supply plan is to provide a guidance document for municipal officials and local planners, water suppliers, and other interested groups to follow and implement as they address water supply needs for the municipality. The water supply plan provides basic information and the direction needed to make planning decisions to provide residents with safe, adequate, and reliable drinking water at reasonable cost.

These plans inventory and evaluate available data and information on water systems and service areas. Results are compared to existing water system capabilities and future water need. Water system overviews for each community water system include estimates of water demands; identification of potential deficiencies; formulating water supply alternatives; presenting preliminary cost estimates for the selected alternatives; and providing recommendations for implementing improvements. Water systems need to provide an adequate

CONEWAGO TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN October 14, 2009 9-11 supply of water, treatment capacity, treated storage capacity, and fire flow. The plan presents recommendations on supply-side and demand-side options.

Stormwater Management Plans

Stormwater discharges are generated by runoff from land and impervious areas such as paved streets, parking lots, and building rooftops during precipitation events. Changes in watershed hydrology due to growth and development directly impact the availability and quality of water resources. For example, in areas where residents depend on wells for their drinking water supply, underground aquifers can be depleted because of increasing demand from new development and an associated decrease in infiltration as impervious surfaces replace natural land cover. Changes in watershed hydrology include: Increases in stormwater flows and flooding Decrease in infiltration and groundwater recharge Reduction in stream networks due to stormwater conveyances channeling water away from developing areas Lowering of stream base flows and groundwater levels Increased contaminant loading to streams and groundwater

Proper stormwater management efforts attempt to minimize the above problems by addressing not only the quantity of stormwater produced, but also the quality of the stormwater and the amount of water that is lost from the watershed. The Pennsylvania DEP promotes a comprehensive watershed approach to stormwater management to improve water quality and quantity through the use of best management practices (BMPs). The stormwater management approaches integrate existing planning and regulatory requirements to reduce pollutant loads to streams, recharge aquifers, maintain stream base flows, prevent stream bank erosion, and protect the environmental integrity of receiving waters.

The types and degree of BMPs that are prescribed in the watershed plan are based on the expected development pattern and hydrologic characteristics of each individual watershed. The final product of the Act 167 watershed planning process is a comprehensive and practical implementation plan and stormwater ordinance developed with a firm sensitivity to the overall needs, i.e. financial, legal, political, technical, etc., of the municipalities in the watershed.

Integrated Water Resources Plans

Integrated Water Resource Plans (IWRPs) provide guidance to balance land use and growth that is consistent with the sustainability of aquifers and streams. Objectives outlined in IWRPs should be consistent with Pennsylvania’s State Water Plan (Act 220) and should recognize stormwater, water quality, and aquatic resource issues. IWRPs are very comprehensive and include components of other water resource related plans, such as Act 167 stormwater management plans, groundwater management plans, wellhead protection areas, and water conservation. Water supply and wastewater planning needs are a component of the plan. The IWRP should allow a county to understand needs and opportunities within its watersheds, as well as present recommendations for improving and sustaining resources.

Water Conservation Plan

The benefits of implementing water conservation concepts throughout a water supply service area are many and should be carefully examined. Saving water will save money for consumers on water, sewer, and water heating bills. Demand for water has a pronounced impact on the environment by lowering stream flows, depleting groundwater aquifers, and in certain cases,

CONEWAGO TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN October 14, 2009 9-12 requiring the impoundment of free flowing stream or the diversion of water from one drainage basin to another. Reducing per capita water use will decrease the amount of wastewater generated, and thereby maintain the operating efficiency of treatment plants over a longer period of time. Reducing water consumption will reduce operating costs for utilities, and will delay costly capital improvements. When compared to the cost of expanding existing facilities or developing new water sources, the most cost-effective alternative is conservation.

Pennsylvania’s current water conservation program emphasizes education and guidance to reduce water use at the local level. DEP offers guidelines for designing a water conservation program. Under the provisions of recent legislation, the State Water Plan (Act 220), water conservation will continue as a voluntary program. The act establishes a formal program to promote voluntary water conservation and water use efficiency practices for all water users. As a resource to municipalities, DEP will create a Water Resources Technical Assistance Center to promote the use and development of water conservation and water use efficiency education and technical assistance programs. Act 220 also authorizes grants for water resources education and technical assistance.

Land Development and Zoning Ordinances

The most significant challenge for preserving future water resource goals is growth patterns and activities on land. Because local officials are responsible for planning for growth and have the authority to regulate the use of the land, they also have the most direct influence on water resources. The Pennsylvania Municipalities Planning Code grants direct authority to municipalities to regulate development activity through subdivision and land development ordinances and zoning ordinances. Many of the water resource protection strategies discussed in the water resources tool box section can be incorporated into one or both regulatory ordinances.

For example, the subdivision and land development ordinances may require that a development site plan include a specific amount of land for parkland, which could be part of a groundwater preservation strategy. Site design standards that promote pervious surface designs, e.g. porous pavement, can help to protect groundwater by controlling runoff and filtering potential pollutants to the underlying aquifer.

Maps of specific features, such as critical aquifer recharge areas or wellhead protection areas can be incorporated into the zoning map through an overlay district. The overlay would impose an additional series of requirements to the permitted or conditional uses of the underlying district. For example, if vehicle fueling, maintenance, and storage are permitted uses, and if these uses were located in a wellhead protection area, they would require a containment system for collecting and treating all runoff and preventing release of fuels, oils, lubricants, and other automotive fluids into soil, surface water, or groundwater.

Key Practices for Members of the Community

Human uses often have the greatest impacts on water resources; therefore, educating the community is a necessary component in ensuring a water supply of adequate quality and quantity. Commercial and residential uses contribute to runoff from impervious surfaces, pollution from vehicles and chemicals, nutrient deposition from lawn fertilizers and septic tanks, and aquifer distribution from well withdrawals without recharge. Poor management of agricultural lands, in the form of excessive or poorly timed nutrient application or inadequate livestock fencing in riparian areas, can also have profound impacts on water quality.

CONEWAGO TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN October 14, 2009 9-13 Residential Practices Limit lawn watering and fertilizing If lawns and gardens use native plants and grasses, attractive landscaping can be created with plant life adapted to local climate and soils, limiting and often eliminating the need for additional water and nutrients. Proper care of septic tanks Beyond eventual contamination of groundwater, periodic maintenance improves public health by limiting contaminants in septic backup and saturated areas. Informing residents of basic upkeep routine, how to spot problems, and how often to pump, households will receive the added benefit of longer system life and fewer major, costly system repairs. Proper disposal of household pollutants Items such as used motor oil, gasoline, solvents, paint, insecticides, batteries, oven cleaners, etc., can be very dangerous in areas where drinking water is obtained by wells. Dauphin County offers a free curbside collection program for household hazardous wastes that residents may take advantage of once a year.

Agricultural Practices Nutrient management This is often considered the most important tool and only takes a minor change in habit that costs the farmer nothing. Timely application of manures and fertilizers is critical. Coordinating application with precipitation and thaws means more can be absorbed by the soil rather than carried off. Applying only as much fertilizer and manure as your soils needs is also valuable, as soil is only capable of absorbing a certain amount of nutrients. Maintain cover crops instead of fallow fields Particularly in winter, this will help prevent nutrient loss. Nutrient Trading Where one farmer has a nutrient surplus and another has a deficiency, trading solves multiple problems at once. A simple agricultural bulletin board where farmers can post their needs and get in touch with one another could facilitate this. Fencing Fencing horses and cattle out of streams except for specific crossings at watering areas prevents bank erosion and manure flowing directly into waterways. This can be done with inexpensive temporary fencing, and adjusted as needed. No-till agriculture Transitioning to no-till agriculture is beneficial in crop farming. While it does require an initial investment, it does have the benefit of retaining nutrients year round. Even without no-till, methods such as contour farming and tilling done at appropriate times can keep a great deal of nutrients on the field and out of the water.

CONEWAGO TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN October 14, 2009 9-14 HISTORIC AND CULTURAL RESOURCES PRESERVATION PLAN

Although there are many locally significant historical buildings in Conewago Township, there are no places which are listed or are considered eligible for listing of the National Register of Historic Places. In order to preserve sites of historical significance, they must first be identified. The natural and historical features profile chapter lists several sites that are locally considered to be historically significant.

Historic preservation has not been in the forefront of activities in Conewago Township. This plan addresses the need for maintaining those historic resources through measures such as preparing a historical resources inventory and map, working with the Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission, and working with local and county historical societies. Another preservation component involves educating residents and local government leaders in the history of the community, and various preservation initiatives. Showcasing historical assets and encouraging preservation initiatives will help to create a better understanding of the history of the community, thus adding to residents’ and visitors’ sense of place, and encouraging an increased quality of life.

Identification of Historic Resources

A community’s history is contained in its historic resources. These resources may take many forms, including architecturally and historically significant buildings, sites, structures, objects, and districts. A comprehensive historic preservation program begins with the identification and evaluation of historic resources. Once this step is performed, programs can be developed for their preservation and enhancement. One tool for identifying historical features is the National Register of Historic Places, which is managed by the National Park Service. Placement of a building or structure on the National Register increases awareness of its level of importance as a historic place, but does not protect the structure.

Legal Foundation for Historic Preservation

Historic preservation techniques and programs are available to facilitate historic resource protection. Most techniques and programs evolved out of federal or state laws. An understanding of the legal foundation for historic preservation is helpful to determine what techniques and programs are available.

Federal Level

The National Historic Preservation Act of 1966 (NHPA) earmarked the beginning of federal historic preservation policy. The NHPA was intended to stop the severe loss of historic resources in large cities and boroughs due to urban renewal. The legislation was intended to create a comprehensive framework for preserving historic resources through a system of reviews, regulations and incentives. The NHPA encouraged cooperation among federal, state and local governments to address historic resources protection. In Pennsylvania, the Bureau for Historic Preservation (BHP), an agency of the Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission (PHMC), is the state agency responsible for overseeing this coordination.

The NHPA formalized the National Register of Historic Places, in which a number of resources are either listed or eligible for listing. The NHPA also instituted the review process, discussed below, for any project that receives federal funds. The act also authorizes the Certified Local Government Program, which enables municipalities to participate directly in federal preservation

CONEWAGO TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN October 14, 2009 9-15 programs and to access, through the state, certain funds earmarked for historic preservation activities.

Section 106 Review Process

The Section 106 review process requires that any project using federal funds, which includes most PennDOT projects, be reviewed for its impact on historic resources either listed in, or determined to be eligible for, the National Register of Historic Places. Section 106 does not directly prohibit alteration or destruction of these resources, but it does require a thorough investigation of other alternatives and the consideration of mitigating measures.

State Level

The NHPA authorizes the appointment of a State Historic Preservation Office to administer provisions of the act at the state level. In Pennsylvania, the agency assigned to this responsibility is the Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission (PHMC). This entity is responsible for making initial determinations of eligibility for the National Register, managing state historic archives and administering a wide variety of historic preservation programs.

The Pennsylvania History Code pertains to conservation, preservation, protection, and management of historical and museum resources and identifies PHMC as the agency responsible for conducting these activities. It outlines Pennsylvania’s legal framework for historic preservation and mandates cooperation among other state entities in identifying and protecting historic and archaeological resources.

Pennsylvania legislation provides the legal foundation for municipalities to adopt historic preservation ordinances through Act 167 and Act 247. The Historic District Act of 1961, Act 167 authorizes municipalities to create local historic districts and protect the historical and architectural character of the district through regulating new construction, building reconstruction, alteration, restoration, demolition, or razing of buildings within a certified local historic district. Local districts established under this act must be certified by PHMC. This act also requires the appointment of a Historical Architectural Review Board (HARB).

The Pennsylvania Municipalities Planning Code (MPC), Act 247 which authorizes the use of municipal land use controls such as use regulations and area and bulk regulations, to protect historic resources. The MPC specifically regulates places having unique historical, architectural, or patriotic interest or value through the creation of a specific zoning classification.

County and Local Levels

The County Planning Commission can support and provide necessary technical guidance to those municipalities that have an interest in adopting an historic preservation ordinance. The County Planning Commission can also assist with integrating historic resources in the county with other tourism initiatives.

At the local level, municipalities can adopt single purpose historic preservation ordinances and establish architectural and historic review boards. Generally, historic preservation regulations are part of a zoning ordinance, but some municipalities choose to adopt stand-alone ordinances instead.

CONEWAGO TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN October 14, 2009 9-16 HOUSING PLAN Chapter 10

The quality, condition, location, and value of housing are extremely important to the future and prosperity of Conewago Township. This plan provides direction for the township to meet current and future housing needs of the community by establishing an overarching goal and a series of supporting objectives. Strategies to achieve these objectives are detailed in this plan. Specific actions are detailed in the implementation plan.

The Pennsylvania Municipalities Planning code states that the municipal comprehensive plan must contain, “A plan to meet the housing needs of present residents and of those individuals and families anticipated to reside in the municipality, which may include conservation of presently sound housing, rehabilitation of housing in declining neighborhoods, and the accommodation of expected new housing in different dwelling types and at appropriate densities for households of all income levels.”

GOAL AND OBJECTIVES

Goal

Provide a desirable mix of safe and well maintained housing that meets the needs of current and future township residents of all incomes and family sizes.

Objectives

1. Guide new residential housing growth to locations in the township where necessary infrastructure exists or where it is planned. 2. Support the viability of farming and the prevalence of agriculture in the township, and assure that potential new residents are aware of the rural, agricultural character of the township. 3. Evaluate alternative housing options to promote affordability and minimize the loss of land available for agricultural production. 4. Encourage the density of new residential development to be consistent with existing rural style development. 5. Encourage new residential development to be constructed in a manner that ensures the value of the home is consistent with a price that current and future residents are able to afford. 6. Inform the school district and community service providers of planned residential development.

CONEWAGO TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN October 14, 2009 10-1 OVERVIEW OF KEY FINDINGS

This section revisits the information discussed in the Housing Profile, and discusses other relevant studies that have been undertaken that pertain to housing in the township.

Housing Profile

The Housing Profile provides a wealth of information on the housing stock that exists in the township including information on the total number of units, year of construction, type of housing units, value of housing, and tenure and occupancy statistics. The following key points provide an indication of the housing stock in the township:

Most of the housing growth in Conewago Township has occurred since 1970. The 1970s represent the decade with the most construction of housing units, but growth has continued at a moderate pace in the 1980s, 1990s, and since 2000, as indicated by U.S. Census data and building permit records. This is largely due to natural out-migration from the nearby boroughs and the City of Harrisburg and other metropolitan centers. Recently the township has experienced growth pressures from Derry Township and from South Londonderry Township. Most of the recent construction in the township has been in the form of single family detached dwellings, with the most notable development being the Hills of Waterford development in the northwestern part of the township. In general, Conewago Township has a very high percentage of single family detached dwellings, which is not uncommon in a rural and agricultural area. Public water and sewer infrastructure, which is often required to support multi-family housing developments, was not available in the township until recently, which can explain the smaller number of multi-family housing units. However, now that this infrastructure is available in certain parts of the township, there is an elevated potential for this type of development to come to the township. In 2000, the vacancy rate in the township was 4.68%, which is considered to be within the healthy range of 4% to 6%. The median value of housing in the township was higher than the county, state, and all surrounding municipalities, with the exception of Derry Township, in both 1990 and 2000. The median value also increased by a larger percentage in the township than in the other locals mentioned above, including Derry Township. This may indicate that housing in the township is well maintained, and desirable, but it may also be an indication of a housing stock that appeals to the middle and upper income households, resulting in a lack of housing that is considered to be afforded by the low and low-middle income households in the township. Compared to surrounding municipalities, the county, and the state, the composition of the housing stock in the township, classified by value, is most similar to the composition of the housing stock in Derry Township.

Community Public Meeting

Many comments that were received at the community public meeting leaned against encouraging development. People indicated that they do not want more housing, and they felt that there is a need to limit high density housing. They are also aware of the associated impacts that development brings with it, including impacts to the schools and to infrastructure. Specifically, the meeting attendees discussed the following points as strengths or issues related to housing in the township.

CONEWAGO TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN October 14, 2009 10-2 Strengths People felt that there are a variety of housing sizes and styles in the township and that most of the houses are well maintained. Residents liked that there have been sparse development patterns and appreciate the rural setting in the township and that there aren’t a lot of cookie-cutter developments. Some of the homes in the township have a historic nature. Residents also appreciate the community feeling that exists in the township. People feel that they have good neighbors and that they take care of each other.

Issues The meeting attendees discussed issues related to housing in the township and then ranked the items discussed to determine the most pertinent issues. The concern over high or increasing real estate taxes was rated as the number one issue. Residents also felt strongly that they do not want more housing, and development should not be encouraged. They felt that there is a need to maintain rural development patterns, and to limit high density housing. Residents felt there is a need for noise control and traffic impact studies, and the costs to pay for additional services, such as schools, should be integrated into the cost of new housing.

Other Relevant Studies

The following studies were considered in the development of the Conewago Township Comprehensive Plan:

Dauphin County Comprehensive Plan The Dauphin County Comprehensive Plan discusses environmental limitations to development and the costs of residential sprawl. As such, the plan supports the conservation and rehabilitation of existing housing, and development principles such as conservation by design and transfer of development rights, to protect natural resources and discourage sprawl. The factors which are considered restrictive for building purposes include steep slopes of 15% or greater, prime agricultural land, floodplains or wetlands, and existing public lands. The plan notes that there are many different definitions of sprawl, but most relate to the inefficient use of land and infrastructure which strains public funds, threatens natural and agricultural lands, and places pressure on community facilities. The plan determines that, “Dauphin County, as a whole, has more than enough vacant, buildable (no environmental limitations) land in Community Service Areas (having utility service and access to the transportation network) to meet the housing needs of the projected Dauphin County population through 2020. Therefore, residential development outside the Community Service Areas (CSAs) should be discouraged, or at best, very

CONEWAGO TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN October 14, 2009 10-3 limited.” The future land use map shows that Conewago Township is not included in a designated CSA. Additionally, the plan states, “it has become apparent that housing problems in Dauphin County are more related to affordability than availability.” Information from the Dauphin County Comprehensive Plan is also discussed in the sections of this plan that relate to housing projections and affordability of housing in the township.

INTERRELATIONSHIP OF HOUSING TO OTHER ELEMENTS OF THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN

This chapter focuses on providing housing to meet the needs of the current and future populations, but the housing element is intricately related to other plan elements. It is essential that as the comprehensive plan is implemented, Conewago Township focus not only on the provisions of housing units as the number of structures that will be required, but also on the creation and preservation of neighborhoods. This section looks at how housing is related to the other plan components and how the other components can assist in creating, preserving, and enhancing neighborhoods in the township.

Land Use

The placement of housing units is intricately related to the future land use plan and will ultimately depend on natural resources and local land use ordinances. Conewago Township will need to provide housing to serve the existing and the projected future population and this housing will need to be designed in a manner that preserves the agricultural heritage in the township, conserves natural resources and water resources, and is located in areas which are served by or planned for public infrastructure. In the villages in the township, it will be essential that older housing is rehabilitated and that new housing conforms to the character of the village in terms of lot dimensions, setbacks, building heights, and structural design.

Transportation

Following World War II, the nation saw an increase in suburban housing developments and a heightened reliance on the personal automobile. As such, residential developments constructed post 1950 are evidenced by automobile dominance. Sidewalks are often absent from developments, and residents became accustomed to driving their automobiles up their driveways and into their two-car garages that were located on the front of the house. This fostered increased isolation from neighbors and distancing from community services. As new neighborhoods are constructed, and existing neighborhoods preserved and enhanced, it will be pertinent to focus on the connectivity within the neighborhood and to other places. This connectivity includes ways to link pedestrians, automobiles, bicycles, and other non-motorized forms of transportation. Bike paths, walking trails, and sidewalks help to interconnect places and decrease dependency on the automobile. The placement of housing in relation to transportation improvements will also affect how the community is perceived in terms of its connectedness and appeal.

CONEWAGO TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN October 14, 2009 10-4 Community Facilities / Community Character

As identified at the public participation meeting, residents are aware of the impacts that housing development has on community facilities such as schools. In addition to schools, new housing development also impacts other community facilities including water and sewer services, and fire and emergency services. Community character is often linked closely with community services. Identifying neighborhoods will help increase residents’ sense of place in the community and increase community pride. It is often up to residents and stakeholders in a community to form the organizations that encourage neighborhood activities, improvements, and interactions. Neighborhood associations, crime watch groups, or student service clubs can help to build a sense of community and improve the welfare of the community, thus creating a neighborhood and not just a housing development.

HOUSING PROJECTIONS

The housing projections discussed in this section are adopted from the Dauphin County Comprehensive Plan. Similar to the reasoning behind utilizing the county population projections, this plan seeks to maintain consistency with the projections and plans that have been developed at the regional and county levels. Housing unit projections can be thought of in two different aspects: The amount of housing units that will be needed to accommodate the existing and projected future population, based on population projections and the vacancy rate in the year 2000, which was considered to be healthy in Conewago Township; and The amount of housing units that will likely be constructed if recent development trends continue at the same pace, based on the past 10 year building rate. The 10 year period analyzed spans the years 1992-2001. Examining 3, 5, and 10 year trends during this time showed little change between the average annual amounts. The Dauphin County Comprehensive Plan presents both of these projections. This plan recognizes that as the township moves forward, it will be necessary to encourage the number of dwelling units that are constructed to align closely with the projected number of units needed.

Table 10-1: Projected Total Housing Units Needed, 2000-2020 Projected Total Units Needed Total 2000 Additional Total Units Housing 2005 2010 2015 2020 Needed, Units 2000-2020 1,069 1,167 1,222 1,277 1,333 264 Source: Dauphin County Comprehensive Plan, Tri-County Regional Planning Commission; U.S. Census Bureau

Table 10-2: Projected Total Housing Units to be Constructed, 2000-2020 Total 2000 Projected Additional Dwelling Units Using Past Projected Total 10 Year Building Rate, 1992-2001 Units, Housing 2000- Units 2005 2010 2015 2020 2020 1,069 1,127 1,185 1,243 1,301 232 Source: Dauphin County Comprehensive Plan, Tri-County Regional Planning Commission; U.S. Census Bureau

CONEWAGO TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN October 14, 2009 10-5 Analyzing the Projections

The Dauphin County Comprehensive Plan projects that there will need to be an additional 264 units constructed in the township by 2020 to meet the needs of the current and projected population. Based upon recent building trends, the township is expected to see 232 units constructed during this time. Although this number is slightly lower, building permit data from the five year period from 2000-2005 reveals that there were 114 units constructed in the township during this time, which is nearly double the annual rate that was applied to the projections. If this rate is to continue, the township will have nearly double the amount of units that are projected to be needed by 2020. Analyzing the housing unit needs projections in conjunction with the future land use plan, the township has more than enough land designated for residential or rural resource use that is able to accommodate the projected need. As the township moves forward, it will need to monitor housing unit development to ensure the number of housing units developed does not exceed the projected need.

ANALYZING HOUSING COST BURDEN AND THE NEED FOR AFFORDABLE HOUSING

The type of housing that is considered affordable to a renter or a homeowner depends on many factors including the age, quality, size, location, and availability of housing stock in an area. Ultimately, housing affordability is determined by household income. The U.S. Census Bureau evaluates the affordability of the housing stock by examining the cost of homes as a percentage of household income. Generally, when costs associated with housing exceed 30% of household income, the cost of housing is considered to be an unreasonable burden, exceeding the amount that the household income may afford. Households that are required to spend more than 50% of their income on costs directly related to housing are considered to be extremely cost burdened.

Classifying Households Based on Income

The Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) programs and other federal programs use income limits as eligibility criteria for housing assistance. HUD determines income limits on the basis of area median income and maintains data compiled by the long form of the census on the number of households (of a sample) that are in each income category. These data are broken down by renter occupied households and owner occupied households, as shown in Table 10-3. The income categories used in various HUD programs are as follows: Moderate Income – those households earning between 80% and 120% of an area’s median income Low Income – those households earning between 50.1% and 80% of an area’s median income Very Low Income – those households earning between 30.1% and 50% of an area’s median income Extremely Low Income – those households earning less than 30% of an area’s median income

CONEWAGO TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN October 14, 2009 10-6 Figure 10-1: Department of Housing and Urban Development Income Classifications

Moderate Income

Low Income

Very Low Income Median Income Extremely Low Income

Less than 30% 30%-50% 50%-80% 80%-100% 100%-120%

Source: HUD; RETTEW Associates, Inc.

The Jobs/Housing Balance

Although those households that are considered to be extremely low income or low income households are potentially the most “at-risk” households, there are often moderate income households that experience housing cost burdens as well. Thus, it is important that housing affordability is not only associated with subsidized housing, but with the working class population as well. Members of the community, many of which are employed at respectable positions, including teachers and emergency services personnel, will also be in need of housing that is considered affordable to their level of income. The need for more affordable housing is a direct result of increases in income not keeping pace with increases in housing costs. The Dauphin County Comprehensive Plan shows that the median monthly change in household income between 1990 and 2000 in the township was $171, while median monthly housing costs for homeowners with a mortgage increased by $474. Rental costs are keeping a closer pace with income changes in the township. Median monthly housing costs for renters increased by $166 between 1990 and 2000. It will be important to encourage housing that is considered to be affordable to those households living in the township, based upon the amount their income allows them to afford.

Cost Burdened Households in Conewago Township

The U.S. Census Bureau collects data on household income and housing costs and calculates the percentage of people in each income category that are considered to be experiencing a “cost burden”. According to federal standards, when the amount that a household is required to spend on housing and associated costs exceeds 30% of their income, the cost of housing is considered to be an unreasonable burden. When this amount exceeds 50%, the household is considered to be extremely cost burdened. Information contained in this section is based on a sample of the population.

CONEWAGO TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN October 14, 2009 10-7 Table 10-3: Cost Burdened Households in Conewago Township, 2000

Extremely Cost Total in No Cost Burden Cost Burdened Burdened Sample Total % Total % Total % Owner Occupied 634 534 84.23 100 15.77 39 6.15 Renter Occupied 146 116 79.45 26 17.81 0 0.00 Source: Dauphin County Comprehensive Plan, Tri-County Regional Planning Commission; U.S. Census Bureau

Approximately 16% of homeowners and 18% of renters in the township were experiencing a housing cost burden in 2000. Another approximate 6% of owner occupied households were considered to be extremely cost burdened. Additional data indicate that the number of renter Cost Burdened Owner Occupied Households by Income occupied households that Conewago Township, 2000 were experiencing a housing cost burden in the

township decreased 36% between 1990 and 2000, 35% but the number of owner

occupied households that Less than $10,000 were experiencing a $10,000-$19,999 housing cost burden $20,000-$34,999 13% 13% increased from 21 3% $35,000-$49,999 households in 1990 to 100 $50,000 and over households in 2000. Data for the township show that owner occupied households experiencing a housing cost burden range from extremely low income households to moderate income households. Renter occupied households experiencing a housing cost burden are concentrated to two income ranges, indicating that there is a need for rental housing that is considered affordable to this segment of the population. It will be important for Cost Burdened Renter Occupied Households by Income Conewago Township to Conewago Township, 2000 encourage a mix of housing considered affordable to a variety of incomes, and for residents and homebuyers to be 65% appropriately educated on the importance of buying 35% within their means, and $10,000-$19,999 $20,000-$34,999 that they develop an appropriate understanding of what they are able to afford. It is important to differentiate between housing that is considered affordable by residents of the community and assisted housing developments which are often accompanied by connotations of high density, urban decline, and decreased property values. Many of the people who need affordable housing today are employed at respectable jobs and are part of the region’s regular workforce; the price of housing in the area has started to outpace increases in income. Young families and children who were raised in the township and are looking to stay in the township will need a home

CONEWAGO TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN October 14, 2009 10-8 that they can afford, just as senior citizens will need a home that they can afford and adequately maintain.

TOOLBOX – REDUCING BARRIERS TO AFFORDABLE HOUSING

The Governor’s Center for Local Government Services has compiled a series of common regulations that are often found in local land use ordinances and can act as barriers to affordable housing. For each barrier, a list of possible solutions have been offered as a potential means to mitigate the problem and encourage new housing to be constructed and sold at a price that will be affordable to the residents of the community. Problems and solutions that may apply to the township are described in the following table. This toolbox contains a variety of items that the township may consider as the plan is implemented to encourage a necessary amount of affordable housing.

Supply of Land, Affordable Housing Types, and Design Standards Problem Potential Solutions Reduce lot frontage and effectually reduce costs LOT DIMENSIONS SUCH AS for paving, storm water control, and utility

FRONTAGE, FRONT SETBACKS, installations. AND SIDE YARD REQUIREMENTS Reduce excessive front setbacks and thereby 1 CAN BE EXCESSIVE AND ADD reduce costs for paving, service lines, site UNNECESSARY COST WHILE clearance, and landscaping. OPERATING AS A REDUNDANT Allow zero lot line and patio and atrium houses DENSITY CONTROL. on smaller lots which can reduce costs and still provide amenity. EXCESSIVE STREET WIDTHS AND CONSTRUCTION STANDARDS, Tailor development standards for streets to WHICH ARE OFTEN UNRELATED TO 2 expected use or size of development, thereby EXPECTED USES, CAN BE reducing the cost of other improvements. REQUIRED IN SUBDIVISION ORDINANCES Award density bonuses for construction of affordable housing units at controlled, below DEVELOPERS MAY NEED market rate prices, and for infill development of INCENTIVES TO PRODUCE vacant tracts. 3 AFFORDABLE UNITS AND TO ENCOURAGE INFILL DEVELOPMENT Award density bonuses for rehabilitation of ON VACANT TRACTS. existing substandard housing provided the bonus units are available for low and moderate- income persons. Require sidewalks only where needed, such as SUBDIVISION REGULATIONS on just one side of the street rather than on OFTEN REQUIRE SIDEWALKS ON both sides. BOTH SIDES OF THE STREET AND 4 Where feasible, use pathway systems instead of INHIBIT THE USE OF ALTERNATE, sidewalks to connect logical destinations away COST-SAVING PEDESTRIAN from roads where possible. Allow alternate WALKWAYS lower cost materials where feasible. PARKING STANDARDS CAN Reduce the size of a percentage of the stalls to 5 CONSUME MORE LAND THAN accommodate smaller compact cars.

CONEWAGO TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN October 14, 2009 10-9 Supply of Land, Affordable Housing Types, and Design Standards Problem Potential Solutions NECESSARY, ESPECIALLY IN Consider linking the number of required parking MULTIFAMILY DEVELOPMENTS spaces to the number of bedrooms, rather than the number of units in multifamily developments. Revise zoning provisions in select areas to facilitate conversion or alteration of an existing single family dwelling into two residential units (an accessory apartment) subordinate to the primary dwelling, or into two or more residential units (residential conversions) Allow the addition of a single, small elder cottage to a single family lot to be used by either elderly or disabled family members related to the occupant of the principal dwelling MANY ZONING ORDINANCES and to be removed from the property when no LIMIT AFFORDABLE HOUSING longer occupied. 6 OPPORTUNITIES FOR ONE AND Adjust zoning ordinances to allow establishment TWO PERSON HOUSEHOLDS AND of in-law quarters within existing single family ELDERLY HOUSEHOLDS dwellings. Allow shared housing which involves the occupancy of a dwelling unit by two or more unrelated individuals who live as a single housekeeping unit and share kitchen, bath, living, and dining space. Allow group homes for foster children, the developmentally and mentally disabled, and the elderly by right in all districts where single family dwellings are permitted. Source: Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development; RETTEW Associates, Inc.

Application Processing Problem Potential Solution MEDIUM AND HIGHER DENSITY Allow for higher density uses by right in HOUSING DEVELOPMENTS designated areas where public water and sewer 1 USUALLY ENCOUNTER MORE RED are available. TAPE IN THE APPLICATION Allow various types of multifamily structures by PROCESS. right. Sponsor educational seminars on good design techniques. Develop a library of preferred design styles that GOOD COMMUNITY DESIGN NEEDS 2 can be referenced by developers looking to build TO BE ACTIVELY PROMOTED. in the community. Encourage energy efficiency in the design of structures. Offer assistance in the design process. Source: Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development; RETTEW Associates, Inc.

CONEWAGO TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN October 14, 2009 10-10 PRESERVING EXISTING HOUSING STOCK

As the comprehensive plan is implemented it will be important that the township encourage the preservation of existing housing to ensure on-going maintenance and sound and livable structures. Although the township currently does not have large areas of blight or deteriorated homes, it will be necessary for the township to take a proactive approach to encourage on-going maintenance of housing structures. Older properties that are in need of repair should be targeted for conservation and rehabilitation. Property owners should be encouraged and assisted with improvements such as updates to plumbing and electrical systems and weatherproofing to reduce energy consumption.

Conservation

Conservation of existing housing is a technique that is directed towards the prevention of blighted conditions. This technique should be applied to areas with little or no existing blight. The technique involves continued maintenance of structures and properties, repair of deteriorated structures, and enforcement of housing and building code standards.

Rehabilitation

Rehabilitation is a revitalization technique that is to be applied to areas that are experiencing a greater amount of deterioration. The goal of rehabilitation is to turn these places into sound, healthy neighborhoods. This is accomplished through an area wide renovation plan designed to facilitate the rehabilitation of deteriorated structures and properties.

Redevelopment

Redevelopment is the most comprehensive method of removing blight from an area. This technique is directed towards the removal of severely blighted areas through the combined use of conservation and rehabilitation. In a redevelopment project, property is normally acquired by a public body and substantially modified and sold to an agency to improve in accordance with an approved plan. As properties are redeveloped, it is important that the improvements or new structures are designed in a context sensitive manner. New structures should fit into the existing character of the neighborhood by retaining features such as the average setback, depth, height, building materials, façade characteristics, and color scheme.

HOUSING CHOICES TOOLBOX

Conewago Township is dominated by single family homes. Construction trends indicate that this type of structure is still the most commonly constructed in the township. Although this type of structure may be the most popular, other design styles may appeal to different segments of the population. This toolbox lists design styles that the township may consider in the future to encourage diversity in the types of housing available in the township.

Two Family Dwellings Two family dwellings can be in the form of semi-detached structures or duplexes. Semi- detached housing relates to two housing units, side by side, with one shared wall; the term duplex refers to two housing units, one stacked above the other. These types of homes are less costly to heat and are often smaller in size than fully detached single

CONEWAGO TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN October 14, 2009 10-11 family dwellings, resulting in a less costly housing choice. Two family dwellings may be appropriate in village areas of the township.

Accessory Apartments Accessory apartments are private, self-contained units located within an existing dwelling. This type of unit may be used as a rental unit or as a private space for a family member. When rented, accessory apartments are usually less expensive to rent than a regular apartment, increasing affordable rental opportunities. First time home buyers can benefit from the additional income generated by an accessory apartment. Older adults whose children have grown and moved out of the house no longer require a large dwelling. An accessory apartment can allow these individuals to downsize and generate additional income to maintain the entire dwelling. Accessory apartments may also offer families a more private option for caring for an elderly family member.

More than One Dwelling on a Farm Allowing more than one dwelling unit to be constructed on a farm provides an option for farmers and agricultural families comprised of several generations. The additional dwelling may be used by a young family, those “leaving the nest” and wishing to stay in the area, or it may be used by an aging family member. This situation also allows for the dwelling, when not in use by a family member, to be rented to farm labor or otherwise, and offer a means of supplemental income for the farmer. This increases the sustainability of agriculture in the area by offering the farmer an additional source of income that is alternative to the one-time income received from the sale of a piece of the farm that has been subdivided off. In Conewago Township, more than one dwelling on a farm is currently allowed by conditional use.

Focus Growth into Areas of the Township that Have Adequate Infrastructure Guiding residential housing growth to areas of the township that can support it will help to preserve farmland, maintain the rural areas of the township, and reduce sprawl. Residential housing growth should be guided to areas of the township where infrastructure is able to support growth including sewer infrastructure (public or private treatment plants), the road network, and potentially public water infrastructure. Having this infrastructure available allows for a higher density than is suitable for the more rural areas of the township without infrastructure. If the higher density is similar to the density found in the existing villages in the township, and occurs on one portion of the lot, it can allow more of the lot to remain as open space, without encouraging high density on the entire lot.

Encourage Energy Efficiency in New Construction and Improvements to Existing Units Energy costs can represent a significant portion of the costs a homeowner is responsible for. Reducing energy costs and increasing energy efficiency within a dwelling will help to make housing more affordable by saving the homeowner money while conserving resources. Improving the energy efficiency of heating and ventilation, lighting, appliances, and hot water tanks reduces energy costs. Building size and design is also a factor in the amount of energy a structure will use. Large single story buildings will require more energy for heating and cooling than compact multi-story buildings. Site placement and landscaping can also protect a structure from winter winds and save on heating costs.

CONEWAGO TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN October 14, 2009 10-12 Properly maintaining homes will also help to encourage continued energy efficiency. Replacing cracked door or window seals will help to keep heating and cooling costs down.

Prefabrication Nearly 15% of the housing units in the township are mobile homes. This option can be considered in conjunction with the existing mobile homes as an option for additional affordable dwellings. Prefabrication refers to the use of factory assembled housing or building materials. Prefabrication offers increased affordability since the materials are purchased in larger quantities and are assembled with mass production techniques, which reduces labor costs for on-site construction. There are three forms of prefabrication and the savings will vary with each situation. Housing components such as windows, doors, and cabinets can be prefabricated for lower cost. Modular housing refers to prefabricated sections of housing that are assembled onsite. Manufactured housing refers to situations in which the entire house is constructed in a warehouse and shipped to the site intact.

Live / Work Units Live/Work units may be appropriate in village areas of the township, such as Bachmanville and Deodate, if they are designed in a context sensitive manner. These structures offer a mix of commercial and residential uses in the same building. Encouraging owner occupancy of these spaces often encourages better property maintenance and upkeep. First floor commercial uses can add to the character of these places, allow for appropriate neighborhood commercial uses, and support the local economy. In more residential areas, home occupations that are compatible with the residential character of the neighborhood may be more appropriate. A home office or low impact home occupation, such as a beauty salon, can provide opportunities for residents to work at home.

CONEWAGO TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN October 14, 2009 10-13 COMMUNITY FACILITIES PLAN Chapter 11

Residents in the township utilize a multitude of community facilities throughout their lives including public schools, libraries, and emergency services, to name a few. The Community Facilities Profile analyzes the existing conditions and functional adequacy of community facilities in the area; this plan component evaluates the need for community facilities and services in the future, based upon the projected population growth, desired future land use patterns, and existing demand for services.

The Pennsylvania Municipalities Planning Code states that the municipal comprehensive plan must contain, “A plan for community facilities and utilities, which may include public and private education, recreation, municipal buildings, fire and police stations, libraries, hospitals, water supply and distribution, sewerage and waste treatment, solid waste management, storm drainage and flood plain management, utility corridors and associated facilities, and other similar facilities or uses.”

This plan signals the direction that Conewago Township must take to ensure adequate community facilities are available to serve current and future residents. This plan will also look at how different community services influence community character, and the relationships that exist between community facilities and creating livable neighborhoods.

GOAL AND OBJECTIVES

Goal

Support appropriate community facilities and utilities that adequately serve residents and businesses in the township, in a systematic manner that supports current and future development.

Objectives

Work with the Lower Dauphin School District to ensure that area youth are receiving a high quality education in a safe, supportive atmosphere. Work with utility providers to ensure that township residents have continuous access to high quality services. Work with the Dauphin County Emergency Management Agency to coordinate emergency responders in the township. Monitor and maintain existing and planned water and sewer infrastructure to ensure that cost effective, high quality services are provided for township residents in the service area. Evaluate the need for local police service in the township and explore cooperation with surrounding police departments. Encourage increased recycling. Implement the goals and objectives established in the Conewago Township Parks and Recreation Plan.

CONEWAGO TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN October 14, 2009 11-1 OVERVIEW OF KEY FINDINGS

This section revisits the information discussed in the Community Facilities Profile, and discusses other relevant studies that have been undertaken that pertain to community facilities in the township.

Community Facilities Profile

Residents of Conewago Township are served by a variety of community facilities and services that are described extensively in the Community Facilities Profile. These facilities and services are located in Conewago Township, or in proximity to the township and include: The Lower Dauphin School District and Conewago Elementary School Colleges and universities The Conewago Township Municipal Building State police protection Fire protection and emergency services Refuse disposal and recycling Township road maintenance equipment Water system Sewerage system Parks and recreation Churches and faith based organizations

Community Public Meeting

One of the major themes discussed at the community public meeting related to enhanced community facilities and utilities. Specific concerns related to frequent power outages, the lack of high speed internet access, and the different prefix of phone numbers resulting in toll calls within the township. Residents also expressed a need for improved coordination between emergency service providers, and an addressing project to ensure that emergency services personnel are able to find all residences in the township. Meeting attendees also indicated that they need to know who emergency service providers are for different locations in the township, and additional assistance for seniors in the township is needed. Funding community facilities and services was also expressed as a concern. Strengths of the community related to community facilities included Conewago Trail, and the fact that the limited number of community facilities requires fewer taxes to maintain.

Other Relevant Studies

The following studies were considered in the development of the Conewago Township Comprehensive Plan.

Dauphin County Comprehensive Plan The Dauphin County Comprehensive Plan takes the position that the role of Dauphin County in community facilities, utilities, and services is primarily one of planning, advisory, and coordination. The County’s planning responsibilities in solid waste management and stormwater management are required by state legislation, but in all

CONEWAGO TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN October 14, 2009 11-2 cases, implementation by ordinance or contract is handled at the local level. The following recommendations are outlined in the Dauphin County Comprehensive Plan: It is recommended that each municipality make its school district aware of any planned residential development so that the school district can comment on the availability of its facilities to meet the needs of any new students generated by each development. Each school district is encouraged to define the capacities of their schools and each municipality is encouraged to approve only residential developments that do not exceed the existing or planned capacities. Municipalities are encouraged to create regional forces to cover larger areas, including fire, ambulance, and police services. It is recommended that all local governments have an Act 537 Plan and update it as required. Adopt and implement stormwater management plans for all watersheds in Dauphin County. A stormwater management plan provides a mechanism for municipalities within a watershed to plan for and manage increased runoff associated with future development and land use changes. Encourage the adoption of municipal ordinances to implement Act 167 plans. A new Dauphin County water supply needs to be created that should encourage development where infrastructure exists and with available excess treatment capacity, rather than extending services into new areas and increasing costs to both the developer and the municipality/authority that operates the water treatment plant. Dauphin County is required to achieve and maintain a minimum recycling rate of 35% of all municipal waste and source-separated recyclable materials generated within the county.

INTERRELATIONSHIP OF COMMUNITY FACILITIES TO OTHER PLAN ELEMENTS

This chapter focuses on ensuring that adequate community facilities are available to meet the needs of the current and future populations of Conewago Township. Many times, community facilities and community character help to define the quality of life in the township. As such, this chapter is directly related to other elements of the comprehensive plan, including housing and land use. This section looks at these interrelationships and the ways in which they influence the provision of community facilities and the quality of life in the township.

Housing and the Economy

As identified in the community public meeting, housing development has a direct impact on the community facilities and service providers in the township. New residents will demand that adequate services are available; therefore, it is pertinent that Conewago Township adequately plan for projected development and implement necessary community facilities improvements. Housing and economic development are also related to community facilities in terms of the amounts of services they use compared to the amounts they pay for services through taxes. Residential development requires more services than it pays for in taxes, whereas commercial and industrial development offset the cost for these services by using fewer services than they pay for in taxes. Therefore, it will be important for Conewago Township to ensure that there are adequate commercial and industrial establishments in the township to offset the costs associated with new residential development coming into the township. Residents of the township often associate themselves with their place of residence, or neighborhood. Community and neighborhood events, improvements that define

CONEWAGO TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN October 14, 2009 11-3 neighborhoods, as well as service clubs and organizations, can help to enhance the quality of life for residents and further create a sense of place.

Land Use and Transportation

The use of the land influences the demand for community facilities, and conversely, the availability of community facilities can influence the ways in which land can be used. Land use and transportation also affect community facilities by having an influence on the placement of trails and walking paths, the impact on the school district and the connections between the school district, neighborhoods, and other destinations, the demand for and location of parks and recreational facilities, and the provision of water and sewer services.

COMMUNITY NEEDS ASSESSMENT

Educational Facilities

Conewago Township is located in the Lower Dauphin School District (LDSD). Elementary school students in the township attend Conewago Elementary or Londonderry Elementary. Conewago Elementary School has the smallest capacity of the schools in the district. The flexible boundaries that the LDSD employs ensures that class sizes are kept at acceptable sizes in all of the schools. Although this helps to create an optimal learning environment, several students in Conewago Township are required to attend Londonderry Elementary School. It will be imperative that the Township maintain an open line of communication with the LDSD and inform the LDSD of planned residential growth so that it can adequately plan for educational facility improvements. There are also opportunities for the Township to work with the LDSD to involve students in the community and further integrate the visibility of the district in the community. The following represent specific opportunities that the Township and LDSD may consider to enhance the relationship between the LDSD and the Conewago Township community: Consider offering a student government program where high school students from the township attend local government meetings as student representatives, junior supervisors, or junior planning commission members. Continue to actively support the Communities that Care program and find ways to integrate Communities that Care activities in locations in the township. Encourage the formation of extracurricular clubs and organizations that contribute to the community through community beautification and service projects. Work with the LDSD to ensure use of the Conewago Elementary School facilities by the community when the building is not in use for school functions. Continued use of the building by area groups and organizations when it is available, would enable full utilization of this structure.

Conewago Township Municipal Building

The Conewago Township Municipal Building is considered to be in good structural condition. It will be necessary for the Board of Supervisors to evaluate its adequacy as the township moves into the future, and determine if additional space is needed.

CONEWAGO TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN October 14, 2009 11-4 Police Protection

Currently, the entire township is served by the Pennsylvania State Police. The adequacy of police service in the township as compared to the need for a joint police service should continue to be evaluated as the township moves into the future.

Fire Protection and Emergency Services

There are no fire and emergency service providers located within the township, but the township receives service from five fire companies and several emergency services providers. Because of its location, response times can be lengthy in certain areas of the township. Conewago’s geographic location also results in fire and emergency service providers coming from three different counties. This makes it difficult for residents to know who their primary responders are. Conewago Township should work with the Dauphin County Emergency Management Agency to ensure that adequate communications are maintained between the three counties so that residents of Conewago Township continue to receive adequate emergency and fire protection services. To increase awareness of the fire and emergency service providers’ jurisdictions within the township, the township should work with the county to develop a map that could be distributed to residents or placed at the municipal building, or in a newsletter. The township should also communicate regularly with the service providers to gain an understanding of their volunteer and equipment needs, and assist in communicating these needs to township residents. As a long term strategy, the township may also consider the possibility of creating a fire company to be located within the township, or working with one of the existing service providers to determine if it is feasible to locate a satellite station in the township. This is considered a potential long term strategy to be evaluated as the need arises.

Refuse Disposal and Recycling

Private companies and individuals are responsible for refuse collection and disposal through individual contracts with waste haulers. The township may consider a negotiated township- wide contract for waste removal. This could decrease costs for residents, encourage proper waste disposal, and limit the number of days that trash receptacles are placed on the street. The recycling center in the township is heavily used, and the Dauphin County Recycling Hotline and website provides information on proper ways to prepare recyclables. The township should increase awareness of the county’s recycling program and encourage participation by township residents by regularly publishing information in the township newsletter.

Water System

A detailed water resources plan is included in the Natural and Historic Resources Plan element. The township currently relies on private wells and public water in select areas, provided by a public utility. Public water, along with public sewer service may increase the amount of growth in the township.

CONEWAGO TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN October 14, 2009 11-5 Sewerage System

Conewago Township adopted an Act 537 Sewage Facilities Plan in 1998, and the plan is currently being updated through the construction of Phase I and Phase II sewer in certain areas of the township. The township should review and update this plan as necessary. The township has also adopted an on-lot disposal system management ordinance that requires periodic maintenance and pumping of all systems in the township. The ordinance is currently considered to be very effective, but long-term effectiveness of the ordinance and remediation of problem areas should be monitored.

Parks and Recreation

Conewago Township adopted a Parks and Recreation Plan in 2005. It is recommended that the township proceed with implementing the recommended actions set forth in the parks and recreation plan. Since the adoption of the plan, the township appointed an advisory Parks and Recreation Board. This board should annually review the parks and recreation plan and make recommendations to the Conewago Township Board of Supervisors when amendments are necessary. In addition to the acquisition and development of a centralized community park facility, the parks and recreation plan recommends the development of a series of interconnected greenways in the township to serve environmental and passive recreational purposes. Map 11-1 shows proposed greenways along the Conewago Creek, Hoffer Run, and Iron Run, and the proposed location for the community park.

Community Organizations, Events, and Communication

Although this may fall under the realm of ‘recreation’, this section is being considered separately due to the vast range of opportunities for organizations in the township. There are currently several organizations in the township for youth to participate in including athletic organizations and scouting organizations. These organizations enhance the quality of life in the township, and should be supported by the township. There may also be opportunities for these organizations to assist with specific projects or services in the township. Currently, there is a lack of senior and adult organizations and activities in the township. The township should consider implementing or working with surrounding municipalities to develop a transportation assistance program for seniors. A service organization that is geared towards assisting seniors with property maintenance and accessing daily needs may also be an ideal organization to encourage in the township. The township may also want to consider encouraging neighborhood associations or community groups. These groups add to the quality of life in a neighborhood and can help to increase the feeling of a sense of place for residents. Neighborhood groups may initiate activities such as neighborhood beautification, neighborhood watch groups, or social events. Currently, the PTO at Conewago Elementary School hosts the Conewago Country Fair in the fall of each year. Events such as these help to increase community and school pride and should continue to be supported by the township. Should the Township be interested in offering recreational events or classes, the Conewago Elementary School may be an optimal location to hold such events, since there is not currently a community meeting or workshop space at the municipal building. Residents at the community public meeting also expressed a need for enhanced communication of service providers and organizations available to them in the township.

CONEWAGO TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN October 14, 2009 11-6 The township may consider the following methods in increase awareness of the service providers. Post information about the different service providers and organizations in the township newsletter. Create and maintain a calendar of community events at the township building. Facilitate a quarterly meeting of fire and emergency service providers to understand their needs. Consider establishing an agricultural advisory board to communicate the needs of the farming community to the Board of Supervisors as they relate to agriculture, agricultural sustainability, transportation, safety, and various community facilities. Create a welcome packet to distribute to new residents that contains important community and safety information. Consider creating an official township website to convey a wealth of information to the community.

Utility Service Providers

Several discussions at the community public meeting related to inadequate utility services in the township. Residents frequently experience power outages and high speed internet access is not available in all areas. There was also a complaint that related to long distance phone numbers within the township. The township has talked with power companies regarding the frequent power outages. The township may consider contacting the power companies again, if the problems continue, or filing a complaint with the Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission. Residents and businesses in the township may also consider investing in a personal generator, if power outages result in a tremendous inconvenience. Personal generators are now considered to be more affordable than they previously were. Developers may also consider the benefits and costs of burying utility lines underground. Benefits of burying utility lines underground include increased reliability and improved aesthetics in the community. Drawbacks include the high costs that are associated with burying overhead lines that are often paid by the homeowner. Additionally, overhead lines may decrease the frequency of power outages, but the length of time for repair could be extended. It is also important to note that power outages may not always stem from Conewago Township; therefore, burying utility lines may not fix all of the power outage problems. The township may also consider talking with the cable and high speed internet providers. Recent advances in technology should be coordinated with the future land use plan for the township to maximize the efficiency of service. High speed internet access should be available in areas where commercial and residential growth is being accommodated. In more rural and agricultural areas of the township, the costs to extend these services into these areas may outweigh the number of people that are served. Because these are rural areas, residents should be aware that the most recent advances in technology may not be available and that they will need to rely on current availability of service or alternative options such as satellite dishes. The township should also encourage adequate cell phone coverage in the populated areas of the township and along major transportation corridors.

CONEWAGO TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN October 14, 2009 11-7 Derry Township BEAVER

BACHMA

PHEASANT

OUSE NVILLE H WHITE PINE

DEER RUN

SCHOOL

HEMLOCK

CEDAR

NYE South Londonderry Township

ELIZABETHTOWN Lebanon County LAUREL G ATES WOODBIN PRIMROSE

OLD HERSHEY

WITMER E

HERSHEY

CHURCH DOWN TH DOGWOOD

E LANE

ROUNDTOP CHESTNUT

Iron Run BRANDT

AB743 D

O BASLER OAK B

COLEBROOK RHOADS

Hoffer Creek

BLUE RIBBON

RIDGE

KIRBY

MEADOW

AB341 ELL B COLEBROOK

PENNSYLVANIA TURNPIKE DEODATE PENNSYLVANIA TURNPIKE

¨¦§76

HERSHEY

Brills Run

OAK KNOLL

LONDON PRO MAPLEDALE

SPEC

KOSER

MILL

Londonderry Township VALLEY PA 283

AB283 AB283 O M LD EL PA 2 8 ek 3 HE o Cre Conewag R S H E Y

LL I H BEAGLE

Legend

Municipal Boundary Municipal Building Parcel î Church State Road Local Road å School Stream Mount Joy Township Community Water and Sewer k e e Park R E Cr Lancaster County Phase 1 Sewer Service Area F o F g wa HO e Proposed Community Park n Phase 2 Sewer Service Area Co Elizabethtown Borough Proposed Greenway Ultimate Water Service Area

CONEWAGO TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN Map 11-1 October 14, 2009

PA State Plane South, NAD 1983 COMMUNITY FACILITIES PLAN Base Map Source: Copyright (c) 2006. Dauphin County GIS ® Copyright (c) 2007. Tri-County GIS Copyright (c) 2007. Pennsylvania Department of Transportation Copyright (c) 2009. RETTEW Associates, Inc. 01,250 2,500 5,000 7,500 10,000 Feet J:\05\05-01141-007\GIS\11_1_comm_facilities_plan_may21_08.mxd PROJECT NO. 05-01141-007 TRANSPORTATION PLAN Chapter 12

Communities are continually challenged with providing safe, efficient access and mobility for residents and visitors. Planning for transportation involves providing access for employees to local businesses and industries, promoting efficient regional travel for visitors, and enhancing recreational transportation opportunities. The struggle in providing for the needs of automobiles, pedestrians, and other non-motorized forms of transportation is often complicated by the conflicting nature of these various forms of movement. This plan will develop guidelines for the township that will focus on improving the transportation system.

The Pennsylvania Municipalities Planning Code states that the municipal comprehensive plan must contain, “A plan for the movement of people and goods, which may include expressways, highways, local street systems, parking facilities, pedestrian and bikeway systems, public transit routes, terminals, airfields, port facilities, railroad facilities, and other similar facilities or uses.”

GOAL AND OBJECTIVES

Goal

Encourage a safe, coordinated network of roadways that provide increased mobility for residents, agricultural and farm equipment, and goods movement in the township.

Objectives

Review and revise local road classifications in the Conewago Township Subdivision and Land Development Ordinance. Improve safety for automobiles, bicycles, pedestrians, and farm equipment operators through streetscape improvements, designated pedestrian corridors, and traffic calming measures. Work with the Harrisburg Area Transportation Study (HATS) to communicate and coordinate necessary transportation improvements in the township. Develop an official map for Conewago Township. Work with the Dauphin County Area Agency on Aging to establish transit or van service for senior citizens in the township.

OVERVIEW OF KEY FINDINGS

This section revisits the information discussed in the Transportation Profile, and discusses other relevant studies that have been undertaken that pertain to transportation in the township.

Transportation Profile

The Transportation Profile provides a wealth of information on the existing transportation network to include regional access, roadway functionality, traffic volume, level of service, public transportation, and bicycle and pedestrian mobility, among other things. The following key points provide an indication of the transportation infrastructure in the township.

Regional access to Conewago Township is provided by SR 743 and SR 341. SR 283 and Interstate 76, the Pennsylvania Turnpike, travel through the township but neither of these major arterials are accessed in the township.

CONEWAGO TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN October 14, 2009 12-1 In the 1981 Conewago Township Comprehensive Plan, the township developed its own functional classification system that differs slightly from the Tri-County Regional Planning Commission and Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) systems of classifying roads. The township’s current subdivision and land development ordinance sets forth roadway standards for new streets in subdivisions and land developments based on the recommendations and functional classification system listed in the 1981 comprehensive plan: Arterial Street (Class 1): A major street or highway with fast or heavy traffic volumes of considerable continuity and used primarily as a traffic artery for intercommunications among large areas. Collector Street (Class 2): A major street or highway which carries traffic from minor streets to arterial streets including the principal entrance streets of residential development and streets for circulation within such a development. Minor Street (Class 3): A local street used primarily for access to abutting properties. Currently, there is no public transit service to Conewago Township. The Dauphin County Area Agency on Aging maintains a listing of public and private partnership van service companies to provide transportation to residents age 60 and over. Currently, there is no van service provided to Conewago Township residents, but Derry, Londonderry, West Hanover and East Hanover Townships, and Hummelstown Borough all have service available. There are no active rail lines or airport facilities in Conewago Township, but residents have access to passenger rail service terminals in Middletown, Elizabethtown, and Harrisburg. The closest airport facilities are the Harrisburg International Airport that provides passenger and airfreight services, and Reigle Airport, a general aviation airport located in South Londonderry Township. Although the subdivision and land development ordinance requires sidewalks to be installed in all new subdivisions, or land developments, the vast majority of Conewago Township, due to its rural nature, lacks a network of bicycle and pedestrian facilities.

Community Public Meeting

Many comments that were received at the community public meeting were concerns pertaining to traffic matters and other issues involving SR 743. Many people indicated that they were fearful of Route 743 turning into another Route 39, which has seen a great deal of commercial and residential development in the past decade. People discussed the need for turning lanes or traffic lights in certain locations, and indicated that they did not want to see additional commercial or residential development in this area.

Strengths People were pleased with winter maintenance practices and indicated that they liked the conditions of existing rural roads. Residents appreciated that there are no traffic lights and that there are low traffic volumes on some roads. Residents also indicated that they were pleased that there was not a Pennsylvania Turnpike interchange or truck terminals located in the township, and they appreciated not having truck traffic on local roads. Residents also commented on the convenient accessibility in the township.

Issues The meeting attendees discussed issues related to transportation in the township and then ranked the items discussed to determine the most pertinent issues. The concern over traffic congestion, specifically Route 39-type traffic congestion, was rated as the

CONEWAGO TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN October 14, 2009 12-2 number one issue. Heavy traffic on SR 743 and the threat of new developments overburdening existing roadways were tied with the second most votes. Residents were also concerned about many site specific issues, including: Need for a stoplight at SR 743 and Ridge Road Old Hershey Road and Ridge Road should have a 4-way stop sign A 4-way stop is needed at Colebrook Road and Old Hershey Road There is a need for turning lanes on SR 743 in commercial areas Poor road conditions on Colebrook Road between SR 743 and I-76; Schoolhouse Road; and Cedar Road

Other Relevant Studies

The following studies were considered in the development of the Conewago Township Comprehensive Plan.

Harrisburg Area Transportation Study (HATS) 2007 Update to the 2030 Regional Transportation Plan HATS is considered the regional planning organization for Dauphin, Cumberland, and Perry Counties, and also Palmyra Borough, North Londonderry Township, and South Londonderry Township in Lebanon County. Although there are no identified improvements or areas of concern listed in this plan that fall within Conewago Township, the plan does identify several priority bicycle and pedestrian needs and associated actions. The priority needs and actions that may pertain to Conewago Township are listed below: Creation of a Regional Pedestrian/Bicycle Database School sidewalk inventory – This initiative focuses on establishing safe routes to school and connections between neighborhoods and school facilities. State roadway width/shoulder inventory – Such an inventory would allow for an evaluation of general bicycle and pedestrian needs where sidewalks or other, well-defined walkways are otherwise not available or appropriate. “Share the Road” signage inventory – “Share the Road” signs help to increase awareness between different users, i.e. motorists, bicyclists, and pedestrians, on the roadways. An inventory of existing signage will be helpful in understanding the benefits of the signs and identifying locations where additional signs should be installed. The HATS plan states that “Share the Road” signs should be a high priority along designated Bicycle PA routes. Intersection analysis, free right turns – Free right turns can be problematic for bicycles and pedestrians due to the infrequent nature of free right turns. An analysis of these intersections would help determine the types of improvements that could make the intersection safer for bicyclists and pedestrians while still alleviating motorized vehicle congestion. Trail inventory – Trails serve both a recreation and transportation purpose. An inventory of existing and proposed trail facilities is beneficial, particularly in areas where sidewalks are not present. Completion of Existing and Proposed Bicycle/Pedestrian Trails Promote Local and Regional Bicycle/Pedestrian Planning More clearly mark pedestrian crosswalks/crosswalk painting program – Clearly marked crosswalks help to increase motorists’ awareness of crosswalks and decrease speeds, making the crosswalks safer for pedestrians. Update sidewalk/pedestrian walkway ordinances – Review and revise ordinances to ensure that sidewalks or other designated pedestrian walkways are required to be constructed and maintained.

CONEWAGO TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN October 14, 2009 12-3 Install signage indicating bicycle routes – To raise awareness of bicycle routes among bicyclists and motorists, and to alert bicyclists when a road changes its purpose, e.g. when an expressway begins, and if alternate routes are available. Educate bicyclists about highway driving rules – As fuel prices continue to rise, the number of bicyclists is also increasing. However, many novice bicyclists are not fully knowledgeable about roadway rules as they pertain to bicyclists, and novices should be educated through various sources of information. Educate the community about roadway design uniting or dividing a community – Roadway systems that have high redundancy tend to spread out traffic and reduce the need for road widening. By contrast, roadway systems that have low redundancy tend to focus traffic on a small number of roads. This contributes to wider roads with heavier traffic volumes, which makes it difficult and unsafe for bicyclists and pedestrians to use. If municipalities are aware of the impacts that roadway design has on the community, development can be encouraged that unites the community and has the benefit of being bicycle and pedestrian friendly.

Dauphin County Comprehensive Plan The Dauphin County Comprehensive Plan discusses transportation recommendations pertaining to the highway system, transit, freight, airports, and bicycle and pedestrian movement. The plan identifies issues and needs in each category, as well as associated recommendations. The plan seeks to link various forms of transportation with coordinated land use patterns, and promotes cooperation between various agencies.

Pennsylvania Mobility Plan The Pennsylvania Mobility Plan is the state-wide long range transportation plan that was completed by PennDOT in June of 2007. The plan will build upon the current state-wide long range transportation plan, PennPlan, and consider a variety of different scenarios including capacity expansion, system preservation and enhanced operations, improved multimodal connectivity, as well as a series of “what-if” scenarios. The mobility plan goals are as follows: Move people and goods safely and securely. Improve the quality of life by linking transportation, land use, economic development, and environmental stewardship. Develop and sustain quality transportation infrastructure. Provide mobility for people, goods, and commerce. Maximize the benefit of transportation investments.

INTERRELATIONSHIP OF TRANSPORTATION TO OTHER ELEMENTS OF THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN

Transportation is related to many of the other planning components by its very nature. Transportation is linked to housing and the economy in that we rely on transportation for mobility to and from our homes. Various transportation modes and networks are used to move the goods that directly impact our economy. Transportation is also linked to natural resources and recreation. Many people utilize rail trails, bicycle paths, and walking trails as a part of leisurely activity. When transportation improvements are considered, it is important to recognize and plan to mitigate any potential negative environmental affects that result from a proposed transportation improvement. Transportation is also directly related to, and sometimes

CONEWAGO TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN October 14, 2009 12-4 determines, the ways that land is or will be used. This section takes a deeper look at the relationship between land use and transportation.

Land Use

The interrelationship that exists between land use planning and transportation planning must come to the forefront in this plan. Ultimately, linking appropriate transportation infrastructure to the future land use plan will ensure that necessary system improvements occur in areas that are designated to accommodate necessary future growth. It will also ensure that unnecessary transportation improvements do not occur in areas where development is not wanted, as improvements in transportation have the potential to attract different forms of development. In general, the transportation system has one of the greatest influences on the intensity of future growth and development, as the network of roadways in a community affects land use relationships and configurations. Consequently, transportation planning has emerged as one of the most significant aspects of growth management planning in recent years.

Ineffectively linking land use planning with transportation planning will result in an inefficient planning cycle in which deficiencies are magnified as land is developed and traffic increases. Municipalities and regional planning organizations should strive to avoid this reactive cycle as described below: Land development generates vehicle trips Additional trips increase roadway needs Needs dictate roadway improvements Improvements modify access Modified access changes land values Changed land value attracts intensified development Intensified development generates more trips More trips lead back to the second step of the cycle.

Effective transportation planning will schedule improvements based upon the plan for land use. It is proactive in nature and begins with an understanding of existing conditions, and a series of important questions: What will be the magnitude of population and economic activities in the future? Where will these activities be located? Where will these trips be attracted? Which mode of travel will be used? What alternatives/strategies are available to relieve demands on the transportation system? Which route will be utilized to reach the trip destination? What is the best overall transportation system to handle the future trip desires?

CONEWAGO TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN October 14, 2009 12-5 TRANSPORTATION IMPROVEMENT NEEDS

The comprehensive plan committee identified several transportation issues or areas of concern, as listed in Table 12-1 and Table 12-2 and as shown on Map 12-1. Priority issues, based on the severity of each issue and the future land use plan for the township, are shown in Table 12-1 as priority issues.

Table 12-1: Priority Transportation Issues and Areas of Concern Map Recommended General Location Issue 1 Issue 2 Issue 3 Issue # Improvement Bank/pole on North Corner, Install stop sign on Horizontal Vertical 6 Nye Road at Church Sight Restriction poor alignment ,knob and dip Church Road Alignment Alignment on Church Road heading south High Volume 20 Ridge at 743 High Volume Intersection Install left turn lane Intersection Ridge Road at Old Stone wall/ trees/ utility pole 1 Sight Restriction 4-way stop sign Hershey Road at SW corner Trees/brush on NE and NW 2 – needs attention; Down The Lane at Vertical 7 Sight Restriction corners, knob on Roundtop to only 5 houses Down Roundtop Alignment the east the Lane Remove obstructing 8 Roundtop at Old Hershey Sight Restriction Trees/signs on NW corner vegetation Tree/sign/pole on SW corner, Vertical 12 Cedar at Bachmanville Sight Restriction knob on Bachmanville Road 2 Alignment to the north and south Shed/stone 5 Chestnut at Roundtop Sight Restriction wall/bank/vegetation at SW 1 corner Horizontal 9 Old Hershey at SR 743 Intersection poorly aligned 1 Alignment Bank/brush on NE and NW Intersection of Ridge, Vertical Horizontal 10 Sight Restriction corners, knob on Cedar, 1 Schoolhouse, and Cedar Alignment Alignment alignment of intersection Lack of Hairpin turn, no warning sign, Horizontal Structural 11 Schoolhouse at Meadow Proper stone arch culvert, no guide 1 Alignment Safety Signage rail Vision obstruction at all Colebrook at Old Vertical 19 Sight Restriction corners, knobs on Old 1 Hershey Alignment Hershey Road to the north High Volume 21 Colebrook at 743 High Volume Intersection 1 Intersection Poor sight distance making a Vertical 23 Dogwood at Roundtop left turn from Dogwood onto Alignment Roundtop High Accident Horizontal 24 Colebrook at Deodate Poor sight distance Occurrence Alignment Source: Conewago Township Planning Commission

Table 12-2: Additional Identified Transportation Issues Map General Location Issue 1 Issue 2 Issue 3 Issue # Ridge Road at Old Hershey Stone wall/ trees/ utility pole at 1 Sight Restriction Road SW corner Ridge between Chestnut 3 Vertical Alignment Cartway Width Stormwater Numerous knobs, no shoulder and Old Hershey Ridge between Oak and Lack of Proper Narrow curve radius, no 2 Horizontal Alignment Chestnut Signage warning sign Chestnut betwen Ridge and Lack of Proper 4 Horizontal Alignment Hairpin turns, no warning sign Blue Ribbon Signage Shed/stone 5 Chestnut at Roundtop Sight Restriction wall/bank/vegetation at SW corner Bank/pole on North Corner, Horizontal Vertical 6 Nye Road at Church Sight Restriction poor alignment ,knob and dip Alignment Alignment on Church Road

CONEWAGO TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN October 14, 2009 12-6 Map General Location Issue 1 Issue 2 Issue 3 Issue # Trees/brush on NE and NW Down The Lane at Vertical 7 Sight Restriction corners, knob on Roundtop to Roundtop Alignment the east

8 Roundtop at Old Hershey Sight Restriction Trees/signs on NW corner

9 Old Hershey at SR 743 Horizontal Alignment Intersection poorly aligned

Bank/brush on NE and NW Intersection of Ridge, Vertical Horizontal 10 Sight Restriction corners, knob on Cedar, Schoolhouse, and Cedar Alignment Alignment alignment of intersection Lack of Proper Structural Hairpin turn, no warning sign, 11 Schoolhouse at Meadow Horizontal Alignment Signage Safety stone arch culvert, no guide rail Tree/sign/pole on SW corner, Vertical 12 Cedar at Bachmanville Sight Restriction knob on Bachmanville Road to Alignment the north and south Vertical 13 Village of Bachmanville Cartway Width No shoulders, knob Alignment Bank SE corner, knob on Vertical 15 Mapledale at Bellarie Sight Restriction Mapledale to the north and Alignment south Tree/fence/pole/sign on NW 14 Meadow at Colebrook Sight Restriction corner, bank/brush on Northeast corner Trees/brush on NE and SE 17 Hill Road at Mill Road Sight Restriction corners Knob to the south on Old Horizontal 16 Valley at Old Hershey Vertical Alignment Hershey, Curve to the south on Alignment Old Hershey Tree/fence/vegetation on NE Lack of Horizontal and NW corners, hairpin turn, 18 Chestnut at Colebrook Sight Restriction Proper Alignment no warning sign, poor curve Signage alignment Vision obstruction at all Vertical 19 Colebrook at Old Hershey Sight Restriction corners, knobs on Old Hershey Alignment Road to the north High Volume 20 Ridge at 743 High Volume Intersection Intersection High Volume 21 Colebrook at 743 High Volume Intersection Intersection Gates between Cedar and 21 Narrow Road Narrow Roadway Schoolhouse Meadow between 22 Schoolhouse and Narrow Roadway Narrow Roadway Colebrook Poor sight distance making a 23 Dogwood at Roundtop Vertical Alignment left turn from Dogwood onto Roundtop High accident Horizontal 24 Colebrook at Deodate Poor sight distance occurrence Alignment Source: Conewago Township Planning Commission

Analyzing the Issues

The identified transportation issues were prioritized based upon their level of severity and their relationship to the future land use plan. Areas that experience higher volumes of traffic, or that have a tendency to impact more vehicles were given a higher priority status. The township should focus on improving the priority issues, and work with HATS on a regular basis to communicate these issues and associated recommended improvements. Pictures of select locations are shown below. All photographs were taken in April of 2006.

CONEWAGO TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN October 14, 2009 12-7 Figure 12-1: View Looking North on Church Road from Nye Road

Source: RETTEW Associates, Inc.

Figure 12-2: Looking South on Old Hershey Road at Ridge Road

Source: RETTEW Associates, Inc.

CONEWAGO TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN October 14, 2009 12-8 Figure 12-3: Looking East on Roundtop Road from Down the Lane

Source: RETTEW Associates, Inc.

Figure 12-4: Looking Southeast on Bachmanville Road from Cedar Road

Source: RETTEW Associates, Inc.

CONEWAGO TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN October 14, 2009 12-9 Figure 12-5: View Looking West on Roundtop Road from Chestnut Road

Source: RETTEW Associates, Inc.

Figure 12-6: View Looking West on Schoolhouse from Meadow

Source: RETTEW Associates, Inc.

CONEWAGO TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN October 14, 2009 12-10 TOWNSHIP ROAD FUNCTIONAL CLASSIFICATION

The transportation profile notes that the township established a functional classification system for township roadways in the 1981 comprehensive plan. The township’s current subdivision and land development ordinance sets forth roadway standards for new streets in subdivisions and land developments, based on the recommendations and established functional classification of roadways: Arterial Street (Class 1): A major street or highway with fast or heavy traffic volumes of considerable continuity and used primarily as a traffic artery for intercommunications among large areas. Collector Street (Class 2): A major street or highway which carries traffic from minor streets to arterial streets including the principal entrance streets of residential development and streets for circulation within such a development. Minor Street (Class 3): A local street used primarily for access to abutting properties.

After review of the existing functional classification of township roadways, it is recommended that the township revise the classification of certain township roads to better reflect current conditions and level of use. Furthermore, it is recommended that the township revise the subdivision and land development ordinance to ensure that the ordinance references these revised classifications. Table 12-3 displays the revised functional classification of township roads. Changes from the 1981 comprehensive plan are shown in bold.

Table 12-3: Revised Functional Classification of Township Roadways Required Classification Right-of- Roadway Name Roadway Number Number Classification Way Azalea Drive T-333 3 Minor 50’ Bachmanville Road SR-2011 2 Collector 60’ Ballyshannon Drive* T-314 3 Minor 50’ Basler Road T-567 3 Minor 50’ Beagle Road T-311 3 Minor 50’ Beaver Road* T-340 3 Minor 50’ Beechwood Lane* T-329 3 Minor 50’ Bellaire Road SR-2009 2 Collector 60’ Blue Ribbon Drive* T-350 3 Minor 50’ Border Lane T-335 3 Minor 50’ Brandt Road T-688 3 Minor 50’ Castle Maine Court* T-316 3 Minor 50’ Cedar Road T-326 2 Collector 60’ Chestnut Road T-568 2 Collector 60’ Church Road T-565 2 Collector 60’ Colebrook Road SR-341 1 Arterial 60’ Deer Run Road* T-339 3 Minor 50’ Deodate Road T-317 & SR-2007 2 Collector 60’ Dogwood Drive T-334 2 Collector 60’ Elizabethtown Road SR-743 1 Arterial 60’ Elm Road T-315 3 Minor 50’ Fox Chase Drive* T-337 3 Minor 50’ Foxglove Circle T-307 3 Minor 50’ Gates Road T-572 3 Minor 50’ Glenmede Lane* T-319 3 Minor 50’ Harrisburg-Lancaster SR-283 1 Arterial Varies Expressway Hertzler Road T-303 3 Minor 50’ Hemlock Court* T-323 3 Minor 50’ Hill Road T-304 2 Collector 60’ Hoffer Road T-309 3 Minor 50’

CONEWAGO TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN October 14, 2009 12-11 Required Classification Right-of- Roadway Name Roadway Number Number Classification Way Kirby Drive* T-328 3 Minor 50’ Koser Road T-570 2 Collector 60’ Laurel Drive T-312 2 Collector 60’ Mapledale Road T-571 & SR-2008 3 Minor 50’ Meadow Lane T-573 3 Minor 50’ Mill Road T-564 2 Collector 60’ Nye Road T-347 2 Collector 60’ Oak Road T-336 3 Minor 50’ Old Hershey Road T-602 2 Collector 60’ Pennsylvania Turnpike I-76 1 Arterial Varies Pheasant Drive* T-338 3 Minor 50’ Primrose Drive T-331 3 Minor 50’ Rhoads Drive T-569 3 Minor 50’ Ridge Road T-325 2 Collector 60’ Prospect Road T-702 3 Minor 50’ Roundtop Road T-327 2 Collector 60’ Sand Hill Road T-566 2 Collector 60’ Schoolhouse Road T-318 & SR-2013 2 Collector 60’ Valley Road (between Old Hershey Road and T-305 2 Collector 60’ Mapledale Road) Valley Road (west of Old T-305 3 Minor 50’ Hershey Road) Vista Lane T-703 3 Minor 50’ Walnut Lane T-322 3 Minor 50’ Westhampton Terrace* T-313 3 Minor 50’ White Pine Drive* T-324 3 Minor 50’ Woodbine Drive T-331 3 Minor 50’ *Roads listed on PennDOT’s 2nd Class Township Type 5 Map for Conewago Township, Dauphin County, apparently added since 1981 Comprehensive Plan

TRANSPORTATION PLANNING TOOLBOX

The township may consider the following tools as potential solutions to alleviate some of the identified transportation issues.

Pedestrian Mobility

Although the personal automobile will most likely never be replaced in Conewago Township, the safety of pedestrians needs to remain a concern of utmost importance. Especially in the neighborhoods and villages in the township, pedestrians should be able to safely walk, jog, and/or bike from one destination to another. Where it is feasible, encouraging safe pedestrian mobility may encourage decreased use of the automobile and may allow residents to access public and private recreation centers, schools, residential areas, commercial centers, churches, and other community facilities and destinations. Common pedestrian routes connecting these locations should include sidewalks, trails, and designated walking paths.

Pedestrian mobility should also be considered in areas of new development within the township. Incorporating sidewalks, trails, and walking paths into new developments provides a safe means for people to walk for exercise or leisure, in addition to walking to other homes in the neighborhood or village.

CONEWAGO TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN October 14, 2009 12-12 Bicycling

The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania has recognized the importance of pedestrian level mobility and authorized PennDOT to develop a statewide Bicycle and Pedestrian Master Plan. The plan was completed in 1996 and the recommendations form the foundation for guidelines in this plan pertaining to pedestrian and bicyclist safety and mobility.

The plan establishes the following principles: Bicycles are considered to be a vehicle in Pennsylvania. Roadways should, at a minimum, be bicycle compatible.

Bicyclists are classified in one of the following groups according to their level of ability. The plan provides general guidelines for each group:

Group A – Advanced Bicyclist These are experienced riders who can operate under most traffic conditions. They comprise the majority of the users of collector and arterial streets and enjoy the ability to operate at maximum speed with minimum delays. Recommendations to meet the needs of this class of bicyclist include: Provide direct access to destinations usually via the existing street and highway network. Provide sufficient operating space on the roadway or on the shoulder to reduce the need for either the bicyclist or the motorist to change position when passing.

Group B – Base Bicyclist This group consists of casual or new adult and teenage riders who are less confident in their ability to operate in traffic without special provisions for bicycles. Recommendations to meet the needs of this class of bicyclist include: Provide comfortable access to destinations using low speed, low traffic volume, street or designated bike paths. There should be a well-defined separation of bicycles and motor vehicles on arterial and collector streets, or on a separate bike path.

Group C – Child Cyclist This group of cyclists consists of pre-teen riders whose roadway use is initially monitored by parents. Recommendations to meet the needs of this class of rider include: Provide access to key destinations surrounding residential areas including schools, recreation facilities, and other residential areas. Residential streets with low motor vehicle speed limits and low volumes of traffic. Well defined separation of bicycles and motor vehicles on arterial and collector streets or on separate bike paths.

Greenway Planning

Rivers and streams can be a significant asset to the township in terms of maintaining open space, sustaining biological and ecological diversity, and attracting tourism. Introducing bicyclist and pedestrian trails along streams helps to protect the waterway and add to the quality of life in the community. A greenway plan can be a significant planning tool for a municipality as it strives to enhance the environment, encourage health and wellness of the community through recreation, and serve as an economic stimulator by attracting visitors to the township, who may in turn spend money in the township.

CONEWAGO TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN October 14, 2009 12-13

The Conewago Township Parks and Recreation Plan proposes the development of a greenway along the Conewago Creek in the southernmost part of the township. Currently, an official trail has been established across the creek in Lancaster County. This plan supports the recommendations of the parks and recreation plan to establish a greenway in the township along the Conewago Creek.

Right-of-Way Preservation

The practice of right-of-way preservation allows the township the opportunity to acquire additional areas of land needed to accommodate future expansion of transportation facilities or other public improvements associated with safety, access, or aesthetics. Right-of-way preservation can be accomplished through dedication of land or through the use of easements. Right-of-way provisions can be included in a subdivision and land development ordinance.

Official Map

The official map is also discussed in the future land use plan as an effective tool for a municipality to facilitate the planning, acquisition, and implementation of community facilities and transportation improvements. The official map is a useful but underutilized planning tool. Its purpose is to identify public and private lands for which the public has a current or future need. It can be used to legally establish the location of existing and proposed streets, waterways, parks, bikeways, pedestrian paths, floodplains, stormwater management areas, public facilities, intersections needing improvement, and historic sites. Any or all of these features may be shown on the official map. The land that is shown on the map is not a “taking” from the landowner; the municipality must at all times be prepared to compensate the owner for the fair value of the land. The reservation on the map merely gives the municipality the first opportunity to purchase the identified property. The property owner must notify the municipality in writing of intent to develop or subdivide the property. From the date that the municipality receives the notice it has one year to purchase the property, obtain easements, or seek condemnation.

In order to assist with planning, acquisition, and implementation, as well as to inform residents of the township’s future plans and transportation improvements, municipal officials should consider developing an official map. The official map can include existing and proposed publicly owned and operated facilities including the roadway network, water and sewer infrastructure, parks, greenways, and trails.

Access Management

Managing access to and from a roadway’s abutting properties is a valuable tool because it manages the capacity and safety of the roadway. According to PennDOT’s Access Management Model Ordinances for Pennsylvania Municipalities, the Transportation Research Board defines access management as, “the systematic control of the location, spacing, design, and operation of driveways, median openings, interchanges, and street connections to a roadway. It also utilizes roadway design applications, such as median treatments and auxiliary lanes, and the appropriate spacing of traffic signals. The purpose of access management is to provide vehicular access to land development in a manner that preserves the safety and efficiency of the transportation system.” Access management incorporates the delicate balance between constitutional rights, private property rights, and state regulations. The principles of access management seek to limit and consolidate access along major roadways, while promoting a supporting street system and unified access and circulation systems for development.

CONEWAGO TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN October 14, 2009 12-14

Access management programs seek to limit and consolidate access points along major roadways, while promoting a supporting street system and unified access and circulation systems for development. The result is a roadway that functions safely and efficiently for its useful life, and a more attractive corridor. The goals of access management are accomplished by applying the following principles: Provide a specialized roadway system – it is important to design and manage roadways according to the primary functions they are expected to serve Limit direct access to major roadways – roadways that serve higher volumes of regional through traffic need more access control to preserve their traffic function Promote intersection hierarchy – an efficient transportation network provides appropriate transitions from one classification of roadway to another Locate signals to favor through movements – long, uniform spacing of intersections and signals on major roadways enhances the ability to coordinate signals and ensure continuous movement of traffic at the desired speed Preserve the functional area of intersections and interchanges – the functional area is where motorists are responding to the intersection (i.e. decelerating, maneuvering, into the appropriate lane to stop or complete a turn) Limit the number of conflict points – drivers make more mistakes and are more likely to have collisions when they are presented with the complex driving situations created by numerous conflicts. Traffic conflicts occur when the paths of vehicles intersect and may involve merging, diverging, stopping, weaving, or crossing movements Separate conflict areas – drivers need sufficient time to address one potential set of conflicts before facing another Remove turning vehicles from through-traffic lanes – turning lanes allow drivers to decelerate gradually out of the through lane and wait in a protected area for an opportunity to complete a turn, thereby reducing the severity and duration of conflict between turning vehicles and through traffic Use non-traversable medians to manage turn movements – they minimize left turns or reduce driver workload and can be especially effective in improving roadway safety Provide a supporting street and circulation system – a supporting network of local and collector streets to accommodate development, and unify property access and circulation systems. Interconnected streets provide alternate routes for pedestrians, bicyclists, and motorists.

Subdivision and Land Development Ordinance – Public Improvements Design and Construction Standards

Streets, sidewalks, trails, and other public improvements have a direct impact on the character and quality of a municipality or area they serve. Streets should be designed based on their intended function to move traffic and provide for pedestrian circulation and are an important element of the community setting and character. Street, sidewalk, and trail design standards are generally located in municipal subdivision and land development ordinances.

Transportation Capital Improvements Programming

One of the key ingredients to accommodating and guiding growth to the appropriate areas is to ensure that such areas have adequate infrastructure and can accommodate the projected growth. A municipality may develop a schedule of all planned capital expenditures for a particular period (5 to 10 years). The plan should include estimated costs for each project, proposed sources of funding, and the priority of the project within the plan. Such a schedule

CONEWAGO TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN October 14, 2009 12-15 helps to ensure that yearly budgeting and spending priorities are coordinated with the comprehensive plan of the municipality.

The township should consider developing a capital improvements program to include the priority transportation issues, and other identified deficiencies as listed in this plan. Subsequently, the township should then communicate these needs to their respective transportation planning organization, in this case, HATS.

Transportation Impact Fees

Traditionally, municipalities in Pennsylvania have relied on state and county funding to provide major upgrades to their transportation system. There are, however, significant tools provided by the legislature that municipalities often fail to utilize. As a result, many planned transportation improvements are never implemented.

One tool available to municipalities for funding transportation improvements is the establishment of impact fees. Acts 203 and 209 of 1990 provide municipalities with the legal authority to assess impact fees on developers for transportation improvements. The laws authorize the use of impact fees for improvements that are included in a municipality’s Transportation Capital Improvements Program. The costs attributable to development, including acquisition of lands and rights-of-way, legal costs, engineering and planning costs, debt service, and any other cost directly related to road improvements within the service area or areas may be paid for with these fees. In short, developers can be required to contribute to projects that may not lie directly adjacent to their site, costs that cannot be assessed without the use of impact fee legislation.

Impact fees would appear to be a powerful tool for raising the necessary funds to pay for transportation improvements, yet they are rarely used in implementing comprehensive plans in Pennsylvania. The primary reasons for the lack of use are the limited utility of impact fees in areas with existing traffic congestion problems and the fact that the existing laws require a lengthy and expensive process, culminating in the adoption of an impact fee ordinance, before such fees can be assessed. Municipalities often consider the up-front costs associated with implementing an impact fee assessment to be too costly; however, these costs will eventually be recouped through increased efficiency of the transportation system.

Developer Contributions

Even without an impact fee ordinance, developers can be required to mitigate the effects of the traffic generated by their site within their project area. The township should ensure that appropriate traffic studies and subsequent roadway and signal improvements are required of the developer for each new development project. Municipal officials should also be hesitant in granting waivers or accepting fees in lieu of required transportation improvements, as the necessary improvements may never occur. Additionally, municipal officials should encourage developers working in the same area to pool their resources to make necessary roadway upgrades. The subdivision and land development ordinance can provide greater approval, oversight, and control of new development, and can allow local officials to negotiate necessary roadway and other public improvements with developers.

Maintenance Program

A properly integrated regular program of maintenance carries the same level of importance as new capital projects when it comes to maintaining the functionality of a municipal roadway system. Improperly maintained roadways will deteriorate. Drivers may bypass these

CONEWAGO TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN October 14, 2009 12-16 deteriorated routes and in the process put additional traffic on relief routes, increasing the rate at which the relief routes will deteriorate. Intersections where sight distance is inadequate either due to improper construction, or because adjacent landowners have been allowed to encroach upon clear sight triangles, can act as bottlenecks in the transportation system and can increase the incidence of accidents at these locations.

In order to ensure that the township roadways are properly maintained, the township should establish a multiyear maintenance program. To establish this program, the municipal road master and engineer should drive and catalogue the condition of every road. Once this is completed, a prioritized list of maintenance needs, whether they be mill and overlay, tree removal, grading, etc. should be established and approximate costs assigned. These projects should then be placed into a five year program where they can be funded through the establishment of a long-term budget. The road survey should then be completed on an annual basis and the prioritized list updated so that the township continually plans for and finances its maintenance needs in a five year cycle.

Traffic Calming

At the public participation meeting, speeding was identified as an issue in several areas of the township. Corrective measures to curtail speeding include increased police presence and employing traffic calming techniques. Increasing police presence is not always possible and comprehensive safety improvements may not be possible due to existing limitations. In lieu of increasing police presence or reconstructing entire sections of roadway to curtail speeding and other problems associated with vehicular traffic, this plan recommends the incorporation of traffic calming techniques where appropriate. The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation developed a “Traffic Calming Handbook” to provide information on traffic calming and its place on the roadways of Pennsylvania. The handbook contains information on various traffic calming issues such as legal authority, liability, funding, and impacts on emergency services.

Traffic calming began in the Netherlands in the 1960s with the design of “Woonerven” or “living yards.” “Woonerven” integrated motor traffic with pedestrian and bicycle traffic on shared street space. Traffic calming measures are typically limited for use on local streets; however, they have been incorporated on collector streets with predominantly residential land use and on streets through downtown business districts. Because traffic calming devices are designed to slow traffic and reduce cut-through volumes, they are generally not appropriate for use on arterial streets, which are intended to accommodate higher speeds and larger traffic volumes.

Traffic calming measures are mainly used to address speeding and cut-through traffic volumes on neighborhood streets, which often cause intimidating or unsafe conditions for pedestrians and other non-motorized traffic. By addressing high speeds and cut-through volumes, traffic calming can increase both the real and perceived safety of pedestrians and bicyclists, and improve the quality of life within the neighborhood.

Traffic calming devices can be divided into three classifications: horizontal deflection; vertical deflection; and physical obstruction. Examples of traffic calming methods are listed below.

Horizontal Deflection Curb extension / bulb-out – This type of device creates a safer atmosphere for pedestrians by lessening the crossing distance. Narrowing the street width encourages motorists to slow down.

CONEWAGO TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN October 14, 2009 12-17 Chicane – Chicanes are curb extensions that alternate from one side of the street to the other, forming S-shaped curves and encouraging motorists to slow down. Chicanes can also be artificially created by allowing parking on alternating sides of the street. Raised median island / pedestrian refuge – islands in the middle of a crosswalk or intersection that divide the distance pedestrians are required to walk in half and encourage motorists to slow down through the intersection. Traffic Circles – Raised islands, placed in intersections, around which traffic circulates. They are appropriate for neighborhood streets by forcing motorists to drive around the circle, but are not effective for large vehicles, such as fire trucks, or high volumes of traffic. Roundabouts – Roundabouts are circular intersections appropriate for streets with medium to high volumes of traffic and force motorists to decrease their speed by driving around the circle.

Vertical Deflection Textured Pavement – Textured and colored pavement highlights the presence of a crosswalk or intersection. Stamped pavement or alternating paving materials create an uneven surface for vehicles to traverse and may be used to emphasize an entire intersection, pedestrian crossing, or entire street block. Speed Hump and Speed Table – Round raised areas placed across the roadway that are generally 10 to 14 feet long and are 3 to 4 inches high. Speed tables are longer, flat- topped speed humps that are typically long enough for the entire wheelbase of a passenger car to rest on the flat section. Speed humps reduce speeds more than speed tables, but speed tables are good for locations where low speeds are desired but a somewhat smooth ride is needed for larger vehicles. Raised Crosswalk – Raised crosswalks are speed tables at a crosswalk location. They slow traffic and make pedestrians more visible to motorists. Raised Intersections – Flat, raised areas covering an entire intersection that can be marked with alternate paving materials. Raised intersections encourage decreased speed and make the intersection more pedestrian friendly.

Physical Obstruction Diverters – barriers that are placed diagonally through an intersection, creating two L- shaped streets, and forcing traffic to turn. Diagonal diverters maintain full bicycle and pedestrian access while decreasing volume on local streets. Full or Partial Street Closure – barriers placed across one or both lanes of a street to completely or partially close the street to through traffic, decreasing automobile volumes while maintaining pedestrian and bicycle accessibility. Median Barriers – islands located down the center of a street and continuing through an intersection, preventing through movement at a cross street. Triangular Center Island or Forced Turn Island – raised islands that block certain movements on approaches to an intersection. They reduce volumes, improve safety, and make crossing distance shorter for pedestrians. They can force right turns only or tighten a right turn, ensuring slowing or stopping before making a turn.

Gateways

Gateways identify the beginning or the end of distinct places, such as counties and municipalities or villages, districts, or natural areas. They provide a sense of welcome and transition, as well help to orient pedestrians and motorists. Gateway treatments typically include signs, landscaping, lighting, and other amenities, and are typically located at entrances to developed areas such as villages or boroughs, or when transitioning from one natural feature or

CONEWAGO TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN October 14, 2009 12-18 physiographic area to another. Gateways can also serve as a traffic calming device, alerting motorists that they are entering a developed area.

Speed Display Signs

The township may look into working with their local PennDOT office to see if there are any speed display signs available that could be posted on state roads to encourage motorists to slow down.

CONEWAGO TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN October 14, 2009 12-19 12

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CONEWAGO TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN Map 12-1 October 14, 2009 IDENTIFIED

PA State Plane South, NAD 1983 TRANSPORTATION ISSUES Base Map Source: ® Copyright (c) 2006. Dauphin County GIS Copyright (c) 2007. Tri-County GIS Copyright (c) 2007. Pennsylvania Department of Transportation Copyright (c) 2009. RETTEW Associates, Inc. 01,250 2,500 5,000 7,500 10,000 Feet J:\05\05-01141-007\GIS\12_1_transportation_issues17X22_may20_08.mxd PROJECT NO. 05-01141-007 IMPLEMENTATION Chapter 13

INTRODUCTION

The adopted Conewago Township Comprehensive Plan represents a policy guide for decisions and for the orderly development and redevelopment of the region. Its primary mission is to promote and improve the quality of life, health, safety, and conveniences for residents of the township, but such improvements require that the township successfully implement its stated objectives.

The comprehensive plan is not at all a finished document. Rather, it represents a starting point, a handbook if you will, for the township to utilize as it moves forward and is faced with tough decisions. As changes occur in the township and surrounding region, the comprehensive plan should be modified to address changing conditions and verify its applicability to the situations in the region.

After collecting and analyzing data that describe past trends and current conditions, developing a vision that reflects the desires of the community, setting goals for the region, and forming a detailed plan for several components that comprise the community, the next step forward is implementation. It will be up to community leaders and volunteers to carry out and administer the planning program set forth for the region, in order to successfully realize its vision. This chapter has been developed to serve as a guide for the community as it moves into the implementation phase of the comprehensive plan.

ORGANIZATION

The implementation table included in this chapter contains several action items, organized by subject, and prioritized as being short, medium or long term. While these established time frames are meant to serve as a guide, it will be up to the township to determine the applicability of each action item to its current situation at a certain point in time, and to confirm or revise the level of priority. A list of potential funding sources is also provided for each action item.

Each of the action items is meant to support the objectives and overriding goals that are listed in this table, and are also presented in Chapter 1 and in each of the individual plan components. While each plan chapter discusses a variety of tools related to a specific topic that may be utilized in moving the region forward, the action items listed in this table represent very specific items that when carried out, will assist the township in achieving its objectives and goals.

CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS PLAN

In addition to the specific actions that are listed in the implementation table, the township may consider developing a capital improvements program. The purpose of a capital improvements program is to present a budgeting technique for acquisition, major construction, community facility development/improvement and/or other improvements over a fixed period of time (usually five or six years). An effective capital improvement programming process will ensure that plans for community services are carried out. Such a program can also attain other, more specific purposes and/or accomplish the following:

CONEWAGO TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN October 14, 2009 13-1 Allow various improvement proposals to be tested against a set of adopted policies and goals Provide better scheduling of public improvements that require more than one year to complete Provide the opportunity to purchase land before costs go up Provide for long range financial planning and management Help stabilize tax rates through proper debt management Achieve a capital improvement budget that is a compilation of projects together with the amounts and sources of revenue and/or funding for the coming fiscal or calendar year Offer an opportunity for citizens and public interest groups to participate in decision making Contribute to more effective and efficient management of municipal affairs

Two major components of the Capital Improvements Program are the capital improvements and the capital improvements budget. In general, a capital improvement is any valued asset that is expected to provide use or service to the community for a number of years. These improvements are normally considered nonrecurring expenditures for physical facilities associated with the governing body. Some examples of capital improvements are streets and highways, water/sewer system projects, maintenance equipment, landscaping, and other municipal facilities or equipment.

The capital improvements program itself is a multi-year schedule of projects and a planned budget of expenditures necessary for their financing. The program normally covers a five to six year period that includes the upcoming budget year and a five-year period beyond. It is generally proposed that the capital improvements budget and capital improvements program be prepared and amended annually, as part of the regular municipal operating budget.

As Conewago Township moves forward into implementation of the plan, the township should consider developing a capital improvements program to fund planned expenditures.

REVIEWING AND UPDATING THE PLANNING PROGRAM

As previously stated, the comprehensive plan does not represent a finished product; it will need to be reviewed periodically and updated as necessary to ensure that its policies and directives remain applicable. The following general points are meant to assist the municipalities in using the action table, implementing the plan, and making necessary updates.

It is recommended that the comprehensive plan be formally reviewed at least once every two years. Data contained in the profile sections should be updated and analyzed as new data becomes available. Following adoption of the comprehensive plan, and any revisions or amendments to the comprehensive plan, the planning commission and governing body should annually formulate a schedule for the year’s activities related to implementation of the plan. Amendments to the comprehensive plan should be processed in accordance with the Municipalities Planning Code, Act 247 as amended. Citizen participation should be promoted and encouraged during implementation and during the plan’s review and amendment process. Many of the action items will be completed more readily if volunteers are notified and utilized.

CONEWAGO TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN October 14, 2009 13-2 IMPLEMENTATION – LAND USE PLAN

Goal: Preserve the agricultural heritage of the township that allows for coordinated community growth.

Objective 1: Preserve the rural and agricultural character of the township and ensure that agriculture remains a viable industry. Potential Funding Action Lead Party Responsible Time Frame Sources / Partners Utilize the tool box contained in the future land use plan to encourage agricultural preservation in the Planning Commission Municipal budget Medium township and revise ordinances accordingly. Consider allowing conservation by design style development to preserve large tracts of open space within Board of Supervisors, Municipal budget, DCED Medium developments. Planning Commission LUPTAP Review ordinances and consider making provisions that assist farmers with sustaining their businesses Planning Commission, including allowing more than one dwelling on a farm, allowing roadside stands, allowing supplemental Municipal budgets Medium Board of Supervisors businesses that do not compromise the integrity of the farm, and allowing local farmers markets. Work with the Dauphin County Conservation District to increase awareness of and promote agricultural land Dauphin County Board of Supervisors Medium preservation programs. Conservation District

Objective 2: Incorporate natural resources protection initiatives into the future land use plan. Potential Funding Action Lead Party Responsible Time Frame Sources / Partners Update the zoning ordinance and map to incorporate the conservation overlay in sensitive natural areas. Planning Commission, DCED LUPTAP Short (also listed as a natural resources action item) Board of Supervisors Objective 3: As a result of public input, planning commission reviews, and the subsequent direction of the Board of Supervisors, more closely align the future land use plan with the township’s existing zoning. Potential Funding Action Lead Party Responsible Time Frame Sources / Partners DCED Land Use Planning Review and update the Conewago Township Zoning Ordinance and map to reflect the future land use plan Planning Commission, and Technical Assistance Short and map. Board of Supervisors Program (LUPTAP) Planning Commission, Develop an official map. (also included as a transportation action item) DCED LUPTAP Medium Board of Supervisors Update the Conewago Township Subdivision and Land Development Ordinance to reflect the revised local Planning Commission Municipal budget Short road classifications as listed in the transportation plan. (also listed as a transportation action item)

Objective 4: Encourage new development to be consistent with existing development types and densities. Potential Funding Action Lead Party Responsible Time Frame Sources / Partners Review and revise ordinances to ensure that lot configurations, including lot size, setbacks, and building Planning Commission Municipal budget Medium heights, are compatible with existing development patterns. (also listed as a housing action item) Meet with prospective developers to discuss desired design styles and densities. Planning Commission Municipal budget Medium

CONEWAGO TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN October 14, 2009 13-3 IMPLEMENTATION – NATURAL AND HISTORIC RESOURCES PLAN

Objective 1: Ensure that municipal ordinances and regulations adequately support the protection, preservation, and enhancement of natural resources. Potential Funding Action Lead Party Responsible Time Frame Sources / Partners Update the zoning ordinance and map to incorporate the conservation overlay in sensitive natural areas. Planning Commission, DCED LUPTAP Short (also listed as a future land use action.) Board of Supervisors DCED Land Use Planning Review and revise ordinances to ensure that adequate provisions are in place for the protection and Planning Commission, and Technical Assistance Short preservation of natural resources. Board of Supervisors Program (LUPTAP) In land development projects, encourage minimal disturbance of the natural vegetation, and encourage the Planning Commission, DCED LUPTAP Ongoing planting of native species. Board of Supervisors Planning Commission, Encourage open space preservation and the preservation of sensitive natural features in new developments. Ongoing Board of Supervisors Create an Environmental Advisory Council (EAC) to review plans for compliance with natural resources and Dauphin County Board of Supervisors Long environmental conditions. Conservation District

Objective 2: Educate residents on the importance of conserving natural resources in their daily lives. Potential Funding Action Lead Party Responsible Time Frame Sources / Partners Township administrator, Department of Utilize the township newsletter as an educational tool to explain the importance of conserving natural Dauphin County Environmental Protection Medium resources. Discuss water conservation, energy conservation, recycling, and air quality/air pollution. Conservation District (DEP) Develop material that provides tips for residents and farmers on techniques to conserve natural resources in Township administrator, DEP, Dauphin County their daily lives. Publish the tips in the township newsletter and have this information available for residents at Dauphin County Medium Conservation District the township building. Conservation District Educate residents on utilizing concepts of Low Impact Development and stormwater Best Management DEP, Chesapeake Bay Township administrator Long Practices and integrate provisions for these in ordinances. Foundation Utilize the toolbox contained in the natural resources plan as necessary to manage and protect natural DEP, Chesapeake Bay Board of Supervisors Long resources and water resources. Foundation

Objective 3: Promote and manage the health of the Conewago Creek and streams in the township by limiting nutrient pollution, farm runoff, and development in areas prone to erosion and by improving operation and maintenance of on-lot disposal systems. Potential Funding Action Lead Party Responsible Time Frame Sources / Partners Encourage the preservation of floodplains for open space/greenway purposes and support programs that Planning Commission, Chesapeake Bay Long provide or preserve vegetative buffers in floodplains. Board of Supervisors Foundation USDA Farm Service Encourage agricultural operations to limit the access of livestock to streams. Board of Supervisors Ongoing Agency Dauphin County Identify key locations that would benefit from natural resources enhancements and match appropriate Planning Commission, non- Conservation District, Tri- Long resources with needs. profit groups County Conewago Creek Association

CONEWAGO TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN October 14, 2009 13-4 Sewage Enforcement Continue to monitor on-lot disposal systems and mandate the correction of any deficiencies. Officer, Board of DEP Ongoing Supervisors

Objective 4: Encourage environmental education initiatives that raise awareness of the natural resources that are assets to the township and encourage conservation of these resources. Potential Funding Action Lead Party Responsible Time Frame Sources / Partners Tri-County Conewago Work with schools and local groups and organizations to apply environmental education initiatives to real Planning Commission, Creek Association, Lower Short world situations Township administrator Dauphin School District, other organizations

Objective 5: Support the preservation of agriculture and viability of farming in the township. Potential Funding Action Lead Party Responsible Time Frame Sources / Partners Work with the Dauphin County Conservation District to educate farmers on the opportunities available at the Dauphin County county and state levels to encourage farmland preservation including Agricultural Security Areas, Agricultural Township administrator Short Conservation District Easements, and protection from nuisance suits. Dauphin County Work with the Dauphin County Conservation District to target key agricultural areas for preservation. Planning Commission, Medium Conservation District Create a farming advisory committee that serves as an advisory board to the Township Board of Supervisors Dauphin County Board of Supervisors Long to discuss the needs and concerns of farmers in the township. Conservation District Educate residents on farming practices and their importance in the community. Utilize various resources including farm tours, information included in a newsletter, or school presentations to explain the importance Township administrator Farmers Medium of agriculture and its contribution to the food supply.

Objective 6: Establish a network of greenways and open space to protect important ecological resources, preserve sensitive wildlife habitats, and provide for passive recreational opportunities. Potential Funding Action Lead Party Responsible Time Frame Sources / Partners Parks and Recreation As described in the Conewago Township Parks and Recreation Plan, designate the Conewago Creek as the Tri-County Conewago Board, Planning Medium primary greenway in the township, and develop a connected system of greenways in the township. Creek Association Commission Lancaster County Make a connection to the Conewago Recreation Trail located just across the Conewago Creek in Lancaster Parks and Recreation Board Department of Parks and Long County. Recreation Parks and Recreation Coordinate with surrounding municipalities to determine if there are opportunities to link other trails or Board, Planning Surrounding municipalities Long greenways to locations in Conewago Township. Commission

Objective 7: Encourage the identification, documentation, and preservation of historic resources in the township. Potential Funding Action Lead Party Responsible Time Frame Sources / Partners Consider developing a detailed historic resources plan to identify, document, promote, and preserve historic Local or county historical Board of Supervisors Long resources in the township. societies Educate the community through tours of historic sites, historic barns, or through published material of the Local or county historical Board of Supervisors Long history of Conewago Township and the villages of Deodate and Bachmanville. societies.

CONEWAGO TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN October 14, 2009 13-5 IMPLEMENTATION – HOUSING PLAN

Goal: Provide a desirable mix of safe and well maintained housing that meets the needs of current and future township residents of all incomes and family sizes.

Objective 1: Guide new residential housing growth to locations in the township where necessary infrastructure exists or is planned. Potential Funding Action Lead Party Responsible Time Frame Sources / Partners DCED Land Use Planning Review and update the Conewago Township Zoning Ordinance and map to reflect the future land use plan Planning Commission, and Technical Assistance Short and map. Board of Supervisors Program (LUPTAP)

Objective 2: Support the viability of farming and the prevalence of agriculture in the township, and assure that potential new residents are aware of the rural, agriculture character of the township. Potential Funding Action Lead Party Responsible Time Frame Sources / Partners Farmers, Realtors, Educate potential new residents that are considering locating near agricultural development of the impacts Township administrator Dauphin County Ongoing associated with living in an agricultural area and the potential for conflicts with residential development. Conservation District. Consider publishing information about noise, dust, and fumes associated with normal agricultural operations Township administrator, Farmers, Dauphin County Medium in the township newsletter or as a pamphlet available at the township building. Board of Supervisors Conservation District

Objective 3: Evaluate alternative housing options to promote affordability and minimize the loss of land available for agricultural production. Potential Funding Action Lead Party Responsible Time Frame Sources / Partners Utilize the items contained in the toolboxes in the housing plan as deemed necessary and appropriate. Board of Supervisors Planning Commission, Long

Objective 4: Encourage new residential development to be consistent with existing rural style development. Potential Funding Action Lead Party Responsible Time Frame Sources / Partners Review and revise ordinances to ensure that lot configurations, including lot size, setbacks, and building Planning Commission Municipal budget Medium heights, are compatible with existing development patterns. (also listed as a future land use action item)

Objective 5: Encourage new residential development to be constructed in a manner that ensures the value of the home is consistent with a price that current and future residents are able to afford. Potential Funding Action Lead Party Responsible Time Frame Sources / Partners Allow for a mix of housing sizes and values within new developments. Planning Commission Municipal budget Medium

Objective 6: Inform school district and community service providers of planned residential development. Potential Funding Action Lead Party Responsible Time Frame Sources / Partners Communicate with the school district and community service providers on a quarterly or semi-annual basis to Township administrator, School district, emergency Ongoing inform them of approved plans and the number of dwellings. Board of Supervisors service providers

CONEWAGO TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN October 14, 2009 13-6

Objective 7: Review, revise, and/or more systematically enforce township codes that pertain to the quality of life in residential areas. Potential Funding Action Lead Party Responsible Time Frame Sources / Partners Consider developing an ordinance that regulates property maintenance including yard and landscaping Board of Supervisors Zoning Officer Short maintenance.

CONEWAGO TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN October 14, 2009 13-7 IMPLEMENTATION – COMMUNITY FACILITIES PLAN

Goal: Support appropriate community facilities and utilities that adequately serve residents and businesses in the township, in a systematic manner that supports current and future development.

Objective 1: Work with the Lower Dauphin School District to ensure that area youth are receiving a high quality education in a safe, supportive atmosphere. Potential Funding Action Lead Party Responsible Time Frame Sources / Partners Board of Supervisors, Communicate population projections wit the school district and involve district administrators in discussions Lower Dauphin School Planning Commission, Ongoing pertaining to proposed residential development. District Township administrator Township administrator, Communicate with the school district on a frequent basis to gain a firm understanding about their plans for Lower Dauphin School Board of Supervisors, Ongoing expansion or redistricting that impact Conewago Elementary School and/or Conewago students. District Planning Commission

Objective 2: Work with utility providers to ensure that township residents have continuous access to high quality services. Potential Funding Action Lead Party Responsible Time Frame Sources / Partners Communicate problems with power outages to power companies and/or file a complaint with the Board of Supervisors, Power companies Medium Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission if deemed necessary. Township administrator Educate residents on key practices that will assist them during times of power outages, such as the purchase of a personal generator or having an emergency supply kit nearby. Consider putting this information in the Township administrator Power companies Medium newsletter. Communicate with cable and high speed internet service providers to make sure that the population centers Board of Supervisors, Cable and telephone Medium of the township have access to the latest advancements in technology. Township administrator companies

Objective 3: Monitor and maintain existing and planned water and sewer infrastructure to ensure that cost effective, high quality services are provided for township residents in the service area. Potential Funding Action Lead Party Responsible Time Frame Sources / Partners Board of Supervisors, Sewage Enforcement Continue to implement the Act 537 plan for the township and review and update as necessary. Long Planning Commission Officer

Objective 4: Work with the Dauphin County Emergency Management Agency to coordinate emergency responders in the township. Potential Funding Action Lead Party Responsible Time Frame Sources / Partners Dauphin County Develop a map of emergency service providers responding jurisdictions. Township administrator Emergency Management Medium Agency Work with the Dauphin, Lebanon, and Lancaster County Emergency Management Agencies to ensure that effective communications are maintained between the three counties so that residents of Conewago Planning Commission Municipal budget Medium Township continue to receive adequate emergency and fire protection services.

Objective 5: Evaluate the need for local police service in the township and explore cooperation with surrounding police departments. Action Lead Party Responsible Potential Funding Time Frame

CONEWAGO TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN October 14, 2009 13-8 Sources / Partners Monitor response times and effectiveness of the state police and determine if the township needs a local Board of Supervisors Pennsylvania State Police Long police force. Consider a regional police study with surrounding municipalities to determine the feasibility of partnering for Surrounding municipalities, Board of Supervisors Long police services. DCED

Objective 6: Encourage increased recycling. Potential Funding Action Lead Party Responsible Time Frame Sources / Partners Dauphin County Utilize the township newsletter to increase awareness of the recycling services available at the township Township Administrator, Department of Solid Waste Short building. Board of Supervisors Management and Recycling Dauphin County Department of Solid Waste Consider a negotiated township-wide contract for waste removal that incorporates curbside recycling. Board of Supervisors Long Management and Recycling

Objective 7: Implement the goals and objectives established in the Conewago Township Parks and Recreation Plan. Potential Funding Action Lead Party Responsible Time Frame Sources / Partners Parks and Recreation Department of Continue to implement the adopted parks and recreation plan. Board, Conservation and Natural Ongoing Board of Supervisors Resources Parks and Recreation Department of Annually review the parks and recreation plan and update as necessary. Board, Conservation and Natural Ongoing Board of Supervisors Resources

CONEWAGO TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN October 14, 2009 13-9 IMPLEMENTATION – TRANSPORTATION PLAN

Goal: Encourage a safe, coordinated network of roadways that provide increased mobility for residents, agricultural and farm equipment, and goods movement in the township.

Objective 1: Review and revise local road classifications in the Conewago Township Subdivision and Land Development Ordinance. Potential Funding Action Lead Party Responsible Time Frame Sources / Partners Update the Conewago Township Subdivision and Land Development Ordinance with the revised local road Board of Supervisors, Short classifications as contained in this plan. Planning Commission

Objective 2: Improve safety for automobiles, bicycles, pedestrians, and farm equipment operators through streetscape improvements, designated pedestrian corridors, and traffic calming measures.. Potential Funding Action Lead Party Responsible Time Frame Sources / Partners Board of Supervisors, Utilize the toolbox contained in the transportation plan as deemed necessary and appropriate. DCED Long Township administrator

Objective 3: Work with the Harrisburg Area Transportation Study (HATS) to communicate and coordinate necessary transportation improvements in the township. Potential Funding Action Lead Party Responsible Time Frame Sources / Partners HATS, Pennsylvania Board of Supervisors, Annually review and prioritize transportation issues and communicate priority needs to HATS. Department of Ongoing Planning Commission Transportation

Objective 4: Develop an official map for Conewago Township. Potential Funding Action Lead Party Responsible Time Frame Sources / Partners Dauphin County Planning Commission, Include priority transportation projects on an official map that is reviewed and updated as necessary. Emergency Management Medium Board of Supervisors Agency

Objective 5: Work with the Dauphin County Area Agency on Aging (DCAAA) to establish transit or van service for senior citizens in the township. Potential Funding Action Lead Party Responsible Time Frame Sources / Partners Communicate needs with the DCAAA to encourage the establishment of public transportation for seniors or Board of Supervisors DCAAA Short disabled residents in the township. Consider partnering with surrounding municipalities to determine if there is an opportunity to pursue joint Surrounding municipalities, Board of Supervisors Long transit service for seniors and disabled residents. DCAAA

CONEWAGO TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN October 14, 2009 13-10 PUBLIC OUTREACH RESULTS Appendix I

As part of the comprehensive planning process, Conewago Township held a community public meeting on June 12, 2007 at Conewago Elementary School. Approximately 100 residents attended the meeting. The meeting was designed to gain public input on several topics in the community including housing, land use, transportation, natural resources, community facilities, and economic development. Meeting attendees were asked to identify strengths and weaknesses or issues related to each of these topics. Participants were then asked to vote on the issues they felt to be the most important. The identified strengths were not ranked.

This information was utilized in developing the plan components of the comprehensive plan. The plan will focus on capitalizing upon, sustaining, or enhancing the identified strengths, while working to address or guard against any identified current or potential issues that are affecting the township.

In addition to the strengths and weaknesses exercise, residents had an opportunity to comment on each of the preliminary overriding goals. These comments were generally supportive, and were considered when drafting the final goals for the township and the supporting objectives in each plan section.

COMMON THEMES

After analyzing the results of the meeting, several common themes emerged from the items that were commented on. These themes are further described below, and are listed in Chapter 1. Raw data collected at the meeting, in the form of comments made by members of the public, is presented following the analysis.

CONEWAGO TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN Draft June 17, 2009 Appendix-1 Development Needs Many comments that were received at the meeting leaned against encouraging development. People indicated that they do not want more housing and they feel they have enough commercial developments. They do not want to see development encouraged and feel that there is a need to limit high density housing. They are also aware of the associated impacts that development brings with it, including impacts to the schools and transportation infrastructure.

Enhanced Community Facilities Many attendees indicated that they would like to see community facilities and services in the township improved. Specific concerns related to frequent power outages, improved coordination between emergency service providers, and an addressing project to ensure that emergency services personnel are able to find all residences in the township. Technological improvements regarding high speed internet access and the prefix of phone numbers were also expressed as items that needed to be addressed. Residents also expressed a need to know who emergency service providers were for different locations in the township, and a need for additional assistance for seniors.

IDENTIFIED ISSUES BY TOPIC

This section lists specific comments received at the public meeting on each topic that are considered to be concerns or issues. The comments have been ranked by the number of votes that each comment received.

Housing

Issue - Housing Vote Count Concern over high or increasing real estate taxes 35 Do not want more housing 33 Should not encourage development 33 Need to limit high density housing 30 Maintaining rural development patterns 30 Need for noise control 12 Need for traffic impact studies in new developments 11 Concern with over-regulation 10 Need "fair price housing", where costs to pay for 7 schools, etc. are integrated into cost of housing Need to consider the impact of housing on the schools 7 Lack of apartments for people just starting out 6 New developments, lots too small 6 Being forced to hook up to water 5 Fear of having to hook onto public sewer 3 Security 3 Compatibility of new housing with existing 2 Need to be compatibe with surrounding municipalities 1 Impact of medical center expansion - threats on 1 housing development Need to promote a mix of housing types 0

CONEWAGO TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN Draft June 17, 2009 Appendix-2

Community Facilities

Issue – Community Facilities Vote Count 911 should come from Dauphin County regardless of 29 address Consider locating a satellite police station in Conewago 21 Township (Fri-Sun) Funding services and facilities is a concern 20 Frequent power outages 20 Don't need library, parks, or walking paths 13 Making sure emergency services know where you are, 12 addressing project Shouldn't have toll calls within the township, why 367 11 number? Need for township or organization to assist 9 seniors/disabled residents in snow emergencies Need for a community recreation area 9 Communication of who emergency providers are 8 Local police would increase taxes 7 Access to high speed internet 7 Need for better coordination between emergency 7 service providers and jurisdictions Lengthy response times for state police 7 Sewer capacity, Chesapeake Bay Tributary Strategy – new/more regulations require increased costs when 6 increasing capacity Need for a list of "contact info" for new residents 5 Need for local police 2 Need for transportation for seniors 2 Need for township website 1 Overcrowding schools 1 Need for walking paths 0

Natural Resources

Issue – Natural Resources Vote Count Limiting commercial development 55 Preserve agricultural properties 46 Trash - junkyards and dumps 23 Runoff onto adjacent property 17 Coordinate pest control with Dauphin County 13 Control of deer population 9 Spread of fertilizer/sewage on farms 9 Tree replacement 7 Preservation of renewable resource options 7 Increase in coyotes 6 Invasive weeds/poison ivy 5 Preservation of riparian corridor 5 Pesticide usage 4

CONEWAGO TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN Draft June 17, 2009 Appendix-3 Issue – Natural Resources Vote Count Air quality 2 Steep slope development 2 No preservation of headwaters 1 Acceptance of new technology for natural resources 1 issues

Land Use

Issue – Land Use Vote Count Avoid high density residential developments 45 Farmland/woodland preservation 44 No Route 39-type land use for new development 39 No Turnpike interchange development 28 Control non-residential development 27 Avoid supermarket/strip mall 21 No village concept for new development 9 Lack of usable/adequate small-scale public 8 park/pavilion Don’t want sprawl 7 Control "appropriate scaled" non-residential 5 development Harmonious development when promoted with 3 adjacent development Not easy to subdivide for family 2 Development not environmentally friendly- codes 1 Cookie-cutter developments 0 Lack of mineral rights controls 0 Long-term impact of new development on township 0

Economic Development

Issue – Economic Development Vote Count Don't turn Route 743 into Route 39 52 There is not a need for more commercial development 30

Threat of commercial encroaching on agriculture in 29 sewered areas Influence of the Hershey Trust on the township 23 Fear of losing small businesses to large 20 corporations/warehouses/big box stores No nightclubs needed 20 Concern with "lighting up the night" with commercial 14 development Traffic generated by commercial businesses 6

CONEWAGO TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN Draft June 17, 2009 Appendix-4 Issue – Economic Development Vote Count Need to encourage people to support local businesses 5 and local farmsteads Need to think on a regional level 3 Infrastructure cannot support development / is not in 2 place Need for more commercial development 2 Increasing real estate taxes is making it hard for small 2 businesss to survive Economic development should not involve government 1 (only business & bank)

Transportation

Issue – Transportation Vote Count Don't want Route 39-type traffic congestion 39 Route 743 traffic is heavy 25 New developments overburden existing roadways 25 Speeding 14 Roadway conditions 13 Potholes 13 Tresspass on private property - horse, snowmobile 13 Winter roadway maintenance 10 Stoplight on 743 at Ridge Road 8 Tar and chipping 7 Problem with 3-way stop at Old Hershey and Ridge 6 Road, should be 4-way Lack of traffic lights on Route 743 5 Need 3-way at Roundtop Rd and Old Hershey Rd 5 Need 4-way stop at Colebrook Rd and Old Hershey Rd 5 Intersections visibilites are bad 5 Traffic enforcement 4 Roadway widths 4 Lack of speed limit signs 4 No turning lane on 743 in commercial areas 4 Colebrook (Turnpike to 743) road condition, width 4 Lack of bike paths 3 Heavy traffic/pass through 3 Lack of public transportation 2 Billboards/signs along roads 2 Roadways constructed to land use needs 2 Snowplow driver more responsible 2 Pro-Turnpike Interchange 2 Lack of cooperation/communication with PennDOT 1 Schoolhouse/Cedar Road conditions 1 New developments, money for improvements 0 Maximize access to state/federal transportation funds 0 Lack of areas to ride a horse 0

CONEWAGO TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN Draft June 17, 2009 Appendix-5

IDENTIFIED STRENGTHS BY TOPIC

This section lists comments pertaining to each topic that people considered to be strengths, or assets in the township.

Housing Variety of sizes Well-maintained Historic Character Sparse development patterns Rural setting Would like to hook up to sewer on Old Hershey Road and Route 34 Not a lot of cookie-cutter developments Location – housing shouldn’t be on farmland Variety of development styles and locations Good neighbors, take care of each other

Community Facilities Commercial and industrial development is limited Commercial properties are “family based businesses” Daily needs accessible within reasonable distance Limited number requires few taxes to maintain Conewago Trail

Natural Resources Green Trees Wildlife People Quarry mines Diabase/Ironstone formations Quiet Nice folks Lack of heavy polluting industries Farming – best practices Wetlands Wind resources/energy Riparian buffers Historic buildings Farmland preservation Conewago Creek Forest uses Feeder streams Old cemeteries Agricultural Nutrient management Good, fresh air Open space Wildlife Good well water No light pollution

CONEWAGO TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN Draft June 17, 2009 Appendix-6

Land Use Largelots Few developments Farmland Small commercial corridor Small farms/good stewards Family farms No malls Buffer of disparate land uses Small community school No big box stores No strip malls No hotels Quietness Laurel Woods development style Agriculture/woodlands Open space Village (older style)

Economic Development Agricultural economy Small business centers Character of community Less traffic No malls Sewer on Route 743 will promote the economy

Transportation Winter maintenance No public transit Roadway conditions Country roads No truck terminals No traffic lights No PA Turnpike interchange Low traffic on some roads No 18-wheelers on local roads Convenient access

CONEWAGO TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN Draft June 17, 2009 Appendix-7 PRELIMINARY OVERRIDING GOALS

Prior to the public meeting, the committee compiled a list of preliminary overriding goals by which to guide the plan. These preliminary overriding goals were presented at the community public meeting, and residents had an opportunity to comment on each goal. Feedback received on each of the preliminary overriding goals is listed below.

Community Character

Goal: Encourage and maintain the preservation and continuance of the agricultural and rural character that has defined the township, while enhancing the quality of life for all Conewago residents through improvements to the health, safety, and welfare of the community. I have lived in the township for 50 years and the quality of life has been just great as is! Agree 100% (with the first comment) I live here because it is quiet and rural. I treasure the wildlife and the peace. I do not want heavy traffic. Please keep this as a priority. This is one of the main reasons we moved to the township. We had lived in South Londonderry and did not appreciate the rapid/mass development. If crowded neighborhoods, traffic, noise, and expensive services are preferred, there are plenty of nearby communities where one could move to. I agree with all of the above 100% - let us not turn Conewago Township into another Derry Township. This is the foundation – we don’t want to be like the Hanover Townships.

Land Use

Goal: Preserve the agricultural heritage of the township that allows for coordinated community growth. I have lived in the township for 50 years for the country setting that it is. If I wanted it to someday look like Derry Township, I would have moved there. Agree (with the first comment), we need to strongly preserve our country setting, not house upon house. I also agree (with the first comment)! Couldn’t have said it better. Agreed (with the first comment). This is what makes the township unique, special, and beautiful. I agree (with the first comment). It is a great place as is – so called “improving” of a community does not always turn out that way. Let’s keep the character we have here! I chose to raise (my) family here due to open areas; do not want to see this change. I want to live in the country – not in town. I cherish driving to school in the morning where the only traffic jam is the “girls” going out to the other pasture. Please keep this as a priority. We appreciate no stop lights in the township and the “girls” going out to their pastures. YES – that’s who we are – the Woods is a great example of where to build – not farmland. Develop a board to preserve ag. Land preservation is more friendly on the tax base because it does not require services.

CONEWAGO TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN Draft June 17, 2009 Appendix-8 Housing

Goal: Provide a desirable mix of safe and well maintained housing that meets the needs of current and future township residents of all incomes and family sizes. We already have this. Please no new housing developments. Agree (with the first comment) – no more housing developments. More of such is not needed. Agree – but designate marginal farm and wooded land for housing – not our ag based properties.

Transportation

Goal: Encourage a safe, coordinated network of roadways that provide increased mobility for residents, agricultural and farm equipment, and goods movement in the township. I have a real concern with the speeding along our country roads, especially Colebrook Road. There are quite a number of residences and children living along our country roads. Too much traffic during morning commute – people from outside using our roads as shortcuts. I agree (with the first comment) – speeding also on Round Top Road – running stop signs – difficult for kids to bike. A policeman was contacted and one morning passed out tickets. It is becoming increasingly difficult to cross 743 anywhere during rush hours. Speeders are making it unsafe as they rush to 283 exits.

Community Facilities and Utilities

Goal: Support appropriate community facilities and utilities that adequately serve residents and businesses in the township, in a systematic manner that supports current and future development. When possible, move power/phone lines underground (i.e. missed a good opportunity on Ridge Road to bury those lines). Power outages frequent from storms. Will there be public water supplies available? Township website. No cable back Witmer Road. Update electric – our power goes out frequently because we are at the “end of the line”. Stop the insanity of power outages! Trim trees, put wiring underground, etc. We need parks and pools and play areas for our children. Community events – do we have any, how are they advertised?

Natural and Historic Resources

Goal: Preserve and enhance the Conewago Creek, and other historic, cultural, and natural resources that exist in the township, and support initiatives that promote education and increased awareness of the value of these resources. Absolutely! Feeds the Chesapeake. Parks/Rec Area? Preserve the Conewago Creek – all life needs clean water. Absolutely – what are the definitions of historic, cultural, and natural – could mean almost what you want it to.

CONEWAGO TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN Draft June 17, 2009 Appendix-9 Development of a conservation/natural resources zoning overlay district that limits development in riparian areas, wetlands, steep slopes, woodlands, prime farmland, and recharge areas is key.

Parks, Recreation, and Open Space

Goal: Utilize the adopted Conewago Township Parks and Recreation Plan to increase passive and active parks and recreation opportunities for township residents. How about parks, bike trails? What about permission for horseback riding trails? We got D.T.S.A., how about connecting to Derry Township bike paths? (previous comment is a) good idea!

Economic Development

Goal: Support the variety of businesses that operate in the township and those that operate in the region and provide employment to township residents, while sustaining the prevalence of agriculture in the local economy. Need business for tax base, support business. We don’t need more commercial development or strip malls – we have access to shopping and our needs are within a few miles. Need red light on Ridge and 743. Need restaurants and hotels on 743 for Hershey (good tax base) Would like more eateries (no taverns).

CONEWAGO TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN Draft June 17, 2009 Appendix-10