THE BOROUGH OF BRENTWOOD
James H. Joyce - Mayor (1981 - 1997) Ronald A. Amoni,- Mayor (1998-2001) Brentwood Borouph Council (1994 - 1997) Brentwood Borouyh Council (1998 - 2001) Fred A Swanson - President Nancy Patton - President Nancy Patton - Vice President Scott Werner -Vice President Sonya C. Vernau David K. Schade Ronald A. Arnoni Raymond J. Schiffhauer Michael A. Caldwell Marie Landon David K. Schade Martin Vickless Raymond J. Schiffhauer Deborah E. Takach
Borough Solicitor: James Perich, Esq. Borough Engineer: George Pitcher, Neilan Engineers Brentwood Administrative Office: Elvina Nicola Borough Treasurer: James L. Myron Brentwood Tax Office: Katherine Gannis Brentwood Police Department: George Swinney Brentwood Public Works Department: Thomas Kammermeier Brentwood Library: Monica Stoicovy Brentwood Borouph Planninp Commission Brenhvood Zoning HearinP Board Jerry Borst - Chairman Edward Szpara - Chairman Janice Iwanonkiw - Vice Chairperson Phil Hoebler - Vice Chairman Michael Means Robert Haas Michael Wooten Joanna McQuaide Rick Cerminaro Robert Hartshorn Sally Bucci Emanuel Perry Solicitor: Alan Shuckrow, Esq.
Information Compiled and Supplied bv the Followinp: Brentwood Borough Council Brentwood Borough Planning Coinmission Brentwood Borough Citizen’s Advisory Committee Ilrcntwood Ilorough School District Ilrciit wood I3oroiigli Ilislorical Socicly Ilrcii~wood11oro1igIi Voliiiiiccr Fire I )cprirtiiiciil I~rciiiwoodIicoiioiiiic I)cvclopiiicii~ ( ‘orporiilioii Part I: THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN Section 1: Introduction / Vision Statement / Goals and Objectives 1-1 to 1-6 Section 2: Land Use Plan 2-1 to 2-8 Section 3: Housing and Neighborhood Development Plan 3-1 to 3-8 Section 4: Circulation Plan 4-1 to 4-4 Section 5: Community Facilities Plan 5-1 to5-13 Section 6: Special District / Economic Development Plan 6-1 to 6-5 Section 7: Environmental and Historical Preservation Plan 7-1 to 7-3
Part 11: BACKGROUND INFORMATION Section 8: General Environment 8-1 to 8-7 Section 9: Physical Environment 9-1 to 9-1 1 Section 10: Population 10-1 to 10-20 Section 1 1: Land Use 11-1 to 11-9 Section 12: Public and Semi-public Service Facilities 12-1 to 12-12 Section 13: Local Transportation Network 13-1 to 13-5 Section 14: Housing and Neighborhood Conditions 14-1 to 14-8 Section 15: Brentwood Economic Development Conditions 15-1 to 15-14 Section 16: Historic Preservation 16-1 to 16-2 Section 17: Special Districts 17-1 to 17-3 Section 18: Governmental System 18-1 to 18-6
Part 111: OTHER LOCAL / REGIONAL PLANS Section 19: Analysis of Other Local / Regional Plans 19-1 to 19-3
(continued) TABLE OF CONTENTS (continued)
APPENDICES
Appendix A - Municipal Planning Code Requirements for a Comprehensive Plan A-1 to A-3 Appendix B - Examples of a Street Classification System B- 1 Appendix C - Graphic Details - Decade Architectural Municipal Facilities Plan C-1 to C-8 Appendix D - Redevelopment Plan Outline D-1 to D-3 Appendix E - An Example of a Marketing Scope of Service E-1 to E-3 Appendix F - Brentwood Park / Wanley Road Park - Hiking / Nature Trails F- 1 Appendix G - Resolution of the Borough of Brentwood, Pennsylvania Approving G- 1 and Adopting the Brentwood Borough Comprehensive Plan AC Allegheny County APP Approval BC Brentwood Council BBDepts. Brentwood Borough Departments BE Brentwood Engineer BEDC Brentwood Economic Development Corporation BHS Brentwood Historical Society BPC Brentwood Planning Commission BPWD Brentwood Public Works Department BRB Brentwood Recreation Board BSD Brentwood School District BVFD Brentwood Volunteer Fire Department BZHB Brentwood Zoning Hearing Board CDG Community Development Goal CDO Community Development Objective Consu. Consultant Contr. Contractor DED Allegheny Coiinty Depnrtment of Economic Development HND Housing and Neighborhood Development Plan IMP Implementation LU Land Use PA Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development PAT Port Authority of Allegheny County PennDOT Pennsylvania Department of Transportation RA Redevelopment Authority of Allegheny County SHACOG South Hills Area Council of Governments SPRPC Southwestern Pennsylvania Regional Planning Commission THE BRENTWOOD COMPREHENSIVE PLAN
PART I: THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN
SECTION 1: INTRODUCTION THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN INTRODUCTION
Article 111, Section 301 of the Pennsylvania Municipalities Planning similar facilities or uses. Code (hereafter referred to as the MPC) states that: (4.1) A statement of the inter-relationships among the various plan components, which may include an estimate of the environmental, "The comprehensive plan, consisting of maps, charts, and textual energy conservation, fiscal, economic development and social matter, shall include, but need not be limited to, the following basic consequences on the municipality. elements: (4.2) A discussion of short- and long-range plan implementation strategies, which may include implications for capital improvements (I) A statement of objectives of the municipality concerning its future programming, new or updated development regulations, and development, including but not limited to, the location, character and identification of public funds potentially available. timing of future development, that may also serve as a statement of (5) A statement indicating the relationship of the existing and proposed community development objectives. development of the municipality to the existing and proposed (2) A plan for land use, which may include provisions for the amount, development and plans in contiguous municipalities, to the objectives intensity, character and timing of land use proposed for residence, and plans for development in the county of which it is a part, and to industry, business, agriculture, major traffic and transit facilities, regional trends." utilities, community facilities, public grounds, parks and recreation, preservation of prime agricultural lands, flood plains and other areas This PART I of the Brentwood Comprehensive Plan will detail those of special hazards and other similar uses. elements as required under the PA Municipalities Planning Code. The (2.1) A plan to meet the housing needs of present residents and of those components of this comprehensive plan shall become the policy guide individuals and families anticipated to reside in the municipality, which to help municipal officials make decisions- about the phvsical may include conservation of presently sound housing, rehabilitation of development of the community. It is an indication of how the local housing in declining neighborhoods and the accommodation of government wants the community to develop over the next 20 years. expected new housing in different dwelling types and at appropriate densities for households of all income levels. (3) 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. (4) 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 management, storm drainage, and flood plain management, utility corridors and associated facilities, and other
~~ THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN: PAGE NO. 1-1 THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN SECTION 1: STATEMENT OF COMMUNITYDEVELOPMENT OBJECTIVES
1.1 INTRODUCTION
The PA MPC requires that zoning ordinances, enacted after the development objectives. However, the community development effective date of the MPC Act, "should reflect the policy goals of the objectives adopted by the municipality should not be taken for granted municipality as listed in a statement of community development or easily dismissed. Many court cases regarding land use matters have objectives, recognizing that circumstances can necessitate the adoption been decided by whether or not the municipality had a clearly stated and timely pursuit of new goals and the enactment of new zoning intent or objective that it was trying to obtain by either taking or ordinances which may neither require nor allow for the completion of denying an action relative to zoning, subdivision, or land development a new comprehensive plan and approval of new community matters. To disregard these objectives when making such decisions, development objectives. This statement may be applied by reference while perfectly legal, could set precedents that may hurt the to the community comprehensive plan or such portions of the municipality in the future, if such future decisions are not based on a community comprehensive plan as may exist and be applicable or may fair and equitable application of municipal discretion. be the statement of community development objectives provided in a statement of legislative findings of the governing body of the It is also important to point out the hierarchy of statements relative to municipality with respect to land use; density of population; the need the community development objectives. For the purpose of this plan for housing commerce and industry; the location and function of streets the following definitions will apply: and other community facilities and utilities; the need for preserving agricultural land and protecting natural resources; and any other factors VISION STATEMENT: The basic intention(s) of the plan; what is the that the municipality believes relevant in describing the purposes and plan trying to accomplish. intent of the zoning ordinance." GOAL: A major variable to be emphasized by the plan. This passage means that the Borough Council ( the governing body), with the advice of the Planning Commission, should formally adopt a OBJECTIVE: A component part of the goal that is made specific resolution (a statement of legislative findings), approving a set of and/or quantifiable with respect to magnitude, time and who is community development objectives. The MPC is quick to establish, responsible. however, that these objectives are guides and not laws, and that the "timely pursuit of new goals" may be contrary to the statement of community development objectives as presented in either the zoning ordinance or the comprehensive plan. This is extremely important to remember as it provides the Borough Council the flexibility to act on new development opportunities without having to adopt a new set of guidelines, if such an action is in conflict with the existing community
THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN: PAGE NO. 1-2 THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN SECTION 1.2 COMMUNITY VISION STATEMENT
BOROUGH OF BRENTWOOD COMMUNITY VISION STATEMENT
The Borough of Brentwood is a unified, family-oriented community with a strong commitment to civic pride and traditions. While preserving these standards, ideals and traditions, the community shall strive to provide a high quality of life for all, a superior educational system and residential areas with a more suburban character. The community shall support established businesses while encouraging future economic development and effective local government, all within a aafe and clean environment,
We recognize this vision shdl exist within 13renhvood's larger role as part of the "Regional IJrlirin Cloro" wit1 llio "'l'nrnnil I'riorily Aroir of Sorilhwo8tcrn I'unnnylvaniii",
THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN: PAGE NO. 1-3 THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN This Vision Statement requires some explanation to make it more This term shall also connotes an intention to improve the design understandable to the reader. In order to accomplish this the following standards related to street layout and off-street parking. clarifications are provided: EFFECTIVE LOCAL GOVERNMENT: This term was determined UNIFIED, FAMILY-ORIENTED COMMUNITY: This concept is to mean a government that shall operate in such a fashion that it meets generally agreed to mean a neighborhood where the value of the family generally accepted standards for the provision of any and all such is respected and where their is mutual concern for the value of the services that it offers to the taxpayers, citizens and visitors to the family, not only within the nuclear family, but within the extended community. The Southwestern Pennsylvania Regional Planning family, friends and neighbors. Commission (SPRPC), working in cooperation with the former Pennsylvania Department of Community Affairs, recently completed STANDARDS, IDEALS, AND TRADITIONS: There was wide a manual and workbook that sets standards for "effective local agreement in peoples perception of Brentwood that concepts that were government" important to Brentwood where a sense of community, of basically good people working together make their community a better place to live, REGIONAL URBAN CORE: This term is used to describe the and of old time qualities like neighborliness, serenity, safety, western half of the Borough in the Long-Range Transportation Plan cleanliness. In short, a sense of Main Street, America. developed by the SPRPC. With Brownsville Road the dividing line between the Urban Core and the Transit Priority Area, this term QUALITY OF LIFE: Those elements of the life in the community generally refers to that part of the region that is the most densely that contribute to a sense of comfort, security and pleasurable populated. This area is to be the focal point of public and private perceptions of environment in which one lives. Such elements would investment through zoning economic development and other policies. include low crime rates, good schools, nearby health facilities, housing The plan calls for the infrastructure within this area to be rehabilitated costs, housing availability, recreational opportunities, climate, cultural and upgraded, neighborhood identities and integrity to be retained, opportunities and access to higher education. public transit to be improved and intermodal transportation choices to be maximized. SUPERIOR EDUCATIONAL SYSTEM: A system in which the residents feel that their children are getting the best education possible TRANSIT PRIORITY AREA: This area includes the Regional for the tax dollar being spent. There is general consensus that the Urban Core and adjacent areas where patterns and densities of system includes human resources, physical facilities, and educational development are suitable for fixed-route transit service. That portion technology. of the Borough generally east of Brownsville Road has been designated as a Transit Priority Area. Infill development and reinvestment through SUBURBAN CHARACTER: No term within the Vision Statement zoning, economic development and other policies will be encouraged. was discussed more than this concept. This term shall be construed to Again, the existing infrastructure should be rehabilitated or upgraded generally indicate a desire for higher housing values through higher and the community character retained. Transit alternates should be quality maintenance, the retention of existing lot sizes in some areas considered in the planning of all new developments and transit and the evolutionary change to slightly larger lot sizes in other areas. accessibility should be an explicit element of all site design.
THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN: PAGE NO. 1-4 THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN I .3: COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT GOALS & OBJECTIVES
The following statements represent the Community Development Objectives of the Borough of Brentwood as required under Section 606 of the Municipalities Planning Code of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.
1.3.1: LAND USE
1. To prevent the intrusion of incompatible and non-conforming land uses within zoning districts.
2. To maximize the quality development potential of the Route 5 1 corridor.
3. To maintain or enhance residential density patterns within that part of the Borough defined as the Urban Core.
4. To maintain or reduce residential density patterns within that part of the Borough defined as the Transit Priority Area.
1.3.2: HOUSING AND NEIGHBORHOOD DEVELOPMENT
1 . To maintain, enhance, and upgrade the Borough's established residential neighborhoods.
2. To provide for a diversity of housing types to nieet the requirements of all socio-economic groups.
3. To assure that housing development is appropriate in terms of its consistency with the existing character of the neighborhood.
1.3.3: CIRCULATION
1. To promote the development of adequate off-street parking and loading areas for existing and new development,
2. To provide for the classification of the Borough's street system.
3. To improve the community's access to the regional transportation network.
THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN: PAGE NO. 1-5 THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN
1.3.4: COMMUNITY FACILITIES
1. To assure that all areas of the Borough have reasonable access to public utility services.
2. To insure accessibility to a wide range of leisure-time activities, both for the existing population and as an incentive to attract new residents.
3. To insure that all areas of the Borough are well served by police, fire, ambulance and other municipal services.
1.3.5: ENVIRONMENT
1. To maintain and preserve structures and areas of historic importance to the community.
2. To enhance the environmental quality of the Borough.
1.3.6: SPECIAL DISTRICTS
1. To facilitate and encourage the economic revitalization of the Route 5 1 corridor.
2. To facilitate and encourage the economic revitalization of the Brentwood-Whitehall Shopping Center.
3. To build iipon and enhance the commercial revitalization efforts initiated on the Rrowrisville Road corridor.
4. To create a new image for the Borough of Brentwood.
THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN: PAGE NO. 1-6 THE BRENTWOOD COMPREHENSIVE PLAN
PART I: THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN
SECTION 2: THE LAND USE PLAN THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT GOAL CDO COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT OBJECTIVE IMP. APP. Code To prevent the intrusion of incompatible and non- LU- 1 -A Implement a planninglzoning personnel BC conforming land uses within zoning districts. management and training system. BPC LU-I -B Revise and adopt an updated zoning ordinance BC based on published best practices currently being BPC implemented as required by the Comprehensive Con- Plan. sult. LU- 1 -C Prepare and adopt updated sub-division and land BC develoDment ordinances. -BPC
To maximize the quality development potential LU-2-A Create a Planned Economic Reuse District for BC of the Route 5 1 corridor and other commercial 1 Route 51. BPC areas of the Borough. LU-2-B Create a new Brentwood Signage Ordinance. BC BC -BPC
To maintain and/or enhance residential density LU-3-A Create a Planned Residential Distr’ict Overlay for BC BC pattenis within that part of the Borough defined the area between Route 5 1 and Brownsville Road. BPC as part of the Regional Urban Core. - To insure that there is adequate open space and BC BC recreation space within the Borough of B PC Brentwood. BC BC (recreation) should it be annexed by the Borough I1 I’C of Brentwood.
THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN: PAGE NO. 2-1 THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN
THE LAND USE PLAN: According to Section 301 of the Municipalities Planning Code the 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.
I I I I I I I Element CDG Community Dev. Goal CDO Community Dev. Objective Implementing Estimated Time Frame Code Code Entities Cost
Land Use LU- I To prevent the intrusion of LU- I - Implement a planninglzoning BC $5,OOO/yr Immediate incompatible and non- A personnel management and BPC conforming land uses within training system BZH B
NARRATIVE: Particularly in a densely developed community, it is crucial to have highly qualified individuals on the Planning Commission and Zoning Hearing Board who understand the long-term consequences of the decisions they render. This is also important because these groups must provide thoughtful, professional guidance to the elected officials of the Borough in the important areas of physical planning and development.
Actions that should be taken to achieve this objective include the following:
1. Members of the Planning Commission and Zoning Hearing Board, including any employees or consultants, should be selected on the basis of their interest in and knowledge of the community planning function.
2. Planning Commission and Zoning Hearing Board members and/or other planning personnel are encouraged to, and do, take advantage of appropriate training opportunities to enhance their knowledge and skills.
3. The Planning Commission and Zoning Hearing Board should adopt By-Laws that govern the organization of these entities and provide operating rules for the conduct of business.
4. Sufficient funds should be appropriated annually to permit the Planning Commission and the Zoning Hearing Board to carry out their activities, including the ongoing training of personnel.
TIHE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN: PAGE NO. 2-2 THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN
CDG Community Dev. Goal Community Dev. Objective Implementing Estimated Time Frame Code I E: I Entities cost LU- 1 To prevent the intrusion of LU-I -B Revise and adopt an updated BC $ 25,000 Short Term incompatible and non- zoning ordinance based on BPC conforming land uses within published best practices zoning districts currently being implemented, as recommended by the
NARRATIVE: The Zoning Ordinance is a key tool of community development, an essential component of the program to guide the future change and growth of the community, as well as a critical component in the implementation of the comprehensive plan. The determinations of the proper location of land uses in the community, the desirable limitations on population densities, the requirements of the people for light, air and open space are policy decisions which should not be made outside the context of the community's vision for the community as identified by the Comprehensive Plan.
Among the actions which should be taken in support of this objective are the following:
1. Based upon recommendations made in the Comprehensive Plan, the Borough should revise the zoning ordinance, incorporating the purpose set forth in the Municipalities Planning Code. This revision should be prepared by a planning consultant who is an expert in the complex and technical nature of tlic zoning ortlillilncc revisions rcqiiiretl cintl filn1ili;lr will1 1l1c ciirrciit IcgilI issues htcould iiffcct lllc ordiniincc.
2; The Dorough slioiiltl designate or appoint R Zoiiiiig Officer who is reelmisith for liie ~tiiiiiiiistmlioiiof llie Zoning Ortliiiiinco niitl who Iiiis Iiiitlorgoiie the training appropriate for the position.
3. Responsibility for monitoring and enforcing the Borough's land use regulations should be clearly fixed and understood by those involved in the land use regulation process.
4. All land use policies and ordinances should be periodically reviewed and up-dated as appropriate.
5. Review and correct zoning classifications on those properties that have a dual zoning classification.
6. Review and revise the zoning map as necessary.
7. We should not do a spot change of zoning for residential to commercial just to please an aggressive entrepreneur.
THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN: PAGE NO. 2-3 THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN
Element CDG Community Dev. Goal CDO Community Dev. Objective Implementing Estimated Time Frame Code Code Entities cost Land Use LU-1 To prevent the intrusion of LU-I-C Prepare and adopt updated sub- BC See Item Short Term incompatible and non- division and land development BPC LU- 1-B conforming land uses within ordinances Consultant zoning districts
NARRATIVE: Just as important as the Zoning Ordinance to the regulation of land use issues are the sub-division and land development ordinance. The process for the orderly parcelization of land and the recognition of how proposed development affects properties beyond the boundary of the lot to be developed are the primary function of these two municipal regulations.
Among the actions which should be taken in support of this objective are the following:
I. Based upon recommendations made in the Comprehensive Plan, the Borough should review and, if necessary, revise the subdivision and land development ordinance. This revision should be prepared by a planning consultant who is an expert in the complex and technical nature of the sub- division ordinance revisions required and familiar with the current legal issues that could affect the ordinance.
2. All land use policies and ordinance should be periodically reviewed and up-dated as appropriate.
Element CDG Community Dev. Goal CDO Community Dev. Objective Implementing Estimated Time Frame Code Code Entities cost Land Use 1,U-2 To maximize the quality LU-2- Create a Planned Economic BC See Item Short Term development potential of the A Reuse District (PERD) for the BPC LU- 1 -B Route 5 1 corridor and other Route 5 1 corridor Consultant commercial areas of the Borough
THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN: PAGE NO. 2-4 THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN
Actions which would have to be taken to achieve this goal include:
1. Delineation of the PERD area. See Map No. 2.1 at the end of this section.
2. Review of similar Planned Economic Reuse District ordinances.
3. Revision of the Brentwood Zoning Ordinance to incorporate this change into the municipal regulation.
Element CDG Community Dev. Goal CDO Community Dev. Objective Implementing Estimated Time Frame Code Code Entities cost Land Use LU-2 To maximize the quality LU-2-B Create a new Brentwood Sign BC See Item Short Term development potential of the Ordinance BPC LU-I-B Route 5 1 corridor and other Consultant commercial areas of the Borough
NARRATIVE: One of the most outward indications of how well a community manages its land use regulations and the level of quality demanded by a community in its development is encompassed in the sign ordinance. Because signage is so visible, its control and regulation is a vital part of the community development process. An ordinance that is too restrictive is often viewed as a detriment to new development within the community. An ordinance that is too liberal will often result in business districts that look cluttered, uninviting and cheap. Balancing these two issues is crucial to the successful implementation and enforcement of the sign ordinance.
Among the actions which should be taken in support of this objective are the following:
1. Review and adoption of model state of the art signage ordinances. Appropriate models are available from the American Planning Association.
THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN: PAGE NO. 2-5 THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN
Element CDG Community Dev. Goal CDO Community Dev. Objective Implementing Estimated Time Frame Code Code Entities Cost Land Use LU-3 To maintain and/or enhance LU-3- Create a Planned Residential BC See Item Short Term residential density patterns A Overlay District for the area B PC LU- 1 -B within that part of the Borough between Route 5 1 and Consultant defined as the Regional Urban Brownsville Rd.
NARRATIVE: The Long Range Transportation Plan for Southwestern PA identifies this section of Brentwood as being part of the “Regional Urban Core’ and therefore an area where high priority should be given to mass transit-related projects. It is also an area where higher residential densities should be encouraged.
Allowing developers the flexibility to create exciting and innovative residential developments within this part of the municipality is a goal that should be strongly supported by the municipal government. Such a development could serve as the catalyst for a major, market driven revitalization of this area.
Among the actions which should be taken in support of this objective are the following:
I. The Planning Commission should designate such a Planned Residential District, as an overlay zone, within the Zoning Ordinance and revise the ordinance to allow for the implementation of this activity where a developer has been able to acquire five or more acres.
2. A suggested Overlay District is included on Map No. 2.1 at the back of this Section.
Element Community Dev. Goal CDO Community Dev. Objective Implementing Estimated Time Frame Code Entities cost qTo insure that there is adequate LU-4-A Create an Open Space BC See Item Short Term open space and recreation space Zoning District B PC LU- I -B within the Borough of Consultant
THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN: PAGE NO. 2-6 THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN remaining open space in the community for the long term health of the Borough's current and future residents in an important concern of this plan.
Among the actions which should be taken in support of this objective are the following:
1. Rezoning of the Brentwood Park and the Project 70 area as open space.
2. The Development of appropriate standards and controls for this new zoning district and incorporation of this new zoning district into a revised Brentwood Zoning Ordinance.
3. Delineation of the areas to be considered for this rezoning are included on Map No. 2.1.
Element CDG Community Dev. Goal CDO Community Dev. Objective Implementing Estimated Time Frame Code Code Entities cost Land Use LU-4 To maximize the quality LU-4-B Zone the Fishwick Property for BC See Item Short Term development potential of the open space should it be annexed BPC LU- I-B Route 5 1 corridor and other by the Borough of Brentwood Consultant commercial areas of the
NARRATIVE: For some time the Borough of Brentwood has been considering annexing the "Fishwick" property which the Borough of Brentwood owns but which is located in the Borough of Baldwin. Should this property ever be officially annexed by the Borough of Brentwood, it should be zoned for open space because of soil conditions and slope, both of which affect the properties potcntiel of being developcd with structures, and because of the property's proximity to other recreational property.
Actions that should be taken to achieve this objective include:
1. Delineation of the area to be zoned. See Map No. 2.1 at the back of this section.
- THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN: PAGE NO. 2-7
THE BRENTWOOD COMPREHENSIVE PLAN
PART I: THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN
SECTION 3: THE HOUSING AND NEIGHBORHOOD DEVELOPMENT PLAN THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN
II 3: HOUSING AND NEIGHBORHOOD DEVI ,OPMENT PLAN COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT GOAL CDO I COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT OBJECTIVE IMP. AH'.
To maintain, enhance and upgrade the Borough's established HND-I-A Create two (2) to five (5) Residential Advisory Councils BC BC residential neighborhoods. within the Borough of Brentwood. BPC HND-I-B Undertake an outreach program to market existing County BC rehabilitation programs to homeowners and landlords. BEDC HND-I-C Begin a systematic effort to upgrade the residential area BC BC infrastructure. HND-I-D Conduct an annual inspection ofall properties in the Borough BC BC in accordance with the BOCA Code's Maintenance Program. HND-I-E Undertake an outreach program to market "reverse equity BC mortgages" to the elderlv within the communitv.
To provide for a diversity of housing types to meet the HND-2-A Facilitate and encourage the construction of a church- or BC requirements of all socio-economic groups. other non-profit sponsored senior citizen high rises within the AC Borough. PA BEDC
HND-2-B Allow for "Mixed-Use'' development within the proposed BC Route 5 I Planned Economic Reuse District
To assure that housing development is appropriate in terms IIND-3-A Provide architectural workshops for homeowncrs/landowncrs I3lil)C of its consistency with the existing character ofthe wishing to upgradc residential properties.
Io provirlc incciilivcs tliiit will iittrilct yoiiiig liiiiiilics to llic 13orough.
THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN: PAGE NO. 3-1 THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN
THE HOUSING AND NEIGHBORHOOD DEVELOPMENT PLAN: According to Section 301 (a)(2.1) of the Municipalities Planning Code the Comprehensive Plan ... "shall include, ...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.
I I I I I I I Element CDG Community Dev. Goal CDO Community Dev. Objective implementing Estimated Time Frame Code Code Entities cost Housing and HND To maintain, enhance and HND-I-A Create two (2) to five (5) BC $0.00 Short Term N'borhood I upgrade the Borough's Residential Advisory Councils BPC Development established residential within the Borough of neighborhoods Brentwood
NARRATIVE: No one knows the neighborhood better than the people who live and reside in the various parts of the Borough on a day-to-day basis. These residents know the problems, concerns and issues of the neighborhoods of the community on a micro-level. Because of the large number of issues facing the community, establishing Residential Advisory Councils would be a good way to encourage the flow of information between the Borough and the residents, particularly in the areas of housing improvement, tax issues and crime prevention. The Comprehensive Plan recommends the creation of two to five such councils, although two councils, one for each census tract of the community, would seem to be the best answer. This would allow each council to have at its disposal a database on the conditions within its area and could serve as the basis for residents having a better understanding of the issues facing the Borough as a whole. These Councils would be comprised of volunteers, nominated by the residents and appointed by Borough Council to serve as liaisons between the municipality and the residents of the community.
Actions necessary to achieve this objective include:
1. Approval by Borough Council of the validity and need for such Councils, which could occur simultaneously with the adoption of this plan.
2. The creation of a set of by-laws to govern the organization and operating rules of these councils.
3. Technical assistance to help establish these Councils within the community.
~~ ~ THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN: PAGE NO. 3-2 THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN
Element CDG Community Dev. Goal CDO Community Dev. Objective Implementing Estimated Time Frame Code Code Entities cost Housing and HND To maintain, enhance and HND-I-B Undertake an outreach program BC $2,500 Short Term N'borhood 1 upgrade the Borough's to market existing County Development established residential rehabilitation programs to neighborhoods homeowners and landlords
Among the actions necessary to achieve this objective are the following:
I. Workshops to held by the Brentwood Economic Development Corporation, in cooperation with Allegheny County to explain the incentive programs currently available to residents to rehab existing, structures.
2. Deliver program information door-to-door in certain targeted areas of the Borough.
Element CDG Community Dev. Goal CDO Community Dev. Objective Implementing Estimated Time Frame Code Code Entities cost ~~ Housing and HND To maintain, enhance and HND-I-C Begin a systematic upgrade of BC $15,000 Short Term N'borhood I upgrade the Borough's residential area infrastructure. Consultant + + Development established residential Contractor Annual Long Term neighborhoods Capital Outlay
NARRATIVE: An important component of residential area revitalization is to insure that the residential infrastructure - curbs, streets, sidewalks and sewer lines - are in good condition and well maintained. The Borough should begin by developing design guidelines for residential streets that are standard throughout the municipality, and then based on an annual capital improvement plan, begin the process of systematically upgrading all residential streets within the Borough to meet these design standard guidelines.
Among the actions necessary to meet this objective are the following:
1. The retention of an architect to prepare residential street design guidelines.
THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN: PAGE NO. 3-3 mmm~~mmnu~mmm~mm~m~
THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN
2. The classification of all residential streets within the Borough into one of several categories consistent with the design guidelines.
3. The preparation of a capital improvement plan to allocate resources to begin to implement infrastructure upgrades on an annual basis.
CDG Community Dev. Goal CDO Community Dev. Objective Implementing Estimated Time Frame Code Code Entities Cost Housing and HND To maintain, enhance and HND-I-D Conduct an annual inspection of BC $3,000.00 Short Term 11 N'borhood 1 upgrade the Borough's all properties in the Borough in C.E. Off. Development established residential accordance with the BOCA Building Insp. neighborhoods Code's Property Maintenance L Program NARRATIVE: The Borough of Brentwood has adopted the BOCA Code as the standard building code for the municipality. Part of that code contains standards for regular property maintenance and inspection. The Borough should make a concerted effort to inform the residents that the Property Maintenance Code will be adhered to and that regular annual inspections will be conducted in an effort to insure compliance.
Actions necessary to meet this objective include:
1. Preparation and development of a flyer to be mailed to all residents detailing the need for and procedures involved in the annual inspection process.
2. Acquisition of proper documentation forms for the Borough inspectors.
3. Preparation of an annual inspection plan.
I I I I I I I Element CDG Community Dev. Goal CDO Community Dev. Objective Implementing Estimated Time Frame Code Code Entities Cost Housing and HND To maintain, enhance and HND-1-E Undertake an outreach program BC $1,000 Short Term N'borhood 1 upgrade the Borough's to market "reverse equity BEDC Development established residential mortgages" to the elderly within Banks I I neighborhoods I I the community I I 1
NARRATNE: Reverse Equity Mortgages provide a vehicle for those with fixed and limited incomes, but with accumulated equity in their home, to insure that they have the fiinds necessary to undertake rehabilitation required by the code. A strong outreach effort should be made to insure that
THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN: PAGE NO. 3-4 THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN the elderly understand this program, are not threatened by it and have ample opportunity to ask questions about this program .
Actions necessary to meet this objective include: 1. Appointment of a Program Coordinator by the Borough. 2. Close cooperation with the local financial institutions to develop appropriate marketing materials. 3. The presentation of a reverse equity mortgage program, in cooperation with the banks at local AARP group meetings, church meetings, service club meetings and any other gathering where there is a high probability of reaching large numbers of elderly residents.
Element CDG Community Dev. Goal CDO Community Dev. Objective Implementing Estimated Time Frame Code Code Entities cost Housing and HND To provide for a diversity HND-2-A Facilitate and encourage the BC $0.00 Intermediate N'borhood 2 of housing types to meet construction of church-related, BPC Development the requirements of all or other non-profit sponsored AC socio-economic groups senior citizen high rises within PA the Borough BEDC
NARRATIVE: One of the most effective ways to increase the available housing stock for younger families is to facilitate the turnover of housing ciirrcii~lyowiiud 1y tho cltlorly. Aiiioii~llio issiius ilriil iiiu tlolorrwls Io lliis liiiitl ol' tiiriiovor is lliu ILiir crl'tlio ultlurly Iliiit iiiiy siicli iiclioii \voi~Id i*ciiiovc ~liciiilioiii [lie iiciglil~oi.lio~)tlwill1 wliicli llicy rii'c Iiiiiiiiiiir. ( hie wriy 10 rivoitl Muissiic is li)r iioii-prol'il gi~)iipuwilliiii 11ic coiiiiiiiiiiily lo co~istructScctioii 202 Iloiisiiig or o~licr~ypc ol' Iiousiiig spcciliccilly liw the cltlcrly.
Among the actions necessary to meet this objective are: 1. The identification of those entities desirous of and willing to participate in the development of such housing.
2. The identification of viable sites for the construction of such housing.
3. The identification of entities and prograins that are available to assist such housing development.
4. The marketing of the housing to the elderly in the community.
5. The marketing of housing being left behind by the elderly to appropriately targeted age groups.
THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN: PAGE NO. 3-5 THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN
Element CDG Community Dev. Goal CDO Community Dev. Objective Implementing Estimated Time Frame Code Code Entities Housing and HND-2-B Allow for mixed use BC See Item Short Term N'borhood upgrade the Borough's development within the BPC LU- I -B Development established residential proposed Route 5 1 Planned Consultant Economic Reuse District.
NARRATIVE: Another way to increase the availability of housing types within the Borough is to allow for high rise housing to be developed right along Route 5 1. There is a market for those who desire to be in the middle of active areas and close proximity to the bus transit routes is an important selling point. The only action necessary to achieve this objective is inclusion of this type of housing with the revised zoning standards for this area.
Element CDG Community Dev. Goal CDO Community Dev. Objective Implementing Estimated Time Frame Code Code Entities cost Housing and HND To assure that housing HND-3-A Provide architectural BPC $15,000 Short Term N'borhood 3 development is appropriate in workshops for homeowners BEDC Development terms of its consistency with and landlords wishing to Ithe existing character of the upgrade residential properties
NARRATIVE: Any large scale rehabilitation program must work to insure that the results of the improvements are not an uncoordinated, architecturally insensitive "hodge-podge" of rehabilitation jobs. In order to avoid this, the Planning Commission and the BEDC should combine forces to Iiold a series of arcliilectural workshops in the residential areas of Ihc I3orougli to help insure IliiiI residents ilrc scnsitive IO the iirchiIccIiiriiI style of their home and the architectural "patterns" ol'their neighborhood.
Among the actions necessary to achieve this objective are the following:
1, Tlie selection of ti11 iipproprink nrcliitectirrnl firm to condirct worlisl~pswilliiii tlie cnmn~irni~y. 2. 'llic prcpnriitioii of priiitcd Incltcriiil which niay hc tlislrihulctl to rcsitlciils lo iissisl llic~iiin niiikiiig decisioiis ebout ilppropriilte rellovilliolis williili their neighborhood.
3. If money permits, the possible completion of renderings detailing the type of renovations appropriate to the neighborhood.
THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN: PAGE NO. 3-6 THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN
Element CDG Community Dev. Goal CDO Community Dev. Objective implementing Estimated Time Frame Code Code Entities cost Housing and HND To provide incentives that HND-4-A Pass a local tax abatement BC $1 ,000 Immediate N’borhood 4 will attract young families to ordinance to assist new and BPC Development the Borough existing homeowners with I(t property renovations NARRATIVE: Current PA state law allows for municipalities to forego a certain percentage, or all, of the increased revenues resulting from improvements one makes to their residential property. In a community such as Brentwood, where some of the housing is beginning to show signs of deterioration, the cost of such renovations can be expensive, not to mention the added burden placed on the new homeowner due to increased taxes resulting from the improvements. The purpose of this program is to create an incentive for properly owners to make the improvements that will both enhance their property’s value as well as result in long term revenue growth to the Borough.
Among the actions necessary to achieve this objective are the following:
1. Delineation by the Brentwood Planning Commission of the area within the Borough (which may be all or some of the total area within the Borough) where the tax abatement program will be offered. This action must be taken in accordance with the requirements of PA State Law.
2. The adoption by the Borough Council of a tax abatement ordinance, which states the schedule for real estate tax abatement under the program.
I I I I CDG Community Dev. Goal CDO Community Dev. Objective implementing Estimated Time Frame Code Code Entities cost Housing and HN D To provide incentives that HND-4-B Insure that adequate provisions BC See Item Short Term N’borhood 4 will attract young families to are made within the zoning BPC LU- 1 -B Development the Borough ordinance to facilitate the Consultant development of high quality day care centers within the Borough
NARRATIVE: The provision of high quality day care is an increasing concern in this day of single-parent and working-parent households. The I’lal1ning Commission as part of its rcvicw and rcvision of thc zoniiig ordinance, should insure that the standards in the ordinance rclating to tlic rqpIiilioii 01’ thy criw cuiiicrs riw iii coi~li~rii~iii~u\villi Sliilo giiitlcliiius riiitl iiisiiru 11iii1 iil’~i~~diil~lqliipli qiirilily thy C:III’G is riviiiliildu williiii ihu Borough.
THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN: PAGE NO. 3-7
THE BRENTWOOD COMPREHENSIVE PLAN
PART I: THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN
SECTION 4: THE CIRCULATION PLAN THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN
SECTIC i 4: CIRCULATION PLAN COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT GOALS CDO COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT OBJECTIVE IMP. APP.
To promote the development of adequate off-street BC BC parking and loading areas for existing and new B PC development. BC BC -BPC
To provide for the classification of the Borough’s C-2-A To classify and adopt a street classification system BC BC street system. as part of a new zoning ordinance. BPC C-2-B To provide for the creation of street design BC BC guidelines for each street classification with the BPC new sub-divisionAand development ordinance. Con-
To improve access to the regional transportation To actively support and encourage the construction BC network I C-3-A I of the Mon-Favette Exmesswav
THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN: PAGE NO. 4-1 THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN
THE CIRCULATION PLAN: According to Section 301 (a)(3) of the Municipalities Planning Code the Comprehensive Plan ... "shall include, ...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".
Element Community Dev. Goal CDO Community Dev. Objective Implementing Estimated Time Frame Code Entities cost To promote the development C- 1 -A To undertake a detailed BC $20,000 Intermediate of adequate off-street parking parking needs analysis by a BPC +and loading areas for existing qualified traffic planning Consultant I and new development I I consultant I I
NARRATIVE: There is evidence to suggest that Brenhvood could sustain additional commercial development along Brownsville Road, particularly in the area around the municipal building. This is supported by the fact that many small niche retail shops are currently located there, as well as restaurants, banks and other convenience commercial establishments. The vision of a "Shadyside" type commercial area is not beyond the realm of possibility for this area. There is also evidence to suggest that the existing parking inventory is not only inadequate for new development, but is inadequate for the current retail, commercial service mix in the area. It is therefore recommended that a traffic consultant with extensive experience in the area of urban parkirig studies be retained to conduct a detailed parking needs analysis for both the existing business mix as well as for several future-alternative business mix configurations.
In order to achieve this objective the following would be necessary: 1. The preparation of an appropriate scope of service by the Planning Commission for a Parking Needs Analysis with Recommendations to be undertaken by a consultant. 2. The award of a contract to a traffic consultant by Borough Council.
Element CDG Community Dev. Goal CDO Community Dev. Objective Implementing Estimated Time Frame Code Code Entities cost Circulation C-l To promote the development C- 1 -B To review and if necessary, BC $2,500 Intermediate of adequate off-street parking revise the zoning to enhance BPC and loading areas for existing provisions related to parking Consultant I and new development I I I I I
NARRATIVE: The completion of the proposed parking study could result in the definition of new parking standards for the commercial districts of the Borough. At that time, a review and update of the zoning ordinance would be necessary to incorporate any recommendations from the traffic
THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN: PAGE NO. 4-2 THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN consultant into the zoning ordinance. If the traffic study could be completed in time, these changes could be incorporated with those envisioned under Item LU-1-B. If not these changes would have to be incorporated at an additional cost.
Element CDG Community Dev. Goal CDO Community Dev. Objective Implementing Estimated Time Frame Code Code Entities cost Circulation C-2 To provide for the C-2-A To classify and adopt a street BC $20,000 Intermediate classification of the Borough's classification system as part of BPC street system the new zoning ordinance Consultant
Element CDG Community Dev. Goal CDO Community Dev. Objective Implementing Estimated Time Frame Code Code Entities cost Circulation C-2 To provide for the C-2-B To provide for the creation of BC $10,000 Intermediate classification of the Borough's street design guidelines for each BPC street system street classification category Consultant
NARRATIVE: The classification of the Borough's street system is only the first step in the overall infrastructure improvement process. The next necessary step is to create standard design guidelines or design patterns that may be replicated throughout the Borough to provide a sense of unity and cohesiveness to the aesthetic quality of the Borough as well as improve the separation of pedestrian traffic from street traffic.
Among the steps that need to be taken to achieve this goal are the following:
1. Retention of a qualified urban design architect by the Borough.
2. Preparation of design guidelines by the architect in accordance with the classification system developed in C-2-A (For samples, refer to Appendix 'IB?
3. Implementation of street improvements in accordance with those design guidelines.
THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN: PAGE NO. 4-3 THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN
Element CDG Community Dev. Goal CDO Community Dev. Objective Implementing Estimated Time Frame Code Code Entities cost Circulation C-3 To improve access to the C-3-A To actively support and BC $0.00 Immediate regional transportation network encourage the construction of BPC the Mon-Fayette Expressway.
THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN: PAGE NO. 4-4 ----~=mu~~m~~~uJ~u~~m
THE BRENTWOOD COMPREHENSIVE PLAN
PART I: THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN
THE COMMUNITY FACILITIES PLAN THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN
i: COMMUNITY FACILITIES PLAN
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT GOALS CDO I COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT OBJECTIVE I IMP. I APP.
To assure that all areas of the Borough have access to CF- 1 -A Implement the Borough of Brentwood's Corrective BC BC reasonable public utility services. Action Plan BPWD Consu.
To assure accessibility to a wide range of leisure-time CF-2-A To work for the creation of a joint municipal-school activities, both for the existing population and as an district recreation board. I :gD I BC incentive to attract new residents. BRB CF-2-B To hire a recreation director for the Borough and BC BS School District of Brentwood. SD D BRB CF-2-C To undertake a municipal recreational needs study. BC BC I I BRB I I CF-2-D To locate three (3) mini-parks in the western half of BC BC the Borough. BRB CF-2-E To improve the Wanley Road Project 70 area as an BC BC active recreation area. BRB CF-2-F To improve the Brentwood Avenue Project 70 area as BC BC a passive recreation area. BRB CF-2-G To develop a municipal walkway-nature trail. BC BC BRB BPWD
To insure that all areas of the Borough are well served CF-3-A Work with the Brentwood Volunteer Fire Department by police, fire, ambulance and other municipal I to provide significantly upgraded fire station facilities. I :FC I
- THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN: PAGE NO. 5-1 THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN - CF-3-B Renovate the municipal building in accordance with BC BC the 1988 Decade Architectural "Municipal Facilities Consu.
Plan. 'I Contr. CF-3-C Relocate the Public Works Department to Brentwood BC Park. BPWD Contr. CF-3-D Prepare and annually update a Brentwood Capital BC Improvement Plan. B PC BDepts
CF-4 To insure that all municipal facilities are accessible to CF-4-A To make all municipal facilities fully handicapped all members of the community, in accordance with the accessible by the year 2000 1 :FWD Americans with Disabilities Act. Contr. CF-5 To work for the provision of high quality educational CF-5-A To make such renovations/additions or other BSD BS facilities and programs at all levels for the benefit of improvements to existing school facilities, or to such D he residents of the community. new facilities as may be deemed necessary, to insure an educational environment that is in compliance with the standards set by the PA Department 0; Education. I' I I I -
THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN: PAGE NO. 5-2 THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN
COMMUNITIES FACILITIES PLAN: According to Section 301(a)(4) of the Municipalities Planning Code the Comprehensive Plan ... "shall include, ...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 management, utility corridors and associated facilities and other similar facilities or uses.
Element CDG Community Dev. Goal CDO Community Dev. Objective Implementing Estimated Time Frame Code Code Entities cost Community CF To assure that all areas of the CF- 1 -A Continue to implement the BC Unknown Immediate Facilities 1 Borough have access to Borough's Corrective Action BE to Long reasonable public utility Plan BPWD Term I I services I I I I I
NARRATIVE: The moratorium imposed on new development by the drainage problems currently being experienced in both the Saw Mill Run and Streets Run watersheds has a negative impact on proposed development activities within the community. The solution to this problem does not lend itself to either an immediate or short term solution. The correction of this problem will require multi-municipal action. It should however be a top priority that receives preferential consideration on the part of the Borough.
Element CDG Community Dev. Goal CDO Community Dev. Objective Implementing Estimated Time Frame Code Code Entities cost Community CF To assure accessibility to wide CF-2-A To work for the creation of a BC $ 10,000 Short Term Facilities 2 range of leisure-time activities joint municipal-school district BSD both for the existing population Recreation Board BRB and as an incentive to attract
new residents I I I I
NARRATIVE: The implementation of a strong municipal recreation program would do much to enhance the desirability of Brentwood as a residential choice by younger couples. The foundation of a strong program is in place with the recent creation of the Brentwood Recreation Board. The Brentwood Borough Park provides a quality facility to serve as the central focus of an improved recreation program. The creation of a formal recreation board with joint Borough and School District participation is the first step in creating a recreation program that has both programmatic and facilities improvement responsibilities.
Actions necessary to accomplish this task include:
THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN: PAGE NO. 5-3 THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN
1. Application to the PA Department of Community and Natural Resources for inclusion in the DC&NR's Peer to Peer Program. This will provide funds and a recreation consultant to meet with the Borough, the School District and the Recreation Board in an effort to find those areas of common interest, and determine the feasibility of creating a unified and enhanced recreation program.
2. If item No. 1 above proves fruitful, the next step would be the creation of a formal joint recreation board by the Borough and the School District.
Element CDG Community Dev. Goal CDO Community Dev. Objective Implementing Estimated Time Frame Code Code Entities cost Community CF To assure accessibility to wide CF-2-B To hire a recreation director BC $25,00O/yr Short Term Facilities 2 range of leisure-time activities for the Recreation Board BSD both for the existing population BRB and as an incentive to attract
NARRATIVE: The next step in enhancing the recreation program of the Borough, should ajoint recreation board be formed, would be the hiring of a recreation director. This person would serve as a grant writer, recreation program coordinator, facilities improvement manager, and general administrator of the recreation programs sponsored by the Recreation Board. A large portion of the salary of this individual could be paid for by applying for the State's Circuit rider in which two or more municipalities share the cost of a recreation director. The Borough should explore the possibilities of sharing such a recreation director with its municipal neighbors.
Element community Dev. Goal CDO Community Dev. Objective Implementing Estimated Time Frame Code Entities 1 cost To assure accessibility to wide CF-2-C To undertake a municipal BC $20,000 Intermediate Fat i I it ies range of leisure-time activities recreation study BSD both for the existing population BRB and as an incentive to attract
I new residents
NARRATIVE: The third step in the enhanced recreation plan is to conduct a Borough wide recreational needs analysis. The changing demographics of Brentwood require a detailed understanding of the recreational preferences of the municipality to insure that attention is paid to the recreational needs of all the residents. The recreation board would retain the services of a qualified recreation planner to undertake this study and report the results back to the recreation board. This report would then serve as the basis for the implementation of a recreation improvement program and the programming of recreational activities.
THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN: PAGE NO. 5-4 THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 1 Element Community Dev. Goal CDO Community Dev. Objective implementing Estimated Time Frame E:: I E:: Code Entities cost Community CF To assure accessibility to wide CF-2-D To locate three (3) mini-parks BC $120,000 Short Term Facilities 2 range of leisure-time activities in the western half of the BPC to both for the existing population Borough BRB Intermediate and as an incentive to attract BE new residents
NARRATIVE: The recreation section of Part I1 - Background Information, clearly indicates the need for more tot lots/playgrounds within the Borough. This is especially true in the western half of the Borough. Even if no other formal recreation systenis improvements are made, at least two more recreation playground facilities should be constructed between Route 51 and Brownsville Rd. It would be desirable to construct a third playground to serve residents on the Whitehall side of Route 5 1.
I I I I I Element CDG Community Dev. Goal CDO Community Dev. Objective Implementing Estimated Time Frame Code Code Entities cost Community CF To assure accessibility to wide CF-2-E To improve the Wanley Rd. BC $200,000 Long Term Facilities 2 range of leisure-time activities Project 70 area as an active BPC both for the existing population recreation area BRB and as an incentive to attract BE new residents
NARRATIVE: The 1974 Brentwood Borough Recreation and Open Space Plan called for the improvement of the Wanley Rd. area as an active recreation area (See Appendix F) . Since that report was published, no action has been taken to improve this facility. The need for additional community open space and particularly areas for activities such as soccer, deck hockey and skate-boarding may be well served by this future park. This facility should be developed in stages with significant assistance from Allegheny County and the State of Pennsylvania.
Element CDG Community Dev. Goal CDO Community Dev. Objective Implementing Estimated Time Frame Code Code Entities cost Community CF To assure accessibility to wide CF-2-F To improve the Brentwood BC $ 160,000 Long Term Faci I ities 2 range of leisure-time activities Avenue Project 70 area as a BRB both for the existing population passive recreation facility BE and as an incentive to attract Consultant new residents
~ THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN: PAGE NO. 5-5 -=m--w=
THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN NARRATIVE: As with item No. 2E above, the 974 recreation plan calls for the improvement of the Brentwood Avenue Park as a more passive recreation area. Again this Comprehensive Plan supports this recommendation. The primary use of this facility would be as a natural recreation area for hiking, picnicking and other more sedate recreational activities. The possibilities of including a small lake/wetlands (stormwater retention) area within this facility should be considered as a possible way to address some of the issues of the corrective action plan being considered under item CF-I- A.
Element Community Dev. Goal CDO Community Dev. Objective Implementing Estimated Time Frame Code Entities cost To assure accessibility to wide CF-2-G To develop a municipal BC Unknown Long Term Facilities range of leisure-time activities walkway-nature trail BRB both for the existing population BE and as an incentive to attract Consultant new residents
NARRATIVE: Perhaps one of the more interesting aspects of this comprehensive program is the development of a Brentwood Nature-Hiking Trail that would traverse a large part of the eastern half of the Borough. Using the large number of "paper streets" within the Borough a trail connecting Brentwood Borough Park, the proposed Brentwood Avenue Park and the proposed Wanley Rd. Park could be made with relatively little right of way acquisition (See Appendix F). This trail could also potentially be extended to cover a portion of the western half of the Borough down to Route 5 1. Refer to Map #5-1, Community Facilities Improvement Map on Page No. 5-1 1.
Element Community Dev. Goal CDO Community Dev. Objective Implementing Estimated Time Frame Code Entities Cost To insure that all areas of the CF-3-A To work with the Brentwood BC Short Term Faci I it ies Borough are well served by Volunteer Fire Department to H I'C police, fire ambulance and other provide upgraded fire station BVFD municipal services facilities
NARRATIVE: Few items within the comprehensive plan were more controversial or created more uncertainty and confusion than the issue of the location of a new fire station. There is no question that an upgraded fire facility is required by the Brentwood Volunteer Fire Department (BVFD). Clearance problems and floor problems within the existing Borough building make initial egress from the fire station a difficult task. In addition, insufficient space within the station causes responding firefighters to deal with tight quarters when putting on gear. There is no indication that the fire department should be moved from its present location for response time reasons. The BVFD demonstrated through its own video that it can reach even the farthest sections of the Borough within the eight (8) minutes recommended by the Southwestern Pennsylvania Regional Planning Commission's standards for effective local government. The 1988 Decade Architectural Municipal Facilities Study called for the acquisition of land adjacent to the existing municipal building for expansion of the fire station. This Plan clearly states the need for a five (5) bay facility to accominodate THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN: PAGE NO. 5-6 THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN the BVFDs equipment. The Comprehensive Plan calls for the Borough government to make improvements in accordance with the 1988 Decade Architectural study. However, if the Borough should not make the improvements necessary to facilitate an improved fire facility at the existing station, then the Comprehensive Plan calls for the upgrading of BVFD facilities at some other location. The only other potentially viable site that makes sense from a response time consideration would be another site somewhere within the vicinity of the existing station. The "Davis Farm "would appear to be the only financially viable alternative location. The BVFD has initiated plans to undertake the development of a new fire hall at this site. This new fire station and banquet facility should only be considered subject to agreement on the following questions and issues: I. The fire hall portion of this site does not contain the five (5) bays recommended by the Decade Architectural Plan. 2. There are significant architectural differences between the fire hall portion of the BVFD design and the banquet facility portion of the BVFD design. There should be design consistency in both elements of this proposed structure. 3. Concerns remain about the financial viability of the BVFD plan. 4. Concerns remain about grouping so many traffic generating activities at the intersection of Brownsville Rd. and the entrance to Brentwood Borough Park. This already congested intersection will become more congested with the addition of a banquet facility at the address.
I I I I I I I Element CDG Community Dev. Goal CDO Community Dev. Objective Implementing Estimated Time Frame Code Code Entities cost Community CF To insure that all areas of the CF-3-B To renovate the municipal BC Intermediate Facilities 3 Borough are well served by building in accordance with BPC police, fire ambulance and other the 1988 Decade BE municipal services Architectural Municipal Facilities Plan
NARRATIVE: There are many other issues to be dealt with in the provision of high quality services to the residents of the Borough of Brentwood. The Comprehensive Plan recommends the implementation of the 1988 Decade Architectural Municipal Facility Study as the basis for making improvements to other physical facilities of the remaining Borough Departments including Police, Administration, Tax Ofice, EMS and Public Works. A major determinant of the cost of the renovations needed to implement the Decade Study is a short term decision by Borough Council on how to address the facilities problems of the Brentwood Volunteer Fire Department (See Item CF-3-A). Appendix C provides graphic details of the proposed Decade improvements.
Element CDG Community Dev. Goal CDO Community Dev. Objective Implementing Estimated Time Frame Code Code Entities cost Community CF To insure that all areas of the CF-3-C To relocate the Brentwood BC Short Term Faci I it ies 3 Borough are well served by Public Works Department to BPC police, fire ambulance and other Brentwood Park BE municipal services THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN NARRATIVE: Another recommendation of the Decade Architectural Municipal Facility Study that is supported by the Comprehensive Plan is the relocation of the Borough Public Works facility to a new site. The Decade Plan calls for the relocation to the site where the Borough currently stores its bulk materials, in Brentwood Borough Park. Other sites may lend themselves to accommodation of the Public Works Department, but not without substantially higher acquisition and/or development costs.
Element CDG Community Dev. Goal CDO Community Dev. Objective Implementing Estimated Time Frame Code Code Entities cost Community CF To insure that all areas of the CF-3-D To prepare and annually BC $25,000 Immediate Facil it ies 3 Borough are well served by update a Brentwood Capital B PC police, fire ambulance and other Improvement Plan All Depts. municipal services
NARRATIVE: One of the major problems the Borough has faced over the last several years is the lack of a municipal capital improvement plan. This Comprehensive Plan may serve as the basis for the creation of such a plan by identifLing those major actions which need to be undertaken by the Borough. This Plan does not and is not intended to serve as a detailed blueprint for the capital expenditure plans of he Borough. That process must be undertaken through the creation of a Capital Improvement Program, the review and preparation of an annual Capital Improvement Plan, and the approval of an Annual Capital Improvement Budget. This process should be initiated by a qualified planning or engineering firm, well versed in the preparation of such documents. This Program must also be accompanied by a Borough willingness to allocate resources to the implementation of the Plan.
Element CDG Community Dev. Goal CDO Community Dev. Objective Implementing Estimated Time Frame Code Code Entities cost Community CF To insure that all municipal CF-4-A To make all municipal BC Short Term Facilities 4 facilities are accessible to the facilities filly handicapped BPC entire community, in accordance accessible by the year 2000 with the Americans with I I Disabilities Act. I I I I I
NARRATIVE: Federal law requires that all public facilities be accessible to the physically handicapped. As part of its annual Capital Improvement Plan the Borough should allocate resources to insure that this important activity is being implemented
THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN: PAGE NO. 5-8 m----~rnm__=
THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN
- Element CDG Community Dev. Goal CDO Community Dev. Objective Implementing Estimated Time Frame -Code Code Entities cost I Community CF To work for the provision of CF-5-A To make such BC Facilities 5 high quality educational facilities renovations/additions or other BPC and programs at all levels for the improvements to existing BSD benefit of the residents of the school facilities, or to such new facilities as may be deemed necessary, to insure an educational environment that is in compliance with the standards set by the PA Department of Education.
NARRATIVE: It is important to note that the Comprehensive Plan does not mandate that recommendations about the development and improvement of school facilities be part of the comprehensive plan, although Section 301 (a)(4) indicates that the plan may include a plan for "public and private education." The determination of the needs and requirements for educational facility planning is rightly the purview of the School Board. The only official connection between the Comprehensive Plan and the School District is found in Article 111, Section 305 which states that, "Following the adoption of a comprehensive plan or any part thereof by any municipality or county governing body, pursuant to the procedures in Section 302, any proposed action of the governing body of any public school district located within the municipality or county relating to the location, demolition, removal, sale or lease of any school district structure or land shall be submitted to the municipal and county planning agencies for their recommendations at least 45 days prior to the execution of such proposed action by the governing body of the school district." That being the case, it is important to note that no such actions are envisioned by the Brentwood School District at the time of approval of this Comprehensive Plan.
It is also important to note the significant internal struggle which the community has endured over the last several years concerning the direction it should proceed relative to improving the existing school facilities within the Borough. In the summer of 1997, the Brentwood School Board completed full, comprehensive renovations to Moore and Elroy Elementary with respect to the 1996 feasibility studies' recommendations. The current School Board plan calls for substantial comprehensive renovations and improvements in the areas of Technology, Athletics, Science, Administrative, Environmental, Programmatic Improvements, Health and Safety and Code requirements at the Middle and High School facility. The debate over the best direction has included both educational as well as financiaMax considerations.
The Comprehensive Plan makes only the following recommendations concerning these plans: When bond issues are repaid in twenty years, the Borough will have facilities that, despite some buildings being over 100 years old, are structurally sound, not substandard by any official designation, aesthetically THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN: PAGE NO. 5-9 THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN appropriate for the community, and necessary for future projected growth in student population. There is every indication that class size should remain compliant with current Pennsylvania Department of Education rules well into the year 2030.
It is suggested by this Comprehensive Plan that the School District make those improvements required at this time.
THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN: PAGE NO. 5-10
DRAWING NO. 5-1 : DECADE ARCHITECTURAL RENDERING - PROPOSED MUNICIPAL BUILDING IMPROVEMENTS
I
Proposed Addition to Brentwood Municipal Building Taken From Brentwood Municipal Facilities Study Prepared by Decade Architectural Association
THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN PAGE NO. 5-12 DRAWING NO. 5.2: DECADE ARCHITECTURAL RENDERING - PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT SITE PLAN
PROPOSED SITE PLAN - PUBLIC WORKS / CIVIC CENTER t' 1 om SO 100 FEET
THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN PAGE NO. 5-13 ~_____ ~~- ~~-ma-c-mmm~~~~~am-L1m THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN
DRAWING NO 5 3. MAIN STREET ASSOCIATES ELEVATION DRAWING - PROPOSED BWNTWOOD FIRE STATIONBANQUET HALL
FRONT ELEVATION I/,%lLO BcYPM)I OUI
THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN PAGE NO. 5-14
~~~~~~ ~~~ THE BRENTWOOD COMPREHENSIVE PLAN
PART I: THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN
SECTION 6: THE SPECIAL DISTRICT & ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT PLAN THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN
CDG COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT GOAL CDO COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT IMP. APP. COD Code OBJECTIVES
SED- To facilitate and encourage the economic SED-1 -A Prepare a Route 5 1 Redevelopment Plan. BC BC 1 revitalization of the Route 5 I corridor. BPC BPC BEDC RA SED -1-B Implement a Route 51 Redevelopment Plan. DED AC RA I PA
SED- To facilitate and encourage the economic Prepare a Brentwood Whitehall Shopping 2 revitalization of the Brentwood Whitehall Center Master Plan.
SED- To build upon and enhance the commercial Undertake Brownsville Road Parking study. 3 revitalization efforts initiated on the Brownsville SED-3- I Road corridor. SED-3-B Apply "Main Street" principles to encourage BC BC the ongoing revitalization of Brownsville B PC BED Road. BEDC c
SED- To create a new image for the Borough of SED-4-A Prepare and implement a Brentwood Borough BC BC 4 Brentwood. Marketing Plan. BEDC BED - C
THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN: PAGE NO. 6-1 THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN
SPECIAL DISTRICTS/ECONOMTCDEVELOPMENT PLAN: There is no specific section of the Municipalities Planning code that mandates a section of the plan be dedicated to special districts and/or economic development. However, given the current interest in the economic revitalization of Brentwood, it is appropriate that such a section be included in this Comprehensive Plan.
1 I Element CDG Community Dev. Goal CDO Community Dev. Objective Implementing Estimated Time Frame Code Code Entities cost Special SED To facilitate and encourage the SED-I-A Prepare a Route 51 BC $30,000 Immediate Districts & I economic revitalization of the Redevelopment Plan BPC Econ. Dev. Route 5 1 corridor BEDC DED RAAC
NARRATIVE: The preparation of a technical redevelopment plan is the first step in the long term economic revitalization of the Route 5 I corridor. This effort involves the completion of a basic Conditions Report, which has been undertaken by the Brentwood Economic Development Corporation, the completion of the Redevelopment Plan and Proposal, and the approval of the Plan and Proposal by the appropriate bodies including the Borough Planning Commission and Borough Council, the Allegheny County Redevelopment Authority, the Allegheny County Planning Commission (or the Redevelopment Authority acting in the role of the Planning Commission) and the Allegheny County Board of Commissioners. This completed document will deal with properties to be acquired, possibly utilizing the eminent domain powers of the Redevelopment Authority; properties to be demolished; properties to be rehabilitated; and site improvements to be undertaken. The program must also identify any residents (owners or tenants) or businesses to be relocated, as well as the system for accomplishing this task. A more detailed presentation of the required elements of a Redevelopment Plan and Proposal as required under PA State Urban Redevelopment Law are included in Appendix D.
A redevelopment plan has been initiated by the Brentwood Economic Development Corporation in late 1996. This document is now being completed and awaiting potential developers proposals to redevelop sites within the area.
THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN: PAGE NO. 6-2 THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN
~ CDG Community Dev. Goal CDO Community Dev. Objective Implementing Estimated Time Frame Code Code Entities cost SED To facilitate and encourage the SED-I-B Implement a Route 51 BC Unknown Short Term Districts & 1 economic revitalization of the Redevelopment Plan BPC Econ. Dev. BEDC DED RAAC PA
NARRATIVE: Assuming the approval ofthe Redevelopment Plan and Proposal as defined in section SED-I-A, the next step in this process would be the implementation of the program. An integral part of the plan preparation woiild be the completion of various applications designed to siipport the program by providing both State of PA and Allegheny County fittiding. This implementation plan must identify those agencies, organizations and consultants responsible for the various elements of the program and the cost of each. These various entities woiild then be contracted with by the Redevelopment Authority to perform the various functions identified in the plan. Typically the required elements of a redevelopment plan take two to five years to complete. The guidelines established for the redevelopment area may remain in effect for up to 30 years.
Element CDG Community Dev. Goal CDO Community Dev. Objective Implementing Estimated Time Frame Code Code Entities cost
Special SED To facilitate and encourage SED-2-A Prepare a Brentwood- BC $ 50,000 Short Term Districts & 2 the economic revitalization of Whitehall Shopping Center B PC Econ. Dev. the Brentwood-Whitehall Master Plan BEDC Shopping Center ACDED RAAC
NARRATIVE: The Brentwood-Whitehall Shopping Center is identified as being located within the area designated for redevelopment planning assistance. An important component of the redevelopment of this area would be a master plan to provide an overall development scheme for this facility. Special attention should be paid to reducing the "sea of concrete" look of this area, as well as making parking more orderly and aesthetically pleasing. This Master Plan should also deal with ways of integrating this complex into both the Brownsville Road commercial revitalization area and the Route 5 1 redevelopment area.
THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN: PAGE NO. 6-3 Element CDG Community Dev. Goal CDO Community Dev. Objective Implementing Estimated Time Frame Code Code Entities Special SED To build upon and enhance the SED-3-A Undertake a Brownsville Rd. BC $15,000 Short Term Districts & 3 commercial revitalization Parking Study BPC Econ. Dev. efforts initiated on the BEDC Brownsville Road corridor I NARRATIVE: As was mentioned earlier in this plan, a detailed parking analysis of the parking situation along the Brownsville Road corridor is needed, particularly with regard to the long term economic revitalization of this area. This study should be undertaken by a qualified traffic engineering firm. The study should include alternative development schemes for this area, with each alternative detailing a different commercial / retail /service mix for the area. The study should then determine the most likely development alternative and parking requirements should be prepared for this alternative. This study may ultimately result in the need for an expanded redevelopment area, or a new redevelopment area that includes properties which may have to be included in the new parking scheme for this project.
Element CDG Community Dev. Goal CDO Community Dev. Objective Implementing Estimated Time Frame Code Code Entities cost Special SED To create a new image for the SED-4-A Prepare and implement a BC $20,000 Intermediate Districts & 4 Borough of Brentwood Brentwood Borough BEDC Econ. Dev. Marketing Plan
NARRATIVE: Brentwood has been in the unfortunate situation of suffering through some negative publicity over the last two years. This reality, coupled with the poor aesthetic picture presented by the Route 5 1 corridor, puts Rrentwood in the position of needing a substantial image enhancement. It is, therefore, recommended by this plan that Brentwood, through the Brentwood Economic Development Corporation, engage the services of a qualified marketing consultant to develop a new image for the Borough. As was mentioned earlier in this plan, Brentwood has the potential to be a scaled back version of a Shadyside-type community. Perhaps this could serve as the basis for such a developmentlmarketing plan. Another possibility would be to contact the City of Brentwood in England, and build upon the connection with that town to create a more European feel to the Brownsville Road corridor, many parts of which now suffer from any specific identity. A possible marketing study scope of services is included in Appendix E.
THE COMPREI IENSIVE PLAN: PAGE NO. 6-4
THE BRENTWOOD COMPREHENSIVE PLAN
PART I: THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN
SECTION 7: THE ENVIRONMENTAL & HISTORIC PRESERVATION PLAN THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN
ECTION 7: ENVIRONMENTAL AND HISTORIC PR SERVATI N PLAN
CDO COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT GOALS CDO COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT OBJECTIVES CODE Code
EHP-I To maintain and preserve structures of historic EHP- 1 -A Prepare a historic resources inventory. importance to the community. El-IP-I -B Amend the Zoning Ordinance to require the filing of a "Form A" - Notification of Potential Effect of B PC Proposed Action on Archeological and Historical Resources
EHP-2 To enhance the Environmental quality of the EHP-2-A Create a Local Environmental Advisory Council. BC I BC Boroueh
THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN: PAGE NO. 7-1 THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN
ENVIRONMENTAL AND HISTORIC PRESERVATION PLAN: Article 1, Section 27 of the Pennsylvania Constitution provides that "The people have a right to clean air, pure water and to the preservation of the natural, scenic, historic and aesthetic values of the environment. Pennsylvania's public, natural resources are the common property of all the people, including generations yet to come. As trustee of these resources, the Commonwealth shall conserve and maintain them for the benefit of all people.
Element CDG Community Dev. Goal CDO Community Dev. Objective Implementing Estimated Time Frame Code Code Entities Cost Environment EHP To maintain and preserve EHP-I -A Prepare a historic resources BC $20,000 Intermediate & 1 structures of historic inventory BHS Hist. Pres. importance to the community.
NARRATIVE: Brentwood has several structures listed as "historically significant" within its boundaries. There is, however, no concise and complete analysis of the importance of Brentwood to the history of the region or the significant role that Brentwood did, or did not, play in the development of the area. A historical inventory could do much to improve the image of Brentwood as well as serve as a basis for determining whether or not there are sufficient points of interest within the community, or a significant enough %tory to be told" that would warrant consideration of additional historic preservation steps be taken within the Borough. Such an inventory and plan would also enhance economic development and community marketing.
I I I I Element CDG Community Dev. Goal CDO Community Dev. Objective Implementing Estimated Time Frame Code Code Entities cost Environment EHP To maintain and preserve EHP-I -B Amend the Zoning Ordinance BC See Item Immediate & 1 structures of historic to require the filing of a form B PC LU 1-B Hist. Pres. importance to the community. "A" Notification of Potential Consultant Effect of Proposed Action on Archeological and Historical
NARRATIVE: The Borough should keep in mind that any application for development within the municipality for a site with historic or archeological features involving a change to an adopted sewage facilities plan must be reviewed, and approved, by the Bureau for Historic Preservation, Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission. The starting point for the review is the submission to the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP), by tile developer, of Forin A: Notification of Potential Effect of Proposed Action on Archeological and Historic Resources. lhe Borough should amend its Subdivision and Land Development Ordinance to require developers to file a copy of Form A with the Borough as well as with DEP. The Borough's Planning Commission, should review Form A to be sure that the historic resources have been described accurately and will be adequately protected.
TIHE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN: PAGE NO. 7-2 THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN
I I I Element CDG Community Dev. Goal CDO Community Dev. Objective Implementing Estimated Time Frame Code Code Entities cost Environment EHP To enhance the environmental EHP-I -A Create a Local Environmental BC $3,00O/yr Short Term & 2 quality of the Borough Advisory Council BPC Hist. Pres. (S H ACOG)
NARRATIVE: As was mentioned in the preceding section, the Constitution of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania mandates that the natural and historic environment within a community be understood and protected. The municipality can do much to support these measures by enlisting the support of knowledgeable residents through the creation of both Local Environmental Advisory Councils and a local Historical Commission. Bodies such as these can greatly increase the number of person-hours and the level of expertise that a municipality can bring to bear on a wide range of problems. Appendix G provides background information on both Local Environmental Advisory Councils and Historical Commissions.
TI IE COMPREI IENSIVE PIAN: PAGE NO. 7-3 THE BRENTWOOD COMPREHENSIVE PLAN
SECTION 8: THE GENERAL ENVIRONMENT BACKGROUND INFORMATION
SECTION 8: GENERAL ENVIRONMENT
8.1 - LOCATION
Located in south-central Allegheny County, the Borough of Brentwood Brentwood, then one of the eight election districts within the comprises one of the many communities identified generally as the Township, lacked both police and fire protection, needed a sewer South Hills area of Allegheny County (See Map No. 8. I). The land area system, sought infrastructure improvements to Brownsville Road, of the Borough, as set by the Allegheny County Department of desperately needed improvements to Moore School. Repeated attempts Economic Development, is just over 91 5 acres, or approximately 1.43 by the newly formed Baldwin Township Board of Trade of the Second square miles, making Brentwood the 72nd largest of the 130 Election District in late 191 4 and early in 19 15 were rebuffed by the municipalities in Allegheny County by land area, and is similar in size Baldwin Township Commissioners. to such communities as Edgeworth, Leet, Liberty, Coraopolis and Carnegie. The southern half of the municipality is surrounded by the Finally, on January 27, 1915, a meeting of the local citizenry was held Borough of Whitehall. The northern half of the community is roughly to discuss the question of separation from Baldwin Township. At that divided along its north-south axis by the City of Pittsburgh, to the west, meeting a motion was approved to form a new Borough. Among the and the Borough of Baldwin, to the east. Brownsville Road divides the names considered for the new municipality were Baldwin, Bennet, community roughly in half along its east-west axis. Brentwood, Point View, Romnoma, Southern Heights, White Hall, Windsor and Windsor Heights. Ultimately, the name Brentwood was 8.2 - HISTORY OF THE COMMUNITY chosen. A'brief chronology of important dates in the history of Brentwood follows: The Borough of Brentwood can trace its origins back to the late 1700'~~ when Brownsville Road, then known as Southern Avenue, stretched Nov. 6, 1915: Borough of Brentwood officially from Brownsville to Pittsburgh. This highway was the only route from incorporated. the City to the rich coal mines of the Brownsville area in Washington Nov. 17, 1915: First unofficial meeting of the Rrentwood Coiinty. There was a toll charge of 25 cents per round trip. A toll gate was located at Churcliview Avenue. School Board. Dec. 4, 1915: First election for Brentwood Borough Originally a part of Baldwin Township (See map No. 8.2), the area now known as Brentwood Borough consisted of the villages of Counci I. Brentwood, Point View, and Whitehall, and was at that time, the most densely populated section of the Baldwin Township. Dec. 8, 1915: Board of Trade approves a motion to form a fire company.
Dec. 8, 1915: First preliminary meeting of Brentwood Borough Council.
BACKGROUND INFORMATION: PAGE N0.8-1 ~ -mnmmmm=mmu==m~=m BACKGROUND INFORMATION
MAP No. 8.1 REGIONAL LOCATION MAP
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BACKGROUND INFORMATION: PAGE NO: 8-2 MAP NO.8.2: MAP OF BENTWOOD AND ENVIRONS - 1876 (BALDWTN TOWNSHIP)
BACKGROUND INFORMATION: PAGE NO:8-3 BACKGROUND INFORMATION
July, 1916: First official School Board appointed by the just over one million workers, one third of whom are employed in the Allegheny Court of Common Pleas. service industry. The United States government is the largest regional employer, with almost 18,000 workers on its payroll. Sept. 19 16: First year of operation for the Brentwood School District. The I993 edition of the Places Rated Almanac listed the Pittsburgh region as the fifth "most liveable" city in America. While some may 19 18- 19 19: City of Pittsburgh attempts to annex Brentwood question the validity of the factors used to determine the ratings, the Borough. This action was defeated. exercise does provide a unique opportunity to make comparisons about the region against all other SMSAs. This rating is based on a 1920: Brentwood State Bank opens. comparison of ten factors, including the cost of living, jobs, housing, transportation, education, health care, crime, the arts, recreation and 1926: Brentwood Borough purchases the Davis Farm for use climate. As a region, Pittsburgh's strengths lie in the areas of as a municipal park and playground. transportation, education, health care, the crime rate, and the arts. A brief discussion of some of these factors follows: July 4, 1928: Brentwood park and swimming pool opened. Cost of Living: The Region's composite cost of living index was 107.3 January, 1930: Allegheny County, State of PA, and Brentwood agree in the first quarter of 1992 according to the American Chamber of to improve Route 5 1. Commerce Researchers Association. The US Average was 100 during this same time period. 1939: Whitehall Shopping Center, the first in the Pittsburgh area, opens. Jobs: The Almanac predicts a 2.75% increase in jobs between July 1, 1993 and July 1, 1998. This growth will occur primarily in new, white 1940: Whitehall Theater opens. collar jobs, where over 36,000 new positions are expected to be available. Manufacturing jobs are expected to continue their decline in 8.3 - REGIONAL CHARACTERISTICS the Region, a trend that been evident for more than thirty years. This Located as it is, in southwestern Pennsylvania generally, and growth in white collarjobs is consistent with other indicators. The five specifically within Allegheny County, Brentwood shares in many of the largest regional employers in 1991 were the United States Government, attributes enjoyed by the region as a whole. Using the Pittsburgh Westinghouse Electric, the Commonwealth of PA, US Air, and the Standard Metropolitan Statistical Area (SMSA) as a basis for the University of Pittsburgh. definition of the "Region", a detailed set of regional characteristics may be generated. The SMSA refers to Allegheny, Beaver, Fayette, Housing: The Region ranked 214th in the nation in the area of Washington and Westmoreland counties. housing. The regional mix consists of 72% houses, 14% apartments, 4% mobile homes and 2% condos. Only 6% of the homes, regionally, The Region has a total population of over 2.2 million people, living on have been constructed between January 1985 and January 1993. The 3,866 square miles of land. Allegheny County residents comprise 59% median value of a home in 1993 was $78,200 and the average was $ (over 1.3 million residents) of the total population and live on 730 87,300. Homes in the tipper tenth of the market averaged $ 139,700. square miles (19%)of the land. 'I'he regional labor force consists of The region can boast of a wide range of affordable lifestyles as a result
DACKGROIJNDINF'ORMAIION: PAGE N0.8-4
~~ BACKGROUND INFORMATION of these lower housing costs and a strong, often ethnic, neighborhood recreational assets indicated that the region has adequate recreation of system. all types for all segments of the population. Golf courses, restaurants, and movie theaters are located throughout the area. The Pittsburgh Zoo Transportation: The region ranked 24th of the 343 SMSAs examined and the National Aviary area are located within the City of Pittsburgh. in the area of transportation. The strength in this category is derived The region supports three professional sports teams in baseball from a relatively short round-trip commute time of 49.8 minutes, a (Pirates), football (Steelers) and hockey (Penguins). The region also large public transit system, a new, large hub international airport, and boasts three Division I basketball teams and one Division I football immediate access to three major interstate highways. team. Outdoor recreation assets include two (2)Federal Protected Areas with 1,555 acres and 6 State Parks with 34, 478 acres (not Education: The Region also ranked 24th in the area of education. including County or Local Parks). There are 122 public school districts in the Region with 634 schools serving almost 325,000 students. Another 17 1 Catholic schools and SUMMARY: At the macro-level, the Borough of Brentwood is the 123 other private schools serve an additional 57,500 students. Six beneficiary of its proximity to the City of Pittsburgh and the general community college campuses educate almost 30,000 students in two Pittsburgh region. On a more local level, many of the benefits accruing year programs, and 15 four-year colleges in the Region have over to the community as a result of its location within the region are less 78,000 students enrolled. apparent within the Borough. The remaining sections of Part II of this document will deal with data specific to the Borough of Brentwood. Crime: The region is a far safer place for an individual than the average U.S. metropolitan area. The only category in which the region 8.4 - GENERAI, APPEARANCE OF THE COMMUNITY exhibits a higher crime rate than the average SMSA is in the area of auto theft. Elrentwood, in terms of its appearance, is at first glance, consistent with many other suburban residential communities. The northeastern Health Care: Another area in which the Region exhibits strong portion of the Borough is the oldest residential area. The Riviera Plan, characteristics is health care. The Region has 40 hospitals with almost in the southeastern portion of the community is the newest residential 12,000 beds available. development area.
The Arts: The Region's arts calendar managed to place it 36th among Within this context however, there are many areas of strong visual the 343 metropolitan areas in the Ploces RofedAlinanac. Included in character, which convey several different visual messages to both the criteria evaluated in this category, the Pittsburgh region included a residents and the casual passer-by. wide variety of radio stations, touring artist bookings, symphony orchestra dates, opera company dates, ballet company dates, Among the areas of strongest, positive visual impact are the professional theater dates, and art museums and galleries. The Region Brownsville Road and Edge Road-Tuxey Avenue areas. also has 124 public library branches. The majority of these cultural facilities are located within the City of Pittsburgh proper. The Edge Road-Tuxey Avenue area is another area of strong, positive visual impact, with its very traditional suburban, auto-oriented Recreation: In the area of recreation, the Region rated 150th out of character. the 343 SMSAs studied by the Alinanoc. An inventory of the Region's
BACKGROUND INFORMATION: PAGE N0.8-5 BACKGROUND INFORMATION
The Brownsville Road corridor is an area of large, grand, old houses and multi-story apartment complexes, especially between Francis Ave. and E. Willock. This tree-lined boulevard provides many people with their most vivid impression of Brentwood and is the route for the Borough's annual Fourth of July parade, one of the biggest in the region.
The most prominent negative visual impacts are found along the Route 5 1 corridor and in some of the older residential areas of the Borough.
Route 5 1, with its low-story, low-quality, poorly landscaped, buildings and parcels is a visually bleak, colorless, uninviting, area with no strong positive visual impact.
Other residential areas are likewise beginning to show signs of the age and creeping deterioration that often characterize suburban communities on the fringe of the central city.
This creeping deterioration was recognized and acknowledged by many of the members of the Brentwood Citizens Advisory Committee, who indicated Brentwood was beginning to look 'I a little ragged around the edges"
B AC KG ROUN D IN FORM ATlON : PAC E NO. 8-6 BACKGROUND INFORMATJON
8.5 GENERAL ENVIRONMENT - FINDINGS AND IMPLICATIONS
SEC. FINDWGS IMPLICATIONS 8.1 Brentwood is located in south-central Allegheny County Desirable location with respect to Downtown Pittsburgh and the cultural, recreational, and educational heart of southwestern Pennsylvania 8.2 Important as link between Pittsburgh and the coal fields of the Limited opportunities for "historic district" designation. Better Brownsville area. opportunities for historic points/historic building designations. Brentwood is located in southwestern PA Brentwood benefits from the attributes associated with this II 8.3 I I region being one of the ''most liveable" places in the United States. 8.4 Brentwood 's appearance is becoming "ragged around the edges." Early signs of deterioration within some residential areas that should be addressed now before more damaging blighting influences take hold within the community.
BACKGROUND INFORMATION: PAGE NO.8-7 THE BRENTWOOD COMPREHENSIVE PLAN
PART 11: BACKGROUND INFORMATION
SECTION 9: THE PHYSICAL ENVIRONMENT BACKGROUND INFORMATION
SECTION 9: PHYSICAL ENVIRONMENT dry season and generally, long, cool summers. Table No. 9-1 details INTRODUCTION temperature and precipitation information. Every living organism requires energy and material resources from its environment. For most people a secure existence, free from apprehension is possible only after basic resources have been mobilized and society develops a capability to use these resources. Access to basic resources, then, is a pre-requisite to satisfactory living Teniperature patterns, which minimize insecurity, hunger and suffering. Month Avg. High Avg. Low Rain Snow (Inches) (Inches) I Resources are found in the physical environment - within the geography of an area and according to geographers, a given region holds but eight categories of basic resources. These eight categories are: 1. Terrain Features 2. Location and Spatial Relations 3. Climaie 4. Soils & Physical Capabilities 5. Natural Vegetation 6. Native Animal Life 7. Water Bodies and Drainage Systems 8. Economic Minerals
For the purposes of this comprehensive plan we will divide these eight resource categories into three sections - Topography (covering category 1 ); Climatic Information (covering category 3); and Natural Resources (covering categories 4 through 8). Note that Location and Spatial Relations (category 2) is dealt with elsewhere in this document. nirce: Nutionul Weutlier Service 9.1 - CLIMATIC INFORMATION Located in Southwestern Pennsylvania, the Borough of Brentwood exhibits weather patterns inherent to this part of the nation. These 9.3 -TOPOGRAPHY patterns work to define four distinct seasons. This also creates weather patterns that often result in substantial freeze-thaw cycles as well as Brentwood is a community of relatively steep slopes. The Brownsville large fluctuations in day-to-day temperature and precipitation patterns. Road corridor runs along the central ridge of the community. The climate in the region is best characterized as temperate, with no
BACKGROUND INFORMA'TION: PAGE NO. 9-1
BACKGROUND INFORMATION
DRAWING NO. 2.2: BRENTWOOD CROSS-SECTION
Brownsville Road Brentwood Road Route 51 I ------l
Level
I
BACKGROUND INFORMATION: PAGE N 0: 9-3 BACKGROUND INFORMATION
Elevations along this road generally range from about 1250 feet at 4. Settlement of structures is usually minimal because either end, to a low of about 1215 feet at the Kaufmann the soil zone is thin and has low to moderate Avenue/Brownsville Road intersection. The highest point in the compressibility. Borough is along Brownsville road on South Hills Country Club property, where a spot elevation of 1,283. I24 feet is recorded. From More descriptive than a mere analysis of soil types however, is an the central ridge of Brownsville Road, the topography of the Borough analysis of the total physical capability of an area, taking into account drops steeply to the east and the west. At the northern-most Route 5 I the combined impacts of slope, soil type, and the effects of intersection of the Borough, the elevation drops to about 1000 feet, underground mining (a brief description of the underground mining in before rising again to about I, 100 feet along the western boundary of the Borough is included in the Economic Minerals portion of this the borough. At the Wanley Road-Brentwood Road intersection the Section). A map of the physical capabilities of the different sections elevation falls to about 950 feet. Map No. 9.2 provides a general of Brentwood is included on Map No. 9.3.1 B, page 9-6. topographic overview of the Borough, while Drawing No. 9.2 provides a cross-sectional view of the borough through the Marylea Street axis.
9.3 -NATURAL RESOURCES
9.3.1 Soils & Physical Capabilities
Map No. 9.3.1A on page 9-5 details the basic physiographic character of Brentwood. As can be seen from this map the primary soil types are residual soils. These residual soils are formed by the in-place disintegration of bedrock. These soils are found primarily on hilltops and hillsides and are generally less than 5 feet thick. The composition of these soils is a mixture of sand, silt and clay with varying amounts of rock fragments. Residual soils are of moderate to high strength and low to moderate compressibility. Residual soil zones are generally well suited to building construction because:
1. The soil depth is generally not great. 2. The shear strength of the soil is normally sufficient to provide an adequate bearing stratum for light structures at a shallow depth. 3. Bedrock, which may be required for heavy construction is seldom beyond an economical depth of excavation.
BACKGROUND INFORMATION: PAGE NO. 9-4
BACKGROUND INFORMATION 9.3.2 Natural Vegetation
The regional location of Brentwood Borough places it in a habitat generally defined as a temperate forest. Human activity has destroyed much of the tree cover of this area at an accelerated pace. As populations increased and economies developed, forests disappeared to be replaced by farms, cities, industries and communications networks. And although most of the area of the Borough is developed, urban land, sections of the eastern half of the Borough, the "Project 70" area, exhibit traits common to this natural habitat.
The mature temperate deciduous forest is made up of distinct horizontal layers, particularly where the dominant tree is the oak, which allows enough light for a rich shrub layer to grow beneath it. The largest trees, such as oaks, maples and ashes, maybe 80 to 160 feet tall, and beneath them grows a prominent layer of smaller trees such as hazel, hornbeam or yew. Lower down again, a varied ground cover of perennial herbs, ferns, lichens and mosses flourishes in the comparative dampness of the forest floor. Because the trees are bare of leaves in the winter, many of the plants growing on the floor of this habitat take advantage of the warmth and light of spring to flower early in the year before the main trees come into full leaf and prevent the sun from reaching them. Various woody climbers, such as ivy and honeysuckle, are also present, growing over the trees and shrubs.
Much of the food supply in this habitat is locked up in the trees themselves, but the annual fall of leaves in the deciduous forest produces a soil rich in nourishment. This supports a vast quantity of life, ranging in size from earthworms and insects to microscopic bacteria in the soil. The death of individual trees and branches also releases the food supply back into the earth. In shady, damp locations, insects, fungi, bacteria and other decomposing agents break down leaves and other plant and animal debris more quickly, returning them to the soil as food for new plants.
BACKGROUND INFORMATION: PAGE NO. 9-7 BACKGROUND INFORMATION
9.3.3 Native Animal Life Streets Run watershed, while water that drains to the west is part of the Saw Mill Run Watershed (See map No. 9.3.4 on page 9-9). A brief Temperate forests once contained many varieties of animal life, discussion of each watershed follows. including several large species of large animals. Herbivores such as wild oxen, wood bison, elk and moose ate grass and leaves; scavengers The Streets Run watershed drains approximately 540 acres (or such as wild pigs rooted in the forest floor; predators such as wolves about 59%) of the eastern half of the Borough. This area was preyed on other animals. Most of these have now been either hunted studied extensively by Chester Engineers in I993 as part of a to extinction by man or moved from the region over time due to detailed Mon Valley Stormwater Management Plan. This creeping urban expansion. White-tailed deer are still relatively document notes that the primary problems within this common in the area. Smaller animals still survive in comparatively watershed include flooding, sedimentation and erosion large numbers, and include squirrels, chipmunks, raccoons, and wood problems, and sanitary sewer overflows. The first two and field mice. problems occur primary in the downstream areas along Streets Run Road in the Baldwin and Hays area. The study also notes The bird life of the temperate forest is very diverse. Some species are that this area is highly sensitive to the effects of new insect eaters, exploring the bark and crevices for insects and grubs. development due to steep slopes, composite runoff issues, Others, such as the wood pigeon, concentrate on seeds. Yet others, like assigned release rates and proximity to other stormwater the tawny owl, are predators. problem areas.
There is no current inventory or study of the plant and animal life The Saw Mill Run watershed, drains the remaining 375 acres within the Borough Brentwood to the western side of Brownsville Road. Similar problems affect this watershed as affect the Streets Run Watershed In 1994, the then Allegheny County Department of Planning conducted including flooding, sedimentation and sanitary sewer a "Natural Heritage Inventory" which identified Allegheny County's overflows. As with the Streets Run watershed the areas most significant natural areas. The study investigated plant and animal experiencing most of the problems from the unresolved and species and communities that are unique or uncommon in Allegheny in ter-re I a ted d ra i nagelse werage pro b I em s are farther County. It also explored areas important for general wildlife habitat, downstream. Brentwood's major concerns deal with its education and scientific study. The inventory identified no areas of contribution to these regional problems. major importance to the natural heritage of Allegheny County within the Borough of Brentwood. The ongoing problems in these watersheds have resulted in a moratorium on new sanitary sewer tap-ins, which impacts on the ability 9.3.4 Water BodiesIDrainage Systems to facilitate new development. Most of the problems are not specifically located in Brentwood, but the Borough is party to the There are no significant bodies of water within the Borough of moratorium because of the storm and sanitary water it contributes to Brentwood. the overall system
The ridge that forms Brownsville Road divides Brentwood into two watersheds. Water that drains to the east of this ridge is part of the
BACKGROUND INFORMATION: PAGE NO. 9-8 -[BACKGROUND INFORMATIOI
.PRIMARY SEWER.LINES’ .
I 3I
Key Roads
[ZPI Municipal Boundary
Prepared by -- BOROUGH OF BRENTWOOD COMPREHENSIVE PLAN
SOURCE US Burtu 01 lho Cannu 1800 POrecmm nOER Res and AOP LIIOC(pI8 (BumOnl) DObU Map No. 9.3.4 Drainage Systems Approximate Scale: 1 inch = 1,333 feet :BACKGROUND INFORMATION: PAGE NO: 9-9 ; .- 9.3.5 Economic Minerals
Virtually all of the Borough of Brentwood sits on a vast area of what was at one time, one of the most important coal reserves in the world, the Pittsburgh Coal field. The "Mining and Physiography Study of Allegheny County", conducted by A.C. Ackenheil and Associates, in 1968, indicates that 100% of the Borough lies within this field. The study goes on to indicate that this area was once extensively mined, but that no additional subsurface mining of this area is anticipated. Throughout most of this area, the depth between the ground surface and the coal horizon, or seam, was about 200 feet. There is not currently, nor is there any evidence to suggest that, any other important economically recoverable mineral resources exist within the Borough.
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SEC. FIN DINGS I M PLICATION S 9.1 Area of unstable weather patterns with significant freeze-thaw Weather patterns are damaging to road system and make cycles. maintenance and upkeep difficult. 9.2 Brentwood is an area of relatively steep topography Rights-of-way have been forced to conform to natural land forms resulting in narrow streets, irregular lot configurations and terraced development patterns. 9.3.1 Brentwood physical capabilities generally based on residual soils Large sections of remaining undeveloped land within the with varying capacities to accept new development. borough (Project 70 Area) would require costly foundation and slide prevention measures to accommodate new development.
~ 9.3.2 Vegetation common to temperate forest areas within an urban Little information on the natural micro-environment of environment Brentwood presents opportunity for educationalkommunity involvement in improving the local ecology. 9.3.3 Animal life common to urban areas. See item 9.3.2 above. 9.3.4 Streets Run and Saw Mill Run watersheds both experiencing Brentwood's "contribution" to these problems has resulted in a difficulties with downstream flooding, erosion and sedimentation moratorium on new sanitary storm tap-ins. Ongoing and infiltration/inflow problems that have an impact on maintenance and upgrade of the stormwater drainage system is Brentwood. important to the implementation of the Department of I Environmental Protection's mandated Corrective Action Plan 9.3.5 I No remaining economically recoverable mineral deposits Little opportunity for economic growth in this area
- BACKGROUND INFORMATION: PAGE NO. 9-1 1 THE BRENTWOOD COMPREHENSIVE PLAN
SECTION 10: POPULATION SECTION 10: POPULATION IO. 1 - INTRODUCTION
Understanding the composition and characteristics of a community's just at the Borough level, but at the Census Tract, Census Block Group, population base is a crucial step in the preparation of any and occasionally, at the Census Block level as well. In most cases, the comprehensive plan. The information concerning the make-up of the presentation of data at the Census Block Group level will suffice. In population base being served acts as the starting point for decisions some cases where data is available at the Census Block level, as in the concerning issues such as parks and recreation, schools, public safety case of total population, this information will be detailed. Map No. services, and other such issues that affect the every-day life of the 10.1 on Page 10-2 will provide an overview of the different Census residents of the municipality. In this section the current demographic enumeration levels within the Borough of Brentwood. character of the Borough of Brentwood will be examined in detail. In addition, selected characteristics of NEIGHBORING municipal Finally, it is important to remember that the demographic information jurisdictions - specifically Baldwin Borough, Baldwin Township, being presented in this section is not static. The data represents a Castle Shannon Borough, Dormont Borough, Pleasant Hills Borough, snapshot of the Borough of Brentwood that existed on April 30, 1990. and Whitehall Borough - will be examined. Also to be investigated The financial information about the income of the community is based will be demographic profiles of communities which the Brentwood on data from the 1989 tax returns of those filling out census forms. Citizens Advisory Committee felt were SIMILAR in nature to The data in many cases is representative of sample populations and not Brentwood. These communities, which are roughly comparable in the entire community. Remember that, in 1990, not everyone terms of population, location relative to Pittsburgh, size and density, completed a "long-form" census questionnaire. The community today include Crafton Borough in the western portion of the County, West is significantly different from the picture taken in 1990. Wherever View Borough in the north and Swissvale Borough in the east. On a possible updated information will be presented and noted. The 1990 more regional level, data on those communities that make up the South Census data that we examine in this document will remain, however, Hills Area Council of Governments (SHACOG), in total, (which the "official" profile of the Borough of Brentwood, until the year 2000. includes all of the Neighboring Communities), the City of Pittsburgh, Allegheny County, and the State of Pennsylvania will be presented as well. The purpose of presenting this selected information relative to other jurisdictions is to provide a basis of comparison, for determining the direction in which Brentwood should proceed on certain matters - e.g. density standards for the zoning ordinance or programmatic parameters to obtain certain goals relative to housing rehabilitation.
Just as Brentwood differs in many respects form neighboring boroughs, so too does the community have internal differences that must be explored. The 1990 Census information allows us to examine data, not
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BACKGROUND INFORMATION
10.2 - PRESENT SIZE AND DENSITY
PRESENT SIZE: With a 1990 total population of 10,823, Brentwood ranks as the 25th most populous of the 130 municipalities in Allegheny County. Table No. 10.2A provides a comparison of Brentwood's 1990 population with that of other local communities.
- -I:IILICABIHIIM- cnwmu u SI IACOG IOI AL 217,870 223,6 I7 +2 6 2 I 1.430 -5 4 -3 0
PITTSBURGH 520.1 17 423,938 -18 5 369,879 -12 8 -28 9
ALLEGHENY CNTY 1,605,016 1450.085 -9 7 1,336,449 -7 8 -16 7
PENNSY LVANlA 1 1,793,909 11,863,895 +O 6 1 I .88 1.643 +o I +o 7
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As is clear from the information provided in the "1970-1990 actually reside within the community is an important element of the Population History", Table No. 10.2A, Brentwood's population change density picture. was most pronounced in the ten years between 1970 and 1980, when the community's population declined by more than 13%. During this Secondly, density is relative to the culture in which you live. Keep in period, only three comparison communities - Pittsburgh, Swissvale and mind that in the United States, the Rand-McNally DeliLve World Atlas Castle Shannon - experienced a greater percentage loss. During this indicates a population per square mile of 67 - an extremely low density. same period, the population base for all of the Neighboring By way of comparison, Singapore has a density of 1 1,284 people per Communities - save Baldwin - was in a similar decline, though not as square mile and Monaco has a density of 41,429 people per square great as Brentwood's. While the SHACOG area as a whole increased mile. If the density of Monaco, a European country, was superimposed in population during this period, most of the growth occurred only in on the land area of the United States, the total population of the United South Park and Upper St. Clair, while most other SHACOG States would be more than 152 billion. municipalities declined.
The decade from 1980 to 1990 saw Brentwood's population continue to decline, dropping to 10,823, or a 9.1% loss. This decline, however, was much more in line with the average population loss in Neighboring Communities as a group, where the average loss was 9.4%. In the County as a whole the population decline was slightly less, registering Year Population Change % Change a drop of 7.8%. 1940 7,552 It is also helpful to look at the historical trend in Brentwood's 1950 12,535 + 4,983 + 66.0 population pattern. The data presented in Table 10-2B shows Brentwood's population pattern over the last 50 years. It is clear from I960 13,706 f 1,171 + 9.3 this table that Brentwood's growth period occurred between 1940 and 1970 13,732 + 26 + 0.2 1960, when the population of the Borough increased by more than 6,000. The period from 1960 to 1970 saw a period of almost no 1980 1 1,907 - 1,825 - 13.3 growth. Since 1970, the Boroughs population has been in a period of 1990 10,823 - 1,084 - 9.1 overall decline, dropping 13.3% between 1970 and 1980.
POPULATION DENSITY: When looking at a community's density pattern it is important to keep two distinct elements in mind. First of all, population density is a measure of the disbursement of residents over the entire geographic community. A community's population density may appear relatively small, but if the community consists of large tracts of open space, and clusters of people jammed together in a relatively small area, the actual local density may be significantly greater than the overall stated density. Determining where people
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Table No. 10.2C provides a more detailed look at local population densities. Brentwood, with a density of 7,568.53 people per square mile, is one of the mostly densely populated communities in Allegheny County, ranking 12th in density out of the 130 municipalities in the Table No. 10.2C: Comparative Population Density County. In the Neighboring Communities only Dormont has a greater Borough Land Area 1990 Pop. Pop/Sq. Mi. Rank density than Brentwood, although all of the Neighboring Communities are above the County average of 1,828.50 people per square mile. BRENT. I43 10.823 7,568 53 12 Most of the other density figures in the Neighboring Communities are .NEIGHBORING COMMUNITIES somewhat lower than Brentwood's. Since Similar Communities were Baldwin B 5 44 2 1,923 4.029 96 52 selected based on comparable densities, it is not surprising to find that these areas are very similar to Brentwood. In the SHACOG area as a Baldwin T I 02 2,479 2,430 39 67 whole, the density is less than 40% of Brentwood's. The SHACOG C Shannon 151 9,135 6,049 67 26 area is more densely populated than the County as a whole, but not nearly as dense as Brentwood. Finally, it should be noted that Dormont 76 9,772 12,857 89 2 Brentwood's density is greater than, but similar to that of the City PI Hills 25 8,884 3,553 60 57 Pittsburgh. Whitehall I 319 I 14,451 I 4,530.09 I 45 10.3 - AREA DISTRIBUTION
In addition to looking at the overall density of the community, it is also important to know where people live within the community. With a density of 7,568.53 people per square mile, Brentwood's density is equal to 1 1.83 people per acre. These people are not, however, equally COMPARISON COMMUNITIES distributed over the more than 900 acres in Brentwood. In order to SHACOG 75 73 211,430 2,791 89 64 depict a more accurate representation of where people live within Brentwood, Map No. 10.3 on Page 10-6 shows the distribution of the Pgh. 55.38 369,879 6,768.93 21 population within the Borough by Census Block Groups. Almost 56% Allegheny 730 9 1,336,449 1,828.50 NA of Brentwood's population lives east of Brownsville Road. Northeast County
Brentwood (north of Point View Road and east of Brownsville road) PA 46.058 1 1,881,643 257 9 NA contains the largest concentration of residents, with almost 41% of the total population of the Borough. West of Brownsville Road, the largest number of the residents live in the area bounded by Brownsville Road, Kestner Avenue, Sceneridge and the Borough boundary.
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BACKGROUND INFORMATION
10.4 - AGE-SEX DISTRIBUTION
Few characteristics are as important to planning for the future of a population over 65 is significantly higher in Brentwood (1 9.9%) than community than the age and sex distribution of the area. These in any of the "Neighboring Communities", where the average is 17.7% characteristics, and the age distribution in particular, have important ,except for Whitehall with a population base of 65 and older of 22.4%. implications for the development of the borough, particularly with Brentwood's 65 and older population is higher than that of all other regard to housing and recreational issues. Tables 10.4A and 3.4B comparison groups, with the exception of Swissvale Borough. provide information on the crucial aspects of the 1990 age and sex distribution of the Borough and other local communities. Finally, Brentwood has a Median Age of 36.6 years. This is slightly younger than the Neighboring Communities average of 37.5, but In 1990 Brentwood's population of 10,823 in 1990 consisted of 4,977 slightly older than the Similar Communities average of 35.8. This males (46%) and 5,846 females (54%). Median Age is in line with the County median of 36.7.
Relative to age, Brentwood lost population in seven of the eleven population classifications between 1980 and 1990. Population declines were especially prevalent in the categories between 45 and 64, the prime income earning years. There were also significant declines in the 5 to 24 year age brackets. This decline would be consistent with losses in the older age categories, as children would be expected to leave the community with their parents, coupled with a decline in the birth rate. The Borough showed a significant increase in the 25 to 44 year age bracket.
At the extremes of the age breakdowns, the YJnder 5" category showed a minor 2.2% increase between 1980 and 1990, following a decline of more than 31% between 1980 and 1990. The percentage of the population greater than 75 years old grew by 15% between 1980 and 1990 and the number of people in the community more than 85 years old has doubled since 1970.
The percentage of the population under 18, at 20.2%, is relatively consistent with, but slightly above, the average of "Neighboring Communities" (1 9.9%) and the "Similar Communities". The SHACOG area as a whole has a higher percentage of children under 18, with 22% of the total population in this category. Pittsburgh's percentage "Under 18" (19.8%) is slightly lower than that of Brentwood, while that of the County is slightly higher (2 1. I %). The percentage of the
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TABLE 10.4A - BRENTWOOD BOROUGH AGE / SEX POPULATION DISTRIBUTION I I I I 1970 1980 1990 CHANGE, 1980-1990
NUMBER % TOTAL POPULATION 13,732 11,907 10,823 -I ,084 -9.1 Male 6,338 5,433 4,977 -456 -8.4 Female 7,394 6,474 5,846 -628 -9.7 AGE DISTRIBUTION Under 5 Years 940 647 66 1 14 2.2 5 to 17 Years 2,968 1,845 1,528 -3 17 -17.2 18 to 20 Years 5 84 623 345 -287 -44.6 21 to 24 Years 899 935 598 -337 -36.0 25 to 44 Years 2,859 2,9 12 3,580 668 22.9 45 to 54 Years 1,920 1,153 912 -24 1 -20.9 55 to 59 Years 877 83 7 489 -348 -4 1.6 60 to 64 Years 909 882 592 -290 -32.9 65 to 74 Years 1,151 1,291 1,219 -72 -5.6 75 to 84 Years 542 619 733 1 I4 18.4 85 Years and Older 83 163 166 3 1.8 Median Age 35.1 34.8 36.6 1.8 5.2
Percent of Total Population Under 18 Years 28.5 20.9 20.2 -0.7 Percent of Total Population 65 and Older 12.9 17.4 19.6 2.2
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MUN IC1PA LITY Yo FEMALE Yo MALE % UNDER 18 % 65 & OVER MEDIAN AGE BRENTWOOD 54.0 46.0 20.2 19.9 36.6
Crafton 54.3 45.7 20.5 15.9 34.7 Swissvale 55.2 44.8 18.1 20.2 37.3 West View 54.3 45.7 22.0 17.8 35.3 SIMILAR COMMUN IT1 ES TOTAL 54.7 45.3 19.9 18.2 35.8
- - _. - I _.”~ - . _* -_ coniwisoN conmurwiE§ _I--. -- -_-_ SHACOG TOTAL 52.6 47.4 22.0 15.7 37.8 PITTSBURGH 53.6 46.4 19.8 17.9 34.6 ALLEGHENY COUNTY 53.1 46.9 21.1 17.4 36.7 PENNSYLVANIA I I I I I
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10.5 - RACIAL AND ETHNIC CHARACTER
In an increasingly diverse society, both racially and ethnically, communities. With a .6% minority population, Brentwood is only one understanding the rich, multi-cultural composition of the community of four communities with less than 1% of its population categorized as is an increasingly important responsibility for those in decision-making minority. When compared with the City of Pittsburgh and Allegheny roles. County, Brentwood's 1% minority population falls far below that of either the City of Pittsburgh or Allegheny County. Over the last fifty years Brentwood has remained a relatively homogeneous community. Although the relative percentage of A second measure of the homogeneity or diversity of the community minority residents has increased over the last half of the century, is the ancestry, or ethnic composition of the community. Table 1032 Brentwood still has less than one percent of its population classified as provides a detailed list of the ancestries reported by the residents of "minority". Table No. 3.5A provides a picture of Brentwood's racial Brentwood in 1990. composition over the 1940 to 1990 time period. By far the greatest number of residents described themselves as West European, with 46% of the total population listing at least one ancestry in that category. This was followed by residents who claimed at least TABLE NO. 3.5A HISTORIC RACIAL MAKE-UP one Eastern European ancestry, 15%, as an integral part of their ethnic 11 Year 1 White Af-Am As-Am Other % 11 background. 1940 7,551 1 0 >.Ol 1950 12,530 5 0 >.Ol 1960 13,689 7 IO .1 1970 13,716 1 15 .I
1980 11,873 4 20 8 .3 1990 10,756 14 33 20 .6
By way of comparison, Table No 1 OSB, on page 10-1 1 provides an analysis of the racial composition in the region. As can be seen from the data in this table, Brentwood's minority population is significantly less than what might be expected based on comparisons with other
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WHITE A FR.-AM. ASI AN- AM OTt IER MUNICIPALITY # YO # YO # YO # % % MINORITY BRENTWOOD 10,756 99.4 14 .I3 33 .3 1 20 .I6 .6
Baldwin Borough 21,539 98.2 25 1 1.2 91 .4 42 .2 1.8 I I I I I I
Pittsburgh 266,791 72.1 95,362 25.8 5,937 I .6 1,789 .5 27.9 Allegheny County 1.16'1 452 87.5 149,550 11.2 13,469 I .0 3,978 .3 12.5 Pennsylvania
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10.7 - FAMILY PATTERNS
When discussing people's perceptions of Brentwood, one of the images ~ that was repeatedly alluded to was the "family-oriented" nature of Ancestry # Ancestry # Brentwood. The Census data provides us with several measures of the accuracy of this perception. To provide a common basis for this German 4,872 Welsh 206 discussion, the US Census Bureau defines a "Family Household" as I' ... Irish 2,967 American I68 a householder and one or more related persons." Families are further broken down into either "married couple families" or "other families" 1,805 Scottish 164 Italian according to the sex of the head of household and the presence of Polish 1,425 Swedish 162 relatives. A "Married Couple Family" is a family in which both the head-of-household and his or her spouse are enumerated as a member of the same household. A Male-Headed Family is one in which a male head-of-household is present with no wife. A Female-Headed Family is one with a female head of household present with no husband.
As can be determined by the data in Table 10.7A, there has been a steady decline in the traditional nuclear family in Brentwood over the last twenty years. Married-Couple families declined from 69.5% of all households to just over 50% in 1990. During the same time period, there were substantial increases in the number of Female-Headed households and Non-Family households. It is also critical to note the TABLE 10.5C: 1990 Ancestries Reported increase in the number of people living alone and most importantly, the (With More Than 100 Repondents) number of people aged 65 and older living alone.
A comparison of family patterns against other communities is also provided in Table No. 10.7A on page 10- 14. Brentwood has the lowest percentage of married couple families of any of the "Neighboring Communities." However, in comparison to "Similar Communities'' 10.6 - POPULATION MOVEMENTS Brentwood is at the high end of the spectrum with 5 1.6% compared to an average of 44.1 'YO Population movement data reveals trends about the relative stability of tlie community. Census data indicates that of tlie IO, 162 residents of A second critical factor is the'percentage of Non-Family households in tlie Borough who were fives years of age or older in I990,66.5% lived Breiitwood compared to "Neighboring Cornmunities." In this category, in the same house as they did in 1985. This reveals that 3,40 1 residents Brentwood, with 35.9% Non-Family households, is surpassed only by ofthe Borough, or 34.5% iiioved in the five years preceding the 1990 Dorinont . Census.
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Finally, it is important to note the relatively high percentage of people In addition to the composition of the municipalities' households, it is living alone in Brentwood. 32.3% of Brentwood's population live also critical to have an understanding of the distribution of household alone while just over 27% live alone in the rest of the area. This income. Table I0.8A provides a comparison of the Median household number is less than the Similar Communities average of 35.4%. Of income and Table 10.8B provides an analysis of the distribution of particular note is the percentage of Brentwood's population that is 65 Household income within Brentwood. or older and living alone. Almost 15% of Brentwood's population falls into this category. This information has important ramifications for As shown in Table 10.8A, Brentwood has one of the lower Median retail, recreational, health care and other important planning Household Incomes, registering at $27,698 per household in 1990. considerations. This makes Brentwood the fourth lowest community in terms of median household income. The average median for the Neighboring 10.8 - HOUSEHOLD CHARACTERISTICS Communities is $32, 994.83 while the average for Similar Communities is $30,3 14.67. The SHACOG median household income The U.S. Census Bureau defines a "Household'' as "all the persons who is $353 1 1. occupy a housing unit". The housing unit may be an apartment, a mobile home, a group of rooms, a single room, or a traditional home. The distribution of household income is equally revealing. Of the The important distinction between a Household and a Family is that a 4,649 households in Brentwood, 13.5% made less than $10,000 in Family obviously refers to a Householder (the legal owner or renter of 1989, while an equal amount made between $50,000 and $74,999. The the housing unit in question) and one or more related persons. A greatest percentage of the households, 4 1.2%, made between $10,000 Household, on the other hand, may be single family, two or more and $29,999. The remaining 28.3% of the households earned between families living together, or any group of related or unrelated persons $30,000 and $49,000. who share living arrangements. The distinction is important for many reasons, but it is particularly relevant to business owners and In addition to the tables on the following pages Map. No. 10.8 on Page developers, who are more concerned with the number of and income of IO- 16, provides a spatial distribution of both households and median Households as opposed to Families. This is due to the fact that people household income by Census Block Groups within the Borough of tend to make purchases for the "HOUSE" as opposed to the Brentwood. "FAMILY".
With 4,617 households in 1990, Brentwood was comparable in size to both Dormont and Swissvale. More important, however, is the Persons Per Household (P/HH). In 1990, Brentwood had 2.33 P/HH, lower than 13 of the 19 communities against whom comparisons were made.
In terms of the change in the average P/HH Brentwood showed an 18.8% decline between 1970 in and 1990, dropping from 2.87 to 2.33. Table 10.8A on page 10-15 provides a detailed analysis of the Households and Persons per Household data for the area.
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MUNICIPALITY TOTAL HHs Married Cpl. Male Head Female Head Non-Family Living Alone L.A.165 + BR ENTWOOD 4,6 17 51.6 2.2 10.3 35.9 32.3 14.9
Baldwin Borough 8,677 61.8 2.6 10.3 25.4 23. I 11.0 Baldwin Township 91 1 67.7 2.1 7.0 23.2 20.7 9.5 Castle Shannon 3,907 52.5 3.0 9.9 34.5 30.6 10.6 Dormont 4,143 44.4 3.O 13.6 39.1 33.0 11.3 Pleasant Hills 3.432 66.6 1.7 7.3 24.4 22.7 10.6 Whitehall 6,158 56.9 2.0 7.9 33.2 30.4 13.4 Neighboring Comm. Total 27,228 57.5 2.5 9.7 30.3 27.2 11.4
Crafton 3,181 45.3 2.5 10.3 42.0 36.5 13.6 Swissvale 4,926 39.2 3.6 13.9 43.3 38.6 14.8 West View 3,320 51.2 3 .O 11.5 33.7 29.6 15.1 Similar Comm. Total 1 1,427 44.1 3.1 12.2 40.0 35.4 14.6
------_- - - --, I , __ ,_ - - I __ __ - -- - , --COhlP&RISON CORlRl JNlTlEfi ______. -__ . __ ___- ______- SHACOG 78,938 61.7 2.3 8.4 27.7 24.9 10.5 Pittsburgh 152,483 36.1 3.6 17.4 43.3 36 5 15.0 Allegheny County 54 I ,26 I 50.7 3.0 12.4 33.8 29.6 13.0
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Municipality Households 1990 1970- 1990 % Median Household Persons/Household Change in Income 1990 Persons/Household BRENTWOOD 4,649 2.33 -1 8.8 $27,689.00
Baldwin Borough 8,677 2.52 -26.5 $3 1,844.00 Baldwin Township 91 1 2.65 -24.9 $34,044.00 Castle Shannon 3,907 2.33 -28.9 $28,660.00 Dormont 4,143 2.36 -1 8.9 $27,66 1 .OO Pleasant Hills 3,432 2.55 -26.7 $41,577.00 Whitehall 6,158 2.3 -25.0 $34,183 .OO Neighboring Communities Total 2.45 -25.15 $32,994.83
Crafton 3,181 2.26 -23.9 $28,186.00 Swissvale 4,926 2.46 -1 5.7 $34,183.00 West View 3,230 2.36 -19.7 $28,575.00 Similar Communities Total 11,337 2.36 -19.77 $30,3 14.67
SHACOG Total 78,938 2.50 -22.9 $353 I 1 .oo Pittsburgh 152,483 2.27 NA $20,747.00 Allegheny County 54 1,261 2.4 1 NA $28,136.00 Pennsylvania 4,495,966 2.74 NA $29,069.00
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10.9 SPECIAL SOCIOLOGICAL GROUPS BRENTWOOD HOUSEHOLD INCOME - 1990 ll In addition to understanding the details of the population base of the community taken as a whole, policy makers and the community-at- large must also understand the particular situation of specific population groups within the community. These special groups include the elderly, those with a mobility limitation or self-care limitation, and other groups as it may be appropriate to recognize.
The elderly, those 65 years of age and older, generally constitute the largest special population within any community. Brentwood has a significant elderly population. In fact, 19.6% of Brentwood's total population is 65 or older and the Borough is surpassed only by Whitehall and Heidelberg in terms of municipalities with a larger elderly population. Brentwood's elderly population is 2.8% higher than the Neighboring Communities, 3.7 % higher than the Similar Communities, and 3.9% higher than the SHACOG area.
The "special" classification for the elderly is more apparent when we examine the quality of life of this group. In Brentwood 64% of the population aged 65 and older live alone. This is the second highest category in the South Hills area, surpassed only by Heidelberg. In addition, of the 689 residents of the community in this age bracket who live alone, I 18, or almost 18%, live below the poverty level. This $60,000 to $74,999 240 5.2 translates into 5.6% of the total elderly and I. 1 % of Brentwood's total population who are elderly, alone and in poverty. $75,000 to $99,999 112 2.4
$100,000 to $124,999 50 1.1 Because of confidentiality concerns it is difficult to find out detailed information about those residents who are either mentally or physically $125,000 to $149,999 0 0.0 challenged. The Census Bureau does provide some insight into this $150,000 & Over 7 .2 issue by providing information concerning residents with either a mobility or self-care limitation. There were, in Rrentwood in 1990, 642 residents, or about 6% oftlie community, with either a mobility or a self-care limitation. Of this iiumber, 169, or approximately 26%, indicated that they had both a mobility liiiiitation and a self-care liniitation. Ofthe totiII nuinher, 170, or iibotlt 27.8%, wcrc between the
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~~ BACKGROUND INFORMATION ages of 16 and 64, while almost 3/4 (72.8%) were 65 years of age or to high of 1 1,062 in 201 5. older. Early indications from the U.S. Census Bureau indicate a slight 10.10 - POPULATION TRENDS AND PROJECTIONS downward trend in the total population of Brentwood over the first four years of this decade. The following information is taken from U.S. One of the most important parts of any comprehensive plan is the Census estimates of the total Brentwood population: section which deals with the future population of the community. Because so many of the standards used to determine police manpower July I, 1990 - 10,826 requirements, or parks and recreation needs, or retail space July 1, 1991 - 10,727 requirements, are based on the current and projected population of the July 1 , 1992 - 10,709 community, the population projection becomes crucial to the long July I, 1993 - 10,581 range plans of both the public and private sector. July 1 , 1994 - 10,527
In this section we will examine the projections made by various local In addition, data collected by the Allegheny County Health Department and regional planning agencies and determine which projection, or indicates that between 1990 and 1995, there was a net natural most likely, which range of projections makes the most sense for use increment increase of 44 births over deaths in Brentwood. This does in the remaining parts of this planning document. not take into account net in-migration or out-migration. The net result of these indicators is that Brentwood will experience a slight decrease Among the most widely used population projections in this region are in total population by the time the next census is conducted in the year those prepared by the Southwestern Pennsylvania Regional Planning 2000. Commission (SPRPC). The SPRPC "Cycle V" Forecasts were adopted by the Commission in June of 1994. They represent years of development and were prepared in concert with SPRPC's Long-Range Transportation Plan. Using a computerized regional economic program model, SPRPC concluded that by the year 2015, Brentwood' s population will have grown to 11,062, up from the 1990 figure of 10,823, or an increase of 2.2%
The Allegheny County Planning Department completed a separate series of projections after the publication of the 1990 Census data. Based on their projections, the County sees a continued, but small, decline in the population of the Borough through the year 20 IO, to a level of 10,665. If this projection comes to fruition, this would represent a drop in the population base of 1.4%.
Therefore at this juncture, using two of the better known projections we have population projections ranging from a low of 10,665 in 20 10
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BACKGROUND INFORMATION
I
SEC. FIN DINGS IMPLICATIONS 10.2A Brentwood's population base has been declining, but the rate of Relatively stable population from a total service standpoint. decline is slowing. No need for immediate, drastic service adjustments 1028 Brentwood is one of the most densely populated communities in Continuing opportunities for mass transit based development. Allegheny County. Most readily-buildable land already developed 10.3 Most people reside in the northern half of the community. This area should receive greater consideration relative to the prioritization of new or upgraded municipal facilities. 10.4 High percentage of females within Brentwood (54%) Greater need for day care facilities for working mothers 10.4 Declining younger population age brackets (5 to 24) in total Greater need for municipal services and programs geared to an older population base. Indications of increasing size of the school age population. Need to address issues of school facilities and recreation need for school age population.
10.4 Increasing elderly population and high median age Less disposable income. Reduced crime rates 10.5 Homogeneous racial and ethnic composition Easier to determine "market" profiles of the community. Limits the marketplace richness and variety of a more diversified population base. (I 10.6 I One third of the population moving within five years. More transient population base. Less commitment to community. Greater demand for rental units.
10.7 Steady decline in the traditional nuclear family within Greater need for "community services" that were once Bren twood. provided by the family. 10.7 High percentage of non-family households and householders Fewer household purchases made. Greater demand for single living alone. lifestyle items. 10.8 Declining number of persons per household with lower median Fewer discretionary dollars per household resulting in less i nconie . money for housing upkeep, more hesitation concerning measures that increase tax rates.
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BACKGROUND INFORMATION
10.9A High percentage of elderly living alone. Greater need for single lifestyle items. Greater need for community support. Opportunities for elderly housing projects as a stimulus to keep elderly in the community 10.9B Little indication of significant special needs population. Minimal necessity for locating facilities to service the specific needs of indigenous Brentwood residents. Population projections range from slight increase to slight Little need to project drastic changes to required community 1010 decline services and facilities
BACKGROUND INFORMATION: PAGE NO. 10-20 THE BRENTWOOD COMPREHENSIVE PLAN
SECTIONll: LAND USE BACKGROUND INFORMATION
SECTION 11. LAND USE
11.1 - INTRODUCTION
Perhaps no single element of the traditional comprehensive plan is Map No. 1 1.2 on Page 1 1-3 provides an overview of land use patterns more recognizable, or more important, than that part of the plan that within the Borough of Brentwood as they existed in the late fall of deals with land use. The land use component of the comprehensive 1994. Table 1 1.2 on Page 1 1-4 provides a statistical breakdown of the plan should serve as the basis for three of the most important regulatory land use patterns and a comparison of this data with that collected in tools available to local municipalities: the zoning ordinance, the 1971. subdivision ordinance, and the land developiiient ordinance. l'licse three pieces of local legislation serve as the basis for the control of all The first, and most obvious, difference between the 1994 and 197 I development that occurs within the municipality. Without an overall land use inventory is in the total row at the bottom of Table 1 1.2. In understanding of the trends and patterns in the local utilization of the 1971, the land use inventory indicated that Brentwood had 929.09 land, which should underlie these ordinances, the realities of acres. In 1994, and currently, Allegheny County officially lists the development within the community will be out of sync with the rules Borough of Brentwood as consisting of 9 1 5 acres, a decrease of 14.09 and regulations of the Borough, which should govern the standards and acres, or a loss of about 1.5% of the Boroughs total area. This decrease controls of local development. The result of a lack of coordination is most likely due to improvements in aerial mapping and computer between the current trends in land use and the rules and regulations assisted calculations of total municipal area, which eliminates many which govern it, will be developers faced with extensive legal hurdles of the inconsistencies that were present in 197 1 when such calculations including excessive requests for variances and curative amendments. were conducted manually with scaled rulers or manual planimeters. The result for the Borough will be the perception of a community out For the purposes of this plan then, the official area of the Borough will of touch with current development and market trends and therefore be 9 15 acres. "unfriendly" to new development. For this reason, the land use section is a critical element to the overall comprehensive plan. Turning our attention to the overall pattern of land use within the Borough, it is clear to see that the predominant use of land in the 1 1.2 - CURRENT LAND USE PATTERNS Borough in 1994 was residential, with 485.6 acres, or more than 53% of the land area used for that purpose. Streets and other public right-of- In November and December of 1994, the staff of the Redevelopment way accounted for 25.36% of the total area, with just over 232 acres. Authority of Allegheny County conducted an in-depth inventory of Public and semi-public land uses, including municipal property. each parcel of land in the Borough of Brentwood. This inventory churches, schools, utilities and other such owners, came in third with included a determination as to the use of each parcel of land within the almost 101 acres, or just over I 1% of the total area of the Borough. Borough as well as its physical condition. In addition, the coding Commercial uses followed with just under 57 acres or 6.2% while system used to classify each parcel was coordinated with the system vacant land consumed about 38.6 acres or 4.22% of the total area of the used in the preparation of the 1973 Comprehensive Plan so that, while Borough. Industrial uses in Brentwood accounted for I .09 acres or just the 1994 survey collected more information, this inforination is over one-tenth of one percent ol'the 13orough. compatible with the 1973 data and will allow for comparisons relative to changes in land use. In comparing the I994 and 197 I inventories, the most striking data is
BACKGROUND INFORMATION: PAGE NO. 1 1-1 BACKGROUND INFORMATION the relative stability of land uses within the Borough. In all of the primary land use categories, including residential, commercial, industrial and public/semi-public, the relative change in land use over the last 23 years is within 2% of the total area. Only in the area of vacant land and Streets and R-0-W, did land use change significantly. These changes are due primarily to new development in the mid 1970's in the Tuxey Rd.-Edge Rd. area where new residential development resulted in an increase in roads, a decrease in vacant land and an increase in single family land use as a percentage of total land use.
Other interesting observations from the land use study are:
0 The amount of land in commercial land use increase by about 8 acres over the last two decades.
0 Municipal property consumes almost 9% of the total area of the Borough and about 82% of the total publidsemi-public land.
0 Other semi-public/public land uses consume only about 2 acres or less than one-quarter of one percent of the total area of the Borough.
0 A general rule of thumb is that between 25% and 30% of the total area of a municipality should be used for public right-of- way. At 25.36%, Brentwood falls within this "acceptable range".
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BACKGROUND INFORMATION
TABLE 11.2: BRENTWOOD BOROUGH LAND USE STATISTICS
BACKGROUND INFORMATION: PAGE NO. 1 1-4 BACKGROUND INFORMATION
1 1.3 - NON-CONFORMING USE PATTERNS
As defined by the Pennsylvania Municipalities Planning Code, a non- An area of interest does exist in the large R-2 district of the Borough conforming use is a "use, whether of land or structure, which does not between Brownsville Road and Route 51. Within this area, there comply with the applicable use provisions in a zoning ordinance or appears to have been a significant increase in the number of multi- amendment heretofore or hereafter enacted, where such use was family conversions, as evidenced by the Land Use Map. This would Iuwjiilly in existence prior to the enactment of such ordinance or be indicative of market forces that are demanding greater use of this amendment, or prior to the application of such ordinance or amendment area for these multi-family dwellings. to its location by reason of annexation." Determining the extent of non-conforming uses within the community can serve as the basis for revisions to the zoning ordinance as well as provide insight into issues of code enforcement and building inspection. It may also serve to determine to what extent the Zoning Hearing Board and the Borough Council are in step with the Comprehensive Plan and the Zoning Ordinance.
The easiest way to get a general handle on non-conforming uses within the Borough is to compare the land use to the zoning map, and then cross-reference these by making comparisons to permitted uses, conditional uses and special exceptions within the zoning ordinance. A copy of the current Zoning Map is included as Map No. 1 1.3 on Page 11-6. It is important to remember that conditional uses and special exceptions are uses by right provided that certain conditions and certain approvals are obtained by the property owner or developer. Large numbers of conditional uses or special exceptions within a zoning district then, may be more indicative of the need to make certain uses by right within that particular district.
A review of Brentwood's non-conforming uses indicates that there does not appear to be large numbers of illegal, non-conforming uses within the Borough. These would be cases where blatant examples of non- conforming abutting uses are allowed to exist. This an indication of relatively good work by the Planning Commission, the Zoning Officer and the Building Inspector.
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BACKGROUND INFORMATION
I 1.4 - TAX-EXEMPT LAND USE
Table No. 1 1.4 provides an overview of the Borough's tax-exempt land three years. As a percentage of total assessed value, however, the tax use patterns over the preceding three years (1 994-96). Map. No. 1 1.4 exempt value has consistently hovered at the eight percent level (8%). on page 1 1-8 gives a geographic distribution of Brentwood's. tax In looking further at the average assessed value, we can determine that exempt land in 1996. there has been a slight drop in the average assessed value of tax exempt property over the last year, a finding consistent with other indicators It is apparent from the data presented in Table No. 4.4 that Brentwood's about the status of the physical condition of the Borough.
A review of the ownership pattern of the tax exempt property revealed a high degree of consistency in the way tax exempt land is being used in the Borough. Almost three-quarters of all tax exempt land is owned CATEGORY 1994 1995 I996 "institutionally" either by the Borough, the School District, a church or TOTAL $ 56,449,520 $ 56,280,420 $ 56,375,145 some other public or semi-public user of the land. About 25% of the ASSESSED tax-exempt land is owned jointly by the County, the Borough and the School District, an indicator of tax delinquent properties. Only several TAWLE 5 1,922,830 5 1,720,780 5 1,790,455 small parcels are held by private non-profits. ASSESSED VALUE
TAX-EXEMPT 4,526,690 4,559,640 4,584,690 ASSESSED VALUE
Yo TAX 8.0 8.1 8.1 EXEMPT
NO. OF TAX 40 48 50 EXEMPT PROPERTIES
AVERAGE 94,992.50 91,693.80 VALUE
tax exempt status is and has been relatively stable over the past several years. While total assessed value has fluctuated slightly, the actual assessed value has been showing an incremental increase over the last
BACKGROUND INFORMATION: PAGE NO. 11-7 -.; 1 \ BOROUGH OF BRENTWOOD COMPREHENSIVE PLAN nOER Mu Map NO. 11.4 Tax Exempt Land Approximate Scale: 1 inch = 1,333 feet BACKGROUND INFORMATION: PAGE NO: Il------. BACKGROUND INFORMATION
1 1.5 LAND USE FINDINGS AND IMPLICATIONS II I I 1 SEC. FINDINGS IMPLICATIONS
1 1.2 Relatively stable land use patterns over the last twenty years No need for extensive revisions to land use sections of the zoning ordinance or zoning map.
1 I .3 Moderate increase in the number of multi-family dwellings in the R-2 Need to consider changes to uses by right vs. conditional uses in this district in the central western half of the Borough. area, and a possible overlay district to facilitate more creative and beneficial multi-family development within this area. I 1.4 Most tax exempt land held by large institutional owners No evidence of severe vacant or abandoned property problems resulting in public ownership of residential properties.
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THE BRENTWOOD COMPREHENSIVE PLAN
PART 11: BACKGROUND INFORMATION
SECTION 12: PUBLIC AND SEMI-PUBLIC SERVICE FACILITIES
I BACKGROUND INFORMATION
SECTION 12: PUBLIC AND SEMI-PUBLIC SERVICE FACILITIES
12.1 - THE SCHOOL SYSTEM AND LIBRARIES As may be determined by Brentwood's ranking relative to these particular performance measures, the Brentwood School District 12. I. I. The Brentwood School District: The Borough of Brentwood performed well. Of the 43 school districts in Allegheny County, maintains its own, separate school system. The school district is Brentwood consistently ranked in the top half. Brentwood's 1 1 th place governed by an autonomous Brentwood School Board. The school ranking in TELLS math testing placed it in the company of the Shaler, district currently operates two elementary schools - Moore and Elroy Plum, Gateway and Avonworth School Districts. The TELLS reading and a combined Middle School High School. The location of these scores were slightly lower. In this category, Brentwood compared facilities is identified on Map. No. 12.1. favorably with the Shaler, Hampton, Penn Hills and North Hills School Districts. No meaningful ranking can be given for student-to-teacher In April of 1993, the University Center for Social and Urban Research ratios as there are numerous school districts with the same ratios. In at The University of Pittsburgh prepared a report entitled The Social this category, however, Brentwood's ratio is the same as the Woodland Geogruphy of Allegheriy Counly. Included in this report is a Hills, Baldwin-Whitehall, Chartiers Valley, Moon, Keystone Oaks and comparison of all Allegheny County School Districts across five numerous other school districts. Brentwood's dropout rate of 0.88% is performance measures. The measures, the Brentwood School District comparable with dropout rates in the Montour, Bethel Park, North Hills score relative to each measure, the County average, and Brentwood's and Keystone Oaks districts. The rankings relative to spending per overall ranking relative to each measure are included in Table No. 12. I student run from low to high, so that Brentwood's 15th place ranking below. in this category puts in the lowest 1/3 of spending per student. In this category, Brentwood is in the company of the Sto-Rox, Thomas- Jefferson, East Allegheny, Hampton, Penn Hills, and North Allegheny school districts.
~ ~~ Performance Measure Brntwd. County Rank In summary, using these five indicators as a measure of overall performance, one must draw the conclusion that Brentwood is % 8th Gr. Below TELLS Cutscore - Math 8.5 21.00 11 achieving good academic performance for its school district tax dollar. % 8th Gr. Below TELLS Cutscore - Read 14.1 21.50 22 It should be noted, however, that these indicators are for 1990 and used Student-Teacher Ratio 17.0 16.57 as a common basis for all other data included in this report. More current data should be examined when determining the most recent Total ExpenditureslPupil 5,916 6,694 15 condition of the school district. Dropout Rate (per 100 7th-12th Gr.) 0.88 2.26 I1 Turning to the condition of the existing school facilities is to deal with one of the most contested issues in Brentwood over the last five years. A review of the current condition of the Brentwood public schools reveals the following:
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BACKGROUND INFORMATION
Moore Elementary - constructed in 1914; additions and renovations - Americans With Disabilities Act (ADA) and local 194 1 & 1997. Elroy Elementary - constructed in 1920; additions and codes renovations - 1955, 1965 & 1997. Brentwood Middle SchooVHS - 2. Make system improvements including electric, constructed in 1930; additions - 1939, 1959, and 1973. HVAC, windows and fire suppression. 3. Provide new or completely refurbished classrooms, Separate architectural feasibility studies, conducted by the Brentwood expanded library, art, music, special education, health School Board in 1993 and 1996, both concluded that there is a need for suite, faculty stage, warming kitchen, and building ''major physical plant improvements'' at all three of these facilities. A administration rooms. long community debate ensued after the release of the first feasibility 4. Projected Cost: $5.2 million study, in 1993, as to the desirability of a single educational complex on the grounds of the current Middle School/ High School. This B. Middle/High School: consideration was defeated at the polls in 1995 when all of the school 1. Undertake all renovations necessary for full board candidates supporting the combined educational complex lost compliance with BOCA, L&I, ADA and local codes. their bid for election. The current school board, which conducted the 2. Make system improvements including electric, second feasibility study, has similarly concluded that there is a need for HVAC, windows, and cafeteria equipment. major physical improvements to the school district's facilities. This 3. Provide new or renovated classrooms, library, special Board reviewed all improvement options included in the 1993 and 1996 education, science labs, art, band, choral, home- Feasibility Study, and a comprehensive rehabilitation of the Middle and making, gymnasium, locker rooms, kitchen and High schools. This approach would seem to be in keeping with the cafeteria, natatorium and building administration desires of the Brentwood voting public. In the summer of 1997, the facilities. Brentwood School Board completed full, comprehensive renovations 4. Projected Cost: $1 6.5 million to Moore and Elroy Elementary with respect to the 1996 Feasibility Study's recommendations. The total, estimated cost of these renovations is $2 1,700,000.00.
As a result of this approach, the Brentwood School Board is, at this 12.1.2. The Brentwood Public Library: Located at the entrance to time, considering an option for capital improvements that would do the Brentwood Park, the Brentwood Public Library was constructed in following: 1991, in conformance with the 1988 Municipal Facilities Study, conducted by Decade Architectural Associates, Inc. for the Borough of Make comprehensive renovations and improvements in the areas of Brentwood. Technology, Athletics, Science, Administrative, Environmental, Programmatic Improvements, Health and Safety, and Code 12.2 - PUBLIC UTILITIES requirements at the Middle and High School facility. The renovations and improvements include: 12.2.1 Potable Water: Potable Water is supplied to the Borough of Brentwood by The PA-American Water Company. The utility has A. Moore and Elroy Elementary: sufficient capacity to meet both current and future demand. This utility 1. Undertake all renovations necessary for full maintains a pump house and water reservoir on Becks Run Road that compliance with BOCA, Labor and Industry (L&l), services the Borough of Brentwood.
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12.2.2 Sanitary Sewage: Sanitary sewage removal within the Borough 12.2.3 Electric Service: Electric service is provided to the Borough by of Brentwood is provided by the Allegheny County Sanitary Authority Duquesne Light Co. The Borough is well served by this utility which (ALCOSAN). The ALCOSAN system covers 864 acres, or has sufficient capacity for both existing and future demand. Duquesne approximately 94.5% of the municipality. Two primary trunk lines Light has a sub-station on Route 5 1 , next to the Pizza Hut. drain sanitary sewage away from the Borough. The Clairton Sewer drains the Western half of Brentwood and the Wanley Road (Shuttie 12.2.4. Gas Service: Gas service to the Borough of Brentwood is Rd.) Sewer drains the eastern half of the Borough. Map. No. 9.3.4, on provided to the Borough of Brentwood by the both Equitable and page 9-9, shows the location of these primary sewer trunk lines. Columbia Gas companies. These utilities also have ample capacity to serve the current and future demands of the residents and businesses of The Clairton Sewer ties into the Saw Mill Interceptor of ALCOSAN. the community. The Saw Mill Run Interceptor has a long history of overflowing and flooding. The problem is severe enough that the PA Department of 12.3 - MUNICIPAL SERVICE FACILITIES Environmental Protection has placed a moratorium on new sewer tap- ins by communities in this watershed, including Brentwood. Because 12.3.1. Brentwood Municipal Building: The Brentwood Municipal of this moratorium and the severity of the problem, Brentwood, like Building was constructed in the early 1900's. In 1956 a major other communities utilizing this system, is required to implement a renovation project was undertaken which significantly enlarged the size corrective action plan to mitigate the effects of their individual of the original structure. The building is of steel and masonry contributions to the overflow and flooding problem. According to the construction and is in basically sound condition, although substantial recently-released act 537 Comprehensive Sewage Facilities Plan (July deterioration of the fire department floor is affecting both the 1996)ALCOSAN intends to construct a 24,500 foot parallel interceptor Brentwood Volunteer Fire Department and the Brentwood Public to help alleviate the problem. Construction is expected to be completed Works Department. by mid-1 998. Overall the 1988 Decade study noted the following building The Wanley Rd./Shuttie Rd. Sewer, which drains the eastern half of the deficiencies: Borough has similar problems. It ties into the Monongahela Interceptor 1. Energy inefficient windows of ALCOSAN along Streets Run in the vicinity of the Glenwood 2. Interior spaces of fixed size because of masonry construction Bridge. The Streets Run sewer is a non-ALCOSAN owned facility. 3. Interior finishes of materials no longer permissible This system has problems similar to, but less severe than the Saw Mill 4. Inadequate lighting Run Interceptor. However, a similar moratorium is in effect for this 5. Insufficient number of plumbing fixtures in the building watershed as well. Again, lack of downstream capacity to accept peak 6. Lack of a central HVAC system period flows is the cause of the problem. 7. Building is not handicapped accessible
Brentwood Borough reported no problems in 1995 beyond those The Municipal Building houses the Borough Administrative Offices, identified in the Corrective Action Plan (CAP). Brentwood activities the Borough Tax Office, the Police Department, the Brentwood required to maintain compliance with the CAP include manhole and Emergency Medical Services, the Public Works Department, Borough sewer rehabilitation to minimize infiltration problems and storm drain Council Chambers and a Community f4all. The Brentwood Public disconnections to reduce overflow problems. Library moved from the facility in 1991 when the new facility was
BACKGROUND INFORMATION: PAGE NO. 12-4 BACKGROUND INFORMATION constructed at the entrance to Brentwood Park. desk area, causing headaches and other minor irritations to those working in this area. The 1988 Municipal Facilities Study, prepared by Decade Architectural Associates, Inc. provided an in-depth review of the current situation The Decade study concluded that the Police Department needed to add relative to the current condition of the structure. With the exception of about 2,400 square feet, or about 4,000 SF total, of work space to its the move of the Library, most of the plan still remains to be inventory in order to work at peak efficiency. implemented. A brief discussion of each municipal department currently occupying the facility will be presented, with the Decade 12.3.1.4. Fire Department: The Brentwood Volunteer Fire Department study serving as a reference point. consists of approximately 40 individuals who serve the community of Brentwood. The Department maintains an Insurance Services 12.3.1 .I. Administrative Offices: The Borough Administrative Office Organization (ISO) rating of 4. The Department maintains five pieces serves as the central focus of day-to-day Borough activities. This of equipment in the three bays of the existing Fire Department facility. office houses the Borough Secretary, a clerk and the Building The equipment includes 1 Squad Vehicle, 1 Rescue Truck, 2 Engines Inspector. The Decade study indicated that this location is "crowded, and 1 Aerial Truck. The Department would like to replace one Engine with circulation often confused because of the number of people in a and the Rescue Truck with a single Pumper/Rescue vehicle. limited area." The study concluded that about twice the amount of existing space would be required to adequately house the existing The Decade study well-documented the space limitations that the Fire functions. There is no growth of this staff anticipated at this time. Department operates under and these space limitations continue today. Additional problems have been caused by the continuing deterioration 12.3. I .2. Tax Offices: The Decade study likewise concluded that there of the floor of the Fire Department. According to Fire Department is a need for additional room in the tax office. With a staff of three, sources, this deterioration requires that the Department either remove plus part-time help, "the need for additional space is apparent" water from its trucks before parking them in the facility or keep the according to the Decade findings. trucks outside on the apron. In addition, door clearance and turning radius problems at the existing facility cause delays in exiting the 12.3.1.3. Police Department: The Brentwood Borough Police facility and occasionally cause damage to the equipment. Cramped Department consists of thirteen officers, four civilian employees and locker space, lack of an air exhaust system, and an inadequate air room two part-time employees. The Department also has four patrol cars. are other factors which are detrimental to the delivery of service to the The Police Department occupies about 1,600 square feet on the first community. Appendix C provides graphic details of two options. floor of the Borough Building. Among the short-comings noted were: 1. Lack of a conference room adjacent to the Chiefs office; On the positive side, the Fire Department documented that it can reach 2. Lack of an interrogation room; the farthest points of the Borough within six minutes of leaving the 3. Need for improved locker, shower, toilet and squad rooms; facility. The Department currently has plans to build a new combined 4. Lack of storage, evidence and firearm rooms. four bay fire hall and banquet facility at the entrance to Brentwood As part of this comprehensive planning process, an additional tour of Park. Estimated cost of this project is $1,037,000.00 the police facility was conducted. Many of these same problems still exist. Further, it was noted that fumes from the Public Works 12.3. I .5. Emergency Medical Services: The Brentwood Borough Department often infiltrate the police department, especially the front Emergency Medical Services serve the Borough twenty four hours a
BACKGROUND INFORMATION: PAGE NO. 12-5 BACKGROUND INFORMATION day. The all volunteer staff operates two ambulances located on the 12.3.1.7. Council Chambers: The primary problem with the Borough Marylea Street side of the first floor of the Borough Building. The Council Chambers is its location. The recent council arrangement crew quarters are located beneath this garage in the basement of the allows for only minimal conference space for Borough Council Borough Building. The 2,000 SF of space occupied by the EMS is members. about 1,000 to 1,500 SF short of the optimum needed to operate this service more effectively. Among the sub-standard conditions noted by 12.3.2 Brentwood Civic Center: The existing Civic Center building the Decade study were: is located in Brentwood Park and was constructed in 1970. It is 1. Divided crew quarters and ambulance facilities; generally in good condition. The building contains multi-purpose 2. Obsolete lighting and WAC service; rooms, a large group meeting room, a small meeting room, public 3. Lack of crew quarter comfort. restrooms and a full service kitchen. The Civic Center also has a deck on the southerly side of the building that overlooks the swimming pool. Among the needs identified by the Decade study in addition to those improvements required to recti@ the existing sub-standard conditions The Civic Center is of adequate size to meet existing or projected are: demand. Regular maintenance is the primary issue affecting this 1. A "Day Room" on the same level as the ambulances; fac i 1ity . 2. Bunk Rooms with toilet, shower and washeddryer facilities; 12.3.3 The Brentwood Senior Citizens Center: The Senior Citizens 3. Office Space; Center is located at 4323 Brownsville Road on property abutting 4. A twenty-five person training facility; Brentwood Park. The Senior Citizens is housed in the historic 5. Additional storage. structure known as the Davis Farm House (see Section 16). The Decade study concluded that the present facility is adequate to suit the 12.3.1.6. Public Works Department: The 1988 Municipal Facilities present usage and participation but is in need of upgrading. study began its discussion of the Public Works Department by concluding that, "The Public Works Department, by its very nature, The requirements for a Senior Citizens Center are simple, including a does not belong in the existing Borough Building." The Decadc study large room for group events, with the ability to sub-divide the room, a qiiickly coiicliitlctl hii1 ii IICW, scliiiriilc liicilily iicctls IO hr: coiislnictctl. siiiiill kilclicii iiiitl S~IIICIwsic slortigc sl~icc. 'l'lic Sliitly tlrcw IWO 'l'lic liicilily slioiiltl I)riiiiiii*ilyIw 1111 opcii Iwy gmgc liicilily. 'l'lic iicw coiicliisioiis 01' iio~cccwwiiiiig ~licSctiicw ('iIixiis 'cii~cr: facility should include a private office for the Superintendent, a I. 'llie Center should be associated with other Borough lunch/crew room, a rest room with shower and locker facilities, a tool facilities of similar function. room, a sign shop, and a general shop area with connected storage. A 2. Because of its location and size, the property on which mechanics pit was described as desirable. The bay area should be of the Center is located is ideal for private development. sufficient size to handle all existing and planned equipment. Outdoor storage should be provided for ground fuel, sand, and gravel. The new 12.4 - COUNTY. STATE AND FEDERAL SERVICE FACILITIES facility should allow for easier management and consolidation of existing and planned equipment. Easier equipment maintenance in the As was mentioned earlier, there exists within the Borough of new facility should result in a more efficient operation with a resultant Brentwood a rather limited "special needs" population. For that reason cost savings to the Borough. there are relatively few county, state or federal government facilities
BACKGROUND INFORMATION: PAGE NO. 12-6 BACKGROUND INFORMATION located within the Borough of Brentwood. Those that are located activities such as field games, court games, crafts, playground within the Borough are there to serve the needs of the general public apparatus area, skating, picnicking, wading pools, etc. These parks are and include: suited for areas of intense development. They should be easily A. COUNTY: accessible to the neighborhood population. They should be None geographically centered with safe walking and biking access. These sites could be developed as part of a school-park facility. B. STATE : State Liquor Store: Whitehall-Brenhvood Shopping Communitv Park: An area of diverse environmental quality. These Center sites may include areas suited for intense recreational facilities, such C: FEDERAL: as athletic complexes and large swimming pools. They may be an area Brentwood Post Office: Whitehall-Brentwood of natural quality for outdoor recreation, such as walking, viewing, Shopping Center sitting and picnicking. Community parks may include any of the features of mini-parks and neighborhood parks, depending upon site Map No. 12.1 details the location of these facilities within the Borough suitability and community need. Community parks include natural of Brentwood. areas such as water bodies and areas suited for intense development. Community parks should be easily accessible to the neighborhood 12.5 - RECREATIONAL FACILITIES served.
One of the more interesting aspects of the comprehensive plan is that component that deals with recreation. This is because the recreation TABLE 12.5A: PARK SITE STANDARDS component deals with the community’s ability to provide us with space for our leisure time, and is one of the planning areas for which well ACRES/1000 established and extensive standards have been developed. It is an area for which quantifiable and measurable criteria can be easily Mini-Park Less than 114 I acre or less 0.25 to 0.5 established. Neighborhood 1/4 to 112 mile I5+ acres I .o to 2.0 Recreation planners divide recreation areas in three categories - mini- ParWPlayground radius to serve a DoDulation UD to parks (or parklets), neighborhood parks and community parks. These areas have been defined by the National Recreation and Park Community Park I to 2 mile radius 25+ acres 5.0 to 8.0 Association (NRPA) as follows: NllK’k:: Nariiwial ~~rc~iir~ii~iaid I’urk A.~~~~ia~ioii Mini-Park: A specialized facility that serves a concentrated or limited population such as tots or senior citizens. These areas are located within neigliborhoods and in close proximity to apartment complexes, townhouse developments or housing for the elderly. It is important to point out that these standards are designed to serve as Neighborhood- Park: These areas are designed for intense recreational a guideline to help communities determine their position relative to the
BACKGROUND INFORMATION: PAGE NO. 12-7 BACKGROUND INFORMATION amount of recreational land they provide for their citizens. representing strict needs of the Borough. Any large scale recreation improvement program should be based on a recreation survey of the The NRPA has also established standards for the number of different residents to determine their specific recreation "wish list.'' types of facilities that should be available within the municipal parks based on a per capita population basis. Table No. 12.5B, on page 12-9 In addition to the facility needs of the Brentwood recreation effort, it provides the details of these facilities. is also useful to examine the geographic distribution of recreation facilities throughout the Borough. Map No. 12.5 on Page 12-10 An inventory of park space and recreation facilities available to the indicates that all of the Borough's recreational facilities, with the residents of Brentwood is also presented in Table 12.5B. There are exception of the St. Sylvester's play area, are in the eastern half of the eight recreation areas defined within the Borough of Brentwood. Four Borough. Residents west of Brownsville Road have no facilities within of the sites are classified as mini-parks, one as a neighborhood park, their area and must travel to Brentwood Park or one of the school one as a community park and two sites are unclassified because they playgrounds to gain access to recreational facilities. are currently undeveloped.
The mini-parks are primarily associated with the local schools and include the playgrounds at Moore School, Elroy School, and St. Sylvester's School. One of the mini-parks listed is the ballfield in Brentshire Village. These playground areas provide only limited recreational opportunities and are in need of maintenance and upgrading. These four facilities total 2 acres in size.
The only facility classified as a neighborhood park is the land at Brentwood High School, although separately owned from Brentwood Park, this property is contiguous to Brentwood Park and forms part of the larger community park.
Based on the standards as developed by the NRPA, Brentwood needs between 3/4 and 3.5 acres of additional mini-park space, 4 to 15 acres of neighborhood park space and 3 1 to 78 acres of community park space. There are several facilities which Brentwood lacks in its mix of active recreation facilities. Most notable would be the need for 2 additional tennis courts, 2 volleyball courts, a deck hockey complex, a soccer field, a multi-purpose court, and a walking or hiking trail.
It should be noted that these standards represent guidelines to assist policy-makers with decisions about the relative health of the recreation program within the Borough and should not be misconstrued as
BACKGROUND INFORMATION: PAGE NO. 12-8 BACKGROUND INFORMATION
TABLE 12.5B: RECREATIONAL SPACE ANALYSIS
BACKGROUND IN I’ORMA’TION: PAGE NO. 12-9
BACKGROUND INFORMATION
12.6 - CULTURAL FACILITIES available at and through Jefferson Hospital Various Churches in Brentwood have special functions and Being located within the greater Pittsburgh metropolitan area, the programs at various times of the year for elderly and other Borough of Brentwood has access to the host of cultural activities found needy persons within this region (See Section 8-3 - Regional Characteristics). Brentwood Emergency Medical Services are provided in cooperation with Jefferson Hospital W itliiii the Borough of Brentwood, however, there is a minimal amount DARE, a drug and alcohol abuse prevention for program for of local cultural outlets available for the community. There is no arts youth, is sponsored by the Brentwood Police Department with council, local conimunity-oriented musical groups (i.e. a youth the cooperation of the Brentwood School District symphony) or other such entities available for the participation of the Pre-school Activity Learning Shop (PALS) provides pre- residents. school aged children with learning and mental stimulation opportunities 12.7 - HOSPITAL AND HEALTH FACILITIES Brentwood Athletic Association sponsor youth T-Ball, As with cultural activities, Brentwood Borough has access to a wide Baseball, Softball and Fall Ball range of health care facilities and hospitals located within the Pittsburgh Brentwood Dukes sponsor Pee Wee Football for youth region. Many of these facilities are among the most progressive medical Brentwood Area Soccer Association sponsors soccer teams for institutions in the world. This access provides the residents with ample youth access to regional medical care. Girl Scouts and Boy Scouts have local troops available to Brentwood Youth A quick analysis of local health care facilities indicates that a large Local PTA's, Century Club, Lions Club, Brentwood Boosters number of doctors, dentists and other medical professionals have offices and American Association of Retired Persons (AARP) sponsor in the Borough of Brentwood, particularly along the Brownsville Road community service projects and provide services to various corridor. A new medical facility, Alliance Medical Group, has been population segments of the Borough constructed at the intersection of Rt. 5 1 and Stilley Road. Brentwood Baldwin Whitehall Chamber of Commerce provides various services to the business community within 12.8 - SOCIAL SERVICE FACILITIES & PROGRAMS Brentwood.
Brentwood has a number of social service organizations and facilities In addition to the social service facilities and programs listed above, operating within its boundaries. These programs take place in facilities Allegheny County has a whole array of family support services through provided by the Borough (parks, community center & Borough Building), its Department of Human Services. These services are provided to the local churches, the Brentwood Library, and other organizations. In elderly, low income families and individuals, troubled youth, persons addition, some of these services are delivered to the residents in their with physical illnesses, mental illness and mental retardation, persons homes. Among the services available are the following: with drug and alcohol problems and others. I) Meals 011 Wheels 2) Senior Citizens Center at the Davis Farm provides recreation and It should be noted, however, that demands on the existing agencies that social functions for elderly persons provide programs for the elderly may be expected to grow as 3) Adult and Children day care and in-home care services are Brentwood's population continues to age.
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BACKGROUND INFORMATION
12.9 - COMMUNI'I'Y I'ACILI'I'Y FIN NGS AND IMI'LICA'I'IONS SEC. FINDINGS IMPLICATIONS 12.1 School buildings in need of repair. A responsible cost plan for an When bond issues are repaid in twenty years, physical layout and class extensive high school renovation plan proposed by the School Board. size will remain within compliance with current Pennsylvania Department of Education rules well into the year 2030. 12.2 Borough part of state mandated moratorium on new sanitary and storm Inability to pursue new large scale development that will result in sewer tap-ins. increasing sewage line burdens. 12.2 Major utilities capable of meeting current and future demand. No need for utility line extensions. 12.3.1 Municipal building structurally sound but needs extensive renovations Need for an overall renovation program. to bring to current code requirements. 12.3.1. Administrative offices are crowded and inefficient. Need for approximately twice the space of the current office. 1 12.3 Fire department cramped in existing facility, doors lack adequate New or expanded fire facility required. clearance for modem fire apparatus. 12.3 Public Works Department cramped in existing space, experiencing New public works facility required. danperous conditions from deteriorating ceiling. 12.3 Improvements needed to facilitate smoother operation of police Improvements to police department physical facilities. administrative functions and reduce "work environment" problems. 12.4 Minimal impact by other levels of government on the physical Comprehensive plan does not have to be concerned with major new development of Brentwood. construction activities by other government entities.
12.5 Borough lacks adequate space for recreational facilities. Land need to be developed for additional recreational uses. 12.6 Minimal access to local outlets for cultural participation. Internal cultural opportunities not a factor in attractingikeeping residents.
12.7 Good access to local health care and medical facilities. No incentive required to provide better access to health care.
12.8 Minimal local offices of social services facilities. Minimal impact on the local tax base by tax exempt organizations. Little need to consider innovative zoning or land use issues to address this matter.
BACKGROUND INFORMATION: PAGE NO. 12-12 THE BRENTWOOD COMPREHENSIVE PLAN
PART II: BACKGROUND INFOMATION
SECTION 13: LOCAL TRANSPORTATION NETWORK BACKGROUND INFORMATION
SECTION 13: LOCAL TRANSPORTATION NETWORK dangerous parking conditions that often require drivers to back 13.1 - INTRODUCTION out on to Route 5 1 in order to exit certain businesses.
The link between transportation and the development of a community 13.3 - LOCAL STREETS & HIGHWAYS is critical. The transportation network makes land available for development. Transportation facilities also occupy land and have an The Borough of Brentwood has approximately 30 miles of streets and impact on the environment of the community. Understanding these roads. Although a $1.2 million renovation of roads in 1997 & 1997 has relationships, as they impact Brentwood, is a key element of the achieve improvements, the local road system is a patchwork of brick, comprehensive planning process. concrete and asphalt road-beds, which makes maintenance dificult due to the varied repair and upkeep requirements of these different 13.2 - REGIONAL HIGHWAY NETWORK materials. In many parts of the borough, the right-of-way does not include room for sidewalks, thus making pedestrian movement Located in south central Allegheny County, the Borough of Brentwood difficult. This, coupled with a high level of on street parking on is situated in one of the more poorly serviced areas of the County in already narrow local streets, makes pedestrian movement not only terms of access to a major interstate highway. As can be seen from difficult but in some locations, also dangerous. Map No. 13.2 on page 13-2, the closest interstate highway is 1-279, more commonly referred to as the Parkway West or the Penn-Lincoln There also is lack of a roadway classification system with the Borough Parkway. This thoroughfare provides direct, limited-access driving to of Brentwood. In many communities roads are classified by the 1-79 in Collier Township. 1-279 also provides a direct link to 1-376, function they serve, such as Residential Collector, Residential Sub- which provides a connection with 1-76, the Pennsylvania Turnpike, in Collector, Residential Access and Special Purpose. Roads may be Monroevi I le. further classified by the level of use they receive and the type of parking provided. Such a classification system forms the basis for US Route 5 1, or Clairton Boulevard, is the primary highway servicing design standards for the local road system. he municipality. This road runs generally in a north-south direction and bisects the western half of the Borough. Route 5 1 provides the Tl~cBorough is iiow rcquiriiig details traffic counts for any major new primary link for Bretitwood to the urban core of Downtown Pittsburgli development within the Borough. A street classification system will and is the connecting link with 1-279. Within Brentwood, Route 5 1 is help to determine the implications of these traffic counts. It is not characterized by: dificult to determine however, that traffic congestion of Brownsville 1) A relatively narrow right-of-way, as it is sandwiched between Rd. is an increasing problem that must be addressed by the Borough. two ridges to the east and west: This is particularly true during peak hours and at school dismissal 2) High traffic volumes particularly, during morning and evening times, when traffic is generally congested along Brownsville Rd. from commute periods; Marylea Street to Francis Avenue. In addition, PennDot has indicated 3) A high percentage of through traffic; that Route 5 1 is already operating at Level of Service E (failure). This 4) Severe design flaws caused by unrestricted and frequent "curb condition is likely to exist into the future, according to PennDOT, cuts" fronting on a major highway; and regardless of the decision concerning the proposed Mon Fayette 5) Parking design allowances which have resulted in narrow and Expressway. - BACKGROUND INFORMATION: PAGE NO. 13-1 BACKGROUND INFORMATION MAP No. 13.2: REGIONAL TRANSPORTATION NETWORK
BACKGROUND INFORMATION: PAGE NO: 13-2 BACKGROUND INFORMATION
13.4 - PARKING FACILITIES Brentwood focused transit routes that use Route 51 as a primary corridor in and out of the City of Pittsburgh. These factors make The 1973 Comprehensive Plan, in discussing conditions within the Brentwood an area generally well served by available public transit. commercial areas of the Borough, made the following statement: 13.6 - ORIGIN & DESTINATION ANALYSIS "There is a general shortage of ofS-street parking to service these continercial uses. The result has been the necessiy of allowing on- In addition to information concerning the nature and condition of the street parking on both sides of the street in these two commercial areas local road network, it is useful to examine the nature of the origins of (along Brownsville Rd) There is generally high turnover, vehicles are trips that are generated within the Borough as well as the ultimate often maneuvering into and out of parking spaces. This constricts destination of those trips. The determination of such data is a time traffic flow and is a source of congestion and accidents." consuming and expensive effort, but the Census data provides a glimpse of such travel patterns as they relate to the residents trips for Little has happened to change this situation since 1973, except that the employment reasons. The following three tables, Tables 13.6A, 13.6B number of cars has increased as has our dependence upon on the and 13.6C provide an overview of the travel habits of Brentwood automobile. These factors have contributed to making the current residents. situation even worse than it was in 1973. Lack of parking has been an integral part of many of the discussions held in preparing this plan Table 13.6A clearly points out that the number of people working including those relating to improving the business district and within the City of Pittsburgh has been experiencing a steady decline rehabilitating the current municipal building. Proposed changes to the nature of the Brentwood-Whitehall Shopping Center will have significant impact on the way the residents of Brentwood and the surrounding communities travel through the community. This in turn TABLE 13 6A WORK DESTINATIONS - 1970-1990 will have an impact on business location decisions and parking demand requirements. Suffice it to sat at this point that Brentwood has far too little public parking to support the level of commercial and service WORK I.OCATION activity along Brownsville Rd.
13.5 - PUBLIC TRANSIT
The Borough of Brentwood is well served by public transit. At least five routes, the 46A, the 46D, the 5 1 B, 5 1 C and the 5 1 D are primary routes serving the Borough of Brentwood. The BR (Brentwood Express) and the CV (Churchview Flyer) provide more direct access to the downtown Pittsburgh area through the use of express routing with limited stops.
Public transit is further enhanced by the large number of non-
BACKGROUND INFORMATION: PAGE NO. 13-3 BACKGROUND INFORMATION over the last forty years. And while some of this decline may be data enable the Census Bureau to determine that the average auto caused by different reporting formats (Note that in 1970 and 1980 the carried 1.1 workers to and from work. Using this number as a basis for category of in the municipality was not an available answer), a 7.7% determining the impact of public transit on commuter patterns, we can between 1980 and 1970 plus an almost additional 2% decline between project that another 837 cars would be placed on the local highways 1990 and 1980 is a further indication of the decline of the central city system if the those Brenhvood residents currently using public transit, as a primary focus of employment for many residents. were forced into cars.
The fact that the number of residents working within the City of Moving on to travel time, Table 6.613, we can see that although Pittsburgh has declined, coupled with the growth in the number of Brentwood is thought to have an advantageous location, from a residents who work at other locations, is an indication of changing commuting viewpoint, the congestion of Route 5 1 , makes the average work and commuting patterns. daily commute longer than might be expected. Almost 30 Yo of Brentwood's work force travel between 30 and 44 minutes to reach The method of commuting to work is also interesting. Reviewing their place of employment. Almost one quarter take between 20 and 24 Table 13.6B we can see that more than three-quarters of all residents minutes while just over 14% take longer than 45 minutes. The average take some form of auto-related transportation to and from their place commuting time for a Brentwood resident is 25.7 minutes.
FORM OF TRANSPORTATION # USING Yo USING TRAVEL TIME IN MINUTES %OF COMMUTERS Car (Drive Alone to Work) 3,188 62.0 Less than IO Minutes 19.0
Carpool 674 13.1 10 to 14 Minutes 8.8
Public Transit 92 1 17.9 15 to 19 Minutes 13.2
Walk 289 5.6 20 to 24 Minutes 24.2
Work At Home 42 .8 30 to 44 Minutes 29.5 Other I 18 I .3 1 45 Minutes or More 14.2
of employment. Of this number 62% drive alone in personal vehicles, while just over 13% carpool. Almost 18% of the Borough residents are dependent upon public transit for their work commute while 5.6 YO walk to and from work.. The information provided through the Census
BACKGROUND INFORMATION: PAGE NO. 13-4 BACKGROUND INFORMATION
Sec. FIN DINGS IMPLICATIONS 13.2 Poor access to the regional Interstate Highway network. Lost economic opportunity.
13.2 Heavily traveled, poorly designed Route 5 1 serves a primary Perceived as a "dangerous stretch I' of highway. commuter route for both Borough residents and through traffic. Poor access resulting in limited, non-quality development.
I Area of high visibly It I 13.3 Local road network lacks a classification system and is a Perception of poorly maintained roads. patchwork or construction types. Difficult distinctions between vehicular and pedestrian traffic. 13.3 Historic lack of uniform design standards for the local road Many secondary and side streets are too narrow, causing system. problems between moving traffic, parked cars and pedestrian movement. 13.3 Route 5 1 currently operating at "lower'' levels of service during Construction of Mon-Fayette Expressway not a major traffic peak hours. Proposed Mon-Fayette Expressway will not concern to the Borough of Brentwood. drastically alter traffic volumes or level of service. 13.4 Lack of off-street parking is a serious problem, both in Dense patterns of development in these areas make rectification residential areas and in the Brownsville Rd. commercial corridor. of this problem difficult without detailed parking needs analysis
I and willingness to undertake significant redevelopment actions. I 13.5 Borough well served by PAT'S public transit system. Facilitates higher density development. Community well-linked to the downtown Pittsburgh.
I Attractive site for those deDendentkhoosine Dublic transit. I 13.6 Number of residents working in downtown Pittsburgh Changing commuting pattern of residents. decreasing. Loss of relative advantage of central South Hills location. Higher than expected commuting times. High energy and environmental costs. Dependency upon auto related commuting.
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THE BRENTWOOD COMPREHENSIVE PLAN
PART 11: BACKGROUND INFORMATION
SECTION 14: HOUSING AND NEIGHBORHOOD CONDITIONS
I' I BACKGROUND INFORMATION
SECTION 14: HOUSING AND NEIGHBORHOOD CONDITIONS
14.1 - INTRODUCTION .
The size, condition and value of the housing stock are among the mos- regarding occupancy rate to West View. important issues to be addressed by the comprehensive plan. The goal of providing every family with a decent home in a suitable living In terms of owner occupied housing, however, Brentwood slips to the environment has long been an integral part of federal housing policy as middle of the pack, with an owner-occupied rate of 65.2%. This figure well as a dream for almost every American. When discussing the puts Brentwood 6.7% behind its neighbors in terms of homeownership, details of the comprehensive plan as it relates to housing, we must plan but still 9% ahead of the Similar Communities taken as a whole. The for people and not for housing units. It is important to remember that South Hills Area Council of Governments ownership rate is 9.7% people differ significantly. The critical element from a planning higher than Brentwood's. Brentwood's ranking puts it in a class with standpoint is that all socio-economic groups carry with them not only West View and Scott Township and significantly behind communities potential benefits, but potential costs as well. It is important to provide such as Heidelberg and Greentree. Brentwood's percentage of rental a wide range of housing options within the community that will attract units is higher than one might expect for this community. a wide variety of residents, and thereby add to the cultural richness and diversity within the community. It is critical to first understand the Table 14.2B on page 14-3, provides a comparison of Brentwood's composition of the housing stock as it currently exists in the housing mix over the last twenty years. As is apparent from the data community. in Table 14.2B, and consistent with the information determined from the land use survey, there have been only minor changes in 14.2 - TOTAL HOUSING UNIT INVENTORY Brentwood's housing stock over the last two decades.
Table 14.2A on page 14-2 provides an overview of the 1990 status of the Brentwood Borough housing stock, along with comparable information for other communities in the area.
In 1990, the Borough of Brentwood had a total of 4,775 housing units. Of that number, 4,617, or 96.7% were occupied and 158, or 3.3%, were vacant. The percentage of occupied units, or conversely, the percentage of vacant units, puts Brentwood in the upper third of this category, in the company of communities such as Whitehall, Baldwin Borough and Upper St. Clair, and ahead of such communities as Mt. Lebanon, Scott Township, Castle Shannon and South Park. Interestingly, Brentwood's occupied rate of 96.7% is substantially ahead of that of two of the three similar communities, Swissvale (93.2%) and Crafton (94.0%). Brentwood is very close in character,
BACKGROUND INFORMATION: PAGE NO. 14-1 BACKGROUND INFORMATION
TAB ,E 14.2A: 1990 BRENTWOOD BOROUGH HOUSING INVENTORY
BRENTWOOD I 4,775
I I I I I I I I Baldwin Borough 8,917
Baldwin Township 923
Castle Shannon 4,066
Dormont 4,321
Pleasant Hills 3,515
Whitehall 6,346
Neighboring Communities 28,088
Allrghrny County 5~0.73~ 541,261 03 2 358,068 66 2 I 83. I93 33 x 39.477 6X
BACKGROUND INFORMATION: PAGE NO. 14-2 BACKGROUND INFORMATION
Meanwhile, the number of single family, detached homes stayed 14.3 - HOUSING CONDITIONS AND VALUES exactly the same between 1980 and 1990, as the number of single family attached homes increased by 13. 3%. In the multi-family It is important to understand the character and condition of the housing category, structures with 2 to 4 units declined by a significant 17.%, stock within the community. Table No. 7.3A provides the basic but structures with 5 to 9 units increased by 4.8% and structures with information concerning the current status of Brentwood's housing stock 10 or more units increased by one half of one percent. Overall, single and provides comparisons with other communities. family, detached homes accounted for 61.2% of all units, single family attached units comprised 8.7%, 2 to 4 unit structures -17.3%, 5 to 9 14.3.1 Age and Character units, - 3.2%, structures with 10 or more units - 8.9%, and other The median age of a home in Brentwood, meaning the year with an structures including mobile homes, trailers, etc. .7%. equal number of homes built before and after, is 1945. Table No. 14.38 provides a detailed breakdown of the age of Brentwood's housing stock by type of ownership. Most of the current housing in Brentwood was built between 1940 and 1969. Only 5% of the Borough's housing, or 237 units, has been built in the last twenty years. Units in Structure 1970 1980 1990 YOin'90 Total Housing Units 4,814 4,858 4,775 Most of the housing built in Brentwood between 1970 and 1990 was rental housing, which in 1990 accounted for 53.2% of all housing units I-Unit, Detached 3344. 2,92 I 2,921 61.2 built over the last two decades.
10 or more Units NA ' 423 425 8.9
Mobile Homes, NA 0 30 .7 Trailers, etc.
BACKGROUND INFORMATION: PAGE NO. 14-3 BACKGROUND INFORMATION
TABLE 14.3A: STATUS AND VALUE OF BRENTWOOD HOUSING STOCK
COAILIIJNITY
BACKGROUND INFORMATION: PAGE NO. 14-4 BACKGROUND INFORMATION
repairs are estimated to be less than $10,000. Properties which show the need for two or more of the rehabilitation actions listed in the minor rehabilitation category are considered to have signs of major deterioration. Repair of these structures is generally between $1 0,000 and 50% of the estimated value of the property in question. Properties which do not appear to be in a condition where rehabilitation is economically feasible, are considered to be dilapidated. Generally these repairs would exceed 50% of the estimated value of the property.
Within the Borough of Brentwood, approximately 3.5% of the residential units were considered to show signs of major deterioration. Very few properties were dilapidated. Map No. 14.1 on Page 14-7 shows the percent of properties showing deterioration by Census Block Group. Map No. 3.1 on Page 3-8 indicates the areas in the Borough that are in need of housing rehabilitation.
14.3.3 Internal Facilities
Of the 4,54 1 units reported in the 1990 Census, 4,415, or 97.2% used gas from a utility company as the primary source of heating, while 79, or 1.7% used electricity. The remaining 1.1 used alternate sources TABLE 14.3B MEDIAN AGE OF HOUSING YO for heating purposes, including bottled or tank gas fuel oil, coal or coke, or some other source.
With a decline in the number of persons per household, the question of overcrowding is not as pressing an issue as it once was. Only a little 14.3.2 Condition of Housing more than one-half of one percent of the housing units have more than one person per room, the definition of an overcrowded facility. As an integral part of the comprehensive planning process, an analysis of the condition of structures was completed at the same time as the Of the 4,775 housing units in the Borough, 4,767 are connected to the land use survey was undertaken. This "windshield" survey classifies ALCOSAN sewer system and 8 housing units use either a septic tank properties into one of four categories: good condition, minor or cesspool. deterioration, major deterioration and dilapidated. Properties in good condition show no or very few indications of any needed repairs. 14.3.4 Median Housing Value And Median Rent Properties exhibiting signs of minor deterioration include those needing any one of the following: extensive painting, roof replacement, With a median housing value of $52,100.00, Brentwood ranks 6th wiiidow replncement, extensive porch and/or door repair. 'lhese lowest of he 20 communities lijr whoni idiiln value was detcrmined.
BACKGROUND INFORMATION: PAGE NO. 14-5 BACKGROUND INFORMATION
With regard to median rent, Brentwood again places relatively low on Based on examination of the median household income, median rent the scale, with a median rent of $322 in 1990. Brentwood is outpaced and median housing values, there does not appear to be a housing by all of it neighbors in terms of median monthly rent. affordability problem in the Borough of Brentwood. Renters, as a group appear to be paying significantly less than the 30% guide Map No. 14 on page 14-7 provides a detailed breakdown of the espoused as a basis for determining "affordability." The same can be distribution of both median housing value and median rent within the said for those with mortgages within the Borough. In fact, the housing Borough. As can be seen from this map, median housing values vary costs are so attractive that the Borough should consider a more significantly. Generally housing values increase as you move further aggressive role in the code enforcement area to urge or in some cases, south in the Borough. The highest median rents are generally found in require that improvements are made to the housing stock of the the center of the municipality where access to public transit and easy community. walking distances to essential services are found.
14.3.5 Affordability
As is pointed out in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania's booklet "Reducing Land Use Barriers to Affordable Housing'' the term "'Affordable housing' is no longer just a euphemism for low-income, subsidized projects or large, mobile home parks". Affordable housing is generally defined as requiring less than 30% of gross monthly income for rent or less than 28% of gross annual income for a mortgage and other related housing costs.
BACKGROUND INFORMATION: PAGE NO. 14-6 14.4 - HOUSING AND NEIGHBORHOOD FINDINGS & IMPLICATIONS It I I 11 SEC. I FIN DINGS I IMPLICATIONS I 14.2 Relatively low homeownership level. I Less direct interest in maintenance and upkeep. I I 14.2 I Relatively minor changes in composition of housing stock. I Little new development being undertaken in the commiinity I I 14.3.1 Rapidly aging housing stock. Increasing rate of decline of tlie physical housing stock over the next twenty years. 14.3.2 Housing stock beginning to show signs of deterioration. People not reinvesting in their properties, increasing problem of 'lcreeping blight." I 14.3.3 Internal facilities in housing in relatively good shape. Housing is basically sound, not outdated. 14.3.4 Lower than expected median housing value and rent. Indications that Brentwood's housing stock is not maintaining its desirability as better quality within the South Hills area. 14.3.5 Cost of housing is very affordable in Brentwood. Borough can afford to take a stronger position on code enforcement and rehabilitation program outreach initiatives.
- BACKGROUND INFORMATION: PAGE NO. 14-8
PART II: BACKGROUND INFORMATION
SECTION 15: BRENTWOOD ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT CONDITIONS SECTION 15: BRENTWOOD BOROUGH ECONOMIC CONDITIONS
I 5.1 - INTRODUCTION Few characteristics are as important to the future of the community, or municipality. The median income is not affected by these extremes and as difficult to get an accurate picture of, than the economic situation, therefore makes for a better representative measure. particularly at the borough level. At best, the data can present a snapshot of the situation at a given point-in-time. By piecing together As can be seen from Table No. 15.2A, Brentwood’s median household several of these snapshots, trends may be discerned that allow us to income is $27, 968, which places it 15th among the 19 communities make predictions about the future economic direction of the with which comparisons were made. With a medianfanlily income of community. It is important to keep in mind that, when looking at data $36,000, Brentwood’s position improves slightly, with a relative ranking at the micro-level, such as we do when examining individual municipal of 12. When considering per capita income, Brentwood again drops data, relatively few changes in the economic mix of the community can back to 15th position in the analysis. have a disproportionate impact on the economy of the community. Increasingly, the economic conditions within even small political areas, such a borough, are impacted by decisions being made on a global scale.
In this section we will examine two types of data. The first will deal with the picture and trends relative to the wealth of the community. This data will be examined by reviewing the amount and sources of the income of the community relative to its neighbors, and then looking at the size and character of the work force that generates this income. The second part of this section will examine the nature of the economic sectors within the community and detail their relative health as generators of economic activity within the borough.
15.2 - COMMUNITY INCOME
There are three basic ways in which community income may be measured. These are per capita income, median family income and median household income. For most purposes, the preferred measure is to use median household income. The median income represents that number which has an equal number of incomes both above and below the median. It does not indicate the average, or mean, income. The mean income is strongly influenced by extreme values in the distribution, particularly for relatively small samples, like a
BACKGROUND INFORMATION: PAGE NO. 15-1 BACKGROUND INFORMATION
TABLE NO. 15.2A: 1989 INCOME LEVELS
SI IACOG Tolal $38.056 7.78 $43,998 7.33 $18.003 8.1 1 7.74
City of Pittsburgh $20,747 $27,484 $12,580
Allegheny County $28,136 $35,338 $15,115
Pennsylvania $29,069 $34,856 $14,068
A second measure of community income is how the residents obtain Earnings, Investments, Social Security Income (SSI), Public their income. For the purposes of this data set, the Census Bureau Assistance, Retirement Income and Other. Respondents, by household, classifies income into six (6) separate categories. These include were asked to indicate whether they derived any income from one or
BACKGROUND INFORMATION: PAGE NO. 15-2 BACKGROUND INFORMATION more of the categories. Income types were further broken down into A final measure of community income deals with those in Brentwood flexible income (Earnings and Investments) and fixed income (SSI, who live in poverty. As with income, poverty levels may be derived Public Assistance and Retirement). The percentage of households for persons, households and families. Table No. 15.2C clearly indicating that they received some or all of their income from each indicates that both the number of families and the number of persons particular category were then rank-ordered, their relative rankings then living in poverty in Brentwood has increased over the last decade. In added together and listed in the "Score' column. Table 8.2B details 1979,4.0 % of the families and 8% of the people in Brentwood lived community income by type. To insure consistency in the "Score" in poverty, In 1990, that number had increased by .2% for families and category, the lower the number the better the ranking. .9% for persons. It is important to note that a significant number of the female headed households in Brentwood, especially those with children Analysis of this table indicates that Brentwood has a relatively low under 18 years of age, live in poverty. score in the area of flexible income, with an overall total of 25. No other individual Neighboring Community has a lower score than Table 15.2C clearly shows that while the number of persons living in Brentwood and only four of the 19 total communities with whom poverty under the age of 55 dropped from 5.5% in 1979 to 4.5% in comparisons were drawn ranked lower. To put this matter in some 1989, the number of people over the age of 55 living in poverty perspective, the total score of 25 is a relative indication of how increased substantially, both in terms of actual number of people and Brentwood ranks in terms of its own residents' ability to generate what as a percentage of the 55 and older age bracket. we have defined as flexible income. Brentwood's score was particularly influenced by a low ranking in Earnings, where only 71 3% As for households, while comparable data for 1979 is not presented of the respondents indicated that they received some of their income in here, the number of total households living in poverty in 1989 was this manner. 8.0%. For elderly households (age 65 and up), 12.0% lived in poverty and for elderly householders living alone, more than 16% live in Moving on to the issue of fixed income, including SSI payments, public poverty. assistance, and retirement income, Brentwood again had a relatively low score of 33. This would indicate that a relatively higher percentage of the Brentwood population draws its income from one or more of the three fixed income sources than other communities in the area. The details of Table 8.2B indicate that Brentwood has relatively few people drawing income from public assistance (3.4%) and about an average amount from pension plans. Brentwood does have a relatively higher percentage of people who are dependent on social security payments for a source of income.
Brentwood's median household income as reported in the 1980 Census was $17, 951. The 1990 Census data reflects a median household income of $27,698. When we adjust these figures to reflect constant (1992) dollars this means that the median household income in Brentwood actually dropped by $879.84 over that ten year span.
BACKGROUND MFORMATION: PAGE NO. 15-3 BACKGROUND INFORMATION
Allegheny County I i I I I I I I
BACKGROUND INFORMATION: PAGE NO. 15-4 BACKGROUND INFORMATION
TY INFORMATION - 1979 AND 1989
BACKGROUND INFORMATION: PAGE NO. 15-5 BACKGROUND INFORMATION
When comparing Brentwood's household poverty situation to that of Table 15.2D provides us with some additional detailed insight into the its neighbors we once again find Brentwood falling in the lower part of poverty status of households in Brentwood. With 8.0% of the the ofthe tally sheet. It is substantially behind many of its immediate municipalities household living in poverty in 1989, Brentwood had neighbors, including Baldwin and Pleasant Hills. 373 housing units experiencing the pain and frustration of poverty. The situation was particularly bad for people age 65 and older, where 175 or fully 12.0% of those in this age cohort were living in poverty. The situation is even more disturbing for those living in a non-family COMMUNITY HOUSEHOLDS BELOW relationship or living alone, where 17.4 YOand 16.0% live in poverty POVERTY respectively.
BALDWIN BOROUGH 5.2
BALDWIN TOWNSHIP 3.7
CASTLE SHANNON 7.3
DORMONT 8.8
PLEASANT HILLS 4. I
CRAFTON
SWISSVALE 12.4
I SHACOG TOTAL I 5.7
TABLE 15.2C2: HOUSEHOLDS BELOW POVERTY
BACKGROUND INFORMATION: PAGE NO. 15-6 BACKGROUND INFORMATION
15.3 - SIZE AND CHARACTER OF THE WORK FORCE
Table No. 15.3A on page 15-8 provides a breakdown of Brentwood's labor force over the last twenty years. The percentage of Brentwood residents in the labor force has increased by 4.0Yoover the last twenty years, but the total number of people in the labor pool has dropped by more than 450. And while more than 99% of the Brentwood labor force is in the civilian work force, the number of unemployed in the civilian labor force has been sporadic. After starting out at a 3.5% unemployment rate in 1970, the number jumped to 5.2% in 1980, before declining slightly to 4.6% in 1990. The picture these figures present is one of a smaller labor force with a higher unemployment rate.
Table No. 15.3B provides a comparison of types of jobs held by the Brentwood labor force as well as a comparison with other communities in the area. Brentwood ranked low on the list of communities relative to percentage of its people in the managerial and professional classification.
BACKGROUND INFORMATION: PAGE NO. 15-7 BACKGROUND INFORMATION
TABLE NO 15.3A: BRENTWOOD EMPLOYMENT STATUS (TOTAL POPULATION) 1990
CATEGORY I970 1980 I990 1970-90 Ct1ANGE POPULATION AGE 16 &OVER 10,281 9,748 8,859 -I ,422 IN THE LABOR FORCE 5,871 5,585 5,417 -454
PERCENT IN THE LABOR FORCE 57.1 57.3 61.1 +4.0
CIVILIAN LABOR FORCE 5,869 5,571 5,409 -460
EMPLOYED 5,664 5,281 5,159 -505
UNEMPLOYED 205 290 250 +4 5
PERCENT UNEMPLOYED 3.5 5.2 4.6 +1.1
FEMALE POPULATION AGE 16 & OVER 5,653 5,411 4,908 -745
PERCENT IN THE LABOR FORCE 38.4 45.6 52. I +13.7
BACKGROUND INFORMATION: PAGE NO. 15-8 BACKGROUND INFORMATION
TABLE NO. 15.3B: BRENTWOOD EMPLOYMENT COMPOSITION BY PERCENT - 1990
MUNICIPALITY Managerial & Technical & Service Agriculture Precision Operators, Professional Sales Production Fabricators & I I I I I I 1-aborcrs I
I I I I I I I StIACOG TOTAL 41.0 36.0 9.0 .I 7.0 6.0
CITY OF PITTSBURGH 28.2 35. I 18.5 .5 7.4 10.3
ALLEGHENY COUNTY 30.3 35.7 14.1 .6 9. I 10.3
PENNSY LVANlA
BACKGROUND INFORMATION: PAGE NO. 15-9 BACKGROUND INFORMATION
15.4 - CHARACTERISTICS OF ECONOMIC ESTABLISHMENTS
Table No. 15.4 presents economic data for the primary business categories in Brentwood over the last fifteen years. Brentwood, like many other local business communities, has experienced a decline as a business center. In 1977 there were 239 business establishments in the three industry segments which were reviewed. By the time the No. of Establ. 1992 Census of Business was taken the number of businesses had declined to 164. However, Brentwood has held its own in the retail sector after losing 2 1 establishments between 1977 and 1982. $4,667 NA Service businesses continue a steady downward trend in terms of the number of establishments, while wholesale businesses have stabilized.
15.5 - EDUCATIONAL ISSUES No. of Establ.(p . 78 , 87 ~ , 93 1:: 1 Sales Volume (000) I $25,951 I $21,991 $6,849 1 $10,884 I Table No.15.5 details the education levels in the Borough and surrounding areas in 1990 as well as the change in educationaLlevels Paid Em lo ees 446 42 I 552 (1 between 1980 and 1990. Nineteen percent 9%) of the people, aged Pa roll 000) $9.044 $7 879 $7 171 $3,063 25 or older, who resided in Brentwood in 1990 did not complete high school. Almost 65% completed high school and some years of college. Just over 16% of the population completed four or more years of college. The percentage of people in Brentwood who did not complete No. of Establ. 10 10 9 high school is relatively high compared to its neighbors. Conversely, I I I I the percentage of people with either a college degree and/or some post- graduate work is relatively low.
The number of people completing high school is improving however. 2,552 Between 1980 and 1990 the number of people who did not complete NA high school declined by more than 51%. This rate of improvement, while positive, is still less than that many of Brentwood's neighbors TABLE NO. 15.4: CHARACTERISTICS OF BUSINESS where changes ranged between 57% and 66%. Brentwood did show ESTABLISHMENTS IN BRENTWOOD 1977- 1992 significant improvement in the number of people .with four or more years of college. Between 1980 and 1990, this population increased by more than 55%.
BACKGROUND INFORMATION: PAGE NO. 15-10 BACKGROUND INFORMATION
TABLE NO 15.5: EDUCATIONAL ATTAINMENT LEVEL
BACKGROUND INFORMATION: PAGE NO. 15-1 1 BACKGROUND INFORMATION
15.6 - UNDEVELOPED / BLIGHTED COMMERCIAL & commercial corridor along Route 5 1 was designed for vehicular access NDUSTRIAL AREAS only. The inability to access commercial facilities along this corridor by residents of adjacent properties prevents the full and efficient use of There are two commercial areas within the Borough of Brentwood - the land along this corridor. The many curb cuts, (poor parking Route 5 1 corridor and the Brownsville Road corridor. The Route 5 1 arrangements) lack of sidewalks, and absence of appropriate traffic corridor is the only area that may be considered underdeveloped or management design and control devices create dangerous conditions blighted. Map No. 15.8 details the area within this corridor that the for pedestrians and vehicles. comprehensive plan recommends for detailed redevelopment analysis. 2. Excessive Land Coverage By Buildings: Nearly 80% of the In the Winter of 1995-96, the Brentwood Economic Development buildable area ... is covered by buildings. There are no sidewalks nor Corporation (BEDC) prepared a "Basic Conditions Report" for a large is there any landscaping in the study area. The excessive coverage portion of the area included on Map 8.6. This study was undertaken for limits the amount of parking spaces to such an extent that if the vacant the explicit purpose of determining if there exists within this corridor properties were occupied, there would be a shortage of 1,500 spaces "blighting influences'' as defined by Pennsylvania law. Under the Urban Redevelopment Law of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, 3. Defective Design and Arrangement of Buildings: Over half of the there are seven factors which may be taken into account when structures were designed as a strip retail mall. There is a limited determining if an area is blighted. These factors include: demand for retail at this location as competing, retail locations provide better and safer retail opportunities for shoppers. These structures 1. Unsafe, unsanitary, inadequate, or overcrowded conditions cannot be efficiently reused for other purposes, and do not provide of the dwellings ( within the study area); adequate parking to support their full occupancy 2. Inadequate planning of the area; 3. Excessive land coverage by buildings; 4. Economically and Socially Undesirable Land Uses: More than half 4. Lack of proper light, air, and open space; of the land and buildings (in the study area) are vacant, or nearly so. 5. Defective design and arrangement of the buildings; The western side of Route 5 1 in the study area is approximately 75% 6. Faulty street and lot layout; and vacant, and the Brentwood-Whitehall Shopping Center is 2/3rds 7. Economically or socially undesirable land uses. vacant. The vacant state of these properties generates few financial resources for reinvestment, and few tax dollars because of their Under State Law, if evidence can be provided that any one of these deteriorated condition. factors exists within the study area, then the Planning Commission may certify that property as blighted and in need of redevelopment. RECOMMENDATION: On the basis of the analysis of the basic conditions in the Route 51 / Clairton Boulevard / Brownsville Road The Brentwood Economic Development Corporation concluded that Business District in the spring of 1996, the Brentwood Economic this area qualifies as a redevelopment area by virtue of the following Development Corporation, charged with improving business and (the succeeding excerpt is taken directly from the BEDC Basic commercial conditions by Brentwood Borough Council ...recommends Conditions Report): that the Redevelopment Authority of Allegheny County certify the area as in need of redevelopment. 1. Inadequate Planning of the Area: The development of the
BACKGROUND INFORMATION: PAGE NO. 15-12 I TIProposed Redevelopment Study Area
-2-
I
- Roads -..- Munlclpal Boundary
prepared bv Allegheny County Plannln Dapamnant January, 19d
SOURCE US. of !h Cwau lDD0 PMC#aaa TIQER FUN ad A018 LvoH.l( (BwnKlq omatma
i . -BACKGROUND INFOmATION:. PAGE NU: 15-1 BACKGROUND INFORMATION
15.7 - ECONOMIC CONDITIONS - FINDINGS & IMPLICATIONS SEC. FINDINGS IMPLICATIONS I 15.2 Relatively low median, family and per capita income. Reduced discretionary income, buying power. 15.2 Relatively low percentage of wage earners. Overall tax burden falls in smaller than expected population base. Reduced ability to carry increasing tax burden. 15.2 Relatively high percentage residents dependent upon SSI income. Larger than expected population with lower discretionary income. Ability to undertake physical renovations to property or absorb tax increases substantially diminished. 15.2 Increasing number of residents living in poverty. Increasing number of residents unable to participate economically in the physical renovation of the community. 15.3 Increasing number of employed over the last twenty years. Actual number of people working has increased. 15.3 Higher percentage of females in the labor force. Greater demands for family support services (day care). 15.3 Relatively low number of managerial and professional residents. Families with wage earners in the higher paying job brackets are choosing not to remain in Brentwood. Brentwood seen as "starter home" community. 15.4 Overall decline in Brentwood business activity. Fewer jobs in the community. Business community carries less of the tax burden. Requires steps be taken to bolster the business sector.
15.4 Relatively stable retail sector People still use Brentwood for local, convenience shopping. Commercial revitalization strategy should build upon this strength. 15.5 Lower than expected, but improving, educational attainment Brentwood must take steps to keep residents with increasing wage leve I s. growth potential in the community. Make the community more desirable to young professionals.
15.6 Route 5 1 / Clairton Boulevard / Brownsville Rd. area in need of Need to build consensus for implementation of actions necessary nn
BACKGROUND INFORMATION: PAGE NO. 15-14 THE BRENTWOOD COMPREHENSIVE PLAN BACKGROUND INFORMATION
SECTION 16: HISTORIC PRESERVATION
16.1 - INTRODUCTION
The Constitution of Pennsylvania requires that attention be paid to The Cowan Farm House: This structure is an example of the early historic preservation issues as one method of maintaining our architecture of Brentwood. The estate and farm which comprised the connection, and that of future generations, with the past treasures of property is located at 41 I 1 Brownsville Road. The early Cowan family this Commonwealth. It is therefore not only important, but mandated was a major landowner in Brentwood. that a brief examination of the opportunities for historic preservation be taken into account as an integral part of this planning document. The Davis Farm House; The Davis Farm House today serves as the Brentwood Senior Citizens Center. This home is an example of a 16.2 - HISTORIC PRESERVATION OPPORTUNITIES typical private home from the 1800's.
Brentwood Borough's historical evolution is centered on its location as The Slater Funeral Home Property: Originally the Whitehall Tavern- a stopping point and way station for individuals traveling between Hotel, this site at one time served as a weekend retreat for those Pittsburgh and the coal fields of southern Allegheny, Washington and spending time at the race track (then located where South Hills Country Fayette counties. Club sits today) or traveling between Pittsburgh and Brownsville.
There is little evidence to indicate that Brentwood had a critical role, as a community, in any specific historic event. There are indications that several properties within the community are significant, individual historic landmarks. Among these landmarks are the following:
1. The Point View Hotel 2. The Cowan Farm House 3. The Davis Farm House 4. The Slater Funeral Home Property
A brief description of each of these follows:
The Point View Hotel: Indications are that at least three American Presidents took lodging at this landmark - Andrew Jackson, Zachary Taylor and James Buchanan - at some point in their public careers, although none of them during their tenure as a sitting President. This site also apparently served as a temporary holding place for slaves who had escaped from their masters in Maryland and Virginia.
~~~ ~~ BACKGROUND INFORMATION: PAGE NO. 16-1 BACKGROUND INFORMATION
1 6.3 HISTORIC PRESERVATION FINDWGS & IMPLICATIONS
SEC. FINDINGS IMPLICATIONS ~~ ~ 16.2 Brentwood has several historic structures within the community. Although there is a Brentwood Historical Society, there does It also has a potentially interesting story to tell about its location not seem to be any evidence of a unified to effort to tell the as a way-station for travelers between Pittsburgh, Brownsville story of Brentwood's history within the larger regional and points south. context. This should be examined as way to improve Brentwood's image, provide local educational opportunities and serve as a potential marketing tool.
BACKGROUND INFORMATION: PAGE NO. 16-2 SECTION 17: SPECIAL DISTRICTS BACKGROUND INFORMATION
SECTION 17: SPECIAL DISTRICTS
17.1 INTRODUCTION 17.3 BRENTWOOD REDEVELOPMENT STUDY AREA
Special districts are areas within the community where unique In the later half of 1995, the Brentwood business community and community actions are taking place. These districts may range from governmental leadership determined that it was time to take a areas created by a simple action of council or some other legal entity systematic look at the deteriorating conditions to be found along Route within which certain actions are designated to take place, to more 5 1 and in the Brentwood-Whitehall Shopping Center. The concern formal areas created by the preparation of plans and program activities revolved around the large number of vacant storefronts and the which are formally approved by the Borough and possibly other levels generally unappealing appearance of the these areas. The logical of government. There are two special districts within the Brentwood extension of these concerns was that the vacancies and deterioration of that have had recent impact on -the community. These are the this area represent lost employment and lost business opportunities for Brentwood Commercial Revitalization Project Area and the Brentwood the residents of the community and lost tax revenues to the Borough Redevelopment Project Area. and the School District. This in turn limits the ability of these entities to repair, rehabilitate and maintain the Boroughs schools, streets, parks 17.2 COMMERCIAL REVITALIZATION AREA and other public facilities.
The Brentwood Commercial Revitalization Program, known locally as The outgrowth of this effort to examine these issues was the creation the Brentaissance, was an Allegheny County funded business district of a Brentwood Redevelopment Study area. This study area, revitalization project. The major focus of the program was the physical designated by the Brentwood Planning Commission was analyzed by renovation of the Brownsville Road commercial areas. Through this the Brentwood Economic Development Corporation. A "Basic program business and/or property owners were eligible for a cash Conditions Report" was prepared for the area with the conclusion that rebate on a percentage of the funds expended for the restoration of this general area is in need of formal redevelopment assistance under commercial facades. In addition, the County funded the upgrading of the Urban Redevelopment Law of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. local public spaces including curbs, sidewalks, street trees, street lights The stated goals of this program are to: and other amenities such as waste receptacles and planters. Over the course of a four year period in early 1990'~~Allegheny County funded 1. Remove blight from the Redevelopment Area; $1,359,000 in improvements along Brownsville Road. This amount 2. Provide structures and developments to accommodate the does not include the local investment made by business/property demand for commercial real estate in the Redevelopment Area; owners. These improvements occurred primarily in three locations - 3. Accommodate the relocation of tenants in currently blighted between Sankey Rd. and the Giant Eagle Market, between Point View structures; and Marylea, and in the vicinity of the Brentwood-Whitehall Shopping 4. Create new job opportunities for residents of the area Center. It is important to note that this program is a physical surrounding the Redevelopment Area; renovation program, and does not get into the crucial areas of 5. Enhance the generation of tax revenues from commercially marketing and business retention or recruitment. zoned land; 6. Create a pleasing and sustainable urban form that will enhance the overall livability of the community.
13ACKGROIJND INI'OIIMA'I'ION: PAGE NO. 17-1 1 BACKGROUND INFORMATI01
PROPOSED REDEVELOPMENT AREA MAIN STREET AREA
-2-
- Roads -..- Munklpal Boundary
PrapUd by Allaghany County Plannln Depamenl January. 1991
WURW US. &mu d Ihi Cnuloo0 W-Cororr nOER flr d AOS LuMa(eommc) Ou&u
BACKGROW INFORMATION: PAGE NO: 17-2 __ . . __ - - - . . - . ._- . BACKGROUND INFORMATION -7.4 SP 31AL DISTRICT FINDINGS & IMPLICATIONS -SEC. FINDINGS IMPLICATIONS 17.1 Commercial revitalization program has ended. Expensive Renovations improve public image, but only address physical renovations have been undertaken with the Brownsville Rd. improvements. High maintenance cost of improvements places corridor. added burden on municipality. Issues of promotion and marketing not addressed by these programs. ~~ ~ ~ 17.2 Preliniinary work on the preparation of a long term Community must be prepared to make difficult choices and take redevelopinetit plan for tlie Route 5 I - Uretitwood-Wliiteliall appropriate actions concerning tlie acquisition and/or relocation Shopping Center area. of businesses within this corridor as a catalyst to economic development.
BACKGROUND INFORMATION: PAGE NO. 17-3 THE BRENTWOOD COMPREHENSIVE PLAN
PART 11: BACKGROUND INFORMATION
SECTION 18: GOVERNMENTAL SYSTEM BACKGROUND INFORMATION
SECTION 18: GOVERNMENTAL SYSTEM
18.1 TYPEOF LOCALGOVERNMENT 18.3 CODES AND CODE ENFORCEMENT
Brentwood is a “Borough” under PA state law, and, as such, it is The Borough of Brentwood currently has in place the following codes governed by the provisions of the “Pennsylvania State Borough Code and ordinances that affect issues relative to the comprehensive plan. (Act of February 1. I966 (1 965 P.L. 1656, Mo 58 1) As Amended”. Under this law, the rules, regulations and powers granted to the Borough of Brentwood are conferred upon it by the Pennsylvania State II I Legislature. The Borough may only act within the confines of this law. The Borough Code regulates the determination of borough boundaries, the election of borough officials, the powers of appointed officials, taxes which may levied, and the power of the borough to regulate and Building Construction, Building control the development of land.
As the Borough of Brentwood is not divided into wards, the Borough Code allows for the election of seven council persons, one mayor, and a tax collector.
In a Borough such as Brentwood, the form of government is generally 1997 BOROUGH CODES AND ORDINANCES IN EFFECT referred to as a strong-council government. Article X of the Borough Code defines the powers, duties, and authority of the Borough Council, the Mayor and the Tax Collector.
18.2 ADMINISTRATIVE ORGANIZATION 18.4 FINANCIAL CONDITION
Article XI of the Borough Code prescribes those appointed positions 18.4.1 Assessed Land Value: Understanding the concept of assessed within the Borough that may be.filled by Borough Council. These value is critical to understanding the financial strength of boroughs, appointed positions include Treasurer, Borough Secretary, Borough school districts and counties in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. Solicitor, Chief of Police, Borough Engineer, Civil Service In Allegheny County, the assessed value of property within a Commission, Planning Commission, Zoning Hearing Board and the community is supposed to be equal to 25% of the market value of the Independent Auditor. Chart No. 18.2 on page 18-2 provides an property in question. Once this theoretical market value is established, organizational chart reflecting the organization of the Brentwood an assessed value equal to 25% of this amount is established. It is Borough government as of July, 1996. The Borough has no Manager against this assessed value that the borough, school district and county or Community Development Officer. levy their real estate taxes. Real estate taxes are expressed in terms of millage rates, or the dollars per thousand dollars of assessed value, which are being imposed against the property.
BACKGROUND INFORMATION: PAGE NO. 18-1 BACKGROUND INFORMATION
A review of the Borough of Brentwood's assessed value reveals that over the last three years, the assessed value of the municipality has remained relatively constant. In 1994 the total assessed value reached almost $56.5 million dollars, then dropped to less than $56.3 million in 1995. In 1996, the assessed value recovered slightly to more than $56.375 million. The reader should refer to Section 4 for a discussion of the breakdown between tax exempt and taxable property.
BACKGROUND INFORMATION: PAGE NO. 18-2 BACKGROUND INFORMATION
CHART NO. 18.2: BRENTWOOD BOROUGH ORGANIZATIONAL CHART
I Mayor Solicitor
Police Department Public Works Department Administrative Offices
,
Civil Service Commission Planning Commission Zoning Hearing Board
BACKGROUND INFORMATION: PAGE NO: 18-3 BACKGROUND INFORMATION
18.4.2 Real Value: Assuming that the County assessment is relatively accurate, the actual value of property within the Borough of Brentwood 18.4.4 Municipal Indebtedness: A review of the Borough's debt load should approximate $225,500,000. Recent indications suggest, was conducted with the Borough Treasurer at the end of the 1996 fiscal however, that the assessment system has been less than effective in year. The review revealed that the only debt currently being carried by maintaining an equitable balance between the real market value, as the Borough of Brentwood is from a 1996 Street Program, with a determined by comparing the sales price of property at the time a principal value of $1,289,000. Debt service on this item is equal to transaction is consummated and the suggested market value as approximately 6.5% of the 1997 Borough budget. determined by the county. Efforts are currently being made at both the County and State level to insure that a more equitable balance between 18.4.5 Capital Improvement Plan: The Borough does not currently the market value and the assessed value is maintained. have in place a formal capital improvement plan or capital improvement planning process. 18.4.3. Tax Structure: For the 997 fiscal year the following real estate tax rates are in place within the Borough of Brentwood. Also included 18.5 COMMUNITY AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT SUPPORT are other taxes collected by the Borough. There is currently no ORGANIZATIONS business privilege or mercantile tax levied by the Borough of Brentwood. Over the last several years there have been three organizations that have been important in the Borough's community and economic development functions. These agencies are as follows:
JURISDICTION 1997 MILLAGE RATE 18.5.1 Brentaissance: Instrumental in the implementation of the Borough of Brentwood 34.0 Allegheny County Commercial Revitalization Program. This program undertook street-scape improvements and facade renovations along Brentwood School District 109.0 Brownsville Road. Overall, this group directed the investment of more Allegheny County 25.2 than $1.35 million in renovations to the community. With the conclusion of this program, this organization has become dormant. TOTAL REAL ESTATE MILLS 168.2 Occupation Tax $ 10.00 18.5.2 Brentwood Economic Development Corporation: The Wage Tax (percent) 1 .oo Brentwood Economic Development Corporation (BEDC) is a community-based, private, non-profit development corporation. This Deed Transfer Tax (percent) I .oo organization was formed in the fall of 1995 by a group of business people and public officials concerned with the deterioration of the Brentwood-Whitehall Shopping Center and the blighted conditions along Route 51. This organization has the capacity to act in a community development role for the municipality and to be a conduit for the provision of foundation resources to address community and economic development issues within the community.
BACKGROUND INFORMATION: PAGE NO. 18-4 BACKGROUND INFORMATION
1 8.5.3 Brentwood Recreation Board: The Brentwood Recreation Board (BRB) is a community-oriented recreation committee composed of residents and elected officials charged with improving recreational opportunities within the Borough. This organization has both physical improvement and programmatic responsibilities. In the absence of a formal recreation department within the Borough government, this organization acts as the primary focal point for recreational activities within the Borough.
BACKGROUND INFORMATION: PAGE NO. 18-5 BACKGROUND INFORMATION
4DINGS & IMPLICATIONS
SEC. FINDINGS IMPLICATIONS 18.2 Borough government organized along standard Borough lines. No Borough may be missing out on opportunities for obtaining significant Borough Manager or Community Development Officer. grants by not having a professional staff person assigned the community development role. 8.3 Existing Zoning and Sub-Division Ordinances in place. Comprehensive plan will require a review and possible update of these Borough ordinances. 8.4. I Assessed Value remaining relatively constant in current year dollars. Borough will over time have to consider a steady increase in local real This indicates a gradual erosion of the tax base as municipal costs estate millage rates, cut expenses, or seek outside revenues to balance increase and the tax base against which revenues are obtained shows budgets. Allows little opportunity to make significant improvements in little or no signs of growth. municipal facilities on a regular basis. 18.4.2 Uncertainty about the "assessed" market value of the community versus Brentwood must insure that its estimated market value is accurate to its actual market value. insure that it is neither over-taxing nor under-taxing its residents. 18.4.3 Borough real estate millage is set at 34 mills Borough property tax increases have been relatively minor over the last five years. Borough must examine its potential to raise additional revenues to deal with creeping deterioration vs. larger increases later to deal with more wide-spread blighting influences. ~ 18.4.4 Borough debt equal to approximately 6.5% of budget. Relatively small debt load being carried by Brentwood. Increasing indebtedness in the context of an overall capital improvement program must be reviewed by the Borough. 18.4.5 Borough has no formal Capital Improvement Plan or Capital Reduces capacity of Borough to adequately implement plans or make Improvement Planning Process needed improvements in a rational and fiscally responsible manner. 18.5 Significant interest in community development issues by volunteer Strengthening of both the economic development and recreation groups within Brentwood. functions within the Borough through greater partnerships and cooperation with community-based, volunteer boards and agencies.
BACKGROUND INFORMATION: PAGE NO. 18-6 TIIE BRENTWOOII COMPREIIENSIVE PLAN
PART 111: OTHER LOCAL /REGIONAL PLANS
SECTION 19: ANALYSIS OF OTHER LOCAL /REGIONAL PLANS BACKGROUND INFORMATION
SECTION 19: ANALYSIS OF OTHER LOCAL / REGIONAL 6) The Borough must encourage the consolidation of existing small lots PLANS which, if developed singularly, would present marginal land use conditions and difficult maintenance problems for the Borough. 19.1 - 1973 BOROUGH OF BRENTWOOD COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 7) The Borough should develop a policy to deal with the changing trends in commercial development precipitated by competitive regional The last Borough comprehensive plan was completed in July of 1973 shopping centers in relation to the shopping needs of Borough by planning firm of Kendree and Shepard, Planning Consultants, Inc. residents. The 1973 Plan consisted of three parts - Background Studies, Comprehensive Plan Policies, and Continuing Planning Goals. This 8) The Borough should adopt a definitive policy to deal with the lack Plan was prepared long before the sweeping changes made in local of off-street parking in both neighborhood commercial and residential comprehensive planning as a result of the 1988 revisions to the areas. Municipalities Planning Code. As such, this document is no longer consistent with current State requirements. Nevertheless, it is 9) To encourage the acquisition by the Borough of selected additional instructive to review the primary findings of this document as basis to sites which are in accord with the land use plan for open space and determine the Borough's past track record in implementing its recreational purposes (in addition to any open space which might be comprehensive plan. dedicated to the Borough by developers of remaining vacant tracts).
The following items represent the major findings and IO) The Borough must require for all future construction, uniform site recommendations of the 1973 Comprehensive Plan: plan submission requirements for any major development within the Borough. I) An orderly pattern of land use must be structured through development and redevelopment which is ecologically sound, In summary the 1973 Comprehensive Plan provided Borough officials economically viable, sociologically beneficial and visually appealing. with a some very broad policy recommendations, but was much less 2) The Borough should adopt a long-range land use plan (map) as a specific on particular items to be implemented. It is important to note planning guideline for the orderly and constructive development and however, that the plan does touch upon major themes that are still redevelopment of the Borough during the period 1972-1985. issues of concern today, including: 3) The Borough should carefully regulate the extent and location of a) Residential conversion problems additional higher density type housing units. b) Lack of adequate parking c) The need for additional open space 4) The Borough should adopt the policy of restricting and carefully regulating the conversion of existing single-family dwellings to duplex These matters were problems for the Borough in 1973 and to a large dwellings and apartment-type structures. extent remain problems for the Borough 24 years later in 1997. 5) The Borough should consider using the "planned unit development'' concept in developing or redeveloping the larger residential tracts.
OTHER LOCAL / REGIONAL PLANS: PAGE NO. 19-1 BACKGROUND INFORMATION
19.2 - 1974 BOROUGH OF BRENTWOOD RECREATION AND responsibility to work with other communities in the watershed to OPEN SPACE PLAN reduce storm water runoff as redevelopment occurs in the Borough. The Borough has in effect, a Strom Water Management Ordinance - Five months after the completion of the 1973 Comprehensive Plan, I ) that requires stromwater management controls and storm sewer Kendree and Shepard completed a follow-up study - The Brentwood design for all land developments within the Borough: 2) provides for Borough Recreation and Open Space Plan. Much more specific than acceptance of public improvements; 3) provides for administration and the Comprehensive Plan, this document recommended the following: enforcement; 4) provides for amendments; and 5)provides for penalties and violations. 1) Development of two small tot-lot playgrounds. 2) Construction of a new pool, filtration plant and bathhouse All new developments are required to prepare a storm water 3) Development of the Wanley Road Park facility management plan. Major development (over 10,000 sq. ft. Of 4) Development of the Brenhvood Avenue Park facility impervious area are required to have on site retention facilities. Major 5) Improved Maintenance development proposed within the Redevelopment Area, may in fact 6) Improved Program Administration help reduce storm water run off problems caused by the existing development, by the installation of a retention system where none Almost all of the recommendation in the 1974 Recreation and Open currently exists. Space Plan are still valid today. In fact the 1974 Recreation and Open Space Study could and should be used as a companion reference to this 19. 5 - SPRPC LONG-RANGE TRANSPORTATION PLAN & 1997 Plan as a planning tool for implementing many of the TRANSPORTATION recommendations in this document. Review of the Southwestern Pennsylvania Regional Planning 19.3 - 1988 BOROUGH OF BRENTWOOD MUNICIPAL Commission (SPRPC) Long-Range Transportation Plan as well as the FACILITIES STUDY Transportation Improvement Program, the only transportation improvement scheduled are re-surfacing of the Route 5 1 corridor. The study makes recommendations concerning various Borough These improvements are to take place within the next 10 years. No facilities including the municipal building, public corks and fire house major road widening or signalization improvements are planned along facilities. Section 5 of the Comprehensive Plan draws upon the this corridor within Brentwood. However, the Brenhvood information and recommendations outlined in the Study. In most Comprehensive Plan includes the preparation of a redevelopment plan instances, the Comprehensive Plan reinforces the recommendations. along the Rt. 5 1 corridor. Part of this plan will be to reduce the number In other, options for new or renovated facilities are being further of curb cuts, improve intersections and traffic signalization and the refined by the Borough and the community. construction of pedestrian walks along areas of Route 5 1 that are to be developed. Any improvements contemplated along the Rt. 5 1 Corridor 19.4 - 1993 MONONGAHELA RIVER WATERSHED STUDY under a redevelopment plan must be coordinated with Pennsylvania Department of Transportation. The Comprehensive Plan realizes the critical role Brentwood plays in stromwater management due to its proximity at the top of the drainage Additional discussions with SPRPC centered on the effect of the Mon- system both on the streets run Watershed and the Saw Mill Run Fayette Expressway on the Rt. 51 corridor within Brentwood. The Watershed. As such, the Comprehensive Plan recognizes Brentwood’s Mon-Fayette Expressway will have a temporary terminus at Large,
OTHER LOCAL / REGIONAL PLANS: PAGE NO. 19-2 BACKGROUND INFORMATION Pennsylvania - approximately 5 miles south of Brentwood. SPRPC been holding discussions with the Brentwood Economic indicates that the Mon-Fayette will reduce traffic on other arterials Development Corporation (BEDC) regarding improvements to the feeding on the Rt. 5 1 from the south. The increase o f traffic through Rt. 5 1 corridor. The segment of the corridor within Brentwood and Brentwood on Rt. 5 1 will not be significant. Whitehall has been certified as blighted by the Redevelopment Authority of Allegheny County in 1997. The City of Pittsburgh is The Transportation Improvement Program - 1977-2000 does indicate interested in coordination of redevelopment of the Rt. 5 1 corridor the location of a park-n-ride facility in the Pittsburgh / Brentwood / within its boundaries with the efforts of Brentwood and Whitehall. Whitehall area. The amount budgeted for the park-n-ride facility is $620,000. A park-n-ride facility is also schedule for nearby Pleasant 19.7.2 Borough of Whitehall Comprehensive Plan Hills with a budget of $770,000. (See “Port Authority of Allegheny County” below.) The Borough of Whitehall’s Comprehensive Plan was prepared in March 1968, nearly 30 years ago. The Borough is fully developed 19.6 - PORT AUTHORITY OF ALLEGHENY COUNTY and has little land suitable for new development. But as discussed in Section 19.7. I, Whitehall is cooperating with Brentwood and the Discussions and a meeting with the Port Authority of Allegheny City of Pittsburgh on addressing the blighting factors along the Rt. County regarding their future transportation improvements in and 5 1 corridor. In fact, Whitehall Borough has financially contributed around Brentwood indicate that the only improvements contemplated to the Brentwood Economic Development Corporation and holds is the development of several park-n-ride facilities. These facilities two seats on the BEDC’s Board. As mentioned previously, the will, in the short term, provide for additional commuter parking during Redevelopment Authority of Allegheny County certified an area the closure of the Fort Pitt Tunnels within the next three years. The along the Rt. 5 1 corridor within Whitehall as blighted. Whitehall is PAT is investigating a number of sites at this time. Most ow which are working with Brentwood and Pittsburgh in a cooperative effort to outside of Brentwood Borough. The park-n-ride facility to be located improve the safety, appearance and business climate along Rt. 5 1. in Pleasant Hills will have a large capacity. Currently, the PAT is investigating the use of a number of church parking lots to satisfy 19.7.3 The Baldwin Borough Comprehensive Plan future park-n-ride demand. The PAT is not contemplating expanding or developing any additional routes through Brentwood Borough and The Baldwin Borough Comprehensive Plan is approximately 30 will maintain those listed in Section 4 - Circulation Plan of this years old and out dated. The Borough Secretary indicated that the document. Borough will, hopefully, have a new plan prepared within the next five years. The recommendations of the Brentwood Comprehensive 19.7 - RELATIONSHIP TO COMPREHENSIVE PLANS IN Plan that effect Baldwin are positive. Housing rehabilitation ADJACENT COMMUNITIES programs throughout Brentwood including neighborhoods adjacent to Baldwin; improvements to the Rt. 5 I corridor including 19.7.1 City of Pittsburgh Comprehensive Plan elimination of a number of curb cuts as well as safety improvements and better signalization; and the development of new job The City of Pittsburgh does not have a comprehensive plan in effect opportunities with the redevelopment of the properties along Rt. 5 I at the present time. However, the City has developed some and the Baldwin-Whitehall Shopping Center area - will all have a “Guiding Principals” in the preparation of a new zoning ordinance. positive impact on Baldwin Borough. The City’s Planning Department and Redevelopment Authority have
OTHER LOCAL / REGIONAL PLANS: PAGE NO. 19-3 THE BRENTWOOD COMPREHENSIVE PLAN
APPENDICES
APPENDIX A: MUNICIPAL PLANNING CODE REQUIREMENTS FOR A COMPREHENSIVE PLAN APPENDICIES APPENDIX A - MIJNICIPAL PLANNING CODE REQUIREMENTS - Excerpts of the “Pennsylvania Municipal Planning Code, Act of 1968, P.L. 805, No. 247 as reenacted and amended” regarding preparing and adopting a comprehensive plan.
opment. that may also Serve a smement of community development obje (7) Submit to the governing body of a municipality a recommended capital improve- as ments program. tives as provided in section 606. (2) A plan for land use, which may include provisions for the amount. intensity i (7.1) Prepare and present to the governing body of the municipality a water survey, character and timing of land use propased for residexe. indusay. business. j which shall be consistent with the State Water Plan and any applicable waler plan adopted by a river basin commission. The water survey shall riculture. major mffic and transit facilities. utilities. community facilities, p resources be lic grounds, parks and recreation. preservation of prime agricultural lands. conducted in consultation with any public water supplier in the amto be sur- veyed. flood plains and other areas of special hazards and olher similar uses. (8) Promote public interest in. undentanding of, the comprehensive plan (2.1) A plan to meet the housing needs of present residents and of those individu. and and and families anticipated to reside in the municipality. which may include cr P-g. sewation ofpresenlly sound housing, rehabilitation of housing in declining (9) Make recommendations to governmental. civic and private agencies and indi- neighborhoods and the accommodation of expected new housing in differel viduals as to fhe effectivenessof the proposals of such agencies and individu- dwelling types and at appropriate densities for households of all income le\ als. (3) A plan for movement of people and goods. which may include expressway (10) Hold public hearings and meetings. highways, local street systems, parking facilities. pedestrian and biLeway s: (10.1) Resent mtimony before any board. tern. public bansit roum. terminals. airfields. pon facilities. railroad facili (1 1) Require from other depamnents and agencies of the municipality such avail- and other similar facilities or uses. able infomation as relates to the work of the planning agency. (4) A plan for community facilities and utilities. which may include public anc (12) In the performance of its functions. enter upon any land to make examinations vate dudon. recreatioa municipal buildings. fire and police stations. lib and surveys with the consent of the owner. ies. hospitals. water supply and disuibution, sewerage and waste weatmen1 (13) Prepare. and present to the governing body of the municipality a study regarding solid waste management. storm drainage. and flood plain managemenl. uli’ the feasibility and practicability of using renewable energy sources in specific corridors and associated facilities, and other similar facilities or uses. anas within the municipality. (4.1) A slatement of the interrelationships among the various plan components. (14) Review the zoning ordinance, subdivision and land development ordinance. off- may include an estimate of the environmental. energy conservation. fiscal. cial map. provisions for planned residential development, and such other ordi- nomic development and social consequences on !he municipality. nances and regulations governing the developmem of land no less frequently (4.2) A discussion of shon- and long-range plan implementation slrategies. whit lhan it reviews the comprehensive plan include implications for capital improvements programming. new or updal development regulations. and identification of public funds potenlially av; Section 210. Administrative and Technical Assktance.-Theappointing authority may able. employ administrative and technical services to aid in carrying out the provisions of this act either as consultants on particular matters or as regular employees of the (5) A statement indicating the relationship of the existing and proposed deveh municipality. A county planning agency, with the consent of its governing body may ment of the municipality IO the existing and proposed development and pl perform planning services for any municipality whose goveming body requests such in contiguous municipalities, to the objectives and plans% development the county of which it is a paand regional trends. assistance and may enter into agreements or contracts for such work. to @) The comprehensive plan may include a plan for the reliable supply of water. c Section 211. Assislance.-The planning agency may, with the consent of the governing ering current and future water resources availability. uses and limilalions. inc body, accept and utilize any funds, personnel or other assislance made available by provisions adquale lo protect wakr supply sources. Any such plan shall bc con the county, the Commonwealth or the Federal government or any of their agencies. or with the State Water Plan and any applicable water resources plan adopted by from private sowces. The goveming body may enter into agreements or conuacts basin commission. regarding the acceptance or utilization of the funds cu assistance in accordance with the governmental procedures of the municipality. I Section 301.1. Energy Conservation Plan Element.-To promole energy cornel and the effective utilization of renewable energy sources, the comprehensive pl. include an energy consewdon plan element which systematically analyzes the ARTICLE III of each other component and element of the comprehensive plan on the pres future use of eneqy in the municipality. details specific measures contain& , Comprehensive Plan other plan elements designed to reduce energy consumption and propose: measures tha~the municipality may take to reduce energy consumption and 10 p Section 301. Preparation of Comprehensive Plan- the effective utilization of renewable energy sources. (a) The comprehensive plan, consisting of maps. chans and textual matter, shall include. Section 301.2. Surveys by Planning Agency.-In preparing the comprehensir but need MI be limited to. the following related basic elemenu: the planning agency shall make careful surveys. studies and analyses of h (I) A stamen1of objectives of the municipality concerning its future developmenl demographic. and economic characteristics and trends; amount. type and including, but not limited to. the location. character and timing of future devel- 9 8 APPENDICES: PAGE NO: A-1 APPENDICES
-.
location and interrelationships of different categories of land use; general location and (2) the location. erection, deniolition. removal or sale of any public structure located extent of transportation and community facilities; natural features affecting develop within the municipality: ment; ~rwal.historic and cultural resources; and the prospects for future growth in (3) the adoption, amendment or repeal of an official map. subdivision and land de- the municipality. velopment ordinance. zoning ~dinanceor provisions for planned residential development, or capital kpvementsprogram; M Section 3013. Submission of Plan to County Planning Agency.-If a county planning agency has been cmled for the county in which the municipality is localed. then at least (4) the construction. extension or abandonment of any water line, sewer line or sew- age treatment facility. 45 days prior to the public hearing required in section 302 on the comprehensive plan or amendment thereof. the municipality shall forward acopy of hat plan or amendment to (b) The recommendaiions of the planning agency including a specific swement as to , the county planning agency for ils commenls. At the same time, hemunicipality shall whether or not the proposed action is in accordance with the objectives of the fody also forward copies of the proposed plan or amendment to all contiguous municipalities adopled comprehensive plan shall be made in writing to the governing body within 45 and to the local school district for their review and comments. days. (c) Notwithslanding any other provision of lhis XI.no action by the governing body of a Section 3U1.4. Compliance by Counties.-If a county does not have a comprehensive municipality shall be invalid nor shall the same be subject lo challenge or appeal on the plan. then hat county shall. within hceyears of the effective date of this act. prepare basis that such action is inconsistent with M fails to comply with the provision of the and adopt a comprehensive plan in accordance with the requirements of section 301. comprehensive plan. hlunicipal comprehensive plans which are adopted shall be generally consisteni with the adopted county comprehensive plan. Settion 304. Legal Status of County Comprehensive Plaos Within Municipn~tk- Section 302. Adoption of Comprehensive Plan and Plan Amendments.- (a) Following the adoption of a comprehensive plan or any part thereof by a county. (a) The goveming body shall have the power to adopt and amend the comprehensive plan pursuant to the procedures in section 302. any proposed action of the goveming body as a whole or in parts. Before adopting or amending a comprehensive plan, or any part of a municipality. its depamnents. agencies and appointed authorities within the thereof, the planning agency shall hold at least one public meeting pursuant to public county shall be submined lo the county planning agency for is recommendations if noticebeforeforwardingtheproposedcomprehensiveplanoramendmentthereoftothe the proposed action relates to: goveming body. In reviewing the propxed comprehensive plan, the goveming body (I) the location, opening, vacation, extension. widening, narrowing or enlargement shall consider the review comments of the county. contiguous municipalities and the of any street. public ground. pierhead or watercorn: school district. as well as the public meeting comments and therecommendationsof he (2) the location, erection, demolition. removal or sale of any public structures lo- municipal planningagency. Thecommentsof thecounty,contiguousmunicipalitiesand cated within the municipality; the local school district shall be made to the governing body within 45 days of receipt, (3) the adoption, amendment or repeal of any comprehensive plan. oflicial map. sub- and the proposed plan or amendment thereto shall not be acted upon until such comment division or land ordinance. Zoning ordinance or provisions for planned residen- is received. If. however, the contiguous municipalities and the local school district fail tial development: or to respond within 45 days, the goveming bcdy may proceed without their comments. (4) the construction. extension or abandonment of any water line, S~WMLine M sew- (b) The governing body shall hold at least one public hearing pursuant to public notice. age ueatment facility. If. after the public hearing held upon the proposed plan or amendment to the plan. the (b) The recommendation the planning agency shall be made to the goveming bcdy of proposed plan or proposed amendment thereto is substantially revised, the goveming of the municipality 45 days and the proposed action not be taken until such body hold another public hearing. pursuant to public notice. before proceeding within shall shall recommendation is made. If. however. the planning agency fails to act within 45 days. to vole on the plan or amendment thereto. the governing body shall proceed without its recommendatjon (c) The adoption of the comprehensive plan, or any part thereof. or any amendment thereto. shall be by resolution carried by the affmative votes of not less than a Section 305. "be Legal Status of Comprehensive Plans Within Schml Dktrkk- majority of all the members of the governing body. The resolution shall refer expressly Following the adoption of a comprehensive plan or any part thereof by any mlmici- to the maps, chans. textual matter. and other matters intended to form the whole or pality or county govemhg body, pumrant to the procedures in section 302. any pan of the plan. and the action shall be recorded on the adopted plan or part. proposed action of the goveming body of any public school district located within the municipality or county relating to the location. demolition. removal, sale 01 lease of Section 303. Legal Status of Comprehensive Plan Wilhin the Jurisdiction that any school district structure or land shall be submined to the municipal and county Adopted the Plan.- planning agencies for their recommendations at least 45 days prior to the execution of (a) Whenever the governing body, pursuant to the procedures provided in section 302. has such proposed action by the governing body of the school disnict. adopled a comprehensive plan any part thereof, any subsequent proposed action of the governing body. its depmenls, agencies and appointed authorities shall be Section 306. Municipal and County Comprebensive J'lans.- submitted to the planning agency for its recommendations when the proposed action (a) When a municipality having a comprehensive plan is located in a county which has relates to: adopted a comprehensive plan, both the county and the municipahty shall each give the (I) the location. opening, vacation. extension. widening, narrowing or enlargement plan of the other consideration in orbthat the objectives of each plan can be pmkd of any street. public ground, pierhead or watercourse; 10 the grmextent possible.
10 It APPENDICES: PAGE NO: A-2 APPENDICES
@) Within 30 days alter adoption, the governing body of a municipality. other than a (c) Following adoption of heordinance and official map. or pan thereof or amendment county, shall forward a certified copy of the comprehensive plan. or part thereof or thereto. a copy of same, verified by the goveming body, shall be submiued to the amendment thereto. to the county planning agency or. in counties where no planning recorder of deeds of the county in which the municipality is located and shall be agency exists. to the governing body of the county in which the municipality is located. recorded within 60 days of the effective date. The fee for recording and indexing ordinances and amendments shall be paid by the municipality enacting the ordinance or amendment and shall be in the amount prc~~ribdby law for the recording of ARTICLE IV ordinances by the recorder of deeds. Official Map Section 403. ENect of Approved Plats on Ollicial Map.- After adoption of the ofiicial map. or parl thereof, all streets. wamurses and public grounds and the elements listed in section 401 mrdedplats which have approved provided Section 401. Grant of Power, on fd. been as by this act shall be deemed amendments to the official map. Notwilhstanding any of (a) The governing body of each municipality shall have the power to make or camto be the other terms of this article. no public hearing need be held or notice given if the made an official map of all or a portion of the municipality which may show amendment of the official map is the result of the addition of a plat which has been appropriate elements or ponions of elements of the comprehensive plan adopted approved as provided by lhis act. pursuant to section 302 with regard to public lands and facilities. and which may include, but need not be limited to: Section 404. ENect of Oliicial Map on Mapped Streel& Waterrourses and Public (I) Existing and proposed public streets. watetwmes and public grounds. including Grounds,-The adoption of any street. street lines or other public lands pursuant to I widening. -wings. extensions. diminutions. openings or closing of same. I this adcle as part of the official map shall not. in and of ilself. ConstiNte or be deemed (2) Existing and proposed public parks, playgrounds and open space reservations. to constitute the opening or establishment of any street nor the laking or acceptance . of any land, nor shall it obligaE the municipality to improve or maintain any such (3) Pedestrian ways and easements. street or land. The adoption of proposed watercourses or public grounds as part of the (4) Railroad and witrights-of-way and easements. official map shall not. in and of itself. constitute or be deemed to constitute a faking , (5) Flood control basins, floodways and flood plains. storm water management ar- or acceptance of any land by the municipality. eas and drainage easements. Section 405. BuildiOgr Mapped Streets, Watercourses or Other Public Grounds.- (6) Suppon facilities. easements and other propenies held by public bodies undenak- in ing the elements described in section 301. ForthepurposeofpreservingtheintegrityoftheofficialmapofIhemunicipality,noper- mit shall be issued for any building within the lines of any set.wakawum or public (b) For the purposes of laking action under this section. the goveming body or its ground shown or laid out on the official map. No pason shall recover any damages for . authorized designee may make or cause to be made surveys and maps to identify. for the taldng for public use of any building or improvements constlucted within the Lines the regulatory purposes of this article. the location of propeny. Micway alignment of any street. watercourse or public ground afler the same shall have been included in the or utility easement by use of property records, aerial photography. photogrammetric official map. and any such building or improvement shall be removed Ithe expense of mapping or other method sufficient for identification. description and publication of theowner.However. whenthepropertyofwhichthereservedlocationformsapart.can- the map components. For acquisition of lands and easements. boundary descriptions not yield a reasonable rem to the owner unless a permit shall be granted. the owner by metes and bounds shall be made and sealed by a licensed surveyor. may apply to the goveming body for the gtant of a special encroachment permit to build Section 402. Adoption of the Oliicial Map and Amendments Thereto,- Before granting any special encmachment permit authorized in this secuon. the govan- (a) Prior to the adoption of the official map or part thereof. or any amendments to the ingbodymaysubmitIheapplicationforaspecialencmachmentpermittothelocalplan- , ning agency and allow the planning agency days for review and comment shall official map. the governing body shall refer the proposed official map, or part thereof 30 and or amendment thereto. with an accompanying ordinance describing the proposed map. give public notice and hold a pubtic hearing at which all pad= in inlaest shall have an oppmrnity to be heard. A refusal by the goveming body to gtanl the special encmach- to the planning agency for review. The planning agency repon its recommenda- shall ment pennil applied for may be appealed by the applicant to the Zoning hearing baud . tions on said proposed official map and accompanying ordinance, part thereof. or in the Same and within the same lime limitahon, provided in Article amendment thereto wilhin 45 days unless an extension of time shall be agreed to by mer. as is IX. the governing body. If. however. the planning agency fails to act within 45 days, the Section 406. Time Limitations on Reservations for Future Taking.-The governing governing body may proceed without its recommendations. body may fix the lime for which streets. watercoursesand public grounds on the official (b) The county and adjacent municipalities may offer comments and recommendations map shall be deemed reserved for future Iaking or acquisition for public use. However. during said 45-day review period in accordance with section 408. Local authorities, the reservation for public grounb shall lapse and become void one year after an owner . parkboards.environmenlal boardsandsimilarpublicbodiesmay alsooffercomments ofsuchpropertyhassubminedawrinennoticetoIhegovemingbodyannouncinghisin- and recomrnendaiions to the governing body or planning agency if requested by same tentions to build, subdivide or othmise develop the land covered by the muvation. or during said 45-day review period. Before voting on the enactment of the proposed hasmadeformalapplicationforanofficialpermittobuildasauctureforprivaE~se~un- ordinance and olficial map. or part thereof or amendment thereto. the governing body less the governing body shall have acquind the property or begun condemnation pre shall hold a public hearing pursuant to public notice. ceedings to acquire such property before the end of the year.
12 13
APPENDICES: PAGE NO: A-3 THE BRENTWOOD COMPREHENSIVE PLAN
APPENDICES
APPENDIX B: EMMPLES OF A STREET CLASSIFICATION SYSTEM APPENDICES
APPENDIX B - EXAMPLES OF A STREET CLASSIFICATION SYSTEM
Functional Classification of Streets
Yass$catiort lhcriplion Avercige lhil-y lk@c
Arterial A public street intended to carry a large volume of local and 3,000 + through traffic, to or from collector streets and expressways. Controlled access.
Collector Channels traffic from local to arterial or other collector streets; includes main streets within a development.
Residential: No direct access to residential lots. 1000 - 3000
Non-Residential: Number of access drives limited; may require marginal access drive 800 +
Minor Collector Provides direct access to lots and conveys traffic from local to collector streets.
Res id entia I: Not more that 500 ADT (Average Daily Traffic Volume) from direct 500 - 1000 frontage lots permitted.
Non- Resid en t ia I : 0 - 800
Loca I Serves primarily to provide direct access to abutting property Should be designed to discourage through traffic.
Resitlen t ia I: Provides direct access to residential lots and to other 0 -500 residential streets.
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APPENDICES
APPENDIX C: GMPHIC DETAILS - DECADE ARCHITECTURAL MUNICIPAL FACILITIES PLAN APPENDICES APPENDIX C: FIRE STATION OPTION - DAVIS FARM SITE
FRONT ELEVATION I/,*.. 1'-0" YYIDOl Dc*
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APPENDICES: PAGE NO: C-4 APPENDICES APPENDIX D: FIRE STATION OPTION - MUNICIPAL BUILDING SITE
I
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Proposed Add1tiori to Brei1twood Murilcipal Building Taken Froin Brentwood Municipal Facilities Study Prepared by Decade Arcliitecturai Association
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OROUND FLOOR
PROPOSED MUNICIPAL BUILDING - BRENUWWD b . : 1 MUNICIf4U FACILITIES STUDY BOWOU@W 01 a D ao a0 FLIT @-
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FIRST FLOOR
PROPOSED MUNICIPAL BUILDING
I n. - 1 lmENuwmD BOROUGM 01 8 IO 10 30 FCIT * MUNlClRdL FACILITIES STUDY OLCIOE ARCHITCCTURAL ASSOCllTES. INC.
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ROOF
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APPENDICES
APPENDIX D: REDEVELOPMENT PLAN OUTLINE APPENDICES
APPENDICES D: REDEVELOPMENT PLANNING PROCESS
The following is an example of a redevelopment planning process that meets the criteria of the State Redevelopment Law:
1. Data Collection
a. Full size lot and block maps b. Sanborne Map C. Zoning Ordinance & map d. Comprehensive Plan e. Base map f. Subdivision Ordinance g. Membership List of Borough Council, Planning Commission, Zoning Board, Solicitor, etc. h. Capital Improvement Program or current budget 1. Ownership and tax assessment data for study parcels J. Grants, programs, etc. being undertaken in the community by Allegheny County k. Municipal maps of sewer systems 1. Utility company maps m. Census data
2. Base Map Preparation a. 1 " = 50' scale maps b. (2) base maps 1. Structures 2. Properties
3. Field Work a. Check base map against existing conditions b. Land use survey c. Structural conditions survey
APPENDICES: PAGE NO: D- 1 APPENDICES
d. Public facilities (i.e., curbs, sidewalks, etc.) survey e. Special studies, e.g., parking, traffic, etc. f. Take photos f. Outstanding physical features
4. Analysis a. Maps of existing conditions 1. Structural 2. Land Use b. Assets and Constraints maps c. Maps of physical facilities d. Maps of off and on street parking e. Utilities map
5. Problem Definition (Visual & Verbal) a. Meetings with municipal bodies b. Citizens meetings (3) 1. Problem identification ) Graphics are 2. Alternative solutions ) involved in 3. Selection and presentations of “best” alternative ) each meeting
6. Secure Funding for project implementation
7. Preparation of Redevelopment Proposal
a. Development of Citizen Participation Plan b. Development of Relocation Plan I. Obtain occupancy data reports c. Development of Public Improvements Report
APPENDICES: PAGE NO: D-2 APPENDICES d. Development of Acquisition Report I. Obtain title report information 2. Obtain acquisition appraisals e. Development of Land Disposition Report f. Development of Redevelopment Area Plan and Maps g. Development of Budget and Budget Narrative h. Preparation of Legal Documents, including Public Notices and Resolutions I. Development of Rehabilitation Report
8. Final Application Preparation
9. Project Approval Process a. Municipal Planning Commission b. Municipal Council c. Redevelopment Authority Board of Directors d. Allegheny County Planning Commission (or the Redevelopment Authority acting as the Planning Commission if no County Planning Commission exists) e. Public Hearing f. Allegheny County Board of Commissioners
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APPENDICES
APPENDIX E: AN EmMPLE OF A MARKETING SCOPE OF SERVICE APPENDIX E: AN EXAMPLE OF A MARKETING SCOPE OF SERVICE
The following is a list of items that should be considered when a Market Plan Scope of Service is being prepared:
A. Define Existing Conditions / Market
1. Assets & Constraints of the Brentwood Business Community a. IdentifL the Brentwood’s position in local markets - within the community, the south hills area & the Pittsburgh region b. Define population by household size, age and income within the market area c. Analyze accessibility - pedestrian, vehicular & public transportation d. Identify parking - location, demand, quality, quantity, accessibility d. Compare existing goods and services offered vs. market demand e. IdentifL unique features / services within the existing business community located within Brentwood f. Work force availability and capacity
2. Location / Competition a. Identi@ other commerce centers in the South Hills areas and compare their assets and constraints with those of the Brentwood Business Community b. Compare the services offered and their comparative advantages and disadvantages c. Identify the unique features / services / locational advantages of other competing business areas
B. IdentifL Market Potential
1. Define “market gaps” and “market niches” that are not being met within the Brentwood Community, South Hills Area or the Pittsburgh Region that would be compatible with the existing business infrastructure or a modified business infrastructure (via redevelopment). a. Types of retail, businesses and services b. Quantity / size of retail, wholesale, business and service facility recommended to fill “gap” and “nich” c. Clientele - location, income level, buying habits
2. Define locations for “gaps” and “niches” a. Optimum location of individual types of retail, wholesale, services and businesses within Brentwood b. Adjustments to existing physical infrastructure needed to attract business and permit their successful hnction
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3. IdentifL potential entrepreneurs to develop new business a. Within the existing business community b. Within and outside the region
4. List existing business types that need reinforced, updated ant,,3r expanded to respond to market needs and recommended actions that needs to be taken for each type
5. List existing business types that are a part of “market saturation” and that may be failing now or in the near hture
6. Provide a summary of road and transportation improvements / adjustments that will effect commerce in Brentwood and what this potential effect may be: a. Mon-Fayette Express Way b. PAT Bus Routes, LRT, Park & Ride c. Closing of tunnels or repair
C. Recommendations
Provide a series of recommendations for an enhanced business, retail and service components within the Brentwood community, South Hills and Pittsburgh Regional Market - what must be done to maintain and expand the Brentwood Market. 1. Retail 2. Services 3. Ofice / Business 4. Wholesale
D. Marketing Action Plan - Develop a Marketing Action Plan that identifies activities; assigns responsibility to local groups and entities; list potential hnding sources and provides a time frame for required actions that will accomplish plan recommendations including the following activities:
1. Business Recruitment 2. Business Retention 3. Infrastructure Improvement 4. Access Improvements (Pedestrian and Vehicular) 5. Parking Reconfiguration / Improvements 6. Aesthetic Improvements APPENDICES: PAGE NO: E-2 APPENDICES 7. Safety Improvements
8. Funding Sources/ Methodologies to implement the Marketing Plan (Examples: Brentwood Economic Development Corporation, Chamber of Commerce, Pa. Dept. of Community & Economic Development’s Main Street Program; Business Development District; Redevelopment Project; Tax Increment Financing, Contributions from local businesses and foundations; Allegheny County Commercial Revitalization Program; local fund raising initiatives; etc.).
APPENDICES: PAGE NO: E-3 THE BRENTWOOD COMPREHENSIVE PLAN
APPENDICES
APPENDIX F: BRENTWOOD PARK/ WANLEYROAD PARK - HIKING/NATURE APPENDICES APPENDIX F: BRENTWOOD PARK / WANLEY ROAD PARK (PROJECT 70) HIKING / NATURE TRAILS
-TDDOOOAN, fBLEODINO S EKI AREA PICNIC & ADMINIRTRATIDN r REHAB. EXlt3TlND EUlLOlNO /
IC PAVlLLlONE -WARMtNO ARRA ACTlVlTleE
UNITY PARK
APPENDICES: PAGE NO: F-1 APPENDICES
APPENDIX G: RESOLUTION OF THE BOROUGH OF BRENTWOOD, PENNSYL VANIA APPROVING AND ADOPTING THE BRENTWOOD BOROUGH COMPREHENSIVE PLAN lil I APPENDICES APPENDIX G: RESOLUTION OF THE BOROUGH OF BRENTWOOD, PENNSYLVANIA APPROVING AND ADOPTING THE BRENTWOOD BOROUGH COMPREHENSIVE PLAN
Page 3 of 3 OOROUGll OF BRENTWOOD Page 2 of 3 2. That the Comprcliunsive Plan attnchcd hereto and marked u Exhibit A Resolution Number:90-1 WIIEREAS. short-and long-knn implementationsmtegics have been identified and including all maps. chm. texhul mane: and other matten that fonn the Plan is hereby approved RESOLUTION OF TIE BOROUGH OF BENTWOOD. PENNSYLVANIA and adopted: APPROVING AND ADOPTMO niE de6ncd; BRENTWOOD BOROUGH COMpRu(MSIvE PLAN WHEREAS. a statement indicating the relatiorship of the ~XiStingpmposed 3. Acb'unr u outlined in the Municipalities Planning Code by the Borough iu dcputmenk agencies and appointed authorities shall be submitted (0 the Borough's pluming development of the municipality Io the existing and pmposed development and plans in WHEREAS. chr &rou& of Brcnndis desirous of guiding the future development agency for winen reconintendation to the governing body. contiguous municipalities. to the objectives and plans for development in Allegheny County and of the Borocgh in a manner will knefin the social. economic adliving environment of I!! dm DATED this 20 -tL.day of J!!wuO*I. 1998 Brcntuwd Communiry. to $e Rcgioo hubccn prcparod;
WHEREAS. othn documentationhas bseD prepared (0 help Ihe BomughofBrcnwood WHEREAS. the Bornugh of 6mtwood planning Commissionhas mads M urensivc AW BOROUGH OF BENTWOOD study of existing conditions within the Bornugh of Brentwood; and to guide its development and devclopmmt and, thw. its destiny;
WHEREAS. the aforementioned plans md stalemmls have been developed and prepared WHEREAS a Statement of Objectives of the Municipality concerning Future in accordance with the Laws ofthe Commonwealth of Pcrmylvania s outlined io the Development has been formulated; Municipalities PlhgCode, Act 254 u mended and heorpoponred into document entitled the
I!J"EREAS. Iland use plan has been prepared showins amount. intensre. characrer 'Bornugh of Brenwwd Comprehensive Plan'; and timing of land use proposed for variolrr uses throughout the municipality; WHEREAS. public bearings have been dvmised and conducted by the Brenlwood
WHEREAS. a plan to meet the hourins needs ofpaen: residenuand of individuals Borough Planning Commissionand Council as required by Section 302 of the Municipalities ,,j f:mili.s d:;picd to resije in the municipali;). hu been devcloptd; * PlanningCode;
WHEREAS, all commenls from the goldpublic, Allegheny County and surrounding WHEREAS. a plan for the movement ofpeoplc and goods via various transponatlon systems and facilities has kenprepared. ; communities have been reviewed and considered;
NOW, THEREFORE,BE IT RESOLVED by the Bornugh ofBrenlwood u follows: WHEREAS. I plan for community and facilities has been developed; I. That Leoverall needs of the residents and its olbn private ant! public components
WIIEREAS. a statement of the inter-relationships omong the various plan within the community of the Borough of Brentwood can bcn be met lhmugh the development components on onc another 2nd on the communlry has been prepared: and implementation of he Comprehensive Plm;
APPENDICES: PAGE NO: G-1