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NESIIANNOCK TOWNSHIP

LAWRENCE COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA

COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE

DECEMBER 1993

This Comprehensive Plan is an update of the Neshannock Township Comprehensive Plan of 1969

Revised July, 1994

PREPARED BY:

KILLAM ASSOCIATES, DLA DIVISION 100 ALLEGHENY DRIVE WARRENDALE, PENNSYLVANIA 15086 (412) 772-0200 NESHANNOCK TOWNSHIP LAWRENCE COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA

COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE MUNICIPAL OFFICIALS 1993-1994

Board of SuDervisors

Gale E. Measel, Jr., Chairman John DiCola, Jr., Vice Chairman Daniel J. Vogler, Supervisor

Township Secretary

Leslie S. Bucci

Planning & Zoning Commission

Randy Sumner, Chairman Maureen Cusick, Secretary Larry Kenney Gale Measel Dan Rudolph

Park Commission

Gordon Windl, Chairman Don NicoUs, Secretary Beverly Lombardi Dave Grissett Doug Bleggi

Park Director

Chris Navarra I

I NESHANNOCK TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE 1 TABLE OF CONTENTS I TITLE PAGE NO. CHAPTER 1 INTRODUCTION 1

I SECTION I BACKGROUND INFORMATION I CHAPTER2 GENERAL BACKGROUND 3 CHAPTER 3 PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS 7

I CHAPTER 4 DEMOGRAPHIC CHARACTERISTICS 19 I CHAPTER 5 ECONOMIC TRENDS 30 CHAPTER 6 EXISTING LAND USE 40

I CHAPTER 7 COMMUNITY FACILITIES 47 I SECTION I1 DEVELOPMENT GOALS AND OBJECTIVES CHAPTER 8 COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT GOALS 56 I AND OBJECTIVES I SECTION IT1 PLAN RECOMMENDATIONS CHAPTER 9 LAND USE PLAN 61 I CHAPTER 10 TRANSPORTATION AND CIRCULATION 73 IMPROVEMENT PLAN

I CHAPTER 11 COMMUNITY FACILITIES PLAN 80 CHAPTER 12 FINANCIAL ANALYSIS AND CAPITAL 86 I IMPROVEMENTS I CHAPTER 13 PLAN IMPLEMENTATION 95 -I 1 1 1

I NESHANNOCK TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE i LIST OF TABLES I ?TIzE PAGE NO. CHAPTER 4

1 TABLE I COMPARATIVE POPULATION GROWTH 20 HISTORICAL POPULATION TRENDS

I TABLE 11 AGE CHARACTERISTICS 22 1 TABLE 111 GENDER CHARACTERISTICS OF NESHANNOCK TOWNSHIP 23 TABLE 111-A HOUSEHOLD SIZE AND ELDERLY POPULATION OF 24 I NESHANNOCK TOWNSHIP TABLE IV BIRTH AND DEATHS FOR LAWRENCE COUNTY 26

1 TABLE V RESIDENTIAL BUILDING PERMITS PER YEAR FOR 27 I NESHANNOCK TOWNSHIP TABLE VI POPULATION PROJECTIONS FOR NESHANNOCK TOWNSHIP 28 1 CHAPTER 5 I TABLE I OCCUPATION STATISTICS FOR NESHANNOCK TOWNSHIP 31 TABLE 11 INCOME DATA 33

I TABLE I11 1990 HOUSEHOLD INCOME 34 1 TABLE 111-A REAL ESTATE TAXES 34 TABLE IV 1990 HOUSING DATA - NESHANNOCK TWP., 35 1 LAWRENCE COUNTY TABLE V HOUSING VALUES 36

1 TABLE VI 1990 HOUSING DATA - CHIPPEWA TWP., 37 I BEAVER COUNTY I 1

I NESHANNOCK TOWNSHlp COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE LIST OF TABLES (Continued) I TITLE PAGE NO. I CHAPTER 6 TABLE I EXISTING LAND USE FOR NESHANNOCK TOWNSHIP 41 I CHAPTER 7 TABLE I NESHANNOCK TOWNSHIP SCHOOL DISTRICT 51 I HISTORICAL AND FUTURE ENROLLMENT I TABLE II 1990 EDUCATIONAL STATISTICS 52 CHAPTER 12

I TABLE I SUMMARY OF GENERAL FUND RECEIPTS AND 87 I EXPENDITURES TABLE II COMPARISON OF RECEIPTS AND EXPENDITURES 88 1 FOR NESHANNOCK TOWNSHIP TABLE I11 ASSESSED VALUATION FOR NESHANNOCK TOWNSHIP 89 I TABLE IV ASSESSED VALUATION OF MILLAGE FOR NESHANNOCK 90 TOWNSHIP

I TABLE V BORROWING CAPACITY 91

I APPENDIX A - RECREATIONAL STANDARDS NESHANNOCK TOWNSHIP COMPRJ33ENSNE PLAN UPDATE

LIST OF FIGURES AND MAPS

TITLE PAGE NO.

MAPS

MAP 1 REGIONAL LOCATION MAP 5

MAP 2 ENVIRONMENTALLY SENSITIVE AREAS 8

MAP 3 DRAINAGE BASINS/TOPOGRAPHY 13

MAP 4 EXISTING LAND USE 43

MAP 5 COMMUNITY FACILITIES 48

MAP 6 FUTURE LAND USE 63

MAP 7 TRANSPORTATION SYSTEMS 76

MAP 8 WATER AND SEWER SERVICE AREAS 85

FIGURES

FIGURE I CLIMATIC CHARACTERISTICS 18

FIGURE I1 HISTORICAL AND FUTURE POPULATION 29

FIGURE I11 HOUSING VALUES 39 1

1 NES"N0CK TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE CHAPTER 1 I INTRODUCTION I A Comprehensive Plan for Neshannock Township was last written in 1969 by Clifton Rodgers I and Associates, Consulting Engineers. The current comprehensive planning work undertaken by Killam Associates provides a further update of the existing conditions and identifies future .I planning concerns.

I The legal basis for municipal planning and zoning activity in Pennsylvania is the Pennsylvania Municipal Planning Code, Act 247 of 1968, as amended by Act 170 of 1988; as further amended I by Act 209 of 1990; as further amended by Act 131 of 1992. This Code enables municipalities to plan for development through preparation of a comprehensive plan, and also requires 1 continual updating of the comprehensive plan, the official municipal map, and applicable I ordinances. I The following Comprehensive Plan Update is divided into three principle sections; the first includes an update of existing conditions and emphasizes planning for environmentally sensitive I areas. Chapters included are: General Background, Physical Characteristics, Demographic Characteristics, Economic Trends, Existing Land Use, and Community Facilities. I Section Two identifies the goals and objectives [as established by the Municipality] that are used I as guiding principles for future planning recommendations. The goals and objectives presented reflect the Community's expectations for the future. I Plan recommendations are presented in Section Three. The recommendations are analyzed using background information and Community goals as presented the first and second sections of I in I I the report. Planning chapters in the third section include: Land Use, Transportation and I I I

1 In summary, the Comprehensive Plan is a guide for Neshannock Township which identifies the pattern and intensity of land use as well as the functional efficiency and aesthetics of I development, while providing the optimum living conditions for Township residents. I I I 1 I ~I I 1 I I 1 I 1 I I 2 I I SECTION I 1 BACKGROUND INFORMATION I I I I I 1 E I I I I I- I NES"N0CK TOWNSHIP COMPREFIENSIVE PLAN UPDATE cHAPrEJx2 i GENERAL BACKGROUND 1 I 1 Historical Perspective When Mercer County was formed from a division of Allegheny County in 1800, Neshannock was originally created as one of Mercer's townships. Because the boundary dividing Mercer and Beaver Counties passed directly through Neshannock, Lawrence County was created in 1849 so that Neshannock, along with twelve other townships, could wholly exist in the new County. Originally covering over 100 square miles, Neshannock was gradually decreased in area through donation of land to townships that were formed after Lawrence County came into existence, resulting in Neshannock's current 16.9 square miles.

During the 18th Century, the Indians gave the area between Neshannock Creek and Shenango River a name which means 'place of two rivers'. The State claimed the land in 1785 and finally acquired it in 1798. Settlement began in 1799 when Tom Fisher cleared a farm and later established a grist and saw mill on Fisher's Run.

Since New Castle already accounted for most of the commercial and manufacturing needs of the area at the start of the 19th Century, most of the settlers engaged in farming. In 1845 the extensive coal banks were mined, and the first organized company (New Castle Railroad and Mining Company) began operation in 1866. This resulted in a small mining town, otherwise known as Coal Center, which used a narrow gauge railroad established by the Company for local transportation.

A nine mile oak plank turnpike was built in 1852 for purpose of transporting coal, farm produce, and passengers. It traveled between New Castle and New Wilmington, eventually extending to Mercer. In 1864 the Erie and Pittsburgh Railroad was constructed, and it paralleled the

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I Shenango River, which is the western boundary of the Township. Ten years later, the River’s counterpart, Neshannock Creek, was guide to construction of the Neshannock Creek and I FrankZin Railroad. Upon completion, transportation was available to the south, the Lake Erie area, and the Pennsylvania oil region. It also caused closure of the Erie Extension Canal, which I had previously provided connection between the Ohio River and Lake Erie.

I Most of the 1,080 people living in Neshannock in 1900 were farmers, and farming continued as the main land use until the suburbanization movement from New Castle to Neshannock, circa I 1960.

I Regional Relationships

I Located in Lawrence County, Neshannock Township is bounded north by Wilmington Township, east by Hickory Township, and south by both New Castle City and Union Township. Mahoning 1 and Pulaski Townships border the west side. Boundary lines east and west are Neshannock Creek and Shenango River, respectively. Map No. 1 the Regional Location Map depicts I Neshannock’s borders and surrounding areas. I Transportation corridors have influenced development of the Township in the past and will I continue to do so in the future. The primary connector between major population and economic centers to the north and south is State Route 18. This highway runs through Neshannock I Township left of center in a north-south direction, and also provides access to U.S. Route 224. I Neshannock Township is accessible to the Cities of New Castle, Butler, Sharon, Erie, Pittsburgh, and Youngstown, Ohio. U.S. Route 442, an important transport for Neshannock, I runs northwest to southeast and supplies general east/west access in the region.

E The section of Route 60 between Chippewa Township in Beaver County and existing Route 60 in Lawrence County has recently been completed. This important ’missing link’ permits fast, I direct connection from Neshannock Township to both the newly built Pittsburgh International I 4 P MAP No. 1 NESHANNOCK TOWNSHIP LA.WRENCE COUNTY, PA. REGIONAL LOCATION MAP

TO YOUNO s 'I P

0 6 10 16 SCALE- IN MILES Airport and the City of Pittsburgh. Access to the Pennsylvania Turnpike is also improved because Route 60 connects directly to the Pennsylvania Turnpike. Cities outside the immediate region are accessible via the Pennsylvania and Ohio Turnpikes.

I Route 60 traverses Neshannock Township in a north/south direction and provides access to I Neshannock through an intersection at Mitchell Road in the northern portion of the Township. The relationship between Neshannock Township and the surrounding region is important because the interactions throughout the entire region have some effect on each component municipality. It is necessary, therefore, to recognize regional trends and plan for them at a local level. I ._ I

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I NESHANNOCK TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE CHAPTER3 I PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS I I Introduction The physical environment is a basic element of study in the Comprehensive Plan due to I interaction between development and natural features. Because land forms and water courses are constantly changing through natural processes, the present day physical landscape is thus a -I result of a long geologic past. With increased development, natural processes become altered. Although the majority of instances brings favorable change such as creating needed housing and I increasing community economic vitality, alterations to the natural environment sometimes bring problems such as flooding, land slides, pollution, loss of ground water sources, and I endangerment of the ecological habitat. These factors are considered more directly in the I following sections. I Environmentallv Sensitive Areas I Communities undertaking planning efforts should be aware of the natural environment in order to preserve beneficial qualities and prevent future environmental conflicts. I Recognition of environmentally sensitive areas is necessary in achieving a well planned I community. Steep slopes, flood plains, and wetlands are identified on Map No. 2. Locating these factors assists the Planning Commission and the Board of Supervisors in exercising caution I during facility planning. I I I 7 I i

I SLOPE

I Introduction

I Slope depicts the natural relief of the land and is defined as the departure from the horizontal plane of the land surface. It is generally measured as a percent of the vertical change in I elevation for each 100 feet of horizontal distance.

I The various slope categories are directly associated with the ability to develop the land. The steeper the slope, the more difficult it is to develop. If a slope is exceptionally steep, it may I carry a land slide potential and must be considered carefully during planning.

I Development on steep slopes is generally very expensive and often times hazardous for both the developer and the community. If intense development occurs in these areas, the land slide _- _- I potential-. increases. : -_

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I SloDe Categories

I There are four categories of slope ranges: 0 to 8 percent, 8 to 16 percent, 16 to 24 percent, and I 24 percent and greater. The 0 to 8 percent slope is essentially level land, and construction of any type of structure has minimal economic and physical restrictions. The 8 to 16 percent and I 16 to 24 percent categories permit development; however, development becomes an economic judgement at this level. The steeper the area, the more technically difficult and costly to I develop.

I The slope ranges essentially characterize land use activity. Industrial, commercial, and institutional developments are generally restricted to large tracts of level or moderately sloping I land. If the land is not relatively flat, extensive costs make development prohibitive. Land use activities that require less land, such as multiple family development, can be clustered and thus (I reduce costs; this type can also be built on the steeper slope areas in the 16 to 24 percent range. I 9 I The steepest slope category, 24 percent and above, is very difficult and costly to build on. Single family development on large parcels should be the only type of activity considered for steep slope areas, although the best land use strategy for these areas is to allow them to remain as green or open space. The areas classified as steep slopes have been identified on Map No. 2.

FLOOD PLAINS

Flood Plain Studies

The areas of flood hazard as defined by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (through the National Flood Insurance Program conducted for Neshannock Township), are presented on Map No. 2. These areas are designated as flood hazard zones because of their existing flood potential.

Flood Plain Preservation

The preservation of flood plains as open space is a very important consideration in reviewing and approving future development plans.

Natural flood plains provide retention areas for excess run-off in high water periods. Any infringement upon natural impoundment areas causes velocity and channel alterations which severely increase downstream flood potential. When the water course is altered by expediting its flow or by narrowing the extent of the flood plain, a larger quantity of water is forced downstream at an increased velocity. The natural capacity of the flood plain to retain water is a necessary function that must be allowed to occur.

It cannot be overemphasized that development within flood plains should be discouraged by the Township. Development can be controlled by zoning the flood plains as open space or requiring use of flood control measures, but avoiding intense development in these areas is the most reasonable approach.

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I WETLANDS

-I General

I Wetland areas have been identified in Neshannock Township through the National Wetlands Inventory mapping by the U.S. Department of the Interior. The term "wetlands", as recently I defrned in 1993 by the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Resources (DER), are "those areas that are inundated or saturated by surface or ground water at a frequency or duration I sufficient to support, and under normal circumstances do support, a prevalence of vegetation I typically adopted for life in saturated soil conditions, including swamps, marshes, bogs, and similar areas. "

I Development

I Wetlands serve many functional purposes, and development in these areas should be generally discouraged. A Joint Permit Application is required to be submitted to the DER for any 1 proposed activities that may impact a designated wetland. The app€icationis reviewed and a I permit may be issued, generally with conditions to permit a limited activity in the vicinity of the identified wetlands. In many cases extensive wetland mitigation may be required before I development is approved. It should be noted from the municipal standpoint any development that infringes into wetlands should be extensively reviewed by the municipality. Map No. 2 I indicates the wetlands as determined through the National Wetlands Inventory Mapping by the Department of the Interior. It should be noted that individual site specific wetland I determinations may be required in suspect areas that may not have been initially mapped by the Department of the Interior. I I I I 11 I I

I DRAINAGE BASINS

I Introduction

I Identification of water courses and drainage basin patterns provides a framework for studying community facility design, including storm and sanitary sewers as well as flood plain and I stormwater management.

I As development continues in Neshannock Township, stormwater run-off and flooding conditions become more prevalent. Future development will accelerate run-off due to the increase of I impervious surface created by paved roads, parking lots, and structures. The location of future proposed development should be reviewed with respect to its position in the watershed and the I run-off impact that will be created in the immediate and downstream areas.

I The provision of sewers and, to a lesser extent, water service, depends on drainage basin configuration. The most cost-effective sewerage service results when drainage basin boundaries I are not crossed. If sewage can be conveyed by gravity lines, costly pumping facilities are avoided. Economical sewerage service is also dependent upon the concentration and location I of population within the drainage basin. The optimum condition is to provide service to the I majority of customers with the minimal amount of sewer line extensions. I Major Drainage Areas I The major drainage basins and principle water courses are identified on Map No. 3. Neshannock is located in the Ohio Drainage Basin. A central ridge running north to south I divides the Township into two major watersheds: 65 percent of the area drains westward into the Shenango River and the remainder drains eastward into Neshannock Creek. These !I boundaries are convenient because much of the drainage area is consistent with municipal boundaries. I I 12 I

I I Each of these two major watersheds is divided into several minor drainage areas which originate along the aforementioned central ridge and drain into tributaries of the Shenango River and I Neshannock Creek.

I Neshannock Creek-flows into the Shenango River at New Castle, and forms the Beaver River I after joining the Mahoning River. The Beaver River flows into the Ohio River at Beaver. Elevations and water sources help to designate watersheds. The central north/south ridge I dividing Neshannock follows an average elevation of lo00 feet above sea level. Elevations I steadily decrease in both east and west directions toward the respective stream valleys. I Local Relief The highest land in Neshannock is approximately 1250 feet and is located near the central ridge I in the northeastern quadrant of the Township. The lowest elevations are found in the River and Creek valleys. The stream gradient runs from about 925 feet above sea level in the north to the ,I lowest point of approximately 800 feet near the City of New Castle. The net change in elevation from highest to lowest point is 450 feet from ridge top to valley floor, but this amount of change I does not exist in one single area since the highest ridge and lowest valley are far from adjacent to each other. In general, the local relief is characterized as low to moderate throughout the I Township. Map No. 3 shows the topographic pattern depicted by contour lines. I PHYSIOGRAPHY I General 1 The physiography of Neshannock Township is characterized by high divides through which a 1 dendritic drainage pattern flows. The Township is located in the Pittsburgh Plateau Section of the Appalachian Plateau. This physiographic province of Pennsylvania was formed millions of 1 years ago when water deposition formed sedimentary layers of rocks. The entire Appalachian 1 14 I I

I Plateau was subjected to extensive geologic stress and strain, causing it to be lifted to its present elevation. Since that time, erosion factors have been Carving the plateau, resulting in the I characteristic rolling hill and valley topography of Western Pennsylvania.

I GEOLOGY

I Geologic History

I The majority of the geologic structure underlying Neshannock Township was formed approximately 300 million years ago in the Pennsylvanian.and Mississippian Geologic Periods. I Both Periods have been divided into several groups of similar geologic structure.

I Geologic Structure

I In the areas of highest elevations, namely where the central ridge runs north to south, is a stratum called the Allegheny Group. It is comprised of cyclic sequences of sandstone, shale, I limestone, and coal, and also includes numerous commercial coals. Vanport Limestone exists I in the lower part of this group. Located in the lowest areas of the Township which occur along the Shenango River is the I Pocono Group, which was formed during the Mississippian Period. Encompassing only a small I area of the Township, this group is characterized by predominantly gray, hard, massive, cross- bedded conglomerate and sandstone with some shale. I The remainder of Neshannock is comprised of the Pottsville Group, which is predominately ;I sandstones and conglomerates with thin shales md coals, some of which have been locally mined. I I I 15 I )-I

I SOILS

I Introductiun

I The pattern and type of development in an area is affected by numerous environmental factors. Soil characteristics have a direct impact on developmental patterns; this is especially true in I areas which rely upon on-lot wastewater disposal systems, as is the case in some areas of Neshannock Township. The main goal of soils evaluation is to show where on-lot septic systems I are suitable or otherwise detrimental to the local community due to the inability of a soil to I handle effluent from septic systems. The soils in Neshannock are generally severe for use of conventional on-lot sewage systems. I The severe classification is defined as having properties that are so unfavorable that major soil reclamation, special design, or intense maintenance is required for correction. Because of this I categorization, it is concluded that the majority of the soils in the Township does not readily I accept sewage effluent. This can be a significant health hazard to the community. I Soil Suitabilitv for On-Lot Disposal Svstems Recognizing the pollution potential from malfunctioning on-lot sewage systems, the Pennsylvania I Department of Environmental Resources (PaDER) has continually revised their regulations I regarding the types of sewage disposal that are permitted. In areas where soils are not adequate for the conventional septic tank and leach field, alternate systems may be used. These systems ,I include elevated sand mounds, oversized area systems, sand lined systems, and shallow placement systems. Public sewers provide service in those areas that cannot accommodate any I type of on-lot system.

A large portion of the existing development is located in areas where the soils cannot accommodate conventional on-lot systems. In the past, on-lot systems have been installed in poor soils and on small lots. Many of these are now malfunctioning, as documented in a walk-

16 '1 I over survey performed by the Neshannock Sewer Department in May of 1992. The survey was done for purpose of Act 537 Sewerage Facilities Evaluation Study to determine areas for future I public sewer service; future service areas are further discussed in the latter portion of this I report. I CLIMATE I General The climatic conditions of Neshannock Township are typical of Western Pennsylvania. The I climate can be described as Humid Continental, which is characterized by moist conditions, warm summers, and cold, snowy winters. The warmest summer month temperature generally I averages higher than 71.6 F. Rainfall occurs throughout the year; spring and early summer I bring above-average precipitation. I Temperature and Precipitation A climatic station in New Castle, Lawrence County documents a mean annual air temperature I of 51.3"F. The coldest mean monthly temperature was recorded in January (27.2"F) and the I warmest average temperature was recorded in July (72.4"F). 1 Average annual precipitation for the area was 28.9 inches. In October, the driest month, 0.77 inches of precipitation was recorded, while 5.01 inches fell during the wettest month of July. I The climatic conditions for Neshannock Township, including precipitation and temperature, are plotted on Figure I. ~II ~''I ' __ I 17 B Figure i Climatic Characteristics I Neshannock Township I

Temperature (F) Precipitation (in .) ;I I I 1 R I 1 1 I I

v 'I Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec I Months

-Avg . Te mper at ure Monthly Total Precip

''Avg. Annual Precipitation: 28.9" vg. Annual Temp: 51.3 F 18 ource: National Oceanic & Atm. Admin. NESHANNOCK TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE CHAPTER4 DEMOGRAPHIC CHARACTERISTICS

Introduction

The study of population is an important component of the comprehensive planning process because past, present, and future population trends are indicative of community activity. Future community needs, including police and fire protection, road maintenance, recreational and educational facilities, and water and sewage facilities are determined by the number and characteristics of the population.

While simply enumerating the population is helpful, certain characteristics must also be reviewed to better analyze future needs. This chapter will address the most important characteristics of the population including: age, gender, education, and household size.

Historical Growth

The historical population of Neshannock Township, Lawrence County, and New Castle City is presented in Table I. The Township data shows variant percentage increases until 1970, at which point the increases remain somewhat steady until 1990. The ten year span between 1980 and 1990 shows the first decrease (3.3%) and illustrates a sway from the previous trend. A possible reason for this 1990 decline is that Neshannock is sharing in the overall population decline exhibited by New Castle and Lawrence County during the last decade; a second reason may be an under enumeration by the 1990 Census. Although this decline is an exception to the overall tendency of Neshannock's population to increase, the beginning of a new consistently declining trend is unlikely considering the previous in-migration rate of the Township.

19 TABLE I COMPARATIVE POPULATION GROWTH HISTORICAL POPULATION TRENDS

N 0

Source: 1) Bureau of the Census 1930- 1980 US. Census of Population 2) Pennsylvania State Data Center 1990 General Population and Housing Characteristics Steady decreases are observed in both New Castle City and Lawrence County from 1970 onward. This is most likely due to movement from the developed City of New Castle to the more suburban Neshannock Township, which is located directly north of the New Castle corporate limits. The rural atmosphere and convenient location probably drew most of the populace to Neshannock's residential sections because it was close to their places of employment in the City. In 1960, Neshannock population increased by 3,360 persons (82.7%) while New Castle decreased by 4,044 persons (8.3%); this is the most prominent change of population during the century, and the trend continues less dramatically until 1990. Neshannock Township presently houses the second largest number of residents (8,373) of any municipality in Lawrence County, second only to New Castle City (28,334 persons). The historical trends indicate that Neshannock Township has been and will continue to be growth oriented albeit at a somewhat slower rate than previously experienced.

Age Characteristics of the PoDulation

Through characteristic study of the population, it is possible to assess and plan future community, recreational, and school facilities. Analysis of the age and gender characteristics of the population provides necessary information that can be used for evaluating future community needs. Table I1 shows the age characteristics in Neshannock Township and Lawrence County.

The productive portion of the population is considered to be between 18 and 64 years of age (productive defined as engaging in any income producing occupation, thereby supporting the economic structure); this section is also more apt to establish families and households. From 1940 to 1960, although numbers increased substantially in all three age groups, percentage ratios of the three groups remained within 3.6% of their previous percentages. Between 1960 and 1990, the economically productive group remained the Same percentage of the total population. The 0-17 group greatly decreased both in number and percentage, while the 65 and over age group substantially increased from 6.7% to 21 % of the population. Over the 30 year period,

21 TABLE II AGE CHARACTERISTICS

Neshannock Townshi Lawrence Count

Sources: 1) 1940, 1960 U.S. Census of Population Bureau of the Census, U.S. Department of Commerce 2) Pennsylvania State Data Center 1990 General Population and Housing Characteristics

it appears that birth rates became lower and the population began to age, causing a larger number of people in the 65+ portion of the Township’s population. With better health and overall care, the 65+ portion of the population base is living longer and more people are I reaching the retirement age in the Township. Due to availability of multi-family housing units, there is indication that some in-migration of elderly population has occurred. Lawrence I County’s 1990 ratios are relatively consistent with Neshannock’s, although the County’s show I a slightly higher percentage of youngedmiddle aged population. I The median- age (year 1990), acquired from the Lawrence County Planning Commission (LCPC), was 35.1 years in Pennsylvania, 37.3 years in the County, and 42.6 years in ‘I Neshannock. The median age for the Township was much higher than that of the State for the i 1990 Census period. I

22 General Characteristics of the PoDulation

In 1960, the females in Neshannock Towns,,ip outnumbera the males by about 2.0% (U.S. Census). The 1990 ratio count shows that females outnumbered males by approximately 3.0%, shown below in Table III.

TABLE III GENDER CHARACTERISTICS OF NESHANNOCK TOWNSHIP

Males (by age) Females (by age) +-0-17 I 18-64 I 65+ I Tot. 0-17 Tot. 1382 2056 247 3685 1274 2204 258 3736 889 2295 735 3919 919 2508 1027 4454

Source: 1) Pennsylvania State Data Center 1990 General Population and Housing Characteristics 2) 1960 U.S. Bureau of the Census

In the 0-17 age group, numbers for both males and females greatly decreased, and the effect is even more notable if one considers the overall increase in population from 1960 to 1990. The 18-64 group remained consistent with the general trend, and the 65+ group shows a significant magnification, more so in the women than men. Women 65 and over increased from 3.5% of the population to 12.3% while men only increased from 3.3% to 8.8%, suggesting (as is biologically true) that women generally live longer than men.

A household, as defined by the 1990 U.S. Census, includes all the persons who occupy an apartment, a mobile home, a group of rooms, or a single room that is occupied as separate living quarters. Average household size for Lawrence County and Pennsylvania was 2.57 in

23 1990 as compared to 2.53 for Neshannock Township (PA State Data Center). Decreasing household size has been a National as well as State-wide trend.

An interesting comparison is provided when viewing the Township’s household size and the age of the population 65 years old and older. The reduction in household size from 1960 to 1990 is approximately 26% while the increase in population 65 years and older has increased during the same period by 21 % . This comparison is shown on Table 111-A.

TABLE 111-A HOUSEHOLD SIZE AND ELDERLY POPULATION OF NESHANNOCK TOWNSHIP

Population Percent of People Per 65 Years and Total Population Year Household Over 65 Years and Over 11 1960 I 3.43 I 505 I 6.8% II 1990 I 2.53 I 1,762 I 21.0%

The overall trend indicates that as family size reduces, the elderly population has increased. However, since the particular population characteristic Le., family size is decreasing, so will the 60-70 population age cohort in the future. It is important to note that the increasing older population will need to be planned for in the immediate future. Due to the overall reduction in family size, the 65 years and over component of the population should reduce in size along with overall family size. This fact should be noted when planning long term capital improvement projects.

24 COMPONENTS OF POPULATION CHANGE

Introduction

The growth and distribution of population in Neshannock Township is determined by two components of change: natural change and migration. Natural change is the net result of two demographic processes: fertility and mortality. Fertility (birth rates) is subject to fluctuations imposed by intervening factors such as medical technology, economic trends, and changing social attitudes. Mortality (death rates) is generally stable and independent of social attitudes and economic factors. Migration activity is difficult to record and equally diffic.ult to predict. In-migration at a municipal level can be roughly estimated through building permit data.

Natural Change

Birth and death are the most influential factors determining the growth or decline of an area. Natural change (increase or decrease) of the population is determined by adding the number of live births to the population and subtracting the number of deaths over the same period of time. Table IV presents the birth and death figures for Lawrence County from 1984 to 1990; data for Neshannock Township is not on record and therefore the actual natural change for the Township cannot be calculated. Death rates have historically fluctuated, but due to present levels of medical technology, the number usually remains constant. Birth rates are influenced by various socio-economic factors and are responsive to the general attitudes of the time. Death rates in Lawrence County, as predicted, have remained relatively constant, and birth rates follow suit. The average natural change calculates an addition of about 50 persons a year (PA Department of Health). Historically, the average natural change was an addition of about 45 persons a year; the average of 40-50 persons a year seems to be consistent and a reasonable estimation when considering future projections. Although the natural change fluctuates, the over-all trend shows a slow decrease.

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I TABLE IV BIRTHS AND DEATHS FOR LAWRENCE COUNTY I I 'I I

I Vital Statistics, 1984-1990

Migration

Migration is broadly defined as a permanent or semi-permanent change of residence. In-

migration and out-migration are used to measure population movement. Since migration is " generally measured with respect to municipal boundary lines, it determines whether movement was into or out of the municipality. Often times migration occurs within municipal boundaries; this type of movement is referred to as population mobility and does not figure into the net population change. For Lawrence County, 1,246 people migrated in and 1,438 migrated out during 1990, calculating a net loss of 192 people.

As previously stated, building permit activity provides indication of population movement into a community, and in-migration trends can be established by the number of new homes constructed. Residential building permits issued from 1984 through 1992 are listed in Table V.

26 TABLE V RE IDENTIAL BUILDING PERMITS PER YEAR FOR NES"N0CK TOWNSHIP r 1984' 1985' 1986 1987' 1988' 1989' 1990' 1991' 1992 55 58 24 72 53 150 54 26 27

* Indicates year with multi-family, apartment, or townhouse construction.

Source: 1993 Neshannock Township Building Permit Records

The average number of permits issued per year (during the 9 year period shown in Table V) is 56. Numbers range from a low of 24 in 1986 to a high of 150 in 1989. Since no houses were razed in the Township during the period from 1984 to 1992, the number of building permits represents a positive increase in population.

Future Population Growth

Various methods and techniques are available to project future population. Historical population trends of low natural increase due to low birth rates, relatively constant death rates, and low migration rates signify that growth in Neshannock should continue, but at a somewhat slower pace than in previous decades.

Compared to the 1990 U.S. Census population count of 8,373 (a 3.3% decline from 1980), a 1992 Neshannock School District Census indicates an approximate Township population of 8,501. Because the School District Census is an actual house to house count, it is most likely an accurate representation; however, even though this suggests that the 1990 U.S. Census may be an undercount, the 1992 School District Census is still a decline from the 1980 Census figure. It is apparent that growth did not occur during the last decade as it has in previous decades.

27 Projection of a slower growth rather than negative growth is a reasonable approach, given the previously stated historical factors and the continued building permit activity occurring in the Township. As mentioned earlier, an average of 56 building permits per year was issued for residential structures since 1984. A conservative approach is taken in this report by calculating the average building permits issued in each of the last two (2) years, i.e. 1991 and 1992. This average of 27 building permits, multiplied by the average household size of 2.53 people, yields an estimated 68 people per year. By considering the natural population change rate (death and out-migration subtracted from birth) of 10 percent and reducing the estimated yearly population growth of 68 people, an estimated 60 people per year is anticipated. Projecting 60 people per year provides population projections for the next two (2) decades, as follows in Table VI.

TABLE VI POPULATION PROJECTIONS FOR NESHANNOCK TOWNSHIP

An increase of approximately 60 people per year is consistent with the School District's Census, which averages 64 people per year from 1990 to 1992.

The past, present, and future population trends are depicted in Figure II. Historical data was obtained from the U.S. Census and Pennsylvania State Data Center.

28 FIGURE II HISTORICAL AND FUTURE POPULATION NESHANNOCK TOWNSHIP

9573

1900 1910 1920 1930 1940 1950 1960 1910 1980 1990 2000 201 0 LEGEND YEARS -E+- PAST POPULATION - - PROJECTED POPULATION NESHANNOCK TOWNSHIP COMPREFIENSIVE PLAN UPDATE CHAPTER 5 ECONOMIC TRENDS

Introduction

The economy of Neshannock Township is primarily dependent upon the regional labor market areas of Pittsburgh, New Castle City, Lawrence County, and surrounding counties.

Emdovment

The labor force is defined as the portion of the population eligible for employment and consists of persons employed, unemployed, in the Armed Services, and in schools or institutions, as determined by the U.S. Bureau of the Census. The 1990 labor force in Neshannock Township accounts for 56.6% of the total population (Department of Labor and Industry).

It is necessary to consider employment of the labor force in order to understand a community’s economic potential. The productive segment of the Township’s labor force is the portion employed in the labor market. Employment and unemployment usually fluctuate with National trends; Neshannock Township has experienced normal employment/unemployment rates throughout the past decade. In 1990 approximately 4.6 percent of the available labor force was unemployed in Neshannock Township. The type of occupations engaged in by Neshannock residents is detailed in Table I. This table provides the overall breakdown of occupation types for those residents 16 years and over.

30 TABLE I OCCUPATION STATISTICS FOR NESHANNOCK TOWNSHIP

Occupation Employed Persons Percent Total persons employed (16 and over) 3694 100.0% Executive, administrative, managerial 606 16.5% Professional 688 18.6% Technicians 95 2.7% Sales 645 17.6% Administrative support 454 12.4% Protective service 7 0.2% Service 33 8 9.2 96 Farming, forestry, fishing 10 0.3 % Precision production, craft, repair 3 17 8.7% Machine operators, assemblers, inspectors 242 6.7% Transportation and material moving 159 4.3 9% Handlers, equipment cleaners, helpers, laborers 133 2.8%

Source: Pennsylvania Department of Labor and Employment 1990 Selected Labor Force and Commuting Characteristics

The major portion of the Neshannock work force is engaged in professional occupations (18.6%). The third largest category of employed persons 16 and over in the Township is the executive, administrative, managerial positions (16.5 %) also representing the shift of the labor force to the professional occupations versus the small segment engaged in manufacturing activities.

A significant portion of the labor force (17.6%) is engaged in sales and (9.2%)in services. These employment activities represent the primary employment types encountered within Neshannock Township. All of the other occupations listed in Table I equal about 30 percent of the total Township labor force.

Data from the Census of Agriculture (LCPC) demonstrates that the number of farms in Lawrence County from 1982 to 1987 has decreased by 4 percent, signifying an urban land use

31 ,I

I trend, which reflects lower agricultural occupations. This is correlative with the above data, which shows farming, forestry, and fisheries are only 0.3% of the employed labor force. I On the County level, an economic analysis [for Lawrence County] from 1968 to 1977, prepared #I by the Bureau of Statistics Research and Planning, shows decreased employment, increased wages/salaries, and increased product value during that time. Manufacturing was the leading I industry. The analysis points out that the County’s agriculture has a minimal impact on its ‘I economy and is basically restricted to livestock production. As would be expected, commuting patterns of the work force indicate the major portion of the I workers 16 years old and over work some distance from their homes. According to the Pennsylvania Department of Labor and Industry, the average travel time to work was I approximately 16 minutes. Of the 3,598 workers 16 years old and oier that were counted in the 1990 Census, 84% drove alone to work with only 10.5% participating in car pools. The remaining modes of transportation, Le., public transportation, working at home, or walk to work accounted for the remaining 5.5 %.

Income

Income information for households and individuals living within a municipality furnishes a means of assessing the general vitality of the total community. Although the 1990 census provides data for analysis, it can only be used to establish the Township’s relative position with respect to the County due to rising inflation. Household and per capita income statistics are shown in Table 11.

32 Neshannock TownshiD $35.315 Lawrence County $22,317 64.9 %

Source: 1) 1979 U.S. Census 2) Pennsylvania State Data Center 1990 General Income Characteristics ‘I 1990 Detailed Income Characteristics I The median household income for Neshannock in 1990 was significantly higher than that of II Lawrence County. When compared to the median household income for Pennsylvania ($29,069), it is noted that Neshannock Township’s median household income is well above that I of the State’s. As expected, per capita income for Neshannock was also much higher, and the percent increase from 1979 to 1990 was much more dramatic in the Township as well. Per I Capita income of both Lawrence County as well as Neshannock Township is higher than the $14,068 per capita income for Pennsylvania. 1 A breakdown of household income is shown in Table 111. The largest bracket for all three I regions includes household income between $5,000 and $49,999 a year. It is clear, however, that Neshannock Township carries a higher ratio of households with larger salaries compared I to either New Castle or Lawrence County, since the numbers are more evenly distributed as the salaries increase. Considering middle to upper level salaries ($50,000 and above), percentages I are as follows: Lawrence County has 12.7% and New Castle has 8.2% compared to Neshannock Township’s 31.0%. Neshannock also has a lower poverty level (PA State Data I Center). Assuming the less than $5,000 household income category to be the low income level, it can be seen from Table III that few families (approximately 2.2%) are at or below this level I in Neshannock Township, as compared to 6.4% in Lawrence County and 9.8% in the City of I New Castle. With the relatively small levels of households below the $5,000 level and a

I 33 I TABLE III 1990 HOUSEHOLD INCOME

~ e N-ock Toe New Qstk Citv Less than $So00 73 2,339 1,107 $5OOO-$24,999 1,128 17,488 6,143 $25,OOO-$49,999 1,120 11,835 3,069

$5O,OOO-$74,999 577 3,288 739 $75,OOO-$99,999 198 812, 17 1 $100,000-$124,999 140 243 0 $125,OOO-$149,999 26 68 0 Greater than $lSO,OOO 104 204 11 Total Households 3,366 36,277 11,240

Source: Pennsylvania State Data Center 1990 Detailed Income Characteristics majority of households in the middle income ranges, the Neshannock household income levels provide a viable taxing base to support needed community services.

Property taxes are calculated based upon the assessed valuation (which is determined by 60% of the market value) times the assigned millage for various governmental groups. The millage presently collected by Neshannock Township for infrastructure maintenance and improvements is 2.5 mills. Table 111-A shows the relationship of the assessed valuations to the real estate taxes actually collected by the Township.

TABLE III-A REAL ESTATE TAXES

~ ~~ ~ Year Assessed Valuations Real Estate Taxes 1988 49,048,160 120,574 1989 50,187,210 122,549 1990 50,923,970 125,781 1991 51,976,670 129,279 1992 53,328,540 132,629 -

34 'I Based upon the 1992 assessed valuation, one (1) mill is worth approximately $53,300 in real 1 estate taxes. With the housing/property values increasing each year through continued community growth, the township taxes are increasing to match the calculated expenses and 1 holding the line on municipal millage increases.

I Housing Trends

1 The following Table IV summarizes housing data for the year 1990. Median rent and housing value are much higher in Neshannock than in the County. Of the total occupied housing units, I a greater percentage in the Township is owner occupied as compared to the County (86.3% as I opposed to 77.7%), which indicates a greater amount of stability in Neshannock. TABLE IV I 1990 HOUSING DATA - NESHANNOCK TWP,LAWRENCE COUNTY OccuDied Units Total Total B Vacant Housing Median Owner Renter Total Units Units Value I I 1 ** Shaded area represents data for occupied units only Source: Pennsylvania State Data Center I 1990 General Population and Housing 'Characteristics 1 Table V shows trends in values of specified owner-occupied housing units. It is clear that I Neshannock has a higher value than the County with a more balanced data spread. In general, the largest percent of the Township's population owns houses value at $50,000 to $99,999 as I opposed to Lawrence's majority bracket of $15,000 to $49,999. Lawrence County's median value occurs in the $30,000- $40,000 range while Neshannock's occurs closer to the $6O,OOO - I $70,000 range. The data is plotted visually in Figure III.

I 35 I TABLE V 1 HOUSING VALUES

1 Neshannock Township Lawrence County I No. Percent No. Percent I I I

1 Source: New Castle Public Library 1990 Census of Population and Housing Summary 1

I Comparing development trends exhibited in Neshannock Township to those of a similar sized community in an adjacent county reveals some similarities in housing characteristics and 1 community development. Chippewa Township (1990 Census 6,988 population) in Beaver County is a community similar in physical development and population size to Neshannock 1 Township (1990 Census 8,373 population). Both communities have equally developed infrastructure systems with future expansion of sewerage system service proposed. Neshannock I Township has comparably more occupied dwellings than Chippewa attributable to the larger population. The median value of housing units is also higher, as can be seen from comparing I Table IV and the following Table VI. I I

36 I! TABLE VI 1 1990 HOUSING DATA - CHIPPEWA TWP., BEAVER COUNTY

OccuDied Units Total Total I Vacant Housing Median I Owner Renter Total Units Units Value I 1 ** Shaded area represents data for occupied units only Source: Pennsylvania State Data Center 1 1990 General Population and Housing Characteristics

1 Comparing the median value of housing for each municipality with their respective counties indicates that the median housing value for each municipality is higher. However, when 1 reviewing housing values for the entire region, the Neshannock Township median housing value of $69,400 is noteworthy, in fact with the exception of New Wilmington Borough, with a I median value of 71,100, Neshannock Township has the second highest median housing value in 1 Lawrence County.

A housing plan for Neshannock Township is oriented to providing a variety of quality housing I for all economic levels of the population. Good quality housing is provided for residents, as is I evidenced from the previous housing data. No specific housing plan is provided since the housing goals of adequate and safe housing are being provided. Implementation of the future 1 land use plan will continue to meet the housing goals and objectives of the Township Le. 1) encourage a range of housing types within the capabilities of the public utility system; 1 2) preserve the existing housing stock through maintaining high quality neighborhoods; and 3) maintain the residential character of various housing districts. I Discussions with the Lawrence County Planning Commission revealed that the County has I developed a Community Development Block Grant housing rehabilitation program to provide

I 37 I grants for housing repairs. Even though the overall Township’s housing condition is good, it I should be noted that some of the moderate quality housing may deteriorate in the future and B consideration should be given to apply for possible rehabilitation grants. 1 I I 1 I I I 1 I I I I I

38 I=m==mm===m=,===m==' Figure 111 Housing Values N e s ha n nock Tow n sh ip

Percentage of Housing

60-_ ---/I I

50

40

w co 30

20

10

0 I- I I z ' 0-1 4,999 15,000-49,999 50,000-99,999 100,000-1 74,000 175,000-500,000 Range in Dollars

Neshannock Township ~LawrenceCounty

Source: New Castle Publlc Llbrary 1990 HoUSlng Summary I NESHANNOCK TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE I CHAPTER 6 I EXISTING LAND USE 1 Background The land use component is an important consideration in comprehensive planning. Analysis of I existing land use provides the basic information necessary for future long range planning considerations, and land use patterns reflect the physical, economic, and political factors that are I functioning to shape the community. The survey and analysis of land use reveals the interrelationship of various residential, commercial, industrial, and agricultural activities. These I activities are spatially arranged throughout the Township and together form the fabric of community development. I I The land use map provides a basic tool for analysis. Land use for Neshannock Township was I previously surveyed in 1956 and again in 1968. As part of this Comprehensive Plan Update, a field survey was conducted in December 1992 to record the present use of the Township's I land.

I The comparison of land development over time provides useful information for developing future I recommendations. In the period from 1956 to 1968, the amount of developed land in Neshannock Township increased from approximately 14 to 19 percent. During these years, the I residential base increased and industrial land uses were fxst exhibited. Comparing 1968 land use to the 1992 survey reveals a continuation of many of the same land use patterns, and the I 1992 survey also indicates that the active land uses in the Township occupy approximately 37 percent of the Township's land. The comparison of land development over time provides I information useful for developing future recommendations. Table I shows that the residential land use component has increased from 11.8 percent in 1968 to 27 percent in 1992. In the last I 25 years, a respectable increase has occurred in the multi-family residential segment of land use from only 3 occupied acres to approximately 81 acres. I

I 40 1 TABLE I I EXISTING LAND USE FOR NESHANNOCK TOWNSHIP I 1956 1968 1992 Acres % Acres % Acres % I Residential 1,031 8.5 1,435 11.8 3,285 27.0 I Commercial* 38 0.3 75 0.6 203 1.7 1 Industrial .1 -- 15 0.1 50 0.4 Public/Semi-Pub 597 4.9 707 5.8 883 7.2 I Vacant** 10,518 86.3 9,952 81.7 7,763 63.7 I Total 12,184 100.0 12,184 100.0 12,184 100.0 * - Includes mixed use I ** - Includes agricultural, right-of-ways, and water Source: 1) Clifton Rodgers & Associates Comprehensive Plan, 1969 1 2) Killam Associates Field Survey, 1992

!I Commercial and industrial land uses have also increased, presently accounting for about 2.1 percent of the total Township acreage. Even though this is a much larger amount than indicated I in 1968, the character of the area is still residential in nature. Commercial services along the central Route 18 corridor provide the necessary support sales and services for the population I base in Neshannock Township and the City of New Castle. Although industrial uses provide some employment opportunities for local residents, the Neshannock Township area is not I depicted as an industrially self-supporting municipality. Residents are required to find employment opportunities in the expanding commercial services, but for the most part must go 1 outside the Township to find employment opportunities. It appears that since the local industrial development is not capable of supporting primary employment, the surrounding region must be I responding with employment opportunities while Neshannock Township fulfills the needs of I supplying single and multi-family residential development opportunities.

I 41 I I Land use in the public and semi-public classification includes many of the same public uses as I in 1968, the largest areas being Pearson Park, the Castle Hills Golf Course, the New Castle Country Club, the areas occupied by the Neshannock School District, and State Game I Commission Lands. Many of the churches, public utilities, and municipal-related uses have remained the same and are identified on the land use map. Pennsylvania Fish and Boat I Commission access areas along Neshannock Creek have contributed to the additional I public/semi-public lands. As development patterns change to more active uses, Le. residential, commercial, or industrial, I the vacant land use category is reduced. Many times active land use is created from vacant land while other times agricultural uses are transformed to more intensive uses. From 1968 to 1993, I the category of vacant land use has been reduced from 81.7 to 63.7 percent. Comparing the 1968 locations of the agricultural uses to those identified in 1993 reveals that in most cases, the I use is still agricultural in nature but may not be as active as it once was. New residential single family and multi-family areas in the Township have been developed from in-filling of vacant I parcels between the existing residential areas along the secondary road network. More recent residential development has been occumng in areas requiring construction of new roads as I compared to development along the Township’s secondary road system; this newer type of I development in some cases permits a variety of housing types, including single family as well as duplex and/or multi-family development. I Land Use Survev and Analvsis I The Existing Land Use Map, Map No. 4, was prepared based on a field survey conducted I during November and December of 1992. The actual land use activity observed in the field survey was recorded and mapped; categories are as follows: I Residential - The residential land use category is represented by single family and multi-family I dwellings. In areas of smaller residential lot development, the entire lot is shown on the land I use map as either a single or multi-family categorization.

I 42 I

I In predominantly rural areas, residential uses are associated with agricultural uses and farmettes I (farmettes include a house and sometimes a barn for keeping a few horses or other farm animals). Even though a farmette has several acres, generally they are not actively farmed. The I rural residential use associated with farmettes is identified by showing the area occupied by the I residential structure. Mobile homes are included as a single family dwelling. Commercial - Commercial land use categories include highway commercial and individual uses, I which are scattered throughout the Township. Typical uses include sales, service, restaurant, and office activities.

Mixed Use - Mixed use activities include residential (single as well as multi-family) uses occurring in conjunction with commercial uses. This category occurs in only a few areas of the 1 Township. Industrial - Examples of light industrial land uses which are located on the map include I manufacturing and warehousing. No significant areas of heavy industrial manufacturing occur in the Township, with the exception of a mineral quarry which exists as a non-conforming land I use. I Public/Semi-Public - This land use category includes public recreation areas such as parks, golf I courses, and sport clubs. Institutional land uses such as schools, churches, and cemeteries as well as municipal land uses such as water towers, municipal building, fire, police, and similar I types are also in this category. I Agricultural - This category includes land that is devoted to active agricultural uses. Cases where fields are not being utilized but are still associated with an active farm are considered I ag ricul t urd.

I Vacant Land - Vacant land is the open space and land not being utilized. This use may exist within developed areas or along major highways and is generally identified with grass, second I growth vegetation, or remains in forest with tree cover.

I 44 i I I Land DeveloDment Patterns As identified in other planning documents, development is still concentrated in the southern I portion of Neshannock Township. This development began in the 1940’s and 1950’s as a northern movement from the City of New Castle. Residual population centers still exist in the I Coaltown area on Mercer Road, the area between Plank Road and the New Castle City limits, some residential areas between Mercer Street and South Wilmington Avenue, and the I intersection of Chapel Road and Wilmington Avenue.

I Centered at the City of New Castle, growth has historically expanded northward along the primary transportation corridor of Wilmington Avenue (Route 18). Topographic constraints I have played a part in development, causing population to grow in the higher level lands along 1 the ridge top adjacent to Route 18. Public utilities (primarily water and sewer) were originally provided to serve the dense I population concentrations in the initially developed areas. As public utility service areas I expanded, development responded accordingly. i Today development has extended from the intimate concentrations of the south central core further to the north, east, and west throughout the Township. Due to the practical limits of I public water and sewer and with the restrictions for on-lot water and sewer system due to limiting soil conditions, the most recent land use survey shows that development has been in- I filling between those properties which were previously left vacant for the prime, most easily workable properties. I With the increasing requirements for residential housing, the costs for utility expansions within I the established service area allow developers to extend utilities and still have a marketable development. Without significantly expanding the outside boundaries of the utility systems, I growth is in-filling into areas previously not served by the surrounding utility systems. I

1 45 I -I A more recent trend is noted in the northern portion of the Township which is, in part, response I to the Route 60 exit onto Mitchell Road. It is expected that the northern areas of the Township will develop at a faster pace, with specific attention being paid to light industriaVoffice park I development. Future development is expected in the Mitchell Road area due to accessible I transportation and expanding utility systems. I I I I I I I I I I 1 I I

I 46 I I NES"N0CK TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE I CHAPTER 7 1 COMMUNITY FACILITIES

I! Introduction

I Community Facilities provides a quality of life for residents while also providing for the public health, safety and welfare. Taxpayer's dollars, and specific fees are used to support various I community facilities through the direction of the municipal governing body or through municipal authorities or similar organizations. Community facilities are identified and discussed in this I portion of the Comprehensive Plan as a method of inventory and basis for future discussions. The following facilities are included in this Chapter; municipal governmental, fire and I emergency services, police, recreational, schools, water service and sewer service. Map No. 5 shows the general location of community facilities along with other public/semi-public I community services.

I Municipal Governmental Facilities

I The location of the Neshannock municipal governmental center is at the intersection of Mercer I Road and Shenango Road in the central portion of the municipality. Located at this facility is the Municipal Building, police offices, Fire Station No. 1 and the maintenance garage and I storage yards for the Township Road and Maintenance Department. The present Municipal Building provides offices for the Board of Supervisors, Township Secretaries, Zoning Officer, I Sewer Department and public meeting rooms for the Board of Supervisors, Planning Commission, Zoning Hearing Board and Park Commission. I Township roads, storm sewers, sanitary sewers, and sewage pump station maintenance is I provided by Township employees. The basis of operations is the municipal center, which houses I the majority of equipment and material. Additional equipment storage is provided at the Walmo

I 47

'I1

I school garages, also owned by the Township. The road and sewer department employs eight I (8) individuals plus a maintenance superintendent.

1 Fire and Emergency Services

I- Neshannock Township is protected by a Volunteer Fire Department with two facilities. The most centrally located facility in the Township is Station No. 1 next to the Municipal Building I at the intersection of Mercer and Shenango Roads. A second facility, Station No. 2 is located on Clen Moore Boulevard in the southeastern portion of the Township. This station is I considered a satellite station to the primary Station No. 1. The two stations house equipment suited to the areas they are located in. The service area covered by Station No. 2 is supplied I entirely with fire hydrant service and therefore houses the hydrant pumper equipment. For the more rural areas, Station No. 1 houses the equipment needed to fight rural fires in areas with I no public water service. Combined equipment includes: 3 pumpers, 1 tower/pumper, 1 tanker, I 1 rescue unit, 1 brush unit, 1 Hazmat support trailer and 2 command vehicles. On all Township fire and rescue calls, both Station No. 1 and No. 2 respond with the primary I objective of providing fire and rescue services which also include extraction, rope rescue, and trench rescue. The Department also provides fire prevention education. Medical treatment I services and transport are handled by two (2) private ambulance companies, which provide full 1 services. I Standard Mutual Aid Agreements are in effect with all surrounding municipalities including the City of New Castle. Communications are provided through 911 service which is coordinated 1 through Lawrence Emergency Operations Center. All emergency, police and road maintenance communications are provided to Neshannock Township through this center. I Annually the Department responds to approximately 200 emergencyhon-emergency calls. Over 1 half of these calls occur between 7 AM and 5 PM when volunteer manpower is at a shortage. I

I 49 I The Township police offices and storage garages are located at the municipal complex located at the inteIsection of Mercer and Shenango Roads. Communication is handled through the 911 I service.

Full time police service is provided 24 hours a day to the Township through the employment of I four (4) full time officers, two (2) part-time officers, plus a superintendent. The department utilizes 3 police cars and 1 four-wheel drive jeep. During an average month, approximately I 10,000 miles are patrolled, and 400 to 450 incidences are addressed including: accidents, I criminal investigations, alarms, general assistance and mutual aid calls. I Recreational Facilities Pearson Park is the primary recreational facility in Neshannock Township. Located at the I intersection of Mercer and Mitchell Roads in the northeastern portion of the Township, this 88 acre park provides a swimming pool, tennis courts, ice skating rink, play fields, picnic areas, I walking trails, fitness track, volleyball and basketball courts, and playground equipment. Park I activities are developed by a full time Park Director and a five (5) member park commission. I Additional play fields are available at the Neshannock School District property along Mitchell Road. The Walmo School and property owned by the township also provides two (2) play fields I and playground equipment in a centrally located area along Maitland Lane. This property offers needed play fields and is in an area to benefit the denser areas of population. I Other recreational potentials in the Township include the Castle Hills Golf Course, the New I Castle County Club, the Lawrence County Sportsmen Club, the PA Fish and Boat Commission access areas along Neshannock Creek and PA State Game Lands. I In the immediate region is the recreation areas of McConnells Mills State Park as well as I Moraine State Park. Both parks provide hiking, picnicking and fishing. In addition, Moraine

I 50 I State Park provides boating, swimming and group camping activities. Extending the regional scope of recreational potential to approximately 2 hours driving time, amusement parks in Ohio can be accessed along with Conneaut Lake, Pymatuning Lake, Lake Erie, Kinzua Dam, the Allegheny National Forest and Cooks Forest State Park.

Schools

The Neshannock Township School District is comprised of a Junior-Senior High School and an elementary school located in a complex of approximately 100 acres along Mitchell Road in the north central portion of the Township.

Public school enrollment in Neshannock Township fluctuated from 1,296 students plus or minus 11 students each year from the 87/88 to the 91/92 school year, shown in Table I. TABLE I NESHANNOCK TOWNSHIP SCHOOL DISTRICT HISTORICAL AND FUTURE ENROLLMENT

I I I I Pennsylvania Department of Education I 51 I This enrollment does not include those enrolled in private, parochial, or vocational technical I schools. Projections obtained from the Neshannock School District, prepared by the Pennsylvania Department of Education, May 1992, indicate a fluctuating projected enrollment I through the 2001-02 year, also shown in Table I. Throughout this period of time the maximum number of students (46) is expected to occur during the 2000-2001 school year. These I enrollment figures are still under the maximum capacity of approximately 1,445 total students.

I Neshannock Township has a favorable percentage of high school and college graduates, shown in Table 11. I TABLE I1 1990 EDUCATIONAL STATISTICS

I 1 I 11 High School College I Neshannock Township 83.9% 24.9% Lawrence County 73.0% 11.8% I New Castle City 67.8% 8.6% I Pennsylvania State 74.7% 17.9% I I Based on to& population, Neshannock shows a higher percentage of overall graduates compared I to the County, State, and City. In 1990, high school graduate percentages ranked 9.2% more than the State and 10.9% larger than the City. College levels were also significant, showing as I much as 13.2% higher than the County and 16.3% higher than New Castle. These escalated rates are conducive to higher per capita income, and therefore promote community growth. I I 1

I 52 I I Existing Water Svstem I - Neshannock Township is currently provided water services by the Pennsylvania American Water I Company. It is a private water company licensed by the Pennsylvania Public Utilities Company I (PaPUC). The system draws water from the Shenango River in the southern part of Neshannock Township 1 and is treated at a plant nearby on Barbados Street in New Castle. Average day-delivery of the treatment plant is 6,000,000 gallons per day (gpd). A 1.1 million gallon capacity standpipe I reservoir is located on Old Plank Road. Two additional reservoirs are located on Orlando Avenue in Neshannock Township and hold a dual capacity of 3,500,000 gallons. They are part I of the main service area and accommodate all of Neshannock Township, as well as a section of New Castle City. Pearson Park is location for an elevated tank with a 300,000 gallon capacity I which supplies the intermediate service area. Currently, there are approximately 2,158 I connected customers utilizing an estimated water usage of 950,000 gpd. The present water service in the Township covers the major portion of the southern populated I area. The service area’s eastern border is generally defined by Mercer Road. Service is provided on both sides of Mercer Road, extending approximately 3/4 of a mile east along I Maitland Lane and about 1/2 mile along Graham-Fording Road. Service is bounded in the north I by Mitchell Road, and extends approximately 3/4 mile further north on Route 18. The western portion of the service area extends approximately 1/2 mile to the west of Route 18, and further I extension occurs along Maitland Lane. The southern water service boundary is coterminous with the Neshannock Township municipal boundary and extends from Katherine Street in the west I to Hazelcroft Avenue in the east. The existing water service boundaries are depicted on the Water and Sewer Service Areas Map No. 8 in Chapter 11. I I Public water service is currently unavailable in the predominantly rural areas of the Township. ‘I A few specific areas of dense development centered along Pulaski Road are also not served, and they include the Orchard Acres area, Kings Manor area, and the eastern portion of Cochran I

I 53 I Acres area. Water service is not available to the housing development on Cunningham Lane off Mercer Road.

Existing- Sewage Svstem

Neshannock Township's current sewage collection system consists of eight drainage systems. A small central system delivers sewage to the New Castle system by means of gravity sewers, and the remaining seven have sewage lift stations located at their lowest elevations.

In the eastern portion of the Township, Highland Avenue and Maitland Lane Lift Stations pump sewage through force mains to a high elevation where sewage then flows through gravity sewers in a westerly direction, while the Fairfield Avenue Lift Station accomplishes the same process, with sewage flows being conveyed directly to the City.

The western portion of the Township also has three lift stations: Maple Avenue, Ludwig Road, and Valhalla Drive, which deliver sewage to a central watershed at a low elevation along the Shenango River near the southwest comer of the Township.

The Shenango Lift Station handles sewage accumulated from the entire service area, with the exception of two areas Le. the gravity sewer service area which flows through the central area of the Township and the Fairfield Lift Station service area which conveys sewage to the New Castle sewer system. The Shenango Lift Station,,via 12" diameter force main, which crosses the Shenango River at two locations, conveys sewage to the New Castle Wastewater Treatment Plant. There are presently 2,360 connections to the Neshannock Township portion of the sewer I system.

I A map of the existing Neshannock Township sewerage service area is shown on the Water and Sewer Services Area Map No. 8 in Chapter 11. I

54 I I HosDitals There are no hospitals located within the Neshannock Municipal Boundaries, but the area is I served by three regional hospitals. The Ellwood City Hospital has capacity for 122 beds, the Jameson Memorial Hospital contains 230 beds and the St. Francis Hospital of New Castle has I 184 bed capacity. I I I I I I I I I I I I I

I 55 I I I I I I I SECTION II I DEVELOPMENT GOALS AND OBJECTIVES 1 I I I I I I I I I I I I NESHANNOCK TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE I CHArnER 8 COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT GOALS AND OBJECTIVES I

I Introduction

I The comprehensive planning effort relies upon the guiding principles established by community goals and objectives. A goal is broadly defined as a desirable state toward which the community I is working. To maintain long term applicability, the goals must be general in nature and reflect I the desire to provide an attractive and safe community in which to live. The goals are achieved by establishing and working toward specific planning objectives. The I objectives describe the specific aspects that must be accomplished to attain the general goals. I The following sections identify the community development goals and objectives. I General Development I General Goal - Promote the general health, safety, and welfare of the Neshannock Township residents, and preserve those elements of the Township that make it a wholesome environment. I General Goal - Maintain a variety of living and working environments, and encourage I development to follow a logical sequence rather than permit it to occur in a haphazard arrangement throughout the Township. I Land Use I General Goal - Provide and perpetuate a land use pattern which includes a wide variety of I interrelated land uses which function efficiently, compatibly, and remain consistent with Neshannock Township’s Future Land Use Plan. I

I 56 I 1. Channel residential growth into areas where public sewer and water service either exists or can be extended at minimum expense. 2. Protect prime agricultural land from undue development pressures. 3. Encourage development standards to create a variety of site design opportunities, both on individual lots as well as in planned communities of several units, while at the same time maintaining adequate health and safety standards.

Communitv Facilities and Services

General Goal - Provide for community facilities, service, and utilities as deemed necessary to ‘I meet the needs of the Township, and do so in a timely and fiscally responsible manner. 1. Continue to provide a reliable source and distribution system for potable water 1 to growth areas requiring service. 2. Provide adequate sewerage service in all areas of the community where existing I population densities warrant such services. 3. Promote increased police and fire protection as required by population increases. I 4. Maintain and enforce a plan for stormwater management. I 5. Encourage and develop a cost-effective quality school system. 6. Provide new streets, services, and utilities within a developing plan, where it is I the responsibility of the developers to do so. 7. Continue to meet the needs of Township residents concerning recreational I development. I TransDortation and Traffic Circulation

General Goal - Provide the safe and convenient circulation and movement of goods and people within the Township as well as throughout the region.

1. Plan new interconnecting road systems for the future development of the Township in a logical and continuous manner, where planning is the responsibility

57 of the Planning Commission and streets and highways should meet the standards of construction set forth by the Township. 2. Coordinate and integrate the road systems of the community with that of the region. 3. Provide for adequate street systems in all future residential, commercial, and industrial subdivisions. 4. Upgrade roads to meet safety and capacity standards. 5. Plan for proposed bicycle and pedestrian circulation systems to integrate with II existing road systems and developments. Housing

General Goal - Provide adequate and safe housing for the residents of the Township.

1. Within the capability of existing or anticipated public facilities, services, and 1 streets, encourage a range of housing types and densities oriented towards the changing needs of those seeking housing in the Township. I 2. Maintain the present housing stock through both public and private actions and incentives that encourage housing upkeep. I 3. Improve the residential character by maintaining health and safety standards in I older residential areas. I Commercial/Industrial

General Goal - Provide commerciaVindustrial growth opportunities that are related to the needs of the expanding residential activities in the Township and in adjoining municipalities. I 1. Encourage commercial expansion to develop through consistent standard development practices such as; in-depth development, rather than a linear pattern along highway corridors. I

58 I 2. Provide adequate parking areas, loading positions, and means of safe access for I commercial properties. 3. Areas of mixed residential and commerciaVindustrial uses may cautiously be I developed provided consistent development standards are utilized. 4. Encourage industrial expansion where adjacent adequate highway transportation I facilities exist and where the impact of such development will not deteriorate iI nearby residential or institutional growth. I Environmental Concerns I General Goal - Preserve and enhance the ecological/cultural relationship within the Township.

1. Discourage encroachment upon streams, flood plains, marshes, and wetland areas. 1 2. Restrict development in geological hazardous areas, including steep slope and landslide prone areas. I 3. Protect groundwater resources by identifying and controlling the type and density I of development in recharge areas. 4. Control and minimize environmental pollutants including: wastewater effluent, I sedimentation, solid waste, smoke or other air pollutants, noise, and other harmful substances. I 5. Preserve aesthetic sites and environmentally sensitive areas by relating all development to the natural features. I Energv Conservation I General Goal - Promote the conservation of energy. I 1. Promulgate efficient and compact land use and vehicular, pedestrian and public I transportation patterns that lead to efficient energy utilization. 2. Encourage the use of alternate energy sources in all residential, commercial, I industrial, and public structures.

I 59 I I 3. Institute public responsibility and awareness for energy conservation. I 4. Protect solar access where applicable; promote the use of solar energy for I residential, commercial, industrial, and institutional uses. I Aesthetic Factors I General Goal - Enhance the aesthetic quality of community life. 1. Encourage the use of landscaping practices to enhance existing and future I residential, commercial, industrial, and public land use activities. 2. Encourage the use of underground placement of utilities when practical. I 3. Control the use, size, and type of signs and encourage attractive design and I placement . I I I I I I I I I

I 60 I I I I I I I SECTION III I PLAN RECOMMENDATIONS I I I 1 I I I 1- I I 1 I I NESHANNOCK TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE I CHAPTER 9 I LAND USE PLAN

I Introduction

'I The Land Use Plan is a guide for future community growth and is based on the previously developed background information and the community's goals and objectives. The Plan is I prepared in order to identify and categorize the various types of land use activities that occur I within a community. In a municipality that already has zoning, the land use pattern is somewhat established. The I objectives and policies considered in this Land Use Plan are based on sound planning principles I and the specific needs of the Township. Land use patterns identify the functional operation and interrelationship of various activities I within a community. Successful land use planning is designed to provide for a compatible and I harmonious development among land use activities. I Land Use Categories I Land use categories are based on identification of compatible and similar activities within a specific area. The purpose of establishing districts is to homogeneously group the most intensive I (i.e. commercial and industrial) land uses, while at the Same time providing protection for the residential neighborhood. This approach, when implemented by zoning, provides protection for I present and future property owners. I I

I 61 I I As delineated on the Future Land Use Map, Map No. 6, the land use categories are as follows: I High Density Urban Residential, Urban Residential, Rural Residential, RuraVAgncultural Residential, Highway Commercial, Limited Commercial, General Industrial, Industrial Park, I Office Park, Public/Semi-Public, and Flood Plain/Wetland Areas.

I Land use activities are classified as districts which are separated by a buffer or transition zone. With appropriate buffers, one land use type will naturally interface with the adjacent district. I Buffers are either naturally formed by topography, or man-made in the form of transportation corridors. Many types of buffers are effective as long as they form an adequate break between I incompatible land uses.

I DeveloDment Patterns

I Urban sprawl is a growth pattern created by the continual spreading of development from existing areas to previously undeveloped areas. Continual outward movement of development I which skips over contiguously developing areas and moves toward the community’s fringe area can be described as a ’leap frog’ effect. Urban sprawl creates an unevenly spaced development I pattern that is expensive and impractical for serving a community with facilities induding sewer, I water, fire, police, schools, and many similar services. Development practices that provide a more compact growth pattern will be promoted. I Encouraging more concentrated development in existing growth areas will also provide some I protection for agricultural land use. Frequently, residential and agricultural land uses are not compatible. As suburban development continues into agricultural areas, often times community I services are extended to these pockets of growth and, in turn, raise taxes and costs to farmers who do not benefit from the residential services. Residential development in areas of !I agricultural activity are sometimes incompatible due to annoyances from use of farm machinery in early morning and the use of fertilizer and herbicides. ‘I In-depth development will be encouraged as opposed to the present strip development. The type ‘I of development prevalent along the southern portion of Route 18 adversely affects the expansion

I 62 I

I of business and creates safety hazards due to the numerous curb cuts and crossing traffic. With I in-depth development, appropriate access roads are provided and property is developed to its fullest potential. Much of the strip development, both commercial and residential, is caused by I developing frontage along the roads. In the Planning Commission’s review of future subdivisions along arterial and collector roads, consideration should be given to promote in-depth I rather than strip development.

I Development flexibility will also be encouraged beyond the conventional subdivision to include Planned Residential Development (PRD). The PRD concept allows flexibility in design while I still preserving natural areas.

I Preservation of environmentally sensitive areas is an important factor in evaluating development plans. As addressed in-previousportions of this plan, excessive slope, flood prone, and wetland 1 areas should be considered in Planning Commission Review. The preservation of these areas I from development will benefit both the developer and the Township. In preparing the Land Use Plan, energy conservation has been considered in designing the land I use categories and distribution patterns. Efficient development and building design, effective I placement of community facilities, concentrated development, provisions for community convenience shopping, and working facilities are several energy considerations. Future energy I saving methods will also be considered and encouraged throughout the community planning process. I Land Use in Adjacent MuniciDdities I In accordance with the requirements of Act 247, as mended, the land uses in the surroundi g I municipalities of Neshannock Township were reviewed to ascertain where existing and future land use is consistent. I Wilmington Township is immediately north of the Neshannock area and primarily consists of ‘I open and agricultural space with single family land uses. East of Route 18 and immediately

I 64 I I north of Neshannock is an industrial land use area which coincides with an industrial land use I mea in Neshannock Township.

I The western border of Neshannock Township is the Shenango River, which is also the natural boundary between three adjoining municipalities, namely Pulaski Township, Mahoning I Township, and Union Township. The Pulaski Township land uses which are adjacent to Neshannock are primarily suburban residential, and Mahoning exhibits agricultural land uses I with an industrial portion located next to the Shenango River. Union Township runs along the southwest comer of Neshannock, and its land uses are combined; there is a flood hazard area I along the River, and higher elevations are proposed for industrial uses.

I Hickory Township lies east of Neshannock, and the area adjacent to the border is designated a rural residential agricultural land use pattern. Where Maitland Lane enters Hickory Township, I industrial and conservation land use patterns occur.

I South of Neshannock, the City of New Castle has a dense urban residential development pattern and a commercial business district centered on Route 18. A natural progression of the land use 1 pattern of New Castle has spread into the Township of Neshannock, and the municipal boundary I is not readily distinguishable. I The Shenango River divides Neshannock and municipalities to the west, while Neshannock Creek divides Neshannock and Hickory Township in the east. These natural boundaries create I a flood plain that provides a similar land use buffer between Neshannock and the adjoining municipalities. I In summary, the land use patterns of Neshannock Township are compatible with those of the I surrounding municipalities. A review of the land uses for Neshannock Township as written in the Lawrence County Comprehensive Plan indicates a generalized land use pattern which I remains consistent with the uses in the Neshannock Township Comprehensive Plan. I

1 65 I I A list of the documents consulted for this review is as follows: I Hickory TownshiD Zoning Ordinance. Michael Baker Jr., Inc., I Rochester, PA, 1962. Lawrence County Comprehensive Plan. Lawrence Countjr Regional I Planning Commission, December 1963. Mahoning Township Proposed Zoning Ordinance. &ens Engineering Associates, I Inc. City of New Castle Codified Ordinances. Walter H. Drane Co., I Cleveland, OH, September 1985. Pulaski Township Zoning Ordinance. Pulaski Township Board of I Supervisors, Revised December, 1987. Pulaski TownshiD Comprehensive Plan. Carroll V. Hill and Associates, I Pittsburgh, PA, 1959. Pulaski Township Comprehensive Plan Update. Pulasld Township Board of I Supervisors, 1973. Union Township Zoning Ordinance, Crossroads of Pennsylvania Routes 60, I 224. 422. Mundo and Associates, Beaver, PA, March 1985.

Wilmington TownshiD Zoning Ordinance. Lawrence County Planning I Commission and Wilmington Township Planning Commission, Ordinance No. 105, 1987. I I Development Principles of the Land Use Plan I The Future Land Use Plan is presented on the Future Land Use Map. This map has been formulated based upon development principles as established by the Township’s goals and I objectives for land use development. The following section defines the purpose of the general land use districts that have been represented on the Future Land Use Map No. 6. I 1) RESIDENTIAL - The residential areas of the Township have been divided into I three (3) categories.

I 66 I A. The Residential Urban High Density district is located within those areas of the Township where larger parcels of land are available within close proximity to the public water and sewer service districts. These general areas are positioned to have access to the Township's arteriakollector road network. Residential development is proposed for high density multi-family development.

B. The Residential Urban land use category represents the major residential component of the Township development pattern. The single family dwelling is the primary use represented in this district. The purpose of this category is to provide a moderate density of residential development which have public water and sewage facilities available. Lot sizes vary from less than one-fifth of an acre to one-half acre. Even though the area is served with public water and sewers, some larger lots are served by on- lot septic and well systems. However, the major development emphasis is to provide a relatively dense residential development.

C. The largest land use district is the Residential Rural area. Some portions of this land use category is served with public sewer and/or water but the major portion of this district is developed with on-lot facilities. The minimum building lot size for this district is one-half acre. This district provides for a moderate to low density residential development in a suburban or rural setting. Larger lot development is also permitted in the form of larger estates or farmettes allowing a congenial mix of minor farm activities with suburban housing type.

2. AGRICULTURAL - The most rural areas of the Township are classified as Residential. Rural/Aencultural. Open space and vacant land is included within

I ' this land use category.

67 I The residential activity is permitted in association with the primary farm or I agricultural activity. The purpose of this district is to promote agriculture land uses and encourage only those uses considered as accessory uses to the agriculture I! activity. This district provides the most rural development patterns in the Township which is supplied entirely by on-lot wells and septic systems. These areas are not intended to have the most developed community services and are considered low intensity land uses.

3. COMMERCIAL - Two commercial districts are provided for in the land use classification.

A. The Limited Commercial land use provides the necessary retail, restaurant, office, and services needed with emphasis on lessor activity associated with major commercial traffic generators. The Limited Commercial land uses are located along Mercer Road at the intersections I of Old Plank and Maitland Lane. The primary area is adjacent to Route 18 and a newly proposed area is located along Mitchell Road. These I- areas are considered as limited commercial since they still share - 1 boundaries with the active residential communities. This land use category required more sensitive development design due to its location I and relationship with adjacent uses. I Design requirements should include the use of planned ingress and egress, parking, buffers, stormwater management, landscaping, and grouping of I uses.

I B. Commercial land uses along Route 18 in Neshannock have a historical origin that has perpetuated to the present day land use pattern. The I Commercial land uses have developed in the most convenient area Le., along the highest volume traffic routes. This type of development is the I Highway Commercial land use. The purpose of this district is to provide

I 68 I the same lower level commercial activities associated with the limited I commercial district but includes the higher level activities such as automotive sales and services, food preparation, motel/hotels, auto repair I garages, service stations and theaters.

I In many cases, the existing commercial parcels are very small, offering limited opportunities for expansion of existing businesses and provide little I opportunity for new development. Considerations have been given to providing larger parcel development which would encourage well planned I commercial development with appropriate access and parking, thereby I minimizing traffic conflicts. 4. INDUSTRIAL - The industrial districts are divided into two specific types to I provide for the various kinds of industrial development.

I- A. The General Industrial district is located in the non-residential areas of the Township and has appropriate natural buffers between industrial activities I and adjacent municipalities on the western and southern boundaries. A I large portion of the available area is not presently developed and should provide adequate area for future industrial land use. Heavy and light I manufacturing, warehousing, contractor yards, truck terminals, and repair garages are the types of permitted uses identified by this category. I B. The Industrial Park land use has developed northeast of Route 60, and the I Mitchell Road interchange. The types of uses found in this industrial park include light manufacturing, corporate offices and warehousing. The I amount of area provided for future development is adequate to accommodate the future needs. Development has occurred along the I present loop road and water and sewage is presently available. The adjoining Industrial Park land to the west will require the extension of I public facilities to successfully develop in a quality industrial park. The

1 69 I purpose of this type of land use is to provide quality development with specific development criteria to offer light industry an environmentally pleasant site to conduct business.

5. OFFICE PARK - A more specialized office park land use is proposed for the area west of Route 18 near the northern border of the Township. This land use - is referred to as Office Park and is intended to be developed exclusively for corporate or executive offices with no related transportation, light manufacturing or warehousing activities associated with the office use.

6. PUBLIC/SEMI-PUBLIC - The public/semi-Dublic land uses include; public utilities, municipal services, schools, churcheskemeteries, township park, golf courses, sportsman clubs, PA Boat and Fish Commission Access areas, and PA State Game Lands. These land uses are scattered throughout the Township and are generally compatible with the surrounding land uses. By using appropriate design standards, future expansion of these uses can be accommodated within the existing land use districts. As indicated above, recreational land uses are included I as part of the public/semi-public category. The major land use facilities are 1 indicated on the Future Land Use Map. I 7. FLOOD PLAINS AND WETLANDS - The avoidance of development in Flood Plains and Wetlands is of critical importance. The areas designated as flood 1 plains by the U.S. Corps of Engineers "Flood Plain Study for Neshannock Township" as well as the wetlands which are mapped by the U.S. Department of the Interior have been included as a land use category and are outlined on the Land Use Map. I Summary

The general land use plan for Neshannock Township is the first step in a comprehensive process 'i of re-evaluating the Township's living and working environment. The plan that is presented on the Future Land Use Map has been designed based upon two premises. The first factor considered in developing the plan is the existing land use pattern that has been established by the Township's Zoning Ordinance. Departures and/or alterations in future land use are made with consideration for the existing land use pattern. The second consideration in land use planning is the Township's development goals and objectives which have been identified in the previous "Community Development Goals and Objectives" in Chapter 8.

In accordance with the development gods and based upon the existing land use pattern, the following concepts have been incorporated into the future land use plan.

Preservation of agricultural land use has been realized by increasing the amount of land designated as rural/agricultural.

The residential-integrity of the community has been maintained by redefining and adjusting the residential land use district based upon availability of public water and sewage.

High density residential areas have been proposed that can be supported by public utilities and high capacity roads, and are located so as not to infringe on single family developments.

Energy conservation measures are promoted by encouraging concentration of development into areas more economically served by existing community facilities.

Additional areas of Highway Commercial land have been proposed in the northern areas of the township, thus permitting better planing and more in depth development rather than previous strip type development.

Areas of existing community commercial activity have been recognized and classified as a limited commercial land use.

71 e The commercial/office uses along the southern Route 18 corridor have been redefined to permit reasonable limited commercial development in this area.

e An additional future limited commercial land use has been considered along Mitchell Road west of Route 18, to permit development in conjunction with the Route 60 limited access exit.

e The Industrial Park district has been maintained.

e A specialized land use for future corporate offices has been included.

e The plan will continually provide for the compatible development of publidsemi- public and recreational activities with the other land uses.

e The plan focuses on preservation of flood plains, wetlands and similar environmentally sensitive areas.

The implementation of a land use and growth management plan requires action by local municipal government. It is, therefore, important that the public and local officials, both elected and appointed, understand the planning process. The future development of Neshannock Township rests with the decision of the people who live and work in the Township. The guidance needed in decision making must be provided to the local citizens by the governmental officials. It should also be remembered that land use planning is a continuous process and requires the constant monitoring and evaluation by the Planning Commission and the Board of I Supervisors. I 1 I

72 I NESHANNOCK TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE I CHAPI’ER 10 I TRANSPORTATION AND CIRCULATION IMPROVEMENT PLAN

I Introduction

I The Transportation and Circulation Improvement Plan is an integral component in the total Plan Update because the road system is the element of a community’s infrastructure that provides I access to all municipal land uses, and thereby binds the community together. The internal road system provides access to regional highways which connect the community to other regions, and I thus allows transference of goods and services. This portion of the plan consists of two specific I parts:

The Transportation Plan is prepared by determining a hierarchy of roads in order to produce 1 a classification based on their functional performance. I The Circulation Improvement Plan is prepared by listing recommended improvements for I consideration by officials to improve traffic flow and provide safe conditions. II Specific objectives are based on the following: I 1. Provide safe and convenient circulation and movement of goods and people within the Township and throughout the region. I 2. Plan new interconnective road systems to serve the future development of the Township in a logical and continuous manner. Planning shall be the I responsibility of the Planning Commission, and streets and highways shall meet the standards of construction set forth by the Township. 1 3. Coordinate and integrate the road system of the community with that of the I region.

I 73 I m 4. Provide adequate street systems .in all future residential, commercial, and 1 industrial subdivisions. 5. Upgrade roads to meet safety and capacity standards. I 6. Upgrade and maintain highways to provide good access to employment and retail centers. 1 7. Preserve aesthetic sites and environmentally sensitive areas by relating all development to the natural features. 1 8. Promulgate efficient and compact land use/transportation patterns that lead to I efficient energy utilization. I Existing TransDortation Patterns I The following regional highways directly affect development potential in Neshannock Township: Interstate 79, a north to south highway which cuts through the northeastern tip of Lawrence I County, provides direct access to Erie in the north and Pittsburgh in the south. It continues I northward to connect to Interstate 80 and southward to connect to the Ohio Turnpike, both of which are east-west highways and provide junction to western industry markets of Youngstown, 1 Cleveland, and Columbus (in Ohio), the eastern Pennsylvanian cities, and further east to the states of New Jersey and New York. Interstate 79 is a limited access transport for thru traffic. I U.S. Route 422 provides east-west circulation in this area of western Pennsylvania connecting I Interstate 79 to Youngstown, Ohio and provides access to Neshannock Township. I The Beaver Valley Expressway, also know as Route 60, is a limited access highway which runs north to south near the western border of the Township, intersecting with Interstate 80 near I Sharon, PA. With the recent completion of the 'missing link' in Route 60, access is uninterrupted to the south, providing direct access to the Pittsburgh International Airport. I Access from the Route 60 limited access highway is provided to Neshannock from an exit on i Mitchell Road.

I 74 I I . ‘1 Pennsylvania State Route 18 (Wilmington Road) bisects the Township north to south and I provides interchange with Interstate 80 to the north and the Pennsylvania Turnpike to the south. It is an easily accessible arterial and an important entity of Neshannock’s transportation system. I Maitland Lane and the southern portion of Pulaski Road have been designated major arterials, 1 and Mercer Road and Mitchell Road have been designated minor arterials. Internal Township circulation is accomplished by way of [the major collktors ofJ Kings Chapel I Road, the northern portion of Pulaski Road, Old Plank Road, Plank Road Extension, and Shenango Road along with [the minor collectors ofJ Chapin Road, Glen Road, Nesbitt Road, D Graceland Road, and Valley drive. These roads provide the collector system that links the local roads to the overall transportation system. The accompanying Map No. 7 provides a designation I of the functional road system.

I Functional Classification System

I Recognizing the proper function of a roadway can reduce potential conflicts between land use activities and traffic movements. Future priorities for establishing improvements are more I efficiently demonstrated and accomplished when the functional classification of the roadway is I recognized. I Land use planning and future zoning considerations are closely related to the function of the road system. Specific land use activities are associated with certain traffic patterns, which should be 1 recognized and related to the appropriate transportation scheme. Residential land uses, for example, are associated with slow moving traffic, tums, ingress and egress movement, and I general interruption of thru traffic movement; therefore, residential development in general should be discouraged from having direct access to high speed roadways. If access is I unavoidable, proper design considerations should be imposed to reduce potential traffic conflict. Planning design shall encourage the internal linkage of roadways in order to internally connect I adjacent housing plans. Through the use of connecting roadways that naturally flow between places, more efficient community services can be supplied. Four major types of roadways are I considered in the functional classification: *

I 75 I

1 18 and the Giant Eagle Intersection of State Route 1005. The following tentative projects are i considered priority for rehabilitation, listed in order of importance:

I I-1 Rehabilitation of a three-mile stretch of State Route 18, known locally as Wilmington Road, is currently the Department’s number one priority project in Lawrence County and I is in the Twelve Year Plan as such. Sections of Route 18 have been reconstructed within the past five years, and this project will continue the recent improvements. Since I Neshannock Township is leading the County in economic growth, it has caused this highway stretch to be part of the main commercial thoroughfare in Lawrence County. 1 There has been little or no stormwater improvement on this section of highway since the time it was built in 1946, causing stormwater control facilities to be outdated and 1 inadequate. Two important needs are paved shoulders and stormwater improvements. Heavy rains bring flooding of businesses, residences, and Township streets due to I insufficient stormwater control facilities, while ditches along the roadway create severe I hazards for cars which need to temporarily pull off the road. I 1-2 The Shenango Road Intersection is currently controlled by stop signs, but necessitates signals due to the heavy traffic volume on Route 18. The turn from Shenango Road onto I Route 18 is an exceptionally long wait. 1 1-3 The Maitland Lane Intersection, also located on Route 18, has the highest traffic volume of any in the Township. Although it has signals, it needs right turn lanes because I motorists are currently driving on the shoulders to make the turns. PennDOT has already installed loop detectors in the shoulder area. I 1-4 The Mitchell Road Intersection (on Route 18) is signalized and used by motorists entering I and exiting the recently completed Route 60. Future development and increased traffic volume will require construction of turning lanes to help with service of traffic to and 1 from Route 60. 1

I 78 I 1-5 A five-way intersection of State Route 1005 (Mercer Road), State Route 1003 (Plank Road), a commercial driveway (Giant Eagle), and a Township street (McCarty Lane) has been the scene of many accidents in recent years due to its confusing nature. A signalization/intersection improvement project is needed to remedy the situation.

The number preceding the items described in the circulation improvement plan are shown on Map No. 7 to identify proposed repair areas.

'I I I I 1 I I I I 1

79 1 NESHANNOCK TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE I CHAPTER 11 I COMMUNITY FACILITIES PLAN

I Introduction

I Neshannock Township residents are well served by its community facilities programs. The Community Facilities Plan provides an additional dimension to the comprehensive planning I process by analyzing the residential needs versus the services provided. Certain types of municipal improvement programs are eligible for state and/or federal grant programs while other I programs require individual contributions through direct taxation. This portion of the Comprehensive Plan includes discussions of recommendations for improving community I facilities. Based upon the inventory of existing facilities, the recommendations are based upon the previously established community goals and objectives. Recommendations are provided in I the following categories; Municipal Governmental Facilities, Fire and Police Service, Recreational Facilities, Schools, and Water and Sewer Services. III

Municipal Governmental Facilities

The location of the present municipal building and maintenance department offer central service to the community. The building itself provides adequate office and meeting room space with some limitation on storage space. It appears that the only architectural modifications that will be required in the future is to provide for handicapped facilities. Through the utilization of additional storage at the Walmo garages, even though these are off-site, the maintenance department will be able to manage in the present facilities.

As population size increases, consideration could be given to a central library facility. As an alternative, a joint or a regional library facility may be considered with shared support form surrounding communities.

80 I I1 Fire and Police Services It appears that the fire and emergency services are adequately providing resident and property -I protection with the present location of Fire Stations No. 1 and 2. The National Board of Fire Underwriters have developed recommendations that fue companies be spaced in a radius of 1 three-quarters of mile in intensive industrial or commercial areas, one and one-half miles in residential areas and three miles in sparsely settled areas. The eastern areas of Neshannock I Township are covered with the location of Stations Nos. 1 and 2, and the sparsely developed areas to the north and west are also adequately served. The only sparsely developed areas not I covered by the three mile radius is the extreme western portion of the Township. With population growth increasing in the western portions of the Township and the northern expansion 1 of the industrial park, a third substation should be considered in the northwestern quadrant of I the Township. With a volunteer fire department, it is sometimes difficult to find enough trained manpower to 1 answer daytime emergency calls. It has been determined that a substantial portion of the civilian I labor force leaves Neshannock Township for their daily work and thus explains why few volunteers are available for daytime emergencies. A suggestion for supplemental forces is to I utilize a properly trained municipal work force. Since these people are generally performing their municipal work in the Township, they are readily available to answer daytime emergency 1 calls. A policy statement and general rules for permitting such an arrangement should be formulated by the Board of Supervisors prior to instituting these arrangements. I Due to the increasing size of the firelrescue operation in the Township, future consideration may I be given to employing a full time individual who would be responsible for day to day operations.

1 There are several standards for evaluating police protection needs based upon the nature and character of the specific community. A general standard for a community such as Neshannock I is one police officer for approximately each 1,OOO people. Based upon the present population I and with the use of part-time officers, Neshannock’s needs are presently met. With the

I 81 I I increasing police responsibility, consideration for additional staff will be necessary as population I increases.

I Without a more detailed analysis of fire and police services, which is beyond the scope of the plan, specific recommendations are left to the governing body and those individuals involved I with day to day operations of these services.

I Recreational Facilities

1 Pearson Park is a complete recreational facility with many more activities offered than in communities of similar or larger size. A comparison of recreational facilities needs analysis is I provided in Appendix A. Development of the Pearson Park facility has developed' well over the I past years and the work should continue to maintain the present quality of facilities.

The only recommendation regarding recreation facilities is for future considerations of additional I playfields for softball, soccer, and children's playgrounds in other areas of the Township more I readily available to the denser populated areas. The developed of the Walmo Complex for play fields is a good approach for providing recreational facilities in the developed urban areas. I Schools I The Neshannock Township School District is comprised of only Neshannock Township. Growth I is therefore determined by the population growth or decline of the Township. Past and future enrollments supplied by the Pennsylvania Department of Education have been identified in I Chapter 7.

1 It is anticipated that further student enrollment will increase at a minimal rate and through the year 2000 should be accommodated by the existing school district facilities except for I renovations which are planned for 1994-96 to accommodate current and future student needs. I

I 82 I -I Future Water and Sewerage Service I ,The water service district provides potable water and fire protection to the major portion of the I Township’s urban development. From conversations with the Pennsylvania American Water Company personnel, they have no plans to expand into the additional areas of Neshannock I Township. It appears from the amount of development activity taking place in the Township, future service areas will be served through the expansion of the water system by developers. I In providing water service to their proposed developments, existing residential areas presently I without water may benefit from these expansions. Even though many rural areas in the Township may be able to utilize wells for water, many I areas are precluded from development due to poor soils which will not support an on-lot septic system. Recognizing this drawback and the fact that existing rural developed areas are 1 experiencing malfunctioning on-lot septic systems, the Neshannock Township Board of Supervisors has undertaken a 537 Sewage Facilities Planning Study to investigate and identify I areas of concern and investigate the feasibility of serving future areas of the Township.

I Recommendations of this plan are to implement the recommendations provided in the 537 Sewage Facilities Study and provide public sewage to the areas identified. The following areas I have been identified for future sewage service and are prioritized in order or immediate need. I 1. Cochran Acres Area is in the southwest comer of the Township and is bisected I diagonally by Pulaski Road. 1 2. Kings Manor Area is the populated section located along Pulaski Road, just north of Maitland Lane. I 3. Orchard Acres Area is southwest of Northgate Circle, and runs along the western portion I of Chapin Road.

4. Northgafe Circle Area is north of Mitchell Road and west of Route 18.

83 1 5. Old Plank Road Area is the area bounded by Route 18, Mitchell Road, Plank Road, and I Nesbitt Road. It is located in the northern section of the Township.

I 6. Justice Lane and Mitchell Road Area is located on Mitchell Road, northeast of Old Plank 1 Road. It is east of Neshannock High School. ,I 7. Blews Acres Area is just south of Maitland Lane and west of Graceland Road. 8. Highland Park Area encompasses the section west of Blews Acres Area, south of II Maitland Road.

I 9. Cannela Drive Area is a small section located east of Route 18 and south of Mitchell I Road. I 10. Brookside Farms Area is in the northeast corner of Neshannock Township, and Valley Road runs through the left portion of the area. I I The above areas being considered for future service are presently developed and have been experiencing some on-lot sewage system malfunctions. With the proposed expansion, adjacent I areas to those requiring service will have a potential for future growth. The existing water and sewer service areas are prioritized by need and are shown on the Water and Sewer Service Areas I Map No. 8. In addition, the areas of future sewer service are also identified and prioritized by need. I The existing New Castle wastewater treatment plant’s capacity is proposed to be increased from I 9.0 MGD to 13.5 MGD (average design flow) during the next few years. Major capital improvements include additional tanks for primary treatment, aeration, and settling; a new belt filter press for sludge processing; and additional chlorination facilities. Project construction I costs for the proposed treatment plant expansion are estimated at $8,850,000.

84

-1 "ANNOCK TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE I CHAPTER 12 FINANCIAL ANALYSIS AND CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS PLAN 1 1 FINANCIAL ANALYSIS I Introduction An analysis of municipal finances provides an assessment of the financial climate of the 1 Township. Recommendations and proposals set forth in the Comprehensive Plan cannot be achieved if funds are not available to finance them. The fiscal structure of the Township will I be reviewed in the following financial analysis, which is intended to establish general trends and I is not designed to be an in-depth financial audit. I Receipts From 1988 to 1992, the majority of municipal income was derived from taxes (about 65 to 70% I of total revenues). Earned income tax revenues far exceeded property taxes.

1 Table I summarizes municipal revenue for each of the past 5 years, and shows that total revenue I receipts during the past two (2) years have decreased as well as the unreserved fund balance which is reflecting interest reductions. I Expenditures 1 General fund expenditures (also shown in Table I) must be made to cover the actual cost of I Township operations. The largest expenditure from the municipal funds accounts for highways and roads, followed by general government, and then public safety. Total expenditures are I increasing at a faster pace than the generated revenue during the last three years. However, the budget is able to be balanced from the unreserved fund balance. 1

I 86 1 TABLE I SUMMARY OF GENERAL FUND RECEIFTS AND EXPENDITURES

II 1988 1989 1990 1991 1992 II Total Revenues and Other Financing Sources $1,180,177 $1,137,121 $1,274,369 $1,048,742 $1,065,048

Unreserved Fund Balance $1,047,922 $1,169,865 $1,318,828 $1,259,945 $989,259 II Total Available $2,228,099 $2,306,986 $2,593,197 $2,308,687 $2,054,307

Total Expenditures and Other Financing Uses $1,058,234 $988,158 $1,395,858 $1,319,428 $1,179,368

Unreserved Fund Balance $1, 169,865 $1,318,828 $1,197,339 $98939 $874,944

11 Total ExpendedNnexpended $2,228,099 $2,306,986 $2,593,197 $2,308,687 $2,054,312

Source: Neshannock Township Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Annual Audit and Financial Report 1988- 1992 I Comparison of Receipts and Expenditures i The receipts and expenditures (General Fund) are presented in Table 11. As previously 1 mentioned, receipts and expenditures have fluctuated over the past five years with some years I producing a surplus and others showing a deficit. Referring to Table II the amount of the

1 TABLE I1 COMPARISON OF RECEIPTS AND EXPENDITURES FOR NESHANNOCK TOWNSHIP (GENERAL FUND) I Surplus/ 1 I I I 1 Source: Neshannock Township Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Annual Audit and Financial I Report, 1988-1992 * Estimated 2 percent increase I the surplus/deficit is noted in the far right column. It is again noticed that expenditures are 1 increasing more than receipts (revenues) during the last few years. Based upon the anticipated I assessed valuation increases, an estimated 2 percent is projected for receipts and expenditures through the next three years in Table 11. As expected, a deficit is noted. Even though the 1 budget is able to be balanced through use of the general fund balance (assets from previous years), this is not a good practice to continue. The total revenue should be balancing the total I expenses. A municipal millage increase should be considered, since there appears to be no other anticipated funding sources available to supplement the increasing expenditures.

1 88 I Assessed Valuation

Total revenues have fluctuatw at various rates in the past; however, a continual increase has been recorded in assessed valuation of Township property. The rising market value of land and the continual improvement of properties in Neshannock Township has increased the assessed valuation and the resulting tax levy. The assessed valuation is presented in Table 111:

TABLE III ASSESSED VALUATION FOR NESHANNOCK TOWNSHIP

A) Based on 60% of market value

Source: Neshannock Township Annual Audit and Financial Report, 1988-1992

Over the five year period, the average increase in assessed valuation is 2.1 percent per year. Considering the past growth patterns of the Township and the future regional trends, the assessed valuation should continue to increase at the same or otherwise accelerated rate.

By applying the millage factor to the assessed valuation, it was determined on Table IV that the Township, utilizing a 3.5 mills tax, would obtain $186,650. Also included in the table is the established millage for the county (26 mills) and for the school district (66 mills), for a total of 95.5 mills. I I

1 89 I i TABLE IV 1 ASSESSED VALUATION AND MILLAGE FOR NESHANNOCK TOWNSHIP I Year ValuationA TownshipB Tax Levy' County School Total 1992 $53,328,540 3.5 mills $186,650 26 mills 66 mills 95.5 mills 1 I Source: Neshannock Township I Annual Audit and Financial Report, 1992

I BorrowinP Capacity and Debt Limits

1 If consideration is given to funding the improvements that have been recommended throughout the plan, it may be necessary to borrow money to undertake a specific project. The projection I of estimated revenues is used to establish the borrowing capacity. A borrowing base is first determined by averaging the appropriate receipts (certain types of revenues cannot be I considered) for three preceding fiscal periods. The borrowing base is then multiplied by 2.5 to obtain the borrowing capacity. As established by the Unit Debt Act, a municipality is permitted 1 to borrow up to 250 percent of its borrowing base; thus, 2.5 is the constant used.

D Even though 250 percent is permitted for a borrowing base, it is not sound fiscal planning to incur the maximum debt limit. A reasonable approach is to incur approximately 20 to 40 I percent of the maximum debt limit. Table V shows the allowable borrowing capacity available to Neshannock and indicates a reasonable debt limit of 30% that may be utilized if desired for I capital projects. I Summary D The analysis of municipal finances has highlighted the overall financial picture for Neshannock I Township. Revenues and expenditures have been projected only as a basis for discussion. It

I 90 I should be noted that municipal revenues are projected based upon economic programs being maintained at the present status quota.

TABLE V BORROWING CAPACITY

Est. Avail.(*) Est.@) Est.Q Reasonable Est. Revenue for Borrowing Borrowing Debt Limit Revenue Borrowing Base Base Capacity 30 % I $1,065,048 $958,543 $1,03 8,070 $2,595,025 $778,508 1,086,349 977,714 1,016,448 2,541,120 762,336 1994 1,108,076 997,268 960,042 2,400,105 720,032 1 1- ~ 1 I 1995 11 1,130,238 I 1,017,214 I 977,842 I 2,444,605 I 733,382

A) Excludes loans, grants, etc. items not to be included for establishing borrowing base B) Base established by averaging past three years of available revenue C) 2.5 x borrowing base

CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS PLAN

Introduction

The capital improvements program presents a prioritized list of plan recommendations as the first step in plan implementation. The level to which these recommendations are achieved over time is a function of the financial limitations of the municipality. The essence for a successful program is to continually strive to adopt and continue budgeting for capital improvements.

Program Components

The purpose of capital programming is to permit Township Officials to develop the proper timing, coordination, and budgeting for the projects. Lead time is also provided to permit

91 appropriate contacts with outside funding and/or implementing agencies. Because of unspecified project timing, escalating construction costs, inflation, wage rates, and absence of detailed plans, the cost estimates have not been included,

Projects are generally prioritized, but does not preclude changing the sequencing or the possibility of completing more than one project. The listing of improvements is based on the following criteria: 1) protection of public health, safety, and welfare, 2) provision of public services, 3) protection of natural and cultural resources, and 4) enhancement of over-all living conditions.

Financing

The method of financing the capital improvements will require an in depth analysis by Township officials. The potential methods for financing and implementing the capital improvements include; increased assessed valuations (provided by community growth), tax levy rate increase, and/or use of available debt limitation (support will be required by revenue or general obligation bond issue).

In addition, limited grant programs may be a potential source for community facilities and recreation projects. Low interest loans are also available for water, storm sewer and sewage projects from the Pennsylvania Infrastructure Investment Authority.

Goals

The following is a prioritized list of capital improvements recommendations for short term and long term consideration by the Township Board of Supervisors.

PRIORITY 1 - Road Improvements

Road and drainage improvements have the top priority with specific attention given to the items identified in the Circulation Improvement Plan. This work includes township and Pennsylvania

92 Department of Transportation coordination in improving road drainage, paving shoulders, traffic 1 signalization, turning lane construction and intersection realignment.

I PRIORITY 2 - Sewage Service

I Sewage service should be provided to those "need" areas as defined by the 537 Sewage Facilities Plan and included in the Community Facilities Plan. The presence of malfunctioning septic I systems is a potential health concern and should be addressed as soon as possible. A possible funding source (low interest loans) to be considered to implement this sewer expansion project 1 would be through the Pennsylvania Infrastructure Investment Authority (Pennvest).

I PRIORITY 3 - Municipal Building Improvements

I Architectural modifications should be provided to the present municipal building to permit better I access for handicapped persons requiring municipal services or attending public meetings. 1 PRIORITY 4 - Public Protection - Police

Based on the assessment of population growth and the increasing need for police protection, the expansion of the police staff should be given consideration. This may be accomplished by changing the status of part-time officers to full time status.

PRIORITY 5 - Public Protection - Fire/Emergencv Rescue

Future consideration should be given to initiating a full or part-time fu-e administrator position. This individual would be available to address day to day administration and operation requirements, and coordinate services.

93 PRIORITY 6 - Public Protection - Fire/Emergencv Rescue

As development increases in the western portion of the Township and with future expansion of the Industrial Park, consideration should be given to locating a satellite fire station in the northwestern portion of the Township.

PRIORITY 7 - Industrial Development

Infrastructure improvements should be directed to providing overall community benefit with no public funds being directly channeled to providing individual benefit in developing the industrial park facilities. However, the general concept and attitude of the Township should be supportive to encouraging industrial park development. Public services and utilities could be made available for industrial park development as a part of the overall program for other capital improvements throughout the Township.

PRIORITY 8 - Educational Facilities - Librarv

The concept of a municipally sponsored library should be investigated either individually or in conjunction with other communities. A viable library program is beneficial to all ages of residents.

PRIORITY 9 - Recreational Facilities

Consideration should be given in the future, for additional recreational play fields to more directly benefit the denser populations in the southern portion of the Township..

94 NESHANNOCK TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE CHAPTER 13 PLAN IMPLEMENTATION

Introduction

The various elements of the Comprehensive Plan provide a guide for future development in Neshannock Township. A primary purpose of the plan is to communicate the policies and objectives of Township development. Although specific assumptions and recommendations are presented in the Plan, the document is designed to be general and flexible.

Life styles change through time as do economic and social conditions. The Plan should, therefore, be continually re-evaluated and adjusted accordingly. Periodic updating is necessary and’should be encouraged.

A Plan of this nature becomes little more than an interesting collection of data, if the recommendations are not carried forward and implemented. Implementation is the process necessary to integrate the Comprehensive Plan’s conclusions into actual practice.

Participation in the Planninp Process

Citizen participation is necessary for Plan development. As representative of the citizens, the Board of Township Supervisors is the primary implementing agency. The various appointed boards and commissions act as advisory agencies to the Township Supervisors.

The majority of planning functions are the responsibility of the Township Planning Commission. The Planning Commission’s main activities include reviewing proposals for subdivision of land and monitoring Land Developrnent/Zoning Ordinances and initiating changes if necessary. Sound planning principles and tools are provided by the Comprehensive Plan for the Planning Commission to use in its work.

95 Land DeveloDment and ZoninP Ordinances I Land Development and Zoning Ordinances play in important role in Plan implementation. Land I Development Ordinances include; Subdivision, Mobile Home and Planned Residential Development Ordinances. The primary function of these Ordinances are to regulate the 1 arrangement of building lots, streets, and community facilities.

I The Zoning Ordinance regulates the use of land and structures. Land use categories are defined based upon protection of the public and promotion of harmonious development for existing and future residents and business people. The Land Use Plan provides the initial data that is used to determine the zoning districts. The associated zoning ordinance identifies the permitted and conditional uses in each zoning classification. Development standards are also included for all zoning districts.

The original Zoning Ordinance was enacted in 1956 and has undergone various changes. In order to implement the recommendations represented in the Comprehensive Plan, the Land Development and Zoning Ordinance will require revision and updating.

Building Codes

Building codes control the construction, alteration, addition, repair, removal, and demolition of all buildings and their equipment. The code is intended to assure public safety, insofar as I controlling building construction and eliminating hazards of design, erection, repair, removal, demolition, and occupancy of buildings. (The adoption of building codes should be considered by Township Supervisors to enhance the quality of development.)

Capital Programming

The implementation of proposals for public facilities is accomplished by using capital programming. The programming efforts provide a method of scheduling and budgeting necessary improvements. The efforts also permit an opportunity for citizen input on establishing

96 I I' priorities. With the continual updating of the capital improvement programs, the highest priority I items will be constantly monitored.

Governmental CooDeration

Plan implementation often times requires the cooperation of other governmental units. The Township Board of Supervisors provides the local liaison to County, State and Federal agencies. The municipality benefits from governmental cooperation by learning of new programs, available grant-in-aid programs, and changes in applicable rules and regulations.

Due to the changing requirements for various programs, continual communications should be maintained. The Township Supervisors are encouraged to investigate and seek financial aid or consider new programs to reduce future burdens of providing improvements and services. It should also be mentioned that programs do have some drawbacks and should be thoroughly investigated.

Regional PI an ni n g,

The Comprehensive Plan has been prepared with consideration for the region and adjacent municipalities. In making plan recommendations, consideration has been given to the inter- relationship between Neshannock Township and the bordering municipalities. This is an important concept since local planning in one area is ultimately dependent upon activities in the overall region.

Plan Adoption

The Neshannock Township Comprehensive Plan Update, including the maps, textual matter, and graphics should be adopted by resolution as being the official Comprehensive Plan for Neshannock Township.

97 APPENDIX A

RECREATIONAL STANDARDS I APPENDIX A I A comparison of the available Neshannock Township recreational facilities to those established by the National Recreational and Park Association's recommendations as found in "The Community Builders Handbook", Urban Land Institute, Washington D.C., 1968, are as follows:

NRPA Recommendations Pearson Park

Area: 15-40 acres to serve 88 acres to serve 5,000 - 35,000 people 8,373 people

Service Service Area Radius Service Area Radius Area: .5 to 1.5 miles .5 to 2.5 miles

Facilities: Recommended Existing

1. Athletic fields 1. Athletic fields, volleyball, basketball courts 2. Children's playground 2. Children's playground 3. Tennis courts 3. Tennis courts 4. Open game area 4. Open game area 5. Pool 5. Pool 6. Recreation building 6. Pavilions/Small recreation (25,000 SF) building I 7. Parking and landscaping 7. Parking and landscaping 8. Walking trails 9. Fitness track 10. Ice skating rink 11. Picnic areas

As noted in the above comparison, the size and facilities of Pearson Park exceed the standards for a community park. The only requirement that is not met by Pearson Park is the additional one mile service area radius.

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