Buffalo Township Clinton Township Jefferson Township Saxonburg -Borough Winfield Township PREPARED for the SOUTHEAST BUTLER COUNTY REGIONAL PLANNING COMMISSION

Buffalo Township Clinton Township Jefferson Township Saxonburg -Borough Winfield Township PREPARED FOR THE SOUTHEAST BUTLER COUNTY REGIONAL PLANNING COMMISSION

LONG RANGE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN

Prepared by

Simonds and Simonds Planning Consultants Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

May, 1968 PARTlClPATlNG COMMUNITY OFF1 CIALS

THE SOUTHEAST BUTLER COUNTY REGIONAL PLANNING COMMISSION

OFFICERS

George H. Davis, Chairman Alton E. Johnson, Vice Chairman Arthur R. Burtner, Secretary John B. Mc Cuen, Treasurer

BUFFALO TOWNSHIP CLINTON TOWNSHIP

PIanni ng Commission Planning Commission Anthony Crestani * George H. Davis * Gerald Houze James P. Gaines * Samuel Kaufman Charles Griffith Frank Malagari * Charles lngram Delbert Sweeney Elliot P. Moriarty Walter Morrison Board of Supervisors Miles Harbison Board of Supervisors Charles Mason Kenneth E. Bauman Alfred Smith Thomas Hamilton Clarence Mittico

JEFFERSON TOWNSHIP WI NFI ELD TOWNSHIP

Planning Commission Planning Commission Robert Bachman Charles Barton, Jr. * Arthur Burtner Kenneth Hesselgesser John Foertsch Clark Montgomery Howard Follstaedt * Walter Sell Keith Oesterling * James Wick .. Board of Supervisors Board of Supervisors Vance Burtner Melvin Freehling \a Thomas Byers Henry Putz Gerald Kriley Joseph Schmeider

i 0' SAXONBURG BOROUGH I Planning Commission John R. Gillespie * Alton E. Johnson I * John B. Mc Cuen Robert L. Sarver Hugh Shearer r Mayor r Reldon Cooper Borough Council i Blaine Fennell: Howard Graham Alton E. Johnson r Richard A. Long Merle Mc Camey ..

Kenneth Schmidt Li John V. Thompson

Representatives to the Southeast Butler County Regional Planning Commission

11i n U

.. I! U TABLE OF CONTENTS

Page

PART ONE BACKGROUND AND ANALYSIS

2 Chapter One Existing Development - 2 Slope Conditions 9 Soils Buffalo Township 11 Saxonburg Borough 11 Winfi el d Township 12 Clinton Township 12 Jefferson Township 12 Existing Land Use 15 Types of Land Use 15 Developed Areas 15 Undeveloped Areas 22

Saxonburg Borough 24 Buffalo Township 24 Clinton Township 25 Jefferson Township 25 Winfield Township 26 Planning Districts 27 Existing Land Use by Planning Districts 27 Thorn Creek Planning District 27 Saxonburg Planning District 29 Cabot Planning District 29 Rough Run Planning District 30 Sower Planning District 30 Buffalo Creek Planqing District 30 Little Bull Creek Planning District 31 Ekastown Planning District 31 Cherry Valley Planning District 32

Conclusion 33 Land Use Objectives 33 Highways 33 Classification 34

iii r a' TABLE OF CONTENTS - CONTl NUED r Arteriql Highways 34 Regional Highways 34 i Collector Highways 36 Local Streets 37 i(

Chapter Two - Economy and Housing 39 The Economy 39 ill Regional Implications 39 The Economic Base 39 I' Natural Resources 44 Future Economic Growth 44 Education 46 III Industrial Promotion Activity 46 Tourism 47 Required Action 40 Housing 49 Housing Density 49 Housing Volues 50 Condition and Occupancy 51 Owner-Rental Occupancy 51 Summary 54 Recommended Program 54 Prevention of Substandard Units 54 Maintenance .: 55 Improvement 56

59 Chapter Three - Population Analysis and Projection Population at the County Level 60 61 Population at the Southeast Butler County Regional Level U Past Population Trends 62 Density and Distribution 62 General Characteristics 64 U Population Projections 64 U . 0

IV 0 TABLE OF CONTENTS - CONTINUED

Page PART TWO THE REGIONAL PLAN

Chapter Four - Regional Land Use Plan 72 Regional Influences 72 Summary of Basic Regional Considerations 72 Land Use Types 74 Residential Land Use 74 Low Density ResidentiaI/AgricuIture 77 Commercial Development 77 Industry 78 Public and Semi-public 79 Park Recreation and Open Space 79 Planning Districts 79 Thorn Creek 80 Saxanburg 80 Cabot 80 Rough Run 81 Sarver 81 Buffalo Creek 81 Little Bull Creek 81 Ekastown 81 Cherry Valley 82

Chapter Five - Thoroughfare Plan 83 Arterial Highways 83 Regionol Highways 85 Major Collector Routes 85 Minor Collector Routes 86 Local Routes 86 Future Requirements 86 Transportation 91 Penn Central 91 Bessemer and Lake Erie Railroad 91 Winfield Railroad 92 Air Facilities 92 . Bus Transit Service 92

V 0' TABLE OF CONTENTS - CONTINUED i Page

93 Chapter Six - Public Utilities and Community Facility Plans Public Utilities 93 Public Water 93 Scenic View Water Company 95 Penn Dixie 95 Saxonburg Municipal Authority 95 Future Water Service 96 The Saxonburg Area 96 Northeastern Winfield Township 98 Buffalo Township 98 Public Sewerage 99 Saxonburg Municipal Authority 99 Drainage Areas 100 Future Sewer Development 101 Drainage Area A 102 Drainage Area B 102 Drainage Area C 103 Drainage Area D 104 Drainage Area E 104 Treatment Facilities 105 Local Action 106 Other Utilities 106 Community Facilities 107 :: 107 Educational Facilities A Physical Environment 107 South Butler County Schools 110 Recommendations 112 Freeport Area Schools 112 Recommendations 114 Community Facilities, 115 Public Buildings 115 Fire Protection 115 Saxonburg 116 11 Buffolo 116 Police Protection 117 Libraries 118 U Refuse Disposal 119 Recreation 120 Regional Recreation and Open Space 122 U

vi TABLE OF CONTENTS - CONTINUED

Page

PART THREE COMMUNITY PROGRAMS

Chapter Seven - Recommendations - Saxonburg Borough 130 Land Use Plan 130 Street Systems 134 Community Facilities and Public Improvements 137 Police - 137 Fire 137 Library 137 Recreation 138 Utilities 138

Chapter Eight - Recommendations - Buffalo Township 142 Land Use Plan 142 Street Systems 146 Community Facilities and Public Improvement 148 Police 148 Fire 148 Municipal Building 149 Library 149 Recreation 149 Utilities 150

Chapter Nine - Recommendations - Clinton Township 152 Land Use Plan 152 Street Systems 156 Fire Protection 157 Municipal Building 158 Police 158 Library 158 Recreation 158 Utilities 160

Chapter'.Ten - Recommendations - Jefferson Township 162 Land Use Plan 162

vii . I

TABLE OF CONTENTS - CONTINUED I Page

Street Systems 166 Fire Protection 167 Municipal Building 167 Police 168 Library 168 Recreation 169 Utilities 169

Chapter Eleven - Recommendations - Winfield Township 172 Land Use Plan 172 Street Systems 1 74 Fire Protection 1 75 Municipal Building 175 Police 1 75 Library 1 76 Recreation 1 76 Utilities 176

-. PART FOUR IMPLEMENTATION i.

,! Chapter Twelve - Finance and Capitql Improvement 180 j Assessed Valuation 180 Income 183 Expenditures 185 Indebtedness 186 Summary 186 !! Projected Revenue 188 ti Capital Improvement Program 189 Saxonburg 192 'I I Buffalo 194 u Clinton 196 Jefferson 198 Winfield 200

viii U 0 TABLE OF CONTENTS - CONTINUED Page

Chapter Thirteen - Continuing Planning 20 1 Zoning 20 1 Subdivision Regulation 20 1 Community Assistance 202

IX LIST OF TABLES Page

1. Slope Categories 3 2. Slope Conditions 4 3. Developable Land Area 9 4. Soil Types 10 5. Land Use Potential of Soil Association 13 6. Land Use Tabulations by Community 23 7. Industry Group Rankings 41 8. Emp!oyees/Durable - Non-durable Goads 42 9. Employees/Wholesale - Retail Trade 43 10. County Agriculture 1940 - 1960 44 11. Persons per Housing Unit 50 12. Six County Regional Populations 60 13. County-State-National Birth Rates 61 14. Past Population Trends 64 15. Projection Age Group Composite 68 Suggested Highway Improvement 88 16. ii 17. Drainage Areas 100 18. Physical Environment Evaluation 108 19. School Population - South Butler County 111 20. School Population - Freeport Area 113 21. Library Requirements 118 22. Recreation Standards 121 23. Street Priorities - Saxonburg Borough 136 D 24. Local Road Improvements - Buffalo Township 147 25. Local Road Improvements - Clinton Township 157 il 26. Local Road Improvements - Jefferson Township 167 27. Assessed Valuations 182 28. Projected Assessed Valuations 182 '11 22. Average Municipal Receipts 184 30. Average Township Revenues in Pennsylvania 185 31. Average Municipal Expenditures 185 32. Projected Property Tax Receipts 189 U 33. Regional Capital Improvement Program 190 34. Saxonburg Capital Program 192 U 35. Saxonburg Capital Budget 193 36. Buffalo Capital Program 194 37. Buffalo Capital Budget 195 U 38. Clinton Capital Program 196 39. Clinton Capital Budget 197 U

X 0 0 LIST OF TABLES - CONTINUED Page

40. Jefferson Capital Program 198 41. Jefferson Capital Budget 199 42. Winfield Capital Program 200 43. Winfield Capital Budget 200

xi LIST OF PLATES

Page

1. Slope Map - Buffalo Township 5 2. Slope Map - Clinton Township 6 3. Slope Map - Jefferson Township - Saxonburg 7 4. Slope Map - Winfield Township .8 5. Existing Land Use - Saxonburg Borough 16 6. Existing Land Use - Buffalo Township 17 7. Existing Land Use - Clinton Township 18 8. Existing Land Use - Jefferson Township 19 9. Existing Land Use - Winfield Township 20 10. Planning Districts 28 11. Highway Classifications 35 12. Mining Influences 45 13. Housing Characteristics 53 14. Population Density/Distribution 63 15. Future Land Use 75 16. Regional Location Map 84 17. Traffic Volumes - 1965-1985 87 18. Highway Improvements 90 19. Utility Plan 94 20. Saxonburg Utility Systems 97 21. Community Facilities Plan 109 22. Site Scheme - County Pork 124 23. Community Facility and Land Use Plan - Saxonburg Borough 131 24. Community Facility and Land Use Plan - Buffalo Township 143 25. Community Facility and Land Use Plan - Clinton Township 153 26. Community Facility and Land Use Plan - Jefferson Township 163 1 73 ,. 27. Community Facility and Land Uqe Plan - Winfield Township Ii

.xii 11 .Part One of the Comprehensive Planning Study for the Southeast Butler Regional Planning Area comprised of Buffalo, Clinton, Jefferson, and Winfield Townships and Saxonburg Borough deals with the background.data.which is necessary as a basis'for.fhe formation of long term planning proposals. ., Chapter One provides an analysis of the primary physical characteristics of the land, . both.man-made and natural. Natural land features including slope:conditions.arid~'biI types are discussed along with the land uses which hwe been established over:the.:years

of development. Also included is a discussion of the current .highway:system which '(( serves these established land uses. ..,. Chapter Two provides an analysis of basic economic influences which affect'the .Region and a general study of housing conditions which are present today.. Population trends, both post and future are discussed in Chapter Three. Projections are included which cover the planning period of the master plan studies.

Together, these elements provide the basis for projected land.uses and highways and for recommendations contained in master plans at the regional and local.community levels which are presented as Part Two and Part Three of the total study.

1 I I

.... CHAPTER ONE e ,. .,.. . $XISTING DEVELOPMENT I I The Region today offers a peaceful picture of farmlands interspersed with wooded areas and scattered residential development. But forces operating outside the.Region are I causing changes, to. this pastoral scene. Major factors dictoting these changes have .been .... developing for some time. Regional population growth is extending from Allegheny County,.primarily into Buffalo Township; population growth is pushing outward from I the City of Butler along Route. 356 and lateral. roads; and. construction of the proposed. Allegheny.Valley Expressway is imminent. In addition,. the initiation of firm highway recommendations .,. by the Butler Count? Planning Commission implemented by the Perm- I sylvania StateHighway Department will serve to increase the tempo of these development factors.., I In the absence of forethought and realistic planning, chaotic, iumbled, unattractive uses can develop, Therefore, communities must examine the physical features in the region and their potential development in conjunction with existing development 1 and the trends or guidelines which this establishes.

What are the Region's assets and its liabilities? What can reasonably be expected to I occur within the next twnety yeors? Will new residential development occur due to the opening of the Expressway? And, if so, how many new schools and other community facilities will have to be provided new residents? Will taxes have to be .I raised or is there a chance of attracting new industry to help broaden the tax base? Will present practices concerning woter supplies and sewage disposal be able to meet increasing demands, or will unsafe and unpleosant contamination be the result? I

These random questions demonstrate the need for involvement of the planning process in all aspects of community life and development. The times now present the choice I . of permitting the Region to grow like Topsy, or to plan for a rational pattern of development designed to serve the entire Region. 1 SLOPE CONDITIONS I

The natural characteristics of the land are usually permanent and are not subject to most of the changes which dominate man-made objects. Although grading or I erosion may alter the surfaces of given parcels, the topography of a community remains basically static. Therefore, it is important that these natural features be recognized in terms of their advantages and limitations. This consideration is a.particulor I I

2 importance to planning in Western Pennsylvania because of the irregular tarrain ordirlarily encountered. Table 1 shows the four major slope categories used in the slope analysis.

TABLE 1 SLOPE CATEGORIES

Percent of Slope Characteristics

1. Zero through eight percent Predominantly level-preferred for development.

2. Nine through sixteen percent Gently rolling - suitable for development.

3. Seventeen through twenty-five percent Hilly - difficult for most development purposes.

4. Over twenty-five percent Steep- generally unsuitable for development.

The First two categories will adequately accommodate most types of development in the absence of other circumstances such as inaccessability or flooding,

Seventeen to 25 percent slope is developable, although the usable area per acre is significantly reduced. Development problems are common and larger parcel sizes are usually necessary to provide adequate development sites.

Slope areas in excess of 25 percent are generally unsuitable for most types of building. Excessive slope oreos have practical value only when properly utilized. Ordin- arily the development of residential or commercial structures, under extreme slope conditions, causes numerous problems and expense to the developer and the municipality. Such slope areas are difficult to service with utilities and create complications in street construction and maintenance procedures. Experience in many communities where homes have been established on steep slopes indicates that the cost to local government is often in excess of revenue received through taxation.

AS an asset however, much of this rugged terrain provides natural scenic beauty and has a recreational potential which should be preserved. The undeveloped hillsides in and around urban areas provide valuable open space and dramatic views. Steep terrain results in a broken pattern of urban development, provid-ing a pleasant visual contrast to the monotonous sprawl of concrete which can be found in many urbanizing areas of the country.

3 TABLE 2 SLOPE CONDITIONS SOUTHEAST BUTLER- COUNTY REGIONAL PLANNING AREA

Buffal,o ' 'Clinton Jefferson .Winfield Saxonburg 6Townshi Townshi. Boro

Over 25% : 46.3 16.3 5.2 20.5 -- 1i% through 25% 1.9 9.7 9.7 4.2 1.9 9%:through 16% 26.4 24.4 33.5 29,.2. 14.2

' '0% thbugh 8%': I: '' 25.4 ' 49.6 51.6 46.1 , 83.9

100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0

The statistical data in Table 2 and the Slope Maps which are shown on Plates numbered 1, through 4, indicate the general slope characteristics of the individual communities within the region. It is apparent that steep terrain conditions are consistently found througtiout the regional area with the largest concentrations of excessive slopes occurring in Buffalo, Winfield and Clinton Townships and the least in Saxanburg.Borough and Jefferson Township.

Major growth which has occurred in the region has utilized the more level terrain, and in most instances has followed highway routes which were developed through corridors of flat terrain or open land. Lineal patterns of land development have thus.evolved which relate directly to slope conditions within the region.

It is obvious that the future land development patterns in the 'Southeast Butler County Regional Area will be'influenced to a large degree by terrain features. An analysis of vacant land and slope conditions reveals the long term potential of undeveloped land area in terms of acreage. All slope in excess of 25%.and selected.portions .,of the 1.7.through 25 percent classifications were deducted from vacant .unused land, -wooded area and open farmland. The resulting acreage indicates future land'areas' which are potentially developable in terms of slope. Major wooded areas within the region were practically all situbted on land in excess of 25% slope.

A review,of the data in Table 3 indicates that over 50% of the open larid areas of the region is developable based solely upon slope considerations., These figures reveal major growth potential in terms of land availability. While current farmland is included (much of which will be maintained for agricultural purposes for many years to came) many acres of prime land will be utilized for residential, commercial, induitrial and public uses within the next two decades. .. I I0 I 4 'I

LEGEND U

LECT*O SLOPE MAP

3 TABLE 3 DEVELOPABLE-LANDAREA SOUTHEAST BUTLER COUNTY REGIONAL PLANNING AREA

Developable Vacant Land Total Vacant Land Area % of Total Community (Acres) (*) (Acres) Vacant

Buffalo Township 14,311 9,849 69% Clintaq Township 14,162 8,914 63% Jefferson Towqship 14,053 10,997 78% Winfield Township 14,510 8,620 59% Saxanburg Borough 363 363 100%

(*) Includes/Open Agricultural, Vacant and Wooded.

The availability of land for development as indicated by this study will be considered along with economic, demographic, soil types and other factors in the development of prolected long-range land use recommendations. 0 . ..( SOILS

A soil survey of selected portions of Butler County was completed early in 1967!/This survey included segments of the Planning Area as follows:

a. Buffalo Township - Either side of Route 356 From Freeport to the northwestern corner of the Township. The survey area varies in width along both sides of the road between 1/2 mile to as much as two miles.

b. Saxonburg Borough - The entire borough.

C. Winfield Township - The southwestern corner adjacent to Route 356.

d. Clinton Township - Areas immediately south of Saxonburg, for a distance of approximately 1-1/4 miles.

1/ Volume I - Soil Survey Maps and Volume I1 - Soil Suwey Interpretations for developing areas in Butler County, Pennsylvania, prepared by U. S. Depart- 0 ment of Agriculture - Soil Conservation Service, Harrisburg, January, 1967.

9 e. Jefferson Township - Areas immediately surrounding Soxon- burg, extending approximately 1/2 miles north, 1-1/4 miles east and 2 miles west; also, the vicinity around Jefferson Center and the extreme northwestern corner of the Township. TABLE 4 r SOIL TYPES SOUTHEAST BUTLER COUNTY REGIONAL PLANNING AREA

Predominant Survey Area Soil Types Characteristics Buffalo Township Brinkerton Silt Loam Deep, poorly drained, clay subsoil Cavode Silt Loom Deep, poorly drained, clay subsoil Cookport Loam Deep, moderately drained, clay I1 subsoil Dekalb Channery Deep, well drained, sandstone bedrock, sandy loom subsoil n Tilsit Loam Deep, moderately droined, shaly or sandy subsoil Wharton Silt Loam Deep, well drained, shale bedrock, il clay pan subsoil Saxonburg Borough G ilpin Weikert Shallow to moderate depth, well drained, sandstone bedrock e! Tilsit Loam See above Wharton Loom See above Winfield Township Cavode Silt See above D Clymer Loam Deep, well drained, sandstone bedrock !J Cookport Loam See above Wharton Silt See above Clinton Township Gilpin Weikert See above Jefferson Township Brinkerton Silt Loam See above 11 Covode Silt Loam See above Cookport Loam See above Tilsit Loam See above U Wharton Loam See above

This analysis provides data relative to the charocteristics of the soil types found in U these vorious areas. The predominant types are listed for each area in Table 4, Soil Types, and fall into two general categories. First are those which are deep, poorly.drained with clay subsoil. These include the Brinkerton Silt Loam and Cavode U

10 0 Silt Loam. Others which drain moderately well or well are also deep, but with sand- 0 stone or shale bedrock and sandy loam or clay pan subsoil. These include Caokport Loam, Dekalb Channery, Tilsit Loam, Wharton Silt-Loam, Gilpin Weikert, and Clymer Loam. Table 4, Soil Types, discusses these types in detail as each relates to the individual community,

The interpretation of soil characteristics for a given area provides guidance for future land use recommendations. It provides significant information relating to engineering and construction, community development and recreational development, suitability for crop land, game propagation and woodlands. On the basis of data available for the soil survey areo within the Southeast Butler County Regional Planning Area the following conclusions have been drawn.

Buffalo Township

The predominant soil type indicated in the survey area is the Tilsit Soil Series. This ' is significant since the survey area is in a major developed portion of Buffalo Township and this particular soil series is characterized by slow permeability and a seasonal high water table which are bath unfavorable conditions for sewage effluent disposal. Construction problems relating to highway construction are also anticipated with this soil characteristic present due to seepage above fragipan, which is a slowly permeable subsurface layer, and a marked tendency for frost heaving.

Three other major soil types found in significant quantity in the survey area are all marked by poor to moderate drainage qualities and thus present the same general difficulties which are associated with the Tilsit series. Two additional major soil types, the Dekalb and Wharton series, although well drained soils have slow rates of permeability. While the Dekalb exhibits bedrock at 2 to 5 feet, the Wharton type is not advantageous for highway construction due to seepage qualities and unstable soil materials.

The characteristics exhibited by the major soil types in Buffalo Township signal the need for public sewage systems to replace on-site.septic systems. This need must be considered critical now and can be expected to compound as new growth occurs. Also, firm specifications must be included in subdivision regulations to guarantee adequate construction of local street systems installed by developers.

Saxonburg Borough

Tilsit and Wharton soils, and to some degree Gilpin types, predominate in the Saxon- burg area.' The latter of these soils is very permeable, but as previously explained, the r

other two types are just the opposite. Although a sewage system is operating in Saxan- burg, steps should be initiated to expand the service area as additional growth occurs beyond the present borough boundaries.

Winfield Township

Clymer loam soils are generally well distributed in the southwestern corner of Winfield Township where the most significant development has occurred. This soil presents few problems to construction with bedrock characteristically below 3 feet. Permeability is moderately rapid, thus presenting few limitations to low density residential sewage disposal. The presence of Cwode, Cwkport and Wharton soil types does however, c indicate caution and the need for soil testing prior to land development.

Clinton Township Limited portions of Clinton Township are included in the soil survey; however, the n survey areas south of Saxonburg indicate the same basic soils found within the Borough. Caution and proper soil testing should become standard procedure prior to approval of any development proposals by local officials. Although the Gilpin soils in evidence ore U capable of supporting septic systems, every effort should be made to join the Saxonburg sewage system where possible, -. , Jefferson Township iJ Soils in all surveyed areas of Jefferson Township follow patterns found in Buffalo Town- ship. Soils of poor permeability are predominant and indicate development turmoil in future years if land use controls and population density standards are not enacted and enforced.

The developing areas immediately surrounding Saxonburg should be considered as 11 part of an expanded sewage district which could be added to the present Saxonburg facility. Growth factors in the northwest corner of Jefferson Township will likewise eventually require still furher expansion of sewer service. U

The soil surveys discussed above provide a variety of information to farmers, engineers, home owners, public officials and others faced with the continuing problems of U community growth and stability. The available data should be consulted frequently during the planning’and decision making phases of development. U Table 5, Land Use Potential of Soil Association in the Southeast Butler County Region, should be used as a guide and reference for future consideration. 0 0 ‘11 12 I] TABLE 5 LAND USE POTENTIAL OF SOIL ASSOCIATIONS IN THE SOUTHEAST BUTLER REGION '

Residence Recreation With Septic Without Soil Association Agriculture 2 Tank Septic Tank Industry5 Roads 6 Unintensive 7 Intensive 8

3-G ilpin-DeKalb- Severe limitation Severe limitation Severe limitations Severe limit- Severe limit- Moderate limitation Severe limit- Mantevallo Major Problems: Major Pmblemr: Major Problems: atians atians Major Problem: atian (Steep sails) Slope; Shallow Slope; Shallow Slope; Shallow Major Problems: Maiar Prab- Slope Generally not to bedrock; to bedrock; to bedrock; ' Slope; Generally lem: Slope; suited Generally limited Generally not Generally not not suited Generally to pasture and suited suited not suited woodlands 4-G ilpin- Moderate limita- Moderate to Slight to moder- Moderatelim- Slight to ' Slight Slight to Ernest-Wharton tian severe limitation ate limitation itation Moderate Iimi tatians Moderate limit- Major Problems: Major Problems: Major Problemr: Major Prob- limitations atians Seasonally high Seasonally high Seasonably high lems: Major Prab- Major Problemr: water table and water table, slaw water table, Seasonally lems: Seasonally high - shale to bedrock permeability, slopes and un- high water Seasonal Iy water table, slaw w in same places. slope, and unstable in some table and un- high water permeability; Erodibility; stable in same places. stable in same table, slaw and slope in Erosion control places; Generally places; Slope; permeability, same places; generally needed poor far septic Generally suited Cut and Fill slope and Generally and feasible tanks mer 20- for mast places. generally unstable in suited in mast 40% of the area, needed. same places; places. Generally suited in mast places. 5-Whartan- Moderate limita- Moderate to Moderate limita- Moderate Moderate lim- Slight- Moderate limit- Gilpin-Cwode tions Severe limit- tions limitation itatians limitation atian Major Problems: atian Major Problems: Major Prab- Major Problems Major' Problems: Seasonally high Major Problemr: Seasonally high lemr: Seasonally high Seasonally high water table, slow Seasonally high water table and Seasonal Iy water table, slaw water table; slaw permeability and water table, slaw slope; basement high water permeability and permeability and erodibility; permeability and drainage and table and slope slope; Drainage slope. Artificial Artificial drainage slope; Generally same cut and fill Drainage and and some cut and drainage generally and erosion can- poor far septic generally needed some cut and fill generally needed. tml generally tanks in most and feasible. fill generally needed. needed and places needed. feasible. Footnotes

1. It should be strongly emphqsized that soil associations show. only the dominant general character of broad land areas and it must be recognized that within any i one sail association there will be inclusions of relatively small areas of different soils. i i ! Ratings are made for each potential land use taking into account the predomina- ting soil conditions. Ratings used are: i i a. Slight Limitation - The soil presents no serious limitation to the use in question. i b. Moderate Limitation - The soil presents limitation which need to be recognized but which can be overcame. ! i C. Severe Limitation - The soil presents such serious limitations to use that extreme measures are needed to overcome the problems. c' j Usage tends to be undesirable or unsound. .. The major kinds of problems causing the limitation are indicated by numbers which correspopd to the problems listed under the heading "Major Problems."

2. Refers primorily to the commercial production of generol farm or specialized cultivated crops. Limitations for a pastoral type of agriculture are not considered.

3. Refers primarily to one family dwellings which require the use of septic tank sewage disposal systems.

4. Refers primarily to one family dwellings which have sanitary sewage disposal systems available as planned.

5. Refers primarily to industrial and commercial uses which normally require quite level sites.

6. Refers primarily to local streets, collector and arterial roads which geneially rely an the natural land surface for layout. The kind and degree of problems for major highway construction are also included to some degree.

7. Refers primarily to those types of recreation and scenic areas which require limited traffic such as hiking, hunting, wildlife sanctuaries, etc. a. Refers primarily to those types of recreation which require considerable vehicular and human traffic. Examples are picnic sites, camprsites, playground areas, golf courses, etc.

Source: "Physical and Man-Made Features of the Region", Southwestern Pennsylvania Regional Planning Commission, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, May, 1965. 14 EXISTING LAND USE

In viewing the graphic existing land use data on Plates 5 through 9 inclusive, a series of general characteristics become apparent.

Past growth has been dictated by topographic considerations.

Original settlement was of a dispersed agricultural nature with settlers migrating into the region from the south and east.

Small crossroad centers developed to serve the needs of the surrounding agricultural hinterlands.

Railroad building occurred along the path of least resistance - generally the flat, bottom-land bordering waterways.

With the coming into general use of the passenger automobile, mobility between employment and residence was greatly increased, permitting development to scatter.

A pattern of linear residential development occurred along Route 356, the main connector between Butler City and Freeport, and numerous other rural roods.

An influx of population beginning in the early 1950's and dwarfing all previous development patterns, began the suburbonization of hitherto agricultural land.

Types of Land Use

Land uses have been divided into categories coordinated with those being utilized by the Pittsburgh Regional Planning Association in its six-county regional economic study 1/ and a similar study currently being made by the Southwestern Pennsylvania Regional Planning Commission. The land use categories employed are as follows:

Developed Areas

1. Single-Family Residential

One-family, detached units. Yard areas utilized for residential purposes are included in the tabulations. In agricultural areas, the

15 n EXISTING LAND USE LOXC uuu otvtiorucHi PUN BUfFALO TOWNSHIP 1 NI Y 111 Illlllll 1,111, CIY"11 UllDll, llllll.1 ,,I, ...... - ...._.....__._...-..."" ,.._ ::: ...... ::: ~:;::."~:G"~-yrc I- ...... l...... I...... V,@ -..-.....-..-_...... -... .--.. e6 ...... -..... A...... ~ ...... -...... --. -...-...-... .._-"" ._I_...- .-(, .._.._....- I_..# ", n ...... "..,, *,",,.,,,.,>@ .I.".e .(.-."."...*...I.".e .^....._ ...... -.-..-".l.l--.l ._-. ..--...... * . .i...... I "...... ""

1-..11 ..1..."1 ...... I.... ""1, ...... * . .I ,." .I ..... 9 - ...... _.0 -A apparent residential yard space surrounding the dwelling structure is listed, as part of the single family residential classification. Generally in these oreas 20,000 square feet has been assigned as residential in character.

2. Multi-Family Residential

Any residential structure accommodating two or more dwelling units, including converted single family structures, double houses, and apartment buildings.

3. Mixed

This use is a combination of residential and commercial activity on rhe same site. In some instances, it is represented by a home occupation, such os a repair service or a beauty shop, being operated as a secondary use in conjunction with a residential unit. In other cases, the commercial use may be primory activity with the residential function being secondary as exemplified by a rear or second floor apartment in combination with a store, garage or shop.

4. Commercial (Highway)

0 Highway commercial denotes commercial establishments having a large patronage area, such as a shopping center. Included are alsobanking and office uses, personal services, hotels and various types of repair services and wholesaling activities.

5. Commercial (Neighborhood)

Commercial activities such as a corner grocery, general stone or smbll retail shopping focilities serving a localized area.

6. Public

Municipal buildings, fire stations, schools, libraries, parks and municipal recreation facilities.

1/ Regional Economic Study: Land Classification Manual, Pittsburgh Region (comprising the Counties of Allehgney, Armstrong, Beaver, Butler, Washington . and Westmoreland). Pittsburgh Regional Planning Association, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, May, 1961.

21 7. Semi-public

Churches, civic and fraternal uses and related recreation uses not of a commercial nature.

0. Light Industrial

Characterized by research and development facilities and activities, which are not major manufacturing plants. May include shops, trucking terminals or warehouses.

9. Heavy Industrial 1; Major processing, manufacturing or fabricating plants, also warehousing and /I related activities. 10. -Roads Included are rights-of-way for railroads and highways within the region. All state and township roads are included. Private roads and drives are not included in the tabulations.

Undeveloped Areas 11. Aa ricu Itural c This category includes land used for farming activity, exclusive of portions utilized For residential purposes. Included are pasture lands, tilled areas, orchards, nurseries and similar farming operations.

12. Wooded :Ii Predominantly wooded land not improved far any specific activity such as recreation or residential use. U 13. Vacant

Open (non-wooded) land and single lots void of structures, showing no 11 evidence of agricultural or otheruse.

14. .Water- D '.. Water areas such as streams, lakes and reservoirs comprise this category. U 0 -ll 22 U TABLE 6 LAND USE TABULATIONS BY COMMUNITY SOUTHEAST BUTLER COUNTY REGION OCTOBER, 1965

DEVELOPED AREA

Buffalo C I i nton Jefferson Sax0 nburg Winfield Acres % Acres % Acres YO Acres YO Acres YO 000.0 (00.0). 000.0 (00.0) 000.0 (00.0) 000.0 (00.0) 000.0 (00.0) Single Family 898.63 77.60 333.43 35.51 714.48 67.84 154.40 62.56 450.20 58.92 Mu1ti-Family .69 .06 2.40 .97 9.84 1.29 Commercial (Neighborhooq 5.95 .63 13.40 5.43 Commercial (Highwoy 59.75 5.16 8.67 .92 23.60 2.24 31.30 4.09 Mixed 5.04 .44 2.29 .24 .50 .05 1.40 .57 2.51 .33 Public 7.09 .61 1.83 .19 37.54 3.56 31.40 12.72 6.18 .81 3 Semi-Public 26.32 2.27 29.07 3.10 32.77 3.11 31.60 4.13 Light Industry 8.70 .75 5.72 .61 8.90 3.61 Heavy Industry 368.68 39.28 46.03 6.02 Roads 151.81 13.11 183.28 19.52 244.30 23.20 34.90 14.14 186.76 24.41

1,158.03 938.92 1,053.19 246 .a0 765.12 UNDEVELOPED AREA

Agricultural 8,696.50 61.18 7,577.36 53.49 9,156.75 70.57 192.80 60.88 7,968.68 54.95 Wooded 4,153.89 29.22 4,780.92 33.75 3,010.66 23.20 26.80 8.46 5,610.50 38.69 Vacunt 1,327.05 9.34 1,803.37 12.73 774.02 5.96 97.10 30.66 916.21 6.32 Water 36.66 .26 3.43 .03 35.18 .27 5.49 .04 14,214.10 14,165.08 12 ,976.6 1 316.70 14,500.88 DEVELOPED - UNDEVELOPED COMPARISON

Yo Total Area Developed 7 6 7 44 5 % Total Are0 Undeveloped 93 94 93 56 95 ,-

The tabulations in Table 6 indicate the low density development patterns which char- acterize the regional area. Percentages of use have been related to developed and undeveloped categories because of this sparseness of land uses. It will be noted that the low percentage of development is consistent within the townships, ranging from 5 to 7 percent, and that even in Saxonburg where public utilities and concentrated commerce are available less than one-half of the land is developed.

Single family residential land use is predominant in the developed areas followed by i The only significant exception to this r roads and either commercial or public uses. pattern is in Clinton Township where heavy industry is predominant due to the U. S. Steel Sintering Plant site. Agriculture is the major characteristic of undeveloped land area in the region. The weight of single family and agricultural land uses in their respective categories is characteristic of bedroom-farm oriented rural communities prevalent in Butler County.

An analysis of land use patterns by community indicates parallel characteristics throughout the regional area. n Saxonburg Borough U Saxonburg is the most densely settled of all the regional communities; however, even here less than one-half of the land area is developed. Within this municipality are found public water and sewer facilities as well as a small central business district offering professional services, bonking facilities and commercial sales and services. Although of a limited nature this business core is the only one found in the regional vicinity. With its established merchants, central location and public facilities Saxon- burg has a definite potential for business expansion as the region continues to grow.

Residential uses are primarily single family but a trend has developed in the past few years toward multi-family apartment buildings. There are some excellent sites within the borough for this type of housing and the market appears available for such units; however, adequate controls will be required to insure sufficient lot areas, parking and u related site elements which have been overlooked in recent years,

The growth outlook for Saxonburg along residential and commercial lines appears bright.

Buffalo Township U Major land use activity in Buffalo Township has been related to Route 356 which 0 traverses .the community in a general path from its southeast corner to the northwest corner. While land uses have varied from residential to commercial and industrial 0

24 0 in nature they have generally not been in conflict with one another. At least two subdivisions, each containing in excess of forty lots, have developed with access on Route 356. Numerous smaller neighborhoods have developed in the township but these have for the mast part utilized existing roads rather than developing new street patterns. It will be noted from Table 6 that Buffalo'Tawnship has considerably more acreage in single family residential use than does its,regional neighbors.

Commercial and industrial activities are primarily situated along Route 356 and are oriented to trucking, hauling and similar activity. This activity is expected to accelerate rather quickly with the construction of the Allegheny Valley Expressway which will traverse the southeastern corner of Buffalo Township and interchange with Route 356. This highway will have a profound influence on the land use potential of all land along Route 356.

Clinton Township

Although over 39% of the developed area in Clinton Township is heavy industrial by virtue of the U. S. Steel Sintering Plant, the complexion of the community is still basically residential - agricultural in nature. Major residential growth has not developed except for scattered housing units situated along local roads. Residential growth which might have been anticipated as a result of the industrial plant has been deterred as a a result of air pollution from the plant. Relief from the pollution problem has been promised and could in fact result in additional industrial and residential growth once the problem is satisfactorily resolved. Residential growth is expected os a natural expansion from adjacent Saxonburg and the Bessemer and Lake Erie Railroad, which runs from the south to north of Clinton Township, offers industrial possibilities for many sites. The south and particularly the southwestern portions of the community are heavily sloped precluding large areas from active land use development; however, many acres of developable land are available in the central and eastern portions.

Jefferson Township

Jefferson Township contains the second highest acreage of residential use among the regional townships. This is a result of growth north of Saxanburg, the influence of Route 356 which cuts across the northeastern sector of the community and a closer proximity to the Townships of Summit and Butler which are major urbanizing areas adjacent to the City of Butler.

In spite of the significant residential land use in Jefferson Township, little if any subdivision development has occurred except for lineal development along established highways. Future residential growth can be expected to extend back from present road patterns as ..a

25 ndwmeighborhwds are formed. Seventy-eight percent of the vacant land area in the township is developable. This constitutes nearly 11,000 acres of which a large majority 0. will be in demand far residential use. i

Industrial and commercial land uses will be generated as the importance of Route 356 increases following the construction of the Allegheny Valley Expressway. Such uses will be beneficial to the local tax base and economy. r Not to be overlooked is the importance of agriculture in Jefferson Township which has I the largest acreage of any regional community devoted to such land use.

Although farming has yielded to growth pressures in southern Butler County in recent years this shovld not become an accepted fate for rural districts. There is ample room in the Southeast Butler County Regional Planning Area for this important industry to continue to produce livestock and foodstvffs in concert with other land use development.

Winfield Township r .. Winfield Township has not developed os rapidly in recent years as the other three townships in the Regional Area. Fewer acres of land have been developed partly as a result of locotional disadvantages and partly due to the slope characteristics of the land. Except for the extreme southwest corner of the community, through which Route 356 passes, no major occess highways traverse Winfield Township. Also, the entire northeast corner of the community is heavily sloped as well os the rugged valley :: area of Little Buffalo Creek found in the southwest corner. These slope influences I hove frogmented the township to o degree. LJ ,, Residential development has appeared primarily along existing roads with only minor 1 J subdivision activity. A cement plant and a mushmom producer of world renown ore located in the West Winfield vicinity and constitute the major industrial uses in the township. ‘Ii Major agricultural uses ore situated in the central portions of the community. These ‘1 activities ore expected to continue for some years with supplemental residential growth J occurring to some degree. Highway oriented commercial activity and residential development are anticipated in proximity to Route 356. This will constitute the most significant growth area in Winfield Township. u

t 26 PLANNING DISTRICTS

With the above cited land use factors in mind at the municipal level a brief analysis has also been mode of slope and land use characteristics by Planning Districts. The purpose of this procedure is to permit an analysis of existing and proposed land use elements on the basis of natural land features irrespective of municipal and political considerations to achieve a truly regional approach. Although the existing data which follows is of a generaly nature it reflects current conditions aside from municipal influences and is, in fact, the primary basis for future land use recommendations.

The boundaries of the Planning Districts were determined from topographic or other natural features such as streams, plus man-made features such as major highways and roads or railroads. In addition, specific existing land uses and/or social characteristics of an area were also used in delineation of districts. Plate 10 indicates the location of these Planning Districts.

Existing Land Use by Planning Districts

Each planning district contains certain specific characteristics. Generally, however, agriculture and/or wooded are the two major land uses found in every Planning Dis- trict. The following pages describe the topography and existing land uses found in each Planning District.

1. Thorn Creek Planning District

Topogrophy Two major areas of the Thorn Creek Planning District are characterized by slope in excess of 25%. One of these areas is along the Thorn Creek Volley in the southwestern portion of Jefferson Township and the second area of excessive slope is in the northeastern portion of the Planning District in the vicinity of the headwaters of Rough Run. Large amounts of moderate slope (17% to 25%) are found scattered at random throughout the district.

Road patterns have generally developed in the valley areas and are bordered by irregular slope ranging from 17% down to relatively flat lands. These areas are characterized by rapid transition from one slope category to another which precludes major concentrations of flat or rolling parcels and has separated development potterns.

27 U LEGEND PLANNING DISTRICTS ****** PLANNING DISTRICT BOUNDARY LOHG I1IGi Of1IlOP1i1l ?LA# u SOUTHEAST BUTLER COUNTY @ PLANNdG DISTRICT NAME AND NUMBER REGIONAL PLANNING AREA CABOT THL BOROUGH OF SAXONBURG AN0 THt U TOWNSHIPS Oi BUiNLO. CLINTON. IEFFtRSOW. AN0 WIHFIfLD w..... UCC.. 0 e....-...*".--,- -...-..I.-,""".,." .. li...1' Id tl...h, .1..11., c..*.lt"l'. ,,"',.!*,.,..@ I. IU_...l.*"~.Y._...*. .I.."-..I n II. -," "...I..UU,I.....III-,". .n_.*. -I--.-..-.<-- .L.l, ... IO d ..1.1...11c-."^,.,. A- dI ,,..I I. ,811. ..lc:Yr."" Existing Land Use wooded land and agriculture predominate in the Thorn Creek Planning Districtmccounting for 21% and 64% respectively of the total land area. Residential use is the major active.use b.ut accounts for pnly 6% of the: total land area. .-.Most residential units,are scattered along State Route 356, legislative Route 10094 and local rqads. Only minor omounts of commercial and other land use types are in evidence in the Thorn Creek Planning,District.

2. Saxonburg Planning District

Topography This Planning District extends beyond the perimeter of the Borough of Saxonburg as evidenced by Plate 2. With the exception of fringes of steep slope along Sarver Run and along the western boundary of the district most of the land is flat or gently rolling and is suitable for development.

Existing Land Use Within the district is the Borough of Saxonburg, the community of highest structure density in the Southeast Region. Residential use is the major active use of land; however, it only accounts for between 3% and 4% of the total area of the Planning District. A majority of the residential units are clustered within Saxonburg with linear roadside patterns prevailing .in the balance of the district beyond the borough.

Agricultural uses are of major importance as a land use category and represent 62% of the total land area in the district. The existing area of development in Saxonburg, the suitable terrain features and the proximity to existing utilities earmark the Saxonburg Planning District as a prime development area with the present Borough of Saxonburg as a nucleus.

3. Cabot ?;;.:?nicg Cistr;-t

Topography Klonggerof steep slope traversesithe center of the Cabot Planning District bordering the course of Little Buffalo Creek in a north-south direction. With this exception the land is relatively flat with only 5% of the Planning District characterized by slope in excess of 17%.

Existing Land Use The village of Cabot forms an existing core of development which is primarily residentiol in character. An extension of this growth has followed highway ‘patterns in a lineal fashion. One quarter of the district is wooded and 65% of the total land area is devoted to agricultural pursuits.

29 4. Rough Run Planning District

T;pographhy T e Roug Run Planning District is characterized by excessively steep terrain. At least 40?? of the land area is comprised of slope of 17?? or greater. These physical patterns are found in conjunction with Rough Run and Cornplanter Run. Major development of all types will be curtailed in this vicinity due to the topography.

Existing Land Use There are scattered residential uses situated along the road systems in the Rough Run Planning District. Generally the development of this II area has been restricted as a result of steep slope. Only 39?? of the area is devoted to agriculture, the smallest percentage of any of the planning districts in the regional area. Heavy industrial activities are iI found herein. These include the Penn Dixie Cement Company and the West Winfield Mushroom Mine. r- .. 5. Sarver Planning District ..:: Topography il The Sower Planning District lays partially in Winfield and partially in Buffalo Townships at about mid-point along the common border of these two municipalities. Major slope oreas prevail and at least 36% of the toto1 land area is undevelopable. The remaining 64% of the area is Characterized by slope percentages of less than 17%.

Existing Land Use Residential growth has been limited to the community of Sorver and lineal development along Legislative Route 10090 ond Township Rood T-671. Subdivision activity in recent years has been experienced along Route 356 which is the western extreme of this planning district. jl il Agriculture is the largest single activity accounting for 59% of the land area, Twenty-three percent of the land area is wooded.

6. Buffalo Creek Planning District

Topography u 'The Buffalo Creek Planning District is situated along the eastern border of Buffalo Township. Approximately one-half of the land area is in slope of 17% or more. A large amount of this district is developable. il '. 2 U

30 U Existing Land Use The Buffalo Creek Planning District is characterized by a large amount of agricultural use and wooded area. (50% agricultural - 38% wooded). The proposed AI legheny Valley Expressway will traverse this district and in all probability result in major changes to the present residential- agricultural land use patterns.

7. Little Bull Creek Planning District

Topography 'The land in this district is steeply sloped, 61% of its total area being in slope of 17% or more. The relatively small amount of developable land (39%) will have to be carefully utilized - especially in light of the fact that the Allegheny Expressway will pass through this district creating a demand for expressway-oriented building sites. In view of the steep terrain, strict development controls should be enforced to guarantee the best use of land and retard the creation of problems resulting from marginal growth.

Existing Land Use fhis district contains one of the more extensively developed residential districts and is the site of one of the few major subdivisions in the region at the present time.

This district contains a higher percentage of residential use than any of the other planning districts (6%), but agricultural uses still account for 58% of total uses, while wooded is 20% and vacant 13%. Thus 90% is either completely undeveloped (wooded and vacant) or developed at a very low density (agricultural). While the steep terrain will preclude development of much of this land, it should be noted that residential development has occurred on portions of the steep terrain.

The largest, easily developable areas in this district extend olong the Little Bull Creek Valley which is roughly paralleled by LR10024 and along T-614 to its intersection with T-663.

8. Ekastawn Planning District

Topography Over 75% of this planning district is comprised of developable land. Most of the undevelopable land extends northward from the Allegheny County border in three "fingers". The central portion lies on both sides of LR10023 and is flanked by two porallel portions. Some scattered

31 pockets of undevelopable land extend from the right fingers along the the southern border of the planning district to State Route 356.

Existing Land Uses Agricultural uses-account for 49% of the total land area with 300%. wooded and 16% vacant. These three categories make up 95% of the total existing uses.

Residential development is low (3%) and found primarily in the area extending from LR's 10024 - 10147 eastward to State Route 356. Additional residentkdl growth should be anticipated in this planning district, particularly in the eastern portion near State Route 356 and in the vicinity of Ekastown and north toward the Borough of Saxonburg. Access to Route 356 and the Express- way to the immediate south and east and proximity to Saxonbuig directly north should generate significant development in the Ekastown Planning District.

9. Cherry Valley Planning District

Topography The southern portion of this district has steeply sloped lineal areas of land radiating from Bull Creek. Scattered areas of steep slope are also found in the northern portion of this planning district. One third of the total district is comprised of slope of li% or more, which limits development potential to a considerable extent.

Existing Land Uses The major use in the Cherry Valley district is agricultural (51%), followed by wooded land (3%). These two uses together comprise 84% of the total land in the district. Residential development is low, amounting to only 20%. of the total lond area.

This planning district contains the largest amount of land devoted to heavy industry (5%) due to the U. S. Steel Sintering Plant which is situated in the northern portion of Jefferson Township. The vicinity of the sintering plant has been identified as a prime industrial location since it has water and sewerage facilities nearby, is located along a railroad and is characterized by generally developable land. The amount of land devoted to heavy industry could increase in proximity to the U. 5. Steel operation as a result of the amenities involved which are conducive to industry. Also, new activity in coal mining in recent months has taken place in the southern areos of Clinton Township.

32 i !

Conclusion

Land Use Objectives

Southeastern Butler County must look to the future with the realization that it is becoming more intensely developed. During the next twenty years residential, commercial and industrial growth will absorb a considerable amount of the present open areas.

With this growth will come demands for additional facilities and amenities. New and difficult decisions by governmental leaders will be necessary in order to effect the types of development beneficial to old and new residents alike as land use patterns shiffand change. The following land use objectives form a basis far future planning decisions.

Future Land Use Should:

1. Provide areas for both private and public activies that will be necessary to serve present and future inhabitants according to their specific needs, in order to achieve safety, health, convenience and attractiveness.

2. Provide a sound economic base for the community which will offer stability through protection of existing values, and lay the groundwork for new 0 economic opportunities through efficiency in development and in operation. 3. Provide a sound relationship between individual land uses and the natural land characteristics.

The region's excellent location in relation to major highways and nearby urban areas serves to enhance the local development potential immensely. A nucleus of growth olreody exists. It now becomes a matter ofproviding the guidelines and foresight to carry out further development in an orderly and beneficial manner,

HIGHWAYS

Highways are of unquestioned importance to the development and potential growth of a community. From the preceding analysis of existing land use, it is obvious that the one main artery which traverses the region, State Route 356, has had a great deal of influence on growth patterns throughout the entire region. The impact of the proposed Allegheny Valley Expressway, which will be partially located in Euffolo -Township is already causing new thinking related to land use types among

33 residents in that area even before construction begins. The effect of this route and re- e lated highway improvements in the region will&e a major key to local growth. l

Clasiification

Four basic classifications, as shown on Plate 11, hove been utilized in classifying streets and highways in the Region. These classifications are consistent with those utilized in the Traffic and Transportation Study portion of the Master Plan Program i conducted by the Butler County Planning Commission in 1965. This permits coordinating data with the county agency. This process is also helpful in coordinating proposals which are submitted to the State Department of Highways, the agency responsible for the maintenance and construction of the majority of highways in the regional area. I' I

Arterial Highways

The basic function of the arterial system is to carry major traffic flows around or through developed areas and between major traffic generators. Ideally, the arterial route limits ingress and egress to interchanges, thereby permitting unobstructed ii flow of vehicles. Development along these highways is not permitted. Classic examples of the arterial highway include turnpikes, freeways and the Federal Interstate routes.

There are no orterial routes within the Region; however, construction will begin soon on :. the Allegheny Valley Expressway which will traverse the southeastern corner of Buffalo Township. This route will link the City of Pittsburgh with the Keystone Shortwoy near Brookville, Pennsylvania. Primary access to this new route from the City of Butler will be via the State Route 356 interchange in Buffalo Township. 1 Thus, while the Expressway will touch only a corner of the Region, it will hove great influence on development throughout the southeastern corner of Butler County , i and more particularly the Southeast Butler County Regional Planning Area. This ;I means additional demands upon other highways within the Region which, in many cases, are presently inadequate to carry traffic volumes or.ore' in need of major improvements.

Regional Highways

A regional h'ighway should connect other highways throughout the regional area and also carry traffic to and from destinations in the immediate vicinity. In the relatively small Southeast study area, regional carriers need not be limited access,

34 HIGHWAY CLASSIFICATIONS LOlC 8llCl OlllLOfYIIT Plll SOUTHEAST BUTLER COUNTY REGIONAL PLANNING AREA IHE BOPOUGH OF SAXOHBURG LHD THE rownsHiPs OF Bumto. CLINTON. ItFfERSON. AND WINfIELD but they should be of sufficient width and proper alignment to permit the unhampered flow of traffic. e

State Route 356, which traverses the entire region from southeast to northwest, serves as the one regional highway within the study area.

Route 356 passes through three of the five regionol municipalities and carries the highest traffic volumes in the Region. Further, it is one of eight major routes serving the City of Butler.

Current average daily traffic volumes on Route 356 are in excess of 4,000 vehicles. Peak hour volumes are estimated at over 400 vehicles per hour which approaches the existing roadway capactiy. Projected peak hour volumes for 1980, derived from the 1965 Butler County Study, indicate peak hour volumes of over 1,500 vehicles.

Route 356 is characterized by a narrow cartway and unstable berm conditions. Obviously the adverse physical condition, combined with capacity volumes, hos created dangerous traffic conditions which are being multiplied day by day os the use of this road increases. The opening of the Allegheny Valley Expressway in Buffalo Township will create an intolerable situation if remedial steps ore not initiated immediately to improve the inadequacies of State Route 356.

Collector Highwoys

The collector highwoys serve to join districts within the regional communities (ond others immediately beyond) with the regional and arterial highway systems.

The majority of the collector highwoys serving the Southeast Region extend from the Saxonburg vicinity. These include the following: I

1. Dinner.Bell Rood (LR-10126) which connects Saxonburg Borough with State Route 8 to the immediate west. ir .. 2. Glade Mill Road (LR-10018) which connects Clinton Township ond the J vicinity south of Saxonburg with Route 8.

3. Saxonburg Road (LR-10094) which connects Saxonburg to the Butler vicinity via Jefferson Township. (This Route roughly porollels the regional Route 356.) 4. Neupee Road (LR-10031) which connects Saxonburg to Route 356. U Freeport Road (LR-10024) which connects Saxonburg to Route 356 in a 5* a southerly direction via LR-10025 in Buffalo Township.

~ 6. Saxonburg Boulevard (LR-10131 and 10132) which connects Saxonburg to southwestern Clinton Township and points in Allegheny County,

7. Saxonburg-Tarentum Road (LR-10024) which connects Saxonburg with Allegheny County via Buffalo Township. This road runs parallel to State Route 356 and is becoming of major importance as a collector since portions were relocated and reconstructed through Buffalo Township within the past year by the Pennsylvania Department of Highwoys.

The seven collector roads listed above are oriented primarily to Saxonburg Borough, In addition to these, two other collector routes carry traffic from the eastern portions of the Planning Area to Route 356, the prime regional highway.

1. Cabot-Winfield Road (A-3875 - A-4544) which connects the villages of Cabot and West Winfield to Route 356, sewing the northeast corner of the region.

2. Sarvor Road(PA-228) which provides a northeosterly access from Route 356 to the Armstrong County area and State Route 422 which is a mojoi stote east-west carrier.

Most of these collector routes were originally constructed to serve rural farm areas and, with some exceptions, are inadequate for today's traffic volumes. Poor alignment is one of the major deficiencies which has resulted in dangerous intersections and inadequate sight distances. Equally critical are the dangers created by inadequate paving width, rough shoulders and sharp pavement edges. The most critical of these problem areos are indicated as "Major Deficiencies" on the Highway Classification illustration, Plate 11 .

Locat Streets

The local street system provides internal access to specific destinations within the community and neighboring vicinity. Except for a few minor collector routes not listed above, most of the local street system is the responsibility of the municipality. As growth continues, the local street pattern will grow; resulting in increased maintenance demands. This problem which is critical today is discussed in detail. in the section dealing with community level programs.

37 0 CHAPTER TWO ECONOMY AND HOUSING

THE ECONOMY

Butler County, once famous for its excellent farms is currently winning recognition as a progressive industrial area. In 1966, there were 162 manufacturing establishments employing more than 14,000 people. Wages and salaries totaled $99 million while the value of manufactured goads exceeded $497 million.

The SoutheastemRegional Aremhas shored in this growth. In 1966 the region contained ten manufacturing establishments employing 1,000 people. Wages and salaries totaled $4.2 million while the value of manufactured good equaled $9.3 million. While accurate past data is not available for comparison, this is considered a major gain on the basis of the relatively short listing of most of these industries in this particular vicinity.

Regional Implications

The influence of highways on the immediate district has been discussed in Chapter One. These arteries place Southeastern Butler County in a strategic position in relation to major market outlets. It is estimated that within a radius of approximately 100 miles, there is a population of seven and one-half million people and nearly 8,000 manufacturing plants. The regional market orea of which Southeastern Butler County is a part serves 75 of the 185 largest standard metropolitan areas in the nation, including eight of the ten largest cities in the nation.

In addition to the highway complex, Southeastern Butler County has the added transportation advantage afforded by rail facilities. The Pennsylvania and the Bessemer and Lake Erie railroads traverse the orea in a general northwesterly-southeasterly direction and offer rail tie-ins with other major national rail systems. This favorable combination of transportation facilities enhances the commercial and industrial development potential in the vicinity to o larger degree than ever before.

The, Economic Base

Detailed economic studies are ordinarily developed around the concept of the economic base as a major aid in determining present ond future conditions. While the scope of this study does not include a detailed market and industrial analysis, it is important -.a

39 to note the concept of the economic base in relation to local business patterns which have developed to date.

An economic base analysis divides the local economy into two parts. The first part deals with the goads and services (or "exports") sold beyond the community. The second part includes goods and services oriented to the immediate local market area. The important element in this division is the cause and effect relationships which are involved. The export market has a primary effect on local conditions. I If its activity lessens, it is felt at the local level. The export activities are termed "basic" as a result of this influence over local or "non-basic" market activities. For example, a reduction of employment in regional industrial plants would directly effect c gasoline stations, grocery stores and other retail outlets in and around the region.

It is generally assumed that over a significant time period the proportion of basic and non- basic jobs will be stable. An increase in basic employment then should reflect proportionate gains in non-basic employment. On this basis, the local business climate is dependent n on the attraction of basic industry to the region. The acceptance of this concept is the .; reason for competition between communities to attract new industry. :; 1/ A recent publication suggests that the following results from 100 new factory workers: Li

359 more people 100 more households $ 710,000 more personal income per year $ 229,000 more bank deposits 3 more retail outlets $ 331,000 more retail sales per year 97 more passenger cars registered 4.5 more non-manufacturing positions

While no definite proportion of basic to nan-basic employment can be painted to as the ideal, or the goal to be reaches, it is important to realize that growth in one area should il result in proportionate growth in the other. Industry Group Rankings, shown on Table 7, indicate an approximate'l to 1 proportion of basic to non-basic employment in the region. U Three industry groups comprise 66% of the total employees in the region. Manufacturing employees rank first (43% of all employees) in the region, with durable goods comprising 89% of the total manufacturing classes and non-durable goods the remaining 11%. Table 8, U provides a detailed description of the durable and non-durable goods manufactured within the region. U 1/ "What New Industrial Jobs Mean to a Community", Chamber of Commerce of the U. S., 1965. a TABLE 7 INDUSTRY GROUP RANKINGS - 1963 SOUTHEAST BUTLER COUNTY REGIONAL PLANNING AREA

Saxonburg Jefferson Winfield Clinton Buffalo Region No. Rank No. Rank No. Rank No. Rank No. Rank No. Rank Manufacturing 160 1 35 3 1 320 1 320 1 601 1 1683 1 Durable Goods 148 30 7 308 237 497 1497 Non-Durable Goods 12 46 12 12 104 186

Wholesale & Retail Trade 47 2 143 2 105 3 56 3 147 2 498 2

Agriculture - - 137 3 133 2 43 5 75 6 388 3

Construction 8 7 70 5 34 6 81 2 140 3 333 4

Professional 8, Retail Services 31 4 107 4 58 4 37 7 80 5 313 5 5 Personal Services 19 5 40 7 16 8 16 9 31 9 122 9

Transportation, Communi- cation and Other Public Utilities 32 3 51 6 35 5 40 6 64 7 ,222 6

Other Industries (including " Not Reported") 8 7 27 8 12 9 20 8 111 4 178 7

Mining 8 7 19 9 28 7 46 4 35 8 136 8' Public Administration 9 6 12 10 - - 8 10 11 10 40 10'.

Total Employed 322 959 74 1 596 1295 391 3

Source: Butler County Labor Force Report, Pennsylvania Department of Internal Affairs, April 1963. TABLE 8 EMPLOYEES ENGAGED IN DURABLE AND NON-DURABLE GOODS MANUFACTURE SOUTHEAST BUTLER COUNTY REGIONAL PLANNING AREA

Manufacturing Saxonburg Jefferson Winfield Clinton Buffalo Region

Durable Goods Furniture 8, Lumber 8, Wood Products 4 4 r 13 8 29 Metal Industries 79 163 110 138 275 765 Machinery 4 24 16 4 34 82 Transportation Equipment - 40 11 4 8 63 Other Durable Goods 61 76 171 78 172 558

Total Durable Goods Employees 148 307 308 237 497 1497

Non-Durable Goods Food & Kindred Products 4 20 4 8 57 93 Textile & Apparel Products - 4 - - 8 12 a: Printing, publishing 8, allied industries 4 14 4 4 12 38 Other Non-Durable Goods 4 8 4 - 27 43 c

Total Non-Durable J Goods Employees 12 46 12 12 104 186

Total Manufacturing 3 Employees 160 353 320 249 601

Source: Pennsylvania Bureau of Statistics, Butler County Labor Force Report, April 1963. U

.. .. . U

... . , . , ..>. 0 Wholesale and tetail trade ranks second with a total of 13% of the total regional employees. Table 9 describes the various industry groups comprising the wholesale and retail trade category.

TABiE 9. EMPLOYEES ENGAGED IN 'WHOLE.SALEAND RETAIL TRADE SOUTHEAST BUTLER COUNTY REGIONAL' PLANNING AREA

Wholesale & Retail Trade Saxonburg Jefferson Winfield Clinton Buffalo Region

Wholesale Trade - 8 23 32 15 78

Eating d Drinking Places 3 19 7 - 12 41

Business 8, Repair Services 12 29 16 4 24 85

0 Other Retail Trade 32 87 59 20 96 294

Total Employees 47 143 105 56 147 498

Source: Pennsylvania Bureau of Statistics, Butler County Labor Force Report, April 1963.

An interesting contradiction is revealed by this table. Saxonburg, which most closely approximates the urban center far the region, would normally be expected to have a higher concentration of wholesale and retail trade activity. However, as illustrated, Saxonburg has the smallest number of employees engaged in these activities in the region. This indicates that Saxonburg has not been growing with the times and has been losing wholesale and retail trade outlets (and employees) to the surrounding townships.

Agriculture, while no longer dominant, still retains an important position by employing 10% of the region's labor force. A more detailed examination of the county agricultural position has been made because of the drastic changes experienced during the twenty year period between 1940 and 1960. Table 10, Butler County Agriculture: 1940-1960, indicates the extent of these changes.

43 TABLE 10 BUTLER COUNTY AGRICULTURE: 1940 - 1960

1940 1960 + or - Rural Farm Population - 23307 6m 7% Number of Farm Workers 7,300 4,126 - 43?h Acres of Land in Farms 317,287 215,101 - 32% Number of Farms '4,528 2,274 - 50% Average Size of Farms 70 acres 95 acres + 36% Value of Farm Real Estate Per Acre $65,76 $226.92 + 345%

Source: Pennsylvania State University

The twenty year period witnessed great changes in the county agricultural situation. Farm population and the number of farms declined drastically, while the remaining farms became larger and more productive due to new technology and automation. The value of farm land per acre increased spectacularly, due in some measure to its potential value for possible suburban development.

Natural Resources

The major natural resource in the vicinity is related to the mining of bituminous coal. Plate 12, Mining Influences, grophically indicotes past mining activity and possible future mining, based upon estimated coal reserves and the economics of mining such reserves.

Mining activity has in recent months been accelerated in the southern portions of Clinton Township. These operations are expected to continue for some time and may possibly expand into additional sites where coal reserves are found within the region. Because of coal reserves, land use considerations, existing development and i!I topographical influences, most future mining will probably be limited to Clinton and Buffalo Township. A major increase in mining is not contemplated for the Regional Area, at least to the extent that it will have a major impact on the local 3 economy. il Future Economic Growth

The foregoing has examined the past and present state of economic development within the.a planning area. Continued development will depend in part upon present planning programs and their implementation. Also, the Butler County Comprehensive

44 LEGEND PAST OR PRESENT MINING MINING INFLUENCES worrwnwNo Y,HEO LOUC iimr D~Y~LOPYCIT rihu .. . STRW "& SOUTHEAST BUTLER COUNTY REGIONAL PLANNING AREA POSSlaLE FUTURE MINING THE BOROUGH OF SUXONBURG UNO THE ECONOYICALL" YlWLBLE RESERVE9 TOWNSHIPS OF Bumto. CLINTON, IEffERSON. AND WINFIELO PROBASLE MINABLE RESERVED Plan pinpoints three areas of endeavor which can assist future economic growth. These 0 include education, industrial promotion, and tourism. The Southeastern Butler County Regional Planning Area must, of course, participate in each of these three areas.

Education

The South East Butler County Industrial Development Corporation asks, '/ "Are you in favor of free enterprise, better roads, lower taxes, more income? We are too, and we think that the best and proven way to reach these ends is to take advantage of funds provided by the State to entice some nice little industries and research centers into our area. By nice, we mean clean, quiet, sweet smelling, diversified, decentralized industries which will not only employ our neighbors, but raise property values and spread the tax burden. "

The enticement of these "nice little industries and research centers" will depend to a large degree on the availability of an educated labor force. Therefore, strong emphasis . must be placed on young people remaining in school and in pursuing further education afterward. College preparatory courses, vocational and technical training, and modern school laboratory facilities are essential elements for twining the types of employees required by today's technological society.

Industrial Promotion Activity

The sharp increases expected in the percentages of young adults entering the working segment of the population in the later 1960's and 1970's means that more employment opportunities will have to be created. Aggressive industrial development programs combining the talents of elected officiols, civic leaders and businessmen must be formed to to accomplish this.

The planning area is fortunate in that it presently possesses an organization devoted to this purpose. The South East Butler County Industrial Development Corporation, mentioned above, is a functioning, con-profit corporation organized for the purpose of increasing employment and business activity in the seven communities cooperating I in the Corporation - the townships of Penn, Jefferson, Winfield, Buffalo, Clinton and Middlesex, and the Borough of Saxonburg.

i: Three specific areas of industrial development hove been noted in recommendations for future land use. Foremost and of immediate concern is the development potential

1/ South East Butler County Industrial Development Corporation promotional pamphlet.

:a :a

46 l: U .. of highway oriented industry and commerce adjacent to Route 356. This includes designating future sites in proximity to the Route 356 - Allegheny Valley Expressway Interchange in Buffalo Township as well as sites adjacent to the route along its course throughout the Region. The reservation of prime industrial and highway oriented commercial sites in these areas through zoning controls can provide a positive impact upon the economic base of the regional area, and in particular the Townships of Buffalo, Winfield and Jefferson.

In Clinton Township several prime industrial sites along the Bessemer and Lake Erie Railroad have development potential. Representatives of the B & LE Railroad have, in fact, been in contact with local officials regarding these sites. The development would provide needed diversity in the economic base of Clinton Township and also further strengthen the entire regional economy. However, a major deterrent to development is the lock of public water supply in the Township. Local officials must work with prospective industry to rectify this inadequacy.

In Saxonburg Borough, two significant industrial operations are now established. One of these is the Duco Plant and the other a ceramics producer. Additional expansion area has been considered for each of these operations in the development of land use planning and proposed zoning proposals. Except for the land set aside in the plan, little additional industrial land is available within the confines of the municipal boundary; however, expansion beyond that projected could be accommodated in the adjacent townships.

Tourism

Tourism seems destined to enjoy a bright future in Butler County. Fifteen thousand acre Moraine State Park, now under development, is the largest state park in Pennsylvania. With adequate highway access assured by the new Interstate System, all of Butler County will benefit from the park in terms of the expansion of services required to accommodate tourists.

A similar situation exists in southeastern Butler County with relation to the proposed Buffalo Creek State Pork. This site, comprising on area of approximately 10,000 acres in Butler and Armstrong Counties, has been proposed as a major recreational area by both the Western Pennsylvania Conservancy and the State Department of Forests and Waters. Although not anticipated as being as intensively developed as Moraine State Park, Buffalo Creek State Park would nonetheless have a major impact on the planning area. Adequate highway access from heavily urban Allegheny County has been assured by the Allegheny Volley Expressway.

ti a

47 Vigorous attempts to bring this proposal to fruition are needed. The formation of a capably staffed Tourist Development Commission at the County level has been recommended by the Butler County Comprehensive Plan. At the Southeastern Butler I.. County Regional Planning Area level, the formation of a Tourist Promotion Committee, working closely with the-Southeast Butler County Industrial Development Corporation, and the County Tourist Development Commission when formed, could materially aid in establishing tourism and recreation as a thriving new "industry".

Required Action

The elements required for economic growth are present today. If organized and pursued with a continuing effort they will result in a strengthened and developing economic climate in the planning area for years to come. Guidelines should be followed to achieve the types of economic growth which will be beneficial to the regional area, and more specifically, Butler County and vicinity. These guidelines should include the following:

1. Detailed site studies and analyses to provide the most appropriate locotions for economic growth. Each anolrjis should include transportation factors, compatibility of existing and anticipated future lond uses, ovailobility of utilities and community facilities and other elements pertinent to the specific uses proposed for establishment.

2. Objective selectivity of proposed business and monufocturing activities to exclude problem industries from which benefit might be nullified because of pollution, excessive noise or similar distracting influences, safety considerations and related conditions. A prime example of such a situotion has already been experienced with the Sintering Plant of U. S. Steel in Clinton Township. While this problem now seems on the verge of being satisfactorily solved,.similor conditions and the controversy they arouse should be prevented.

3. An impact study to determine whether or not a proposed new use can be accommodated by the community in terms of the services which must be provided, versus the actual economic benefits which will be generated for the community.

48 HOUSING

The growth now being experienced in the Regional Planning Area is expected to continue with major increases in commercial, industrial and residential development. To date, development activity has resulted in major changes within the Planning Area. Population gains, as indicated by projections in Chapter 3, will result in continued changes in present residential patterns found within the Planning Area. The maintenance of existing standard housing units, the improvement or removal of units which are substandard and a planned program to provide the types of new housing necessary to meet future population needs are all elements of a comprehensive approach to housing requirements.. This program is of vital concern, not only to local officials, but to each resident within the planning area.

The following analysis of housing conditions has a three-fold purpose - the maintenance of sound housing units; the repair of deteriorating units; and the elimination of dilapidated units. Although this study and analysis is primarily concerned with residential building conditions, it is also cognizant of other types of structures within the study area. Structural decay is a cancer which can ultimately spread throughout an entire community, regardless of specific land uses present, if proper preventive measures are not in force.

0 There are a variety of housing conditions within the Southeast Butler Regional Plan- ning Area since the character of the member communities differ. For example, Saxonburg represents an older, more mature community characterized by older structures, while the Townships represent more newly developing areas. Of concern to all, however, is the quality of existing housing and the long-term outlook for maintenance of acceptable housing conditions.

Housing Density

An analysis of housing density is important as it relates to general structural conditions. While high density does not necessarily indicate adverse conditions, the two often parallel one another, particularly in older boroughs and cities. Table 11, describes, by census enumeration district, the number of rooms and persons per housing unit with the Planning Area. It should be noted that Saxonburg Borough is not a typical older borough since it has the lowest number of persons per housing unit olong with one of the highest number of rooms per housing unit within the region. These two factors are due to the presence of a generally older population in Saxonburg, fewer children and smaller families, and the existence of older, larger houses. :::.

49 TABLE 11 MEDIAN NUMBER OF ROOMS AND PERSONS PER HOUSING UNIT BY CENSUS ENUMERATION DISTRICT SOUTHEAST BUTLER COUNTY REGIONAL PLANNING AREA

r Municipality Saxonburg Jefferson Clinton Winfield Buffalo Census Enumeration 010 - 010 - 010 - 010 - 010 - 010 - 010- 010- 010- 010- 010- i District 0072P 007OP 0071 0072N 0078 0079N 0073 0074 0075 0076 0077

Median Number i of Rooms Per I' Housing Unit 5.4 5.2 5.4 5.4 5.3 5.3 5.3 5.3 5.4 5.0 5.1 i

Median Number of Persons Per f Housing Unit 2.8 3.7 3.7 3.3 3.4 3.7 3.6 3.6 3.6 3.7 3,7 i'

Source: 1960 U. S. Census of Housing

On the other hand, the Townships, while hoving the same or close to the same number of rooms per housing unit have substantially higher numbers of persons per housing unit. This again is attributable to age group:compositions since the Townships have generally younger families in the child-bearing age groups. r!.. ti The conditions under which development takes place and the types of use involved are major determinants of structure patterns. A higher population density exists in Saxon- burg than in the Townships, primarily because of the smaller lot areas. The four townships are characterized by very low population densities. This . 1 is due to several factors - the predominance of single family housing units, the large lot areas required by the absence of public sewer systems, and the significant il portion of the total land area devoted to agricultural use.

Regional residential development experienced since 1945 has generally been on an individual house ar small (5 to 10 homes) subdivision basis and there have been few u larger subdivisions planned until recently, The growth pattern has been primarily along major highways, with some concentration at crossroads. u

Housing Values .. U A detailed ahblysis of housing values was not available from U. S. Census data, but, 0

50 based on the land use surveys, ranges of value were established. Housing units are predominantly single-family and range in value from $12,000 to $20,000 far more recent typical construction.

Condition and Occupancy

The 1960 U. S. Census of Housing recorded 3548 housing units in the Southeast Butler Regional Planning Area. Census enumerators classified each structure on the following basis:

Sound - no defects, or minor defects usually corrected during the course of normal maintenance.

Deteriorating - needs more repair than would usually be provided in the course of normal maintenance, and contains one or more defects of an intermediate nature that must be corrected if the unit is to provide safe and adequate shelter.

Dilapidated - housing that does not provide safe and adequate shelter. Contains one or more critical defects or a combination of intermediate defects sufficient in number to require extensive repair or rebuilding, or is of inadequate original construction.

The census onolysis of housing conditions in the Regional Planning Area revealed 83% of all units were sound, 13% deteriorating, and 4% dilapidated. These statistics indicate generally sound overall structural conditions in the regional area. This is usually true in communities where home ownership is high when compared to oreas where an abundance of rental units are found. However, while dilapidation is a minor factor at the present time, it must not be considered insignificant. Various degrees of dilapidation and deterioration affect nearly one-fifth of all units and may spread if left untended. While a four percent dilapidation factor may be minor, the 13% deterioration element should stand as a warning that more serious problems could be developing.

Owner-Rental Occuoancv

In the virtual absence of apartment houses and other high density dwellings, it is not surprising that the majority of housing units or 78% in the Southeast Butler Regional Area are owner occupied. Approximately 1i% are renter occupied, and 5% are vacant in'the total region. This pattern is consistent with similar rural areas where most reside& are home owners.

51 Projected growth indicates a continuance of single family home construction in the region. Since this type of development is typically home occupied, current occupancy trends can be expected to also continue. Such development ordinarily generates a high degree of pride in both property and the community and relieves some of the burden of municipal control which is necessary to combat deteriorated structures which often occurs due to "absentee landlords. "

Plate 13, Housing Characteristics, graphically illustrates the condition and occupancy types in percentages for each census enumeration district within the Planning Area. These characteristics are based on information contained in the 1960 U. S. Census of Housing and should be interpreted accordingly, particularly in the case of deterior- oting housing. Residential units containing conditions classifying them as deteriorating in 1960, if not repaired and properly maintained in the intervening eight years, may well have advanced to the dilapidated stage by now.

The plate reveals the following factors about regional housing:

1 .' There is a relatively high proportion of deteriorating housing in lower Winfield Township (20%). This is undoubtedly due to the company housing at West Winfield.

2. Saxonburg is almost completely free of dilapidation, containing only one dilapidated housing unit. It also contains the least amount of'dete'rior- otion (Th).

3. The largest percentage of deteriorating units are found in Jefferson Township. This is probably a result of the transition from agriculture to suburbanization. As farming is being phased out everything slows down pending future real estate development. Lack of normal maintenance and .. '. upkeep on farm dwellings ore'omong the first indications of such o transition.

4. Clinton Township contains the highest percentages of renter occupied and vacclnt housing units,accompanied. by o high percentage '. of deteriorating units. The cause and effect relationship is difficult to determine here. It may be there is a higher percentage of deteriorating units because there are more renter occupied and vacant houses, or perhaps the existence of high.percentages of renter occupied and vacant dwellings have resulted in deteriorating housing units.

5. Buffalo Township combines o high percentage (90%) of sound housing units with o low percentage (1% or 11 housing units aut of a total of 1249) of dilapidated dwellings. This is a reflection of the recent growth, and'hepse new housing, in the Towq$hip< and an indication of adequate upkeep oir existing housing.

52 HOUSING CHARACTERISTICS IONG iiiit O~V~LOPY~NIriiu SOUTHEAST BUTLER COUNTY REGIONAL PLANNING AREA THt BOROUGH 01 SAXONBURG LNO THt TOWNSHIPS OF BUFFLLO, CLINTON. IE11ERSON. LNO WINFIELD Summary

The majority of housing units within the region are single family in nature, and owner-occupied.

The value of regional housing has been predominantly in the moderate price ranges. This trend is expected to continue during periods of additional development.

Deterioration is serious in Jefferson (21%) and Clinton (17%) Townships when compared with the County (15%) and State (12%).

Dilapidation is less serious except for Winfield Township (11%). This will be alleviated when the company housing at West Winfield is vacated.

Housing units in the Townships are generally scattered or in low density neighborhoods. C

Regional and local trends point toward continued growth for the Planning Area. Development which is anticipated in the immediate future can be expected to follow established patterns and will result in a predominance of single family moderately-priced dwelling units similar to those recently built in the vicinity. These predictions are based on population projections, family sizes and economic levels discussed in other chapters of this report.

L. Recommended Program

There follows an outline for a recommended housing action program designed to protect, and improve local housing conditions. These recommendations are three-fold, the goals being the initial prevention of substandard units, the maintenance or sound structures and the improvement of inadequate structures.

1. Prevention of Substandard Units U A. Goal: To eliminate practices which eventually create substandard conditions. This element is oriented primarily to new development. While a long range program and patience will be required to correct existing substandard conditions and deterioration, prevention through a positive housing program is more immediate. Social and economic influences dictate such a program at the local level in order to realize the type . of growth desired by local officials and the community as a whole. u I-

54 Ui B. Accomplished by:

(1) Subdivision Control: Establishes adequate setback, lot areas, street width and construction standards and engineering considerations relative to grades, drainage and utilities - all items required to properly control land development.

Concessions or variances should not be granted to developers indiscriminately without actual hardships being involved. ,I Adverse results will plague the community for many years to'come if concessions are permitted which result in major alterations of the basic intent and purpose of the regulations. While different situations dictate various approaches, the basic policy must be "firmness and reason."

(2) A zoning regulation is necessary to protect the present pmp- erty owner and the community in general from indiscriminate development practices. The resulting land use controls environmental conditions, a major help in reducing deteriorating housing.

(3) Building Codes offer on effective means of controlling 0 building quality. Such codes, when properly enforced, insure the community against substandard building proctices and resultant blight. These controls should be reasonable and practical. They do not necessarily need to be prohibitive to accompl ish their intent.

2. Maintenance

A. Goal: Protection of sound housing now existing within the community. The protection of existing structures is second only to insuring original construction in a comprehensive approach to housing problems. Pro- tection of existing structures is an incentive to property owners to maintain the caliber and value of property. Conversely, the establishment of adverse or non-compatible uses adjacent to sound residential structures will result in transfer of ownership, accompanied by general downgrading and deterioration.

B. Accomplished by:

.. .1 (I) Neighborhood Improvement groups ore very useful in this phase of the local housing program. This involves organization

55 of local groups with a mission designed to generate local pride and harmony. Clean-up campaigns, garden competitions, Christmas lighting contests and similar activities can initiate other, more far reaching projects. These projects may be feasible on both an inter and intra-community level.

(2) Zoning is again the basic tool for use in this field. Pro- r- tection to the present property is vital to the maintenance of current conditions as an incentive to the owner to continually improve his holdings.

3. Improvement

A. Goal: The improvement of existing substandard conditions within the community. The maior problem facing many communities is the elimination of existing blight. Corrective measures must be implemented to deter r additional deterioration.

B. Accomplished by:

(1) Public and/or private redevelopment is often employed, primarily in larger concentrated blight areas as a means of eliminating existing adverse conditions. However, this progrom is often not practical in rural and semi-rural communities, due to the strain on local financial reserves and usually the lack of concentrated problem areas. In fact, present conditions in the Townships do not lend to this manner of improvement.

(2) Housing Codes are a basic tool for the improvement segment of a housing program. As in the case of other regulatory measures, the local officials' responsibilities are two-fold. First, prqper ! instruments must be selected and enacted. Second, enforcement iJ must be consistent and reasonable so that goals are achieved without undue hardship on any party.

Housing codes set minimum standards for certain requirements for various facilities which include heating, cooking, refrigeration, lighting, ventilation and plumbing. Occupancy deals with D dwelling and room space per occupant with health factors as primarily considerations. Maintenance includes structural as well as sanitary stipulations. U .z U

56 U The quality and quantity of housing in a community will determine how far the housing code must be utilized to achieve the desired standards to be applied in the locality. In the Southeast Butler Regional Communities, where some blight and deterioration are now in evidence, it cannot be expected that every provision for maintenance of safe, sanitary and comfortable structures can be applied immediately. However, while some conditions may be tolerated temporarily as a matter of discretion and feasibility, enforcement must not be blind to adverse conditions which are in existence. Gradual elimination of blight must be effectuated and substandard conditions held at minimum levels.

Enforcement is obviously the key to this phase of the program. Code provisions must not be permitted to become so diluted by temporary toleration of some blighting elements that marginal conditions are permitted to degenerate to substandard levels. The abuse of administrative discretion must-be guarded against and the success of the program will depend upon the training, initiative and sincerity of the enforcing official, as well as the support this official receives from the local admi nistrotion.

Various enforcement means should be employed to compensate for different situations which will undoubtedly be encountered. Three basic methods are suggested for use either separately or in combination.

(a) Classified Districts

The classification of certain districts sets up varied minimum standards for certain pre-designated areas within the locality. Under such a provision the minimum would vary from area to area, similar to zoning districts.

(b) . Varied Standards

The development of different standards involves the creation of two or more sets of regulations, to be applied depending on considerations such as the age of structures or other pertinent criteria. For example, the basic

57 minimum needs may be stipulated in older areas of housing, whereas very stringent requirements may be imposed for new dwellings under construction.

A final alternative is the relaxation of certain provisions if subject to specific conditions. Extreme care is required herein to prevent discrimination. A variance should be permitted only when specified by the code.

The use of these enforcement tools will aid in implementing the code. Particularly when dealing with substandard dwellings occupied by low income families, judgement will need to be applied in determining what is necessary for the good of the family and fair to other elements within the community.

L.'I

U U U

58 U CHAPTER THREE POPULATION ANALYSIS AND PROJECTION

An essential feature of any planning study is an investigation of the past, present and future population of the area under study. Basic planning proposals must stem from these investigations. Recommendations for future schools, libraries, recreational facilities, utilities, public services, and fiscal policies will all be directly related to the number of people within the planning area.

Although the birth rate has been decreasing, recent population estimates by the United States Census Bureau forecase increasing percentages of gain in the age groups from 0 to 24 years as a result of the population explosion which followed World War II. These "post-war babies" are now starting to more into their ~O'S,and are getting married. Between now and 1975, the number of Americans in their 20's will soar 43 per cent, to 36.7 million. The census data also indicate smaller percentages in the age groups 24 to 44 as a result of previous declines in the birth rate during the period extending from the end of World War I through the depression period to the end of World War II. The sharp increases expected in the percentages of young adults will result in a lower average age for the working segment of the population. By 1975, the median age of the 18 to 64 age group is estimated to be 36.6 years, as compared to 38.9 years in 1957.

The importance of these trends to the local planning program is that more employment opportunities will have to be created to enable the increasing working force to earn a livelihood. It also means the establishment of new homes as new families are formed plus the need for community facilities and public services for all age groups. This will involve a need for more schools, recreation opportunities and the like, which require advance planning.

Pennsylvania, as one of the original colonies, was among the first areas of the nation to experience the full historical growth plases found throughout the nation. As might be expected, the Commonwealth is today a relatively mature area, with population increasing at a lower rate than other younger or more recently developing areas of the nation, particularly those in the far West.

Western Pennsylvania, and more specifically the six counties comprising the Southwestern Pennsylvania Regional Planning Area has actually shown a decline in population based on 1965 estimates. Table 12, Six-County Regional Population compares actual 1960 population with estimated mid-year 1965 population levels and indicates both'.. numerical and percentage fluctuations.

59 TABLE 12 .I SIX-COUNTY REGIONAL POPULATION i Actual Est. Mid-Year Increase Decrease County 1960 Population 1965 Population Numerical Percentage I Allegheny 1,628,587 1,561,900 - 66,687 - 4.1 Armstrang 79,524 71,100 - 8,424 -10.6 Beaver 206,948 195,500 - 11,448 - 5.5 Butler 114,639 117,100 + 2,461 + 2.1 r Washington 217,271 213,100 - 4,171 - 1.9 Westmoreland 352,629 366,000 + 13,371 + 3.8 1: 2,599,598 2,524,700 - 74,898 - 2.9 ii Source: 1960 population enumerated by U. S. Bureau of Census and 1965 population estimated by Pennsylvania State Planning Board.

Powlation at the Countv Level

It 7jill be noted that Butler County was one of the two counties in the six-county region to experience population growth, although at a modest rate. In Table 13 a comparison of birth rates for Butler County, Pennsylvania, and the nation indicates several interesting facts. In 1965, births in the United States dropped to the lowest figure since 1951 - 3,767,000. The birth rate - yearly births per 1,000 population - began a decline in 1958 and continued to drift slowly downward until 1961. In 1962, it dropped sharply and has continued its steep dip through the first months of 1966.

Unless the birth rate slumps much farther than it has, the actual number of births will inevitably start up again within the next few years as children born during the "baby- boom" years of 1946 to the mid-1950's reach marriageable age.

Also of interest is the fact that for every year shown, the birth rate for Pennsylvania has been lower than that for the nation, while the Butler County birth rate has been consistently higher than that of the state, and in one instance (1965) higher than the national rate. u The percentages of decrease from the preceding years have been indicated for the years 1960 to 1965. U -.s -.s U

'60 U TABLE 13 COUNTY, STATE AND NATIONAL BIRTH RATES FOR SELECTED YEARS

Year Butler County Pennsylvania United States 1 940 17.9 16.7 17.9 1 945 18.5 17.1 19.5 1950 23.6 21,8 24.6 1955 23.0 21 -8 24.6 1960 23.9 21.3 23.7 1961 22.5 - 5.9 20.9 - 1.9 23.3 - 1.7 1962 21.6 - 4.0 19.9 - 4.8 22.4 - 3.9 1963 20.7 - 4.2 19.6 - 1.5 21.7- 3.1 1964 20.3 - 1.9 19.1 - 2.6 21 .O - 3.2 1965 19.8 - 2.5 17.7 - 7.3 19.4 - 7.6

Source: U, S. Statistical Abstract and Pennsylvania Department of Health

These figures demonstrate Pennsylvania to be one of the old, established Eastern states, wifh a lower rate of births, while Butler County, as a developing area of the state within the six-county region, has a higher birth rate.

PoDulation at the Southeast Butler Countv Reaional Level

In addition to general county population growth, several other factors are currently exerting growth influences on the Southeast Butler County Region.

Outward growth from major population centers - Allegheny County and Butler City - has resulted in an in-migration of population to the region. With the construction of proposed new expressways, this impulse will be further strengthened, particularly in Buffalo Township in the ticinity of the Allegheny Valley Expressway. The Route 356 corridor from Butler City to Freeport already shows signs of experiencing a ribbon- like growth.

With these regional factors in mind, an examination of the communities comprising the southeastern Butler Regional Planning Area can be made. However, to under- stand the present, we should be aware of past events. With an understanding of both the past and the present, we will be reasonably able to predict the future population trends.

61 Past Population Trends 0

Population in the region has been examined from the Census of 1870 onward. This i examination points out two basic events. From 1870 to about 1920, the region grew very slowly, if at all, and in some years even registered losses of population. This period coincides with the period of national history which saw the gradual urbanization of the country. During these years the magic lure of the city drew millions of people from the farms and small towns of the nation.

By 1920 however, this allure had lessened considerably. As the private passenger automobile came into general use, a means of access to and from the city was offered. A person could now drive to the city, work there during the day, and return to the country in the evening. The dawn of an automobile-based suburbia had appeared.

With the exception of the depression years and the second World War, this phenomenon

has continued generally unabated to the present. It has been accelerated by a 1 continually broadening ownership of automobiles among the general population making almost everyone mobile and by the construction of roads and highways for the improvement of this mobility.

Table 14 indicates the individual community, regional and county population for each of the indicated Census years, along with the percentage of increase (or decrease) over the preceding Census. One of the subsidiary findings in this chart was that while the region comprised only 12 per cent of the country's land area, it contributed 20 per cent of the population growth in 1960.

Density and Distribution

The Population Density - Distribution map, Plate 14, reveals a comparatively low density and widely distributed population in the Southeast Butler County Regional Planning Area. The overall population density of the Region is 130 persons per square mile compared to the County of Butler which is 144 persons.

Population is distributed primarily along major highways with small clusters in areas such as the Borough of Saxonburg and the numerous small villages which include Sower, Cabot, Marwood, Hannahstown, Jefferson Center and others. Buffalo, with the largest population in the rebion, is somewhat more densely populated than the other townships; however, sparse distribution of population and low densities prevail here also.

62 POPULATION DENSITY - DISTRIBUTION .. LOIS nincf orvrLormfnI riin .. . SOUTHEAST BUTLER COUNTY 0 EQUALS 3.e PE&S ,"vEI.GL Famu" VZC, REGIONAL PLANNING AREA THE BOROUGH OF SAXONBURG AN0 THE TOWRSHIPS OF BUFFALO. CLINTON, a IEFFEUSON. AN0 WINFIELO ..I."""ll"l~...~,l*..L..l .a. I..-..."...... ",., ,e._ SYI.4, I* 11.,.11, C..,.lt,.l.. 11"'111,~.,1.~ 111 .... li...h, .e"*.....- .e"*.....- ,""

1870 1880 1890 1900 1910 1920 1930 1940 1950 1960 r Saxonburg 295 319 -258 307 345 319 452 524 602 876 +8.1 -19.2 +18.9 +12.3 -7.5 +41.6 +15.9 +14.8 +45.5 . Buffalo 1495 1263 1131 1121 1212 1396 1718 2184 2595 4480 -15.6 -10.5 - .9 +8.1 +15.1 +23.0 +27.1 +18.8 +72.6 ! Clinton 1132 1048 918 900 782 896 1056 1341 1523 1829 I -7.5 -12.5 -2.0 -13.2 +14.5 +17.8 +26.9 +13.5 +20.0 Jefferson 1234 1214 1600 1422 1301 1178 1387 1733 2160 2821 i -1.7 +31.7 -11.2 -8.6 , -9.5 +17.7 +24.9 +24.6 +30.6 Winfield 1092 1087 1395 1455 1725 1890 2028 2168 2482 1121 I -2.6 - .5 +30.8 +4.3 +18.5 +9.5 +7.3 +6.9 +14.4 Region 5277 4936' ' 4994 5145 5095 5514 6503 7810 9048 12488 1 -6.5 +1:1 +3.0 -1.0 +8.2 +17.9 +2O.O +15.8 +38.0 Butler 36510 52536 55339 56962 72689 77270 80480 87590 97320 114639 r County +43.8 +5.3 +2.9 t27.6 +6.3 +4.1 +8.8 +11.1 +17.7

Source: U:,S. Bureau of Census

General Characteristics

The local percentage of non-white inhabitants is consistent with the county-wide rate being approximately 0.5%. This is lower than that in the neighboring counties of Beaver, Allegheny, Lawrence and Washington, which are more urbanized and where larger concentrations of industry during the late 19th Century led to migration of mill labor from other parts of the country. Since major industrial growth was not manifest until later in Butler County, fewer of these migrant job seekers settled in this vicinity.

The average population per household within the region is 3.64 persons, slightly higher than Butler County at 3.48. Of the 67 countries in Pennsylvania only four record higher household population, This factor reflects growth in the area since statistics indicate that the growing areas of the State of Pennsylvania are characterized by larger households. This is a result of younger families, which are desirous of new homes, moving into newly developing suburbon areas.

Population Projections

A series of five regiopal population projections has been accomplished for the planning orea. These pGections are more than a mere academic exercise since they demonstrate a

.64 0 possible range of growth. Tb range of growth was developed from the variables contained in the separate projections and each individuaj proiection indicates . various population levels the region may experience in future years.

The following describes the techniques and assumptions used in formulating each population projection.

Projection A - Percentage of Growth by Community: 'The percentage of growth per decade since 1930 has been determined for each individual community and averaged. The average percentage has then been held constant and extended to each of the projected years (1965, 1970, 1975, 1980). This representso straight line projection on the basis of prior average growth.

Projection B - Total Butler County Growth: 'This projection is based on the total county projections found in Report I of the Butler County Study of 1965. It provides an overall average for the county and is useful for o general picture of county potential but ignores specific regional factors.

Projection C - Midpoint: This is a comparative projection.. and represents the midpoint between Projections A and B.

Projection D - Regional Total: This projection is based on the populotion projections found in Report 5 of the Butler County Study. The particular projection cited is for Region V of the County, which the Study defines as including the Townships of Buffalo, Clearfield, Clinton, Jefferson, Middlesex, Penn, and Winfield, and the Borough of Saxonburg. This projection increases populotion for each municipality by 18% for 1965 and 1970, by 17% for Buffalo Township and, by 19% for the other four communities in the planning area for 1975, and by 21% for Buffalo Township and 19?h for the other four communities in'1980.

The !'Regional Total" projection provides a more detailed look at a rapidly growing segment of the county as opposed to the total county figures utilized fo formulate Projection B above.

..65 Projection E - Composite: ?his composite projection utilizes Projection D as a starting paint and incorporates the following modifying assumptions:

a. Buffalo Township will grow at the rate shown in the Region V County projections but the age group percentages will hold more or less constant at their 1960 level. The percentages of that year provide an accurate profile of a rapidly growing community characterized by increases in younger age groups. Buffalo Township will probably retain this rapid growth profile until 1980.

b. Saxonburg Borough, because of its sewer and water systems, will also grow at the Region V County rate for the duration of the projection period. It will continue to contain a high percentage of persons aged 65 and over, however. Therefore, the 65 and over age group has been held constant at its actual 1960 percentage (13.6) through 1965, decreased to 12.6 per cent in 1970 and to 11.6 per cent in 1975 and 1980.

C. The remaining communities in the Southeast Butler County Planning Area will develop at a less rapid rate than Buffalo Township and Soxonburg Borough. Present indications point to a rate of growth that will fall somewhere between the County Region V projection and the total County projection. Therefore, the midpoint between these two projections has been determined and applied for the projection period. In each community, a nucleus of existing growth is evident. This nucleus (the age group percentages of the 1960 Census) has been averaged with the projected "County Region V average" age group percentages to determine composite age group percentages for individual communities. '! Comparison of the five projections has led to the selection of Projection E as the one LJ which will most closely approximate the patterns of total population and age group composition emerging during the projection period 1960 - 1980. Age group composition by numbers and percentages for Projection E has been utilized to determine u municipal needs. Table 15, Projection E Age Group Composite indicates this data. Papulation growth, based upon in-migration, will depend to a large degree upon local policies 'and attitudes. If positive local action encourages industrial, com- II mercial *and residential development, and overall plans for needed community facilities are &%nd implemented, the regional communities can expect growth and development aU 66 to follow. The projections should be reviewed periodically to determine accuracy and reveal any new trends which might suggest the need for re-evaluation.

67 TABLE 15 PROJECTION E - COMPOSITE SOUTHEAST BUTLER COUNTY REGIONAL PLANNING AREA Age Grohps -1965

Buffalo Clinton Jefferson Winfield Saxonbu rg Region 0-4 752 14.2 251 12.1 396 12.4 326 11.6 114 11.0 1839 12.8 5-14 1204 22.8 467 22.6 706 22.1 605 21.5 195 18.8 3177 22.0 15-24 600 11.3 261 12.6 425 13.3 412 14.7 126 12.2 1824 12.7 25-34 808 15.3 269 13.0 409 12.8 317 11.3 120 11.6 1923 13.4 35-44 784 14.8 274 13.2 407 12.8 354 12.6 132 12.7 1951 13.5 45-54 519 9.8 214 10.3 339 10.6 330 11.7 125 12.1 1527 10.6 55-64 332 6.3 161 7.8 234 7.3 209 7.4 83 8.0 1019 7.1 65 8, over 293 5.5 1 73 8.4 278 8.7 257 9.2 141 13.6 1142 7.9 TOTAL 5292 20 70 3194 2810 1036 ‘14,402 0. 03

Age Groups 1970

Buffalo C Iinton Jefferson Winfield Saxonburg Region 0-4 889 14.2 289 12.3 455 12.5 375 11.7 137 11.2 2145 12.9 5-14 1422 22.8 530 22.5 801 22.0 686 21.5 231 18.9 3670 22.0 15-24 709 11.3 313 13.3 508 14.0 490 15.3 159 13.0 2179 13.1 25-34 955 15.3 307 13.0 467 12.8 363 11.4 144 11.8 2236 13.4 35-44 926 14.8 290 12.3 431 11.9 375 11.7 146 11.9 2168 13.0 45-54 613 9.8 243 10.3 385 10.6 375 11.7 149 12.2 1765 10.6 55-64 392 6.3 190 8.1 276 7.6 247 7.7 103 8.4 1208 7.2 65 8, over 346 5.5 194 8.2 312 8.6 288 9.0 154 12.6 1294 7.8 TOTAL 6252 2356 3635 3199 1223 16645 TABLE 15 - CONTINUED

Age G.robps 1975

Buffolo Clinton Jefferson Winfield Soxonburg Region 0-4 1043 14.2 340 12.5 536 12.8 443 12.1 170 11.7 2532 13.1 5-14 1668 22.8 607 22.4 916 21.9 785 21.3 275 18.9 4251 22.0 15-24 831 11.3 367 13.5 595 14.2 574 15.6 195 13.4 2562 13.2 25-34 1120 15.3 366 13.5 559 13.3 435 11.8 180 12.4, 2659 13.7 35-44 1087 14.8 316 11.7 467 11.2 406 11.0 166 11.4 2442 12.6 45-54 71 8 9.8 269 3.9 427 10.2 417 11.3 174 11.9 2005 10.3 55-64 460 6.3 224 8.3 325 7.8 29 1 7.9 127 8.7 1427 7.4 65 8, over 405 5.5 222 8.2 359 8.6 330 9.0 169 11.6 ,1485 7.7 TOTAL 7332 271 1 4 133- 3681 1456 19363

Age Groups 1980 % Buffalo Clinton J E fferson Winfield Saxonburg Region 0-4 1263 14.2 402 12.8 634 13.1 524 12.3 208 12.0 3031 13.3 5-14 2021 22.8 712 22.6 1076 22.2 922 21.6 334 19.2 5065 22.1 15-24 1007 11.3 417 13.3 678 14.0 654 15.3 228 13.1 2984 13.0 25-34 13.56 15.3 441 14.0 670 13.8 526 12.3 224 12.9 3217 14.1 35-44 1317 14.8 365 11.6 541 11.1 470 11.0 198 11.4 2891 12.6 45-54 817 9.8 288 9.2 457 9.4 450 10.6 194 11.1 2260 9.9 55-64 557 6.3 257 8.2 374 7.7 334 7.8 151 8.7 1673 7.3 65 8, over 49 1 5.5 262 8.3 421 8.7 389 9.1 201 11.6 1764 7.7 TOTAL 8883 3144 4851 4269 1738 22885 . 3. This report is concerned with planning considerations at fhe.regional' level asweltas the traditional planning problems faced by individual municipalities. Within the - regional area are many common problems which cannot be adequately solved at the local level and which, in many instances, can be handled more economically co-oper- atively with mare than one community participating. Land use development, .highway needs, utilities and similar amenities necessary to sound community growth can be approached more effectively through cooperative programs at a regional level.

Port Two of the report, which includes chapters four through six, deals with regional level recommendations regarding land use, thoroughfores and utilities and community facilities. These recommendations form the basis for individual community level recommendations which follow. While it is realized that implementation of many of the long- range proposals must be initiated at the local level, the regional approach provides the basis and format for joint inter-community action ultimately necessary in solving common prob Iems.

71 CHAPTER FOUR REGIONAL LAND USE PLAN

Regional Influences

Local officials must consider potential community growth, as well asthe possible lack of growth in determining future municipal government responsibility. The extent of assessments from which the primary sources of revenue are derived, the creation of employment opportunities within the community and the degree of responsibility which falls upon locol officials in terms of providing community services and facilities are all directly related to the types and extent of land use development which tokes place.

While these local considerations ore extremely importont, it is also important to realize that what occurs in the surrounding region will greatly influence each municipality therein. Contrary to opinions which ore frequently expressed in predominantly rural areas, it is neither realistic nor practical to assume that local growth will not materialize when faced with brooder regional growth trends. The community which will not accept this fact and does not plan accordingly for the inevitoble, will incur rather offensive problems. While some communities, which did not plan properly in anticipation of new development, have profited by default, it is more often true that lock of preparation generates numerous problems and unnecessary expenses. Some of these include the establishment of undesir- oble land uses which adversely affect neighboring communities, poorly planned highways with their accompanying congestion and hazards, inundation of public facilities such os schools and municipal services and o loss in municipal revenue resulting from all of these factors combined. Such adverse repercussions can be averted through effective long range plan implementation.

Summary of Basic Regional Considerations

The southeastern corner of Butler County has been historicolly o rural area since its original settlement nearly two centuries ago. While many active forms and oreas of unspoiled scenic beauty are still present, the last two decades have been marked by urbanizing trends. The southeost portion of the county has been somewhat divorced from post- war development activity; yet, today, transportation influences and the demand for new development sites are increasingly apparent.

Major highways have been primarily responsible for new development patterns in Butler County since the Second World War. Federol Route 19 and Interstate Route 79 along the western perimeter of the county and State Route 8 in the central portion of the county have served to nurture growth emanating from the Pittsburgh orea northward. Growth

..a

72 in Cranberry, Jackson, Middlesex, Penn and Butler Townships illustrate the influence which these highways have exerted uvndevelopment.

The Allegheny Valley Expressway, which will soon traverse the southeastern carner of the region in Buffalo Township, is a definitely regional development influencing factor. Still under design, this route will provide a direct line with Pittsburgh to the southwest and the Keystone Shartway (Interstate Route 80) to the northeast. It will also magnify the importance of State Route 356 due to the location of an expressway interchange in Buffalo Township and direct access to the City of Butler situated northwest of the region. These factors are significant to the land use development patterns which will occur throughout the regional planning area.

In addition to the influence of major highway systems, existing cores of development combined with the areals natural features have been instrumental in shaping future land use planning for this region. The basic center of existing development is the Borough of Saxonburg. Additional areos of concentrated growth such os Morwood, Cabot, Sarver, Ekastown and others have been considered as significant nuclei for future growth areas.

Significant extremes in topography are found in the regional plonning area. However, they do not generally form barriers to growth except along the eastern perimeter where the Buffalo Creek Valley is characterized by very steep slopes. The incorporation into the overall land use patterns of sloped, wooded and similar lands to be preserved for open space reserves or recreation sites, is on integral port of the total land use concept.

Another factor which has influenced future land use proposals is the feasibility of establishing public utilities and their eventual expansion potential. Installation and maintenance costs for utilities are dependent upon the physical characteristics of the service area and the density and type of development.

Coal mining has been of economic importance to the region in past years and may be of consequence in the future since minable coal reserves still remain. Also, depleted mining areas must be considered in terms of land use planning whether the result of deep mining or stripping. Uncontrolled methods of strip mining have resulted in barrier waste lands, stream pollution and generally worthless acreage throughout vast segments of the country. In the Southeast Butler County Region these activities have been limited to the northeast corner of Winfield Township and portions of Clinton Township south of the Lardintown vicinity. Conservation procedures including reclamation , reforestation and similor programs must be carried out to erase these blots on the landscape and restore land areas for useful purposes.

Not as ob:ious as strip mining, but in some instances even more critical, are the effects which underground mining may exert on property. Many communities are 0

73 oblivious to underground mining operations until subsurface fires or subsidence occurs. e' As recently as March, 1967, a residential dwelling within the regional planning area was extensively damaged due to subsidence gttributable to a mine 175 feet below I

the earth's surface. r'

An analysis of subsurface conditions involves a detailed study beyond the scope of the plan. However, due to the importance of past and potential mining activities within the re ion, available data of a general nature is included. The illustration Mining Influences '7, Plate 12, reveals the importance of this subject to future planning proposals. Shown on the illustration are areas previously mined as well as coal resources which are economically minable. It is apparent that past, present and future mining will continue to involve vast areas of the region. Included is most of the land which is expected to undergo extensive development during the next two decades.

It is recommended that all property owners or potential developers investigate in detail the subsurface conditions and possible mining programs which relate to their land holdings prior to development of any type. Further, it should become a standard procedure with all local Planning Commissions to alert developers to this need and require from them reports on subsurface conditions prior to approval of subdivision plans.

Land Use Types .. On the basis of the considerations discussed above, proposals for future land use development have been formulated. There follows a discussion of the land use types which can be anticipated in the planning area as development patterns continue to expand.

!! Residential Land Use J

Each municipality in the Southeast Region is classified os predominantly rural-residential in terms of basic existing land uses. Saxonburg has the largest concentrations of development among the four townships which surround it, but even in Saxonburg areas of significantly high density are not encountered.

As previously mentioned, general development factors are providing the entire region with the potential for accelerated growth during the coming years. While this anticipated growth will take many different forms, the primary use of land is expected to remain i'I residentially oriented. Since other uses will also be present, it is important that coordinated

1/ Source: A report on economically recoverable coal resources in Butler County, bejng developed by Mr. Charles Yeloushan, U. S. Bureau of Mines. 11

U 74 Ll EXISTLIIS RESIDENTIAL NUCLEUS

FUTURE LAND USE 1016 IllGt OtltlO?lCMl Pll1 SOUTHEAST BUTLER COUNTY REGIONAL PLANNING AREA THE BOWOCH OF SLXONBUPS LND THE Townsnips or BUFFIILO. CLIIITOW. IEFFtPSON. LND WINFIELD 0 and realistic residential land use patterns develop. The fallowing objectives provide i guidelines for this desired orderly development:

1. Channel residential growth to areas best suited far such development on the basis of health, safety, access, aesthetics end the comfort of inhabitants in a residential environmer)t. ! 2. Exclude residential develgpment From areas which are most ideal for other uses such as commerce or industry. This policy will not only result in improved housing conditions but will also promote a higher caliber of commercial and industriel activity.

The general pattern of residential development in the region is predominated by single family dwelling units. It is anticipated that these putterns will prevail in future building programs throughout the region. Future housing units are also expected to range in market value from approximately $15,000 to $25,000. While extremes will undoubtedly occur,the average sale price of units will be within this range.

Future development will undoubtedly become more and more characterized by subdivision development which will create entirely new neighborhoods. The higher densities which subdivision development creates can, if properly regulated, result in more efficient and economical provision of public facilities and services by the local municipalities.

The basic subdivision developments in the region can be onticipoted in an immediately adjacent to the areas indicated on the Future Land Use illustration, Plate 15. These are the districts where growth has been predominant to date because of available public utilities or locational factors related to access and historical settlement preferences. These areas provide stable nuclei for expanded residential growth.

While single family housing will remain predominant, changing preferences in housing ,... types can be expected in the Southeast Butler County Region. Recent experience in the i. housing market has revealed a desire for duplex units, row housing and apartments. Apart- ments, in particular, have gained popularity in recent years in newly developing communities as opposed to a few years ago when they would not have been considered I as suburban livihg accommodations. The advent of the Allegheny Expressway and the direct access which it will provide to job centers, is expected to create multi-family housing demands within the regional areas. Initially the demand may be limited, ii however, this type of residential use must be considered in land use proposals.

t i The most significant densities of new housing are anticipated in the Saxonburg vicinity and 1.i in Buffalo.Township. These two areas will also be the most attractive for apartment development due to..proximity to maior highways and commercial facilities. Low density housing and agricultural use will predominate in the other residential portions of the region during the initial planning period.

76 11 0 Low Density Residential/Agricul ture The open areas on the Future Land Use illygtration, Plate 15, are primarily agricultural lands, marked by single family homes, charactehzed by large lots, and situated in lineal patterns along the present road system. These homes are not included as part of the basic residential category shown on the illustration. Since each is basically supportive of the agricultural use, the character of this area is expected to remain basically low density.

The Butler County Planning Study completed in 1965 revealed that the southeastern vicinity is one of the most important agricultural areas in the county. It is the only area of the county that has a greater proportion of area devoted to agriculture than to forest land and unused open space. While it is expected that future years will see less acreage used for farming as a result of urban expansion, farming will remain of local importance. The proximity of this orea to urbanized districts enables local farmers to supplement their incomes through part-time employment. This allows continuation of family farm operations. Full time fanning in the region must specialize, mechanize and seek innovations in operational procedures to maintain a competitive position in the face of large scale competition.

Commercial Development

0 The primary commercial center in the Southeast Butler County Regional Area is located in Saxonburg, offering retail sales outlets ranging from drugs and groceries to jewelry and hardware along with banks, post offices and professionol offices. In spite of narrow streets, lack of convenient parking and significant deterioration in structural conditions, the major center of commerce in the region has remained in Saxonburg.

Lack of competition in the immediate area, the diversity of goods and services offered in relation to the immediate service area, and the consumer loyalty to long established merchants have helped to stabilize local business, Future growth will result in general commercial expansion which could substantially compete with the Saxonburg commercial market. However, new growth could also enhance the position of Saxonburg as a local business center. Most of the elements which originally fostered and supported local business in the community ore still present and could be used to local advantage.

Accelerated residential growth projected in and around the borough will create a need for new shopping facilities which can be provided through additional businesses and expansion of present facilities within the municipality. A second major retail complex is anticipated in Buffalo Township, located on Route 356. This development would be entirely new and designed as a hi$hway oriented "shopping center" in contrast to the "main street" or "central business" pattern in Saxonburg. The location of a new shopping area is indicoted on the Future Land Use Plan, Plate 15, and should be considered

77 as tentative since the site is based upon future population and the resulting market demand area, plus proximity to the proposed expressway interchange.

An existing commercial area, situated on L. R. 10024 in the northwest section of Buffalo Township, will also expand os area-wide growth progresses. This complex will continue to serve as a convenience center although the scope of commercial activity is of a broader regional nature due to the presence of a major new car dealer and the Sarver Post Office. In addition, o series of local neighborhood convenience shopping establishments will be supported by regional growth, such as those located presently at Hannahstown, Cabat and Jefferson Center. Proposals far future commercial land use include'a site fronting Route 356 in Jefferson Township for additional area- wide convenience shopping as well as a future site in Clinton Township.

The enactment of zoning will limit future commercial development to the areas indicated, I: providing adequate business outlets which are spatially related to the requirements of the region and its environs. The absence of zoning control will, in all probability, result in "strip" commercial development along major arteries. All types of commercial uses, many of which will be of doubtful economic importance or value, may occur with Route 356 being especially vulnerable to such marginal uses. Not only would such a situation impede traffic flow but sites better adapted to other uses would be lost on morginol and unattractive establishments.

I ndustrv [] The future land use plan designates specific areas for both light and heavy industrial activity within the regional area. Light industrial sites are proposed in relation to highway influences in Buffalo, Winfield and Jefferson Townships. The importance of zoning control, discussed previously in regard to commerciol sites, applies equally to u potential industrial areas. Through planned industrial promotional programs and proper screening of prospective industrial developers, attractive and non-offensive indust- i'1 rial uses can be secured in these communities.

Expansion area for the two major existing industries in Saxonburg is noted in the land use recommendations. Both of these growing operations are compatible with neighboring D uses and should be encouraged to remain.

A heavy industrial area is indicated in West Winfield. This is the general vicinity U of the existing cement plant and mushroom farm. Every effort should be made to retain these operations. However, expansion of additional industry in the vicinity is doubtfyl due to the relative remoteness of potential sites to maior transportation outlets U ...

78 0 A significant industrial area is projected in Clinton Township which will use the facilities of the Bessemer and Lake Erie Railroad. Cooperation with officials of the Bessemer Railroad, a subsidiary of the United States Steel Corporation which already operates the large Sintering Plant in Clinton Township will result in the marketing of these sites. Prospective industries must be carefully considered in light of their potential nuisances. Seleqting those with the highest performance in terms of proposed zoning contracts could result in a new land use pattern for Clinton Town- ship which would be acceptable to the local papulation and also be of economic importance to the community and the region.

The preservation and promotion of both light and heavy industrial sites should be one of the major regional planning objectives. The importance of these sites to the individual municipalities and, in fact to the region, cannot be over-emphasized in terms of their impact on the local economy, the tax base and the rate of growth. This particular phase of development should be the major challenge of the South- east Butler County Industrial Development Corporation, working in harmony with the governing bodies and planning commissions in each municipality.

Public and Semi-public e Public and semi-public uses ore noted only generally at the regional study level. For the most port, those listed involve schools, municipal buildings, utility sites and similar elements which are identified and exploined more fully in the community facility portion of this report and in the individual community planning recommendations.

Park, Recreation and Own SDace

The areas indicated within this category on the Future Land Use Plan include local, regional and state park lands, whether existing or proposed, and land areas recommended for conservation. In many instances, the conservation areas are sloped woodlands which hove esthetic values and which, if disturbed, would result in erosion and other adverse land waste.

Detailed proposals relating to other recreation areas and facilities are provided in the community facility study for each of the regional communities.

Planning Districts 3- The land use types proposed above have been developed on the basis of the Planning 0 Districts discussed in Chapter One of this report. This procedure has permitted the

79 analysis of future land use potential at a regional level based upon natural features, access, existing development and other characteristics present in each planning district. The analysis is generally free of potitical and emotional factors at the municipal level which tend tq distort the long range view of regional land use needs for obvious reasons. Although minor modifications are ordinarily necessary at each municipal level to create programs acceptable to the community, the regional approach, based upon planning districts, offers a good foundation for local decisions.

The type and sequence of land use development is projected by Planning District os fallow

Planning District One (Thorn Creek)

This district, which is situated exclusively in Jefferson Township, will develop largely from urbanizing influences moving south from the City of Butler. During the next 10 to 20 years, residential land use is expected to increase by approximately 60% and commercial use should more thon double. These are the two main growth factors at the present time. This district is also the site of a proposed regional park recommended to serve adjoining municipalities. Agriculture will remain significant os a land use in this district.

Planning District Two (Soxonburg)

This district should be one of the major development areas within the region due to existing utilities in the Borough of Saxonburg, and the influence of Route 356 as a generator of light industrial sites. Expansion of utility systems now operating within the Borough could result in major expansions of residential, commerciol and industrial land uses. Commercial use should double and light industrial use is projected to expand from a present area of approximately ten acres to between 600 and 1,200 acres, provided Route 356 sites are reserved and promoted for this purpose. Residential land use should increase by major proportions concurrently with these growth influences with farming significantly minimized.

Planning District Three (Cabot)

Within the Cobot area, residential land area (which should more than double) and light industrial sites along Route 356, offer the major growth potential. Other significant changes are not anticipated in the planning district which covers the prime developable portions of Winfield Township. Land areas eastwf Cabot and Marwood will remain basically agricultural in nature. v

80 Planning District Four (Rough Run)

Rough Run, which is aptly named due to terrain features, covers the northern and eastern portions of Winfield Township. No major land use development is contemplated in this vicinity because of slope conditions.

Planning District Five (Sower).

Growth in the Sower District, which involves the northcentral portion of Buffalo Township, will be similar to that projected for Planning District Three (Cabot). Residential expansion around existing development and light industrial land use involving over 150 acres along Route 356, offer major growth potential. The industrial sites should develop concurrently with those in Planning District Two. Prime residential land east of Sarver should be retained.

Planninq District Six (Buffalo Creek)

This district in the eastern portion of Buffalo Township is an immediate growth area due to its proximity to the Allegheny Expressway Interchange on Route 356. Residential use can be expected to increase by three times, even 0 with some existing units yielding to the economic demand for light industrial sites. There is a long-range projected potential in this district for nearly 500 acres of industrial land development and a similar amount in residential use.

Planning District Seven (Little Bull Creek)

This district with Districts Two and Six is one of three major growth areas. Residential growth is projected as the primary development, followed by industrial and commercial activity. The influence of improved access due to Expressway construction will show an in-migration from portions of Allegheny County. Planning District Seven will therefore be a major developable area within Buffalo Township.

Planning District Eight (Ekastown)

This district covers almost one-third of Clinton Township and a relatively small portion of western BuFfalo Township. Major growth is anticipated in the latter area. A commercial core now exists at the intersection of the Saxon&rg-Tarentum Road and L.R. 16025. From this intersection, moderate subdivish activity has taken place east to Route 356. This should continue

81 in conjunction with expansion of the commercial development which now exists. The extreme western edge of the district in Clinton Township contains heavy industriol sites with railraod access. Other than low density residential growth projected along Ekastown Road, on the northern perimeter of District Eight, the above uses constitute the extent of expected growth.

Planning District Nine (Cherry Valley)

The Cherry Valley District includes the entire western edge of Clinton Township and a small portion of Jefferson Township. Industrial developmenf along the Bessemer and Lake Erie Railroad offers the major growth potential in this district. Little additional development is contemplated in the district due to slope limitations.

... , .. ..<' U

82 ff CHAPTER FIVE THOROUGHFARE PLAN

The impact of transportation on the past and future growth of any given area needs r\o elaboration. The Southeast Butler County Regional Area is in a unique position with respect to highway facilities. This factor becomes readily apporent from a review of the Regional Location Map, Plate 16, which shows the relationship of the Region to arterial highway systems.

To the immediate south of the Region is the Pennsylvania Turnpike which links the mid-west vicinity with the east coast as part of an unbroken series of controlled - access toll-ways. Interstate Route 79 lies within less than a thirty minute drive to the west of the Region. Virtually completed, this artery will carry traffic direct from port facilities in Erie, Pennsylvania, into West Virginia. Interstate Route 80, referred to as the Keystone Stortway, is located on the northern perimeter of Butler County offering a more mrtherly eost-west access across the state. This route is also within a very few years of completion with substantial portions already open.

Of even more direct benefit and importance to the Southeast Region is the Allegheny @ Valley Expressway which traverses the southeast corner of the Region in Buffalo Town- ship. This artery when completed will provide direct access with the Keystone Short- way to the northeast and to the City of Pittsburgh to the southwest. Major portions of this highway are designed and some bids have been let for construction. OF prime concern to local planning is a full interchange with State Route 356 to be located within Buffalo Township. Completion of the Expressway will effect the encirclement of Butler County and the planning area with major arterial highways which serve the majority of heavily populated industrial areas within the United States.

It now becomes necessary to plan improvements for sub-arterial highways which traverse the Region so that they will be adequate to absorb the impact of traffic which they will receive from the arterial influences, and at the same time serve local needs without unnecessary congestion. Recommendations relating to this proposed system are given below. The classifications cited in these recommendations are indicated on Plate 11, Highway Classifications. The definitions used in this study are keyed to the mission which each of these classifications sewe in relation to this particular regional plonning area.

ArteriaLHighway

‘t- The function of an arterial highway is to corry principal traffic through the County 0 and surrounding regions. Such roads must be designed to carry heavy concentrations

83 %. REOIONAL PLAWIIIIG AREA

SCALE I" MILEE REGIONAL LOCATION MAP 0 . 10 Date: May,1968 r Plate No. 16 Southeast Butler County Ref ional Plrnninf Area of vehicles with a minimum of interruption. Arterials are main channels far the connecting regional highways which they serve.

The Allegheny Valley Expressway, previously cited, is the only arterial route which will fall directly within the Southeast Butler County Regional Planning Area. Pending construction of the artery will join existing Route 28, a four lane facility at Aspinwall sourh of the region, and extend north through Buffalo Township to Kittanning and Brookville where it will connect with the Keystone Shortway. The interchange with State Route 356 in Buffalo Township will provide direct ingress and egress to the Express- way, via the planning area from the City of Butler to the north, and Freeport to the south. The potential impact of this arterial facility an the planning area will influence traffic volumes throughout the Region.

Regional Hlghways

The regional highway as denoted in this study area links arterial routes with major points adjacent to the region. This facility is characterized by major volumes of through and local traffic and serves as a feeder route for major and minor collector systems throughout the region.

State Route 356 is the only major regional highway facility in the planning area serving the arterial route to the south (Allegheny Valley Expressway) and a major generator (City of Butler) to the north. Major collector routes are also served by this regional route. As mentioned, this highway which has been the major traffic carrier in the Region for many years will assume added importance with the opening of the expressway to the south.

Major Collector Routes

Those highways classified as major collectors serve as connecting routes between adjacent regional areas ond channel traffic to major generation points within and immediately beyond the region. Within the Southeast Butler County Regional Planning Area the following highways have been designated major collector routes, primarily on the basis of locations served.

TWO major routes form the east - west collector system sewing the planning urea. These include Dinner Bell Road (L.R. 10126) which provides access from Saxonburg west to State Route 8. Neuporf Route (L.R. 10031) from Saxonburg east to State Route 356 complefes the Dinner Bell Road access between Route 8 and 356. %- Glade Mill Road (L.R. 10018, a portion of Saxonburg Boulevard (L.R. 10131), Ekastown Road (L.R. 10139), portions L.R. 10024 and L.R. 10025 form the second more @ of

85 southerly access between Route 8 and Route 356. I In addition to east - west oriented collector routes a major north - south collector runs west of and parallel to State Route 356. This particular route consisfs of Saxonburg Road (L.R. 10094) north of Saxonburg Borough and Freeport Road and the Saxonburg - Tarentum Road (L.R. 10024) south of the Borough.

Minor Collector Routes ,.. ,:. Several routes have been designated as minor collector routes. These routes function as short distance collector and distribution routes between the regional and major collector systems.

Saxonburg Boulevard (L.R. 10131) connects Saxonburg Borough directly with Glade Mill Road. Legislative Route 10132 south of Glade Mill Road provides access to Allegheny County. Legislative Route 10031, the Cabot-Winfield Road (A-4544) and Sarver Road (PA-228) serve as minor collectors east of State Route 356. These roads are classified as r~' minor since they serve no major concentrations of urbanization beyond the planning area i as do the maior collectors west of Route 356.

Local Routes

The remainder of the roads within the region are primarily local in function, serving specific destinations within the regional area. These feed traffic from interior areas onto the collector, regional and arterial systems. Many of these local routes are town- 11 I! ships or borough streets'; although a few state maintained highways (Legislative Routes) a serve local functions.

Several of these local roads will eventually become minor collector roads as development II continues; however, present growth indicators do not warrant such designation at this time. Those routes, with a potential for increased local importance, will be specifically noted regarding improvement requirements at the local level. II

Future Requirements u Existing traffic volume data was derived from woilable state and county studies accomplished in 1965 and is shown graphically on Plate 17, Traffic Volumes 1965-1985, to- u gether witR.1985 projections. The impact of the Allegheny Valley Expressway on State Route 356 a&Y other segments of the regional highway system is readily apparent. An increased troffic volume of over 230% is forecast for Route 356. This influence is expected U to more than double existing volumes on the majority of all collector highways serving the regional area.

86 II TRAFFIC VOLUMES 1965-1985 LQlP IllPC DCV[LQPYllT )LLU SOUTHEAST BUTLER COUNTY REGIONAL PLANNING AREA IHE BOW061 OF SAXONBOPG AND THE TOWNSHIPS OF BUFFALO. CLINTON. JEFTERSON. LID WINFIELD All of these increases will not develop simultaneously. However, they must be anticipated with appropriate planning on a continuing basis. A series of major deficiencies have been noted on Plate 11, Highway Classifications. Each deficiency noted is existing, and based upon present problems, which will be compounded by increasing traffic volumes. It is recommended that all municipalities within the region act together to impress upon officials of the Pennsylvania Department of Highways the critical need for local improvements. Most of these items hrwe been presented to the Department of Highways as part of the six-year improvement scheduling program recently innovated. Some projects have, in fact, been scheduled but the need for continuing efforts on behalf of the Southeast Butler County Regional Planning Commission cannot be over- emphasized. Following is a listing of regional highway improvements which should receive the high- I' est priority for scheduled completion by the Pennsylvania Department of Highways. Plate 18, Highway Improvements, indicates the type of improvement recommended i together with the suggested scheduling. Table 16, Suggested Highway Improvements, .. indicates individual improvements proposed throughout the Region. Costs given in .. Table 16 ore based upon local and state estimates and include construction, right-of- way, engineering ond miscellaneous items. L.

TABLE 16 SUGGESTED HIGHWAY IMPROVEMENTS SOUTHEAST BUTLER COUNTY REG1 ONAL PLANNING AREA

MOP L, Location Distance Type Approximate (Plate 18) Route Area of Vicinity (MiI es) Improvement Cost

1 AI legheny South of Allegheny 4.7 4 line divided 4,745,OOO.OO L 1 Valley County Line to new construction c1 Expressway Armstrong County Line i) 2 Route 356 FreeDort to 7.3 Widen to 24' 3,226,000.00 Butler City Vicinity 3 . L.R. 387,739, Intersections 0.3 Channel izotion 10025,TR228, at Sarvelville and Hazard 356 Vicinity elimination 4 ..TR-228 TR-356 to 3.9 Widen to 24' 663,000.00 '.11 ...-.. . Armstrong County Line ... , il L1

aa TABLE 16 - CONTINUED

Map Location Distance Type Approximate (Plate 19) Route Area or Vicinity (Miles) Improvement Cost

5, LR-10031 Hannahstown to 4.0 Reconstruct to P Clearfield Town- 24' 1,500,000.00 ship 6 LR-387, Saxonburg to /. 1 Widen to 24' 1,791,000.00 10094 Butler 7 T-556 Jefferson Center' 0.3 Intersection Im- 13,000.00 provement/ Channel ization 8 LR-10020 State Route 8 to 3.8 Widen to 24' 593,000 .OO LR-10126 T-558-Jefferson Township 9 LR-10019 Jefferson Town- 3.7 2 lane relocation 1,411,000.00 LR-10031 ship (T-558) to Route 356 a 10 T-558, Jefferson Town- .2 Hazard Elimina- 10.000 .oo 554 ship tion 11 LR-387, Saxonburg Boro .5 Hazard Elimino- 33,000 .OO 10024, t ion/C hanneli za- 101 15, tion A-417, 10019 12 A-101 31 Saxonburg, Boulevard 3.2 Widen to 24' 1,2 18,000 .OO through Saxonburg into Clinton Town- ship 13 LR-10018 Middlesex and 4.9 Widen to 24' 1,924,000.00 CI inton Townships 14 LR-10132, Allegheny County 1.3 Widen to 24' 290,000 .oo 10131 Line to 10018 in Clinton Township 15 LR-10024 Buffalo and 1.7 Widen to 24' 732,000 .OO Clinton Township and Relocation

h. .. . I.

Several roads other than those under the Pennsylvania State Highway Department are indicated on the Highway Improvements Illustration, Plate 18, for minor improvement. These needs are secondary to the major improvements and will be accomplished in part through normal maintenance programs. In most instances these needs involve shoulder improvement and minor widening.

The above recommendations together with a program of street maintenance and improvement under local jurisdiction, will provide an adequate system of access routes to serve the Southeast Butler County Regional Planning Area.

Transportation

Three milroads,pravide freight service to the Regional Planning Area. (Passenger service in Butler County has been discontinued.) The presence of these rail facilities are of major importance to existing and potential industrial development in the immediate planning area and adjacent vicinity.

Penn Central

0 The Butler Branch of the Penn Central Railroad traverses the eastern quadrant of the planning area through a series of stream valleys from Butler Junction near Freeport, through Buffalo, Winfield and a small portion of Jefferson Township. This line continues north beyond the Region to the City of Butler where it connects with the Baltimore and Ohio and Bessemer and Lake Erie Railroads. The Winfield Railroad connects with the Penn Central at Winfield Junction in Buffalo Township.

The basic use of this line is a daily local freight run between Pittsburgh and Butler which serves various Butler firms as well as Marwood and Sarver within the Region. The Penn Central also utilizes this line for ore trains from the Philadelphia area to Butler where cars are transferred to t Erie Railroad to be shuttled to the U. S. Steel Sintering plant in

Bessemer and Lake Erie Railroad

The Bessemer and Lake Erie Railroad rail facility, owned by the United States Steel Corporation, runs generally from steel plants at Clairton to the Lake Erie ports of Erie and Conneaut via the City of Butler. This line enters Butler County through ClintonTownship with the route continuing north into Jefferson Township and thence to Butle?: The major function of the Bessemer and Lake Erie Railroad in the Regional

91 Planning Area is the supply of ore to the U. 5. Steel Sintering plant in Clinton Town- ship from the Penn Central facility via the City of Butler, as well as ore from the U. s. Steel Mesabi Range via Erie and Conneaut. The sintered ore is then transferred from the Clinton Township facihty to mills in the Monangahela Valley. The presence of this rail facility offers the potential for numerous industrial sites which could be developed along its route as it traverses Clinton Township. r i

Winfield Railroad

The Winfield Railroad is a small line owned as a subsidiary of the Penn-Dixie Cement Corporation in Winfield Township. This line interconnects with the Penn Central Railroad at Winfield Junction in Buffalo Township. Its primary function is service to the Penn Dixie plant in West Winfield and subsidiary service to the Mushroom Farms in the same general vicinity. r! ii

Air Facilities 7' I d There are several air fields in Butler County. The best developed public facility is the Butler-Graham Airport northwest of the Regional Area in Penn Township. Continual improvements are being installed through joint Butler City - County authorization via an airport authority and utilization of State and Federal grants. While regularly scheduled commercial flights do not operate at the present time there was a limited commercial schedule by Allegheny Airlines during 1954. Charter flight service is available and a night operator is on duty for contact with the field or on notice for communications with the Greater Pittsburgh Airport. The cperations at Butler-Graham Airport adequately serve private oircraft and have a potential for service of an industrial and commercial passenger function as the need arises. i'I Bus Transit Service

Scheduled bus service is not available in the planning area at the present time, nor is any anticipated in the immediate future. The growth in this area of Butler County has been largely highway oriented with transit dependent primarily on private vehicles. This trend is expected to continue although higher density development may eventually justify the economics of public transit, particularly if planned on a broader metropolitan area basis. u <% U 9 92 11 CHAPTER SIX PUBLIC UTILITIES AND COMMUNITY FACILITIES PLANS

PUBLIC UTILITIES

Communities cannot remain isolated and solve problems an an individual basis as they did fifty years Go. The complexities of modern living and the public services required by an ever-increasing number of inhabitants have erased the validity of municipal boundaries in many instances. Today communities look to the state and federal levels of government for highway systems and have pooled their resources to provide modern school facilities which would not otherwise be possible at the local municipal level in predominantly rural districts.

Perhaps no other facet of planning paints aut the advantages of municipal cooperation better than in the area of public water and sanitary sewer systems. The concentrations of development which are making-these services necessary have came about with little or no regard for man-made boundaries. Also, the topographic features of the areas involved, which are of particular importance to the establishment of sanitary sewers, are not ordinarily synonymous with political boundaries. In many instances where the planning of municipal utility systems has been limited to a specific political subdivision, the result is higher cost to the user and incomplete coverage of the potential service areas.

The following study of public utilities suggests future service areas for the establishment of public water and sanitary sewer service systems. These service areas will not necessarily include the entire regional planning area since the need will be related to population growth, land use types and the anticipated location of new uses. Residential as well as nan-residential needs will be considered in light of development proposals since commercial and industrial growth will depend to a large degree an the adequacy of these utilities.

Public Water

At the present time there are three separate water systems in the Southeast Butler County Regional Planning Area. The approximate service areas are shown graphically an Plate 19, Utility Plan. Report Four of the Comprehensive Plan, prepared in July, 1965, for the Butler County Planning Commission by the firm of Bellante and Clauss, Inc., ppvided... . the following data on these public water systems. x-

93 I] /J

i'I U U *EwERlbE SAXONBURG SEWERAE IREArYEWT PLIwT

whrER SEwERlCE LIITEYs UTILITY PLAN m LOME PLNE~ otvtLorutM1 PLLM PROJECTED WATCR AND SEWER EXPANSION TlYlNG 0 SOUTHEAST BUTLER COUNTY .o*sI~LE~~xPA*sIo*1,711," s ,EAR* REGIONAL PLANNING AREA Scenic View Water Company (Privately-'Owned)

Service Area: Silverville- section of Buffalo Township along Pa. Route 356. Estimated population sewed - 100 in 1966.

Water Source: Two (2) one hundred foot wells cqpable of producing 80,000 gallons per day.

System 100,000 gallon standpipe - 6 and 8 inch distribution lines.

Adequacy: Adequate for current demand. Estimated additional population capacity 7,900 - based on a standard of 100 gallons per day per person.

Penn Dixie -(Privately-Owned)

Service Areo: West Winfield sections of Winfield Township. Estimated population served - 280

Water Source: One well capable of producing 230,000 gallons per day.

System: 10,OOO gallon storage tank. Water is softened and chlorinated prior to distribution.

Adequacy: Adequate for current demand except for storage facilities. Estimated additional population capacity 2,020 - based on a standard of 100 gallons per day per person and provided storage facilities are increased.

Saxonburg Municipal Authority (Public)

Service Area: Saxonburg Borough and limited peripheral portions of Jefferson -.a -.a and Clinton Townships. Estimated population served - 960.

95 0. Water Source: Two wells within the borough with a total capacify of 230,000 gallons per day.

System: 50,000 gallon standpipe. Water is chlorinated prior to storage and distribution.

Adequacy: Adequate For current demand, Estimated additional population 1 copacity 1,300 - based on a standard of 100 gallons per day per person.

Future Water Service

A considerable expansion of public water systems will be required in the Region as new growth is experienced. Each of the three existing water systems are currently operating under capacity and all are capable OF expanded service. These operating water utilities should form the nucleus for future service to all of the developing areas within the Region.

The Saxonburg Area

The present Saxonburg water system now serves a population of nearly 1,000 persons in the Borough of Saxonburg and the immediate vicinity. It is estimated that the

present facilities can accommodate approximately 1,300 additional population. Plate L 20, Saxonburg Utility Systems, indicates the physical layout of the existing water system serving the Borough.

It Is recommended that the present Saxonburg water system be expanded to include additional portions of Jefferson and Clinton Townships. Population projections for the borough and these two bordering townships indicate an increase of over 3,400 persons. This means that the present estimated capacity will require at least a 50% expansion in future years. u: Wells located within the borough now supply water. These should be supplemented with other sources of water to include additional wells in Jefferson and Clinton Townships. The existing 50,000 gallon standpipe will also have to be supplemented D with similar structures, the locations of which will depend upon topography and future setvice qreas as they develop. U

96 EXISTING UTILITY SYSTEMS 11.1 111'1 1111111.c.1 ,111 THE BOROUGH OF SAXONBURG With additions to the plant, this facility will be capable of providing water service to the western one-half of. the Regional Planning Area. The cast of expanding the Saxon- burg water system should be the responsibility of patrons who will receive the benefits of the expanded service area.

Northeastern Winfield Township

The Penn Dixie water system is operated by the Penn Dixie Cement Corporation to supply water to company houses in West Winfield. The firm is currently engaged in a program of vacating these residences which are generally substandard. The only inadequacy in the water system is the lack of sufficient storage facilities. The water supply is capable of supporting over 2,000 persons at the 100 gallons per day standard with a population of less than 250 now being served. Winfield population is estimated to reach 1,450 by 1980. r AS additional development is experienced in the Marwood-West Winfield vicinity it may become feasible for the township to creafe an authority for the purpose of acquiring the Penn Dixie Corporation facility for public use. Provision of public water in this vicinity would encourage development, primarily oriented towards residential subdivisions and related convenience commercial establishments.

Buffolo Township

The greatest immediate development potential in the Region is in Buffalo Township, particularly those portions of the community traversed by State Route 356. At the present time only a small portion of this area is served by a public water supply. The Scenic View Water Company, supplies service to major residential developments within the community which have developed along Route 356.

Current service extends over a relatively small area; however, the water supply which is obtained from two separate 100 foot deep wells is considered adequate for supplying at least 7,500 additional persons at the rate of 100 gallons per day. On the bajis of these figures the availability of water supply for residential purposes presents no particular problem since the projected growth for Buffalo Township is 3,600 through 1980, about one-half the indicated maximum capacity of the water supply. However, it should be u remembered that many commercial and industrial uses are anticipated in this vicinity which could require water in much larger quantities than would residential uses. This factor could raise the average per capita rate well above the standard 100 gallons per u day per p&son which is a generally accepted guideline. a\.

It is recommended that the existing Scenic View Water Company be expanded as U necessary to meet future requirements. This can be occamplished on a private basis

98 II or through acquisition of the private operation by a local municipal authority, This latter procedure may be necessary if the private operators do not have sufflclsnt fund$ available to finance the required expamiow. Additioncll storage and treqtment facilities and extension of water-mains will be required to expand the ,se&iee area.. Eventuglly this system should enca,mpass most :the,'deveIoped portiqwof. Buffalo T&&hip.. . . and .of . ..., possibly portions of Winfield Township gswell,

.i ...... A 1963 study by Warnick Engineers of Butler, Pennsylvania suggested the &ssl~llity

of a loint water system for the southern portfon:.of.Buffalo.Township:qndportions Of: ' ..

Harrison and Fawn Townships.to the south. , This repri.further.recommended't~ai negotiations be opened with the NatGna Water Company. whose franchise.area coven Fawn and Harrison Townships, to see if basic water requiremer)t$could be sppplied froh their facilities. Such an arrangement would leave the other operating water company free to expand to the northern.portionsof Buffalo Township where gpwth is being generated in proximity to Route 356. All of these possibilities should be pvtwed by the Planning Commission, Municipal Avthority, or a group designated for this particular purpose by the Supervisors.

Public Sewerage a Saxonburg Borough operates the only sewerage system in the Regional Planning Area. The physical layout of this system is shown on Plate 20, Saqonburg Utility Systems.

Saxonburg Municipal Authority (Public)

Service Area: Saxonburg Borough and small portions of Jefferson and Clinton Townships west and southwest of the Borough limits. Includes U. S. Steel Plant and Knoch High School.

System Sewage disposal plant located west of Saxonburg - design capacity of 250,000 gallons per day. Effluent discharged into Thorn Creek.

Adequacy: No expansion currently contemplated. System is adequate for present needs and could handle 2,000 to 2,500 additional population in the future. ... .\'

99 Drainage Areas

The establishment of utility systems, particularly sewage disposal facilities, must be related to physical featores of the terrain involved. In considering public utility requirements for this study, the regional area has been subdivided into five separate drainage areas which are indicated graphically on Plate 19, Utility Plan. Each such area represents a segment of the region characterized by common drainage fl6w patterns. In each instance the topography involved indicates that all drainage courses seek the same general outlets to major waterways which trwene or are found adjacent to the particular dsaFaaee area. A description of each of these drainage areas is provided in Table 17.

TABLE 17 DRAl NAGE AREAS SOUTHEAST BUTLER COUNTY REGIONAL PLANNING AREA

Area and Location Description

A - Northeast one-half of Winfield Drainage Area A consists of two minor drain- TownshiD and the northeast corner age flow patterns. The major portion of the of Jefferson Township area is drained via Rough Run and the balance via Cornplanter Run and its lesser tributaries. Both of these watercourses empty into Buffalo Creek directly west of the Winfield Township line which in turn enters the Allegheny River at Freeport.

B - South and west portions of Drainage Area B is the largest single area Winfield Township, north and in the region. The prime drainage course is east two-thirds of Buffalo Little Buffalo Creek which flows in a south- Township and eastern perimeter easterly direction from the extreme north of Clinton and Jefferson corner of the area to an intersection with Townships. Buffalo Creek near the township boundary. A system of short tributaries feed Buffolo and Little Buffalo Creeks. Marwaod, Cabot, Hannahstown, Sarver and Sarverville are all within this drainage area.

C -, Southerly portion of Buffalo Drainage Area C involves only the southerly

"\Township..,j. adjacent . . to Allegheny portions of Buffalo Township. Little Bull County Creek originates in this area and drains south into Allegheny County eventually entering the Allegheny River at Tarentum.

loo TABLE 17 - CONTINUED

Area and Location Description

D - Southerly three-fourths of Rocky Run, Bull Creek and Lardintown Run Clinton Township plus a small are the major watercourses which drain this portion of the southwest corner district to the south into Allegheny County. of Buffalo Township

E - All of Jefferson Township with the The major drainage course in this area is exception of the extreme eastern Thorn Run which enters Jefferson Township perimeter and the northern portion at its northern boundary, traverses the of Clinton Township central portion of the township to near the southern boundary of the community and thence in a northwesterly direction into Penn Township. This drainage area is the eastern terminus of the Connoquenessing Water Shed. Thorn Run is fed by Patterson Run and numerous minor tributaries.

@ These drainage areos form the basis for the delineation of future public utility systems, particularly sanitary sewer services. As a result of the geographic distribution of these areas it is obvious that the participating communities should coordinate their efforts where possible through the establishment of joint municipal authorities. The basic policy of each operating authority should be to provide service to as many residents as economically feasible, at reasonable cost. The development of sanitary sewer systems in any particular drainage or service area should not be limited to one specific portion but should be oriented to tb Img temreqwirementpofifhe total .. anticipated service area. While this does not imply the construction of sewerage facilities in districts where population densities ore presently below limits necessary to support the costs involved, it does suggest that construction specifications in districts where sewers are presently feasible should reflect design capacities which are capable of future expansion as the need arises. Many existing systems throughout the country are a mlscellony of units, some reflecting excess capacity, some operating over capacity with many of these latter systems incapable of expansion. It is obvious that planning must be accomplished with present and potential requirements in mind.

Future-Sewer DeveloDment

.%* It should be emphasized at this point that the projected sewerage requirements of the a region do not anticipate general sewerage facilities throughout the entire study area.

101 Only those portions of the region where the need is obvious today and areas where development trends indicate a need in the foreseeable future, have been indicated for development of sewerage systems. The Utility Plan, Plate 19, illustrates projected requirements in intervals of five, ten and twenty years. It will be noted that large portions of the region are not included in these projected expansions and significant areas indicate a deferred need during the next ten to twenty years.

With these basic policies in mind, the following discusses possible alternative means of providing sanitary sewers in the Southwest Butler County Regional Planning Area. These alternatives provide a framework for detailed engineering studies to be accomplished prior to final decisions regarding the scope of the program to be implemented initially in each particular area. The actual line sizes, treatment methods, costs and financial procedures will have to be determined by qualified sanitary engineers.

Drainage Area A

The northeastern half of Winfield Township and a small portion of Jefferson Township are situated in Drainage Area A. This section of the Regional Planning Area is expected to experience only moderate growth during the next ten to twenty year period. The present population densities, and those anticipated during the immediate future, are considered insufficient for the development of a sanitary sewer system. The majority of existing homes and farms are scattered throughout the area on large lots with only minor clusters of development presently in evidence. An exception is the old settlement of West Winfield, once a residential neighborhood adjacent to an industrial operation, which is gradually being abandoned.

Alhugh major densities of development are not contemplated, population projections do indicate continued growth, primarily of a residential nature. While population density will be below levels necessary for the financial support required to establish and maintain a public sewer system, difficulties related to disposal of sewage can be expected nevertheless, The Township Officials should review current legislation, L and if necessary, enact more stringent subdivision control to insure adequate on-site sewage disposal. Adequacy of proposed individual systems should be certified prior to approval of building permits. Controls should also include the requirement that L major subdivision developments provide adequate neighborhood systems where feasible, with appropriate safeguards relating to operation and maintenance. Where such systems are developed, provision should be made for future expansion and the possibility U of eventually integrating the individual system into a community-wide system. 0 ...,

DrainageArea. .. , B .. .. ., ..

Drainage Area B includes the maior portion of Buffolo Township and segments of Jefferson, Clinton and Winfield Townships. It is the largest drainage area within

'102 i 0 a the region and includes many prime development sites. The growth potential in this vicinity is directly related to the proposed construction of the Allegheny Valley Express- way.

The quality and density of new development will be governed to a large extent by the ayailability of community facilities and utilities which are provided far these new land uses, Al&wg,h. lack of development at the present time will preclude the immediate construction of sewers for same areas, a system should be planned which will be adequate to eventually accommodate the entire service area. This requires the design of a sewerage system which is capable of periodic expansion and one which can be developed in phases over a scheduled development period.

The topographic features of this district reveal a drainage pattern oriented toword Route 356, thence south toward the Allegheny River at Freeport. Engineering study and analysis will probably confirm the need for a major trunk line along or near Route 356 from the vicinity of Hannahstown south to a sewerage disposal facility near Butler Junction or Freeport along the Allegheny River. intercepting trunk lines will service the Marwwd and Cabot areas of Winfield Township, portions of the area between Route 356 and Saxonburg in Jefferson Township, Sarver east of the main?trunk line; Ekastown to the west, and other districts which parallel Route 356. Such a system will provide service over a large area with a minimum of pumping facilities, an important factor in overall development costs.

The Buffalo Township Supervisors established a Municipal Authority in March, 1967, for the purpose of providing public utilities to a growing area. This group should explore the needs of surrounding communities to determine where joint action can achieve service and result in a more efficient, economical system.

Drainage Area C

Drainage Area C which coven approximately one-fourthofthe land area of Buffalo Township is situated north of the Allegheny County Townships of Fawn and Harrison. A . recent study '1 has recommended that the three townships work jointly to provide public- . utilities to this particular district of the community. Extensive residential development has already taken place in Buffalo Township and has resulted in problems related to sewage disporal. The area can anticipate continued development at an accelerated pace which will undoubtedly further complicate present pioblems. Growth will

1/ Report of Preliminary Investigation of Water Supply and Sewerage System for the Tosnship of Buffalo, Butler County, Pa. The Warnick Company, 1961.

103 also occur in adjacent portions of Allegheny County as a result of new highway construction, creating a definite need for public sewerage facilities in the combined Buffalo-Fawn-Harrison Areas.

Drainage Area D

Drainage Area D covers all but the northernone-f4ofCIinton Township. Rocky Run is the major drainage course in this area carrying run-off toward the Culmerville vicinity of Allegheny County. Growth in the Rocky Run watershed portlons.of Clinton Township will be limited due to limited development building tracts. Strip development along main roads and limited subdivision activity can be expected. It is not anticipated that sufficient concentrations of development will materialize in the immediate future to support a public sewerage system, although some individual neighborhood systems may be feasible and necessary.

Higher concentrations of development are anticipated in the northern portions of Drain- age Area D. This growth will be between Saxonburg Borough and the lvywood section of Clinton Township. In the absence of sewerage facilities to the south it is possible that pumping facilities could connect the lvywood vicinity to the Saxon- burg disposal system located immediately north. It is anticipated that this will be necessary within the next decade if industrial sites are developed along the Bessemer and Lake Erie Railroad right-of-way.

Drainage Area E

Saxonburg Bdrough, a small portion of Clinton Township and all but the eastern fringe of Jefferson Township are included in this drainage area. Thorn Run is the major drainage course, traversing the center of the area from north to south then turning in a north- westward direction near Frazier Mill. Thorn Run connects with the Connoquenessing Creek which is part of the watershed of the Beaver River to the west. T' Most of the development activity in Drainage Area E is expected along the perimeter of Saxonburg. Within the next ten years an orcjhaped corridor is expected to develop between Saxonburg and Route 356 to the edst and Jefferson Center to the north. This, arid additional areas further north, drain through the Thorn Run watershed.

It.is proposed that Jefferson Township coordinate sewerage disposal programs with the Borough of Saxonburg Municipal Authority, merging with the existing Saxonburg system. U Major interceptor lines which feed into the Saxonburg disposal system could be installed in the ri$rts $way of Honnohstown Rood, Saxonburg Road, Frozier Road and Dinner .. _:7: .. .:*Rn;; : .:*Rn;; ,.. . ._.. .'- . . . .: , , .. <: : .,.-&Wi*>> U

104 U Bell Road. According to recent surveys '/ the Borough's sewage treatment plant is being used at about 25 percent of its dally 250,000 gallons of capocity. On this basis, the plant is able to serve up to between 2,000 and 2,500 additional people. Population prajectionscited in Chapter Three of this study estimate 2,359 additional people in the two communities of Saxonburg and Jefferson Township by 1980. Part of the anticipated growth will occur during the next five years with additional expansions of development during the succeedirlg five year period. Therefore, within ten years an exponded sewerage system should be available to the entire area. This timing dictates immediate negotiation between the two communities to determine the procedures necessary for operation and financing of such a joint system.

Treatment Facilities

With the exception of the Swonburg sewerage system, recommended for use of Drain- age Area E and o small portion of Drainage Area D, new systems will be required foservice remaining portions of the Region. The type of treatment proposed and sewer sites will be determined through engineering studies. While fino1 requirements will vary somewhat, basic design criteria established by the State of Pennsylvonia suggests adherence to the following principal design features.

Per Capita designed sewage flow: 100 gallons per day. (Figure allows for infiltration of ground woter ond future increase in woter use.)

2. Laterals and sub-rnain sewers to be designed for o per capita capacity of 400 gallons doily.

3. Main trunk and outfall sewers to be designed for o per copito capocity of 250 gallons per day.

4. Interceptor sewers to be designed for a per capita capacity of 350 gallons per day. ' 5. All sewers designed to give mean velocities of two feet per second when flowing full.

6. Peak flow rote estimated to be equal to three times the average daily flow, or 300 gallons per copito per day.

1/ Bder County Comprehensive Plan, Report 4, Butler County Planning Commission an$Bellonte and Clouss, Inc., July 1965,

105 7. Complete oxidation primary and secondary package treatment plants are recommended because of their adaptability to increased loadings and efficiency of operation.

The analysis of existing water and sewer systems reveals that only a relatively small percentage of the Southeast Butler County Region is served by these systems. Over ninety percent of the regional population must rely on private on-site wells for water, and an even greater percentoge depend upon septic tanks and similar "on-lot'' methods for sewage disposal. Fortunately, in the Borough of Saxonburg where population densities and business activity are greater, public water and sewerage are provided. However, population growth and commercial and industrial development which are now taking place are creating the need for water and sewer systems in additional ports of the region. As development accelerates, this need will take on proportions of a critical noture in terms of the health and weil-beingof the affected residents.

It is, of course, true that some oreas do not now have the densities of octive use to justify the feasibility of establishing utility systems to provide these services. The long range development program considers such factors and estoblishes the methods and priorities which can be employed to meet the immediate and long term needs of the study areo.

Loco1 Action

While it is recommended that public sewerage and water systems in the Southeast Butler County Regional Planning Area be provided through cooperative efforts, it is the responsibility of each individuol governing body to initiate specific action. With the above recommendations as a guide line, the various communities should proceed with joint utility feasibility studies which will provide specific data .. regarding the types of systems required, extent of service area coverage, phasing of system development and cost estimates and finoncing proposals. The cost of these 7' feasibility studies can be shored by the participating communities, thus keeping i local expenditures ot a minimum. Following receipt and analysis of the feasibility studies, formal organization of municipal authorities con be achieved, final decisions con be made, and construction scheduled.

Other Utilities ... Public uWties such as electric power, natural gas and telephone service ore provided by independent companies. Accelerated' regionol growth will also require U increases in these services.

106 U While problems are not anticipated related to supply, utility officials should be alerted to growth potential within the region and encouraged to participate in local development programs when appropriate. Industrial developers and others directly concerned with the various growth activities in the area should be aware of utility companies policies related to extension of services to new areas in terms of programming, costs, and methods of cost sharing by all concerned.

COMMUNITY FACl LIT1ES

Educational Facilities

Public education in the Southeast Butler Regional Planning Area is comprised of two separate system: South Butler County Schools and Freeport Area Schools. lhe South Butler County school jointure provides grades one through twelve and includes the townships of Penn, Jefferson, Winfield and Clinton, as well os Saxonburg Borough. The Freeprt Area Schools jointure is administered by Armstrong County and currently includes Buffalo Township in Butler County, and the municipalities of Freeport Borough and South Buffalo Township in Armstrong County. The jointure finances and super- vises all secondary education, while elementary school buildings and building repairs remain a responsibility of the School Boards within the individual political subdivisions.

For the purposes of this study, a combined regional approach is difficult due to the dual systems. Therefore, each system has been analyzed as o sepornte entity since school boundaries do not coincide with planning area boundaries.

In addition to the public schools, there ore three parochical schools within the immediate area; St. Marys and Holy Sepulchre, both Roman Cotholic, and St. Lukes, a Lutheran School. Attendance areas for parochial schools usually involve a parish or several parishes. Consequently, political boundaries have less meaning in relation to attendance. However, due to the influence parochial schools can exert upon the public school systems through expansion or contraction of their enrollments, they must be considered as part of any school study. Communication, at the local level, between prblic and parochial school officials is necessary for realistic planning and projecting purposes.

Physical Environment

An important consideration in a school system is the physical environment. Table 18, Physical .Environment Evaluation, provides a summary of the facilities for each district. Data pro\i'iied by school officials as well os existing source materials have been incorporated into these tables. The locations of these facilities are shown on the Community 0 Facilities Plan Illustration, Plate 21.

I07 TABLE 18 - PHYSICAL ENVIRONMENT EVALUATION SOUTHEAST BUTLER COUNTY REGIONAL PLANNING AREA

Date Con- Acres of School structed Site 1967 Exces :1 (and oddi- Student and c tions, if No. of Total Playground Parking Student Enroll- Defic School Location any) Stories Site Recreation Facilities Facilities Capacity ment Space

South Butler County Jointure Clinton Twp. Elern. KDKA Blvd. 1950 (~vYwoo4 1962 1 5.0 4.5 Good Good 190 213 -23 Jefferson Twp. Elem. Jefferson 1920 Center Rd. 1958 1959 1 7.0 6.5 Good Good 396 402 -6 Penn Twp. Elem. Airport 1910 Road 1954 (Nixon) 1965 1 .5 .3 Fair Fair 600 515 +85 Winfield Twp. Elem. W. Winfield 1925 Road (Cabot) 1950 2 .5 - Fair None 462 435 +27 - Knoch Jr. - Sr. LR 10019 1958 W0 High School (Saxonburg) 1963 2 25 .O 5.0 Good Good 1604 1459 +145

Freeport Area Jointure Buffalo Twp. Elem. 500 Sower Rd. 1937 (Sower) 1954 1959 1963 1 21 .o 7.3 Good Fair 775 762 +13 S. Buffalo Twp. Elern. R. D. R1 1954 Freeport 1962 1 16.4 10.0 Good Good 450 329 +121 Freeport Elern. 408 High St. Freeport 1955 2 .5 .1 Fair Fair 200 148 +52 Freeport Area 324 4th st. 1923 Jr. High Freeport 1949 2 1 .o Rent Good Fair 650 653 -3 Freeport Area Route 356 Sr. High (Sower) 1961 1 41 .O 5 .O Good Good 650 571 +79 COMMUNITY FACILITIES PLAN LON6 RANEI . DIIILOQYINI QLAN SOUTHEAST BUTLER COUNTY REGIONAL PLANNING AREA THE BOPOUCH.OF SAXONBURG' LNO THE TOWNSHIPS OF BUFFLLO. CLINTON. ItFFEPSON. LNO WINFIELD A good education is the most important jingle benefit a community can offer its residents. This benefit is, however, a costly one. The casts range from the continuing ones necessary to employ professional staff and maintain school plants to the large initial investment of school construction.

During the past 50 years major changes in school population have occurred which have, in turn, affected the school building program. A period of school construction ensued between 1915 and 1925 with a period of acfual decline following as the fewer numbers of children born during the 1920's and 30's moved through their school years. Recently there has been a period of accelerated construction as the post-war baby boom has made itself felt successively in the elementary, secondary and advanced areas of education. At the present time the birth rate is declining, and while it is impossible to predict with certainty, it is possible that some schools now filled to capacity moy become less heavily used in the future.

Therefore, it is important that as much flexibility as possible be obtained within the im- movable fixture of the school. If there are going to be cycles of population growth and decline from generation to generation or even decade to decade, a building which may well be in use for 50 years must be so designed to adapt to these changes os economically as possible.

South Butler County Schools

A study of school population by facility in this district indicotes that buildings serving the elementary school levels are near or slighly in excess of capacities. A more substantial deficiency of space is recorded at the Junior - Senior High level. Table 18, Physical Environment Evaluation, indicotes the prevailing enrollment - deficiencies being experienced within the district. Toble 19, School Population indicates levels of enrollment by grade in these facilities.

Of interest is the fact that secondory school population (grodes 7 - 12) has been growing at a faster rate than the elementary population (grades K.- 6). Two factors are in-

volved here. First, the peak in birth rates during the post-war era has lost some L momentum which is reflected by the slower growth rate of the elementary level age groups, and secondly, population migration into this area of Butler County is composed of established families with children in or near the secondary level. i

Secondary enrollments have increased approximately 3.5% annually compared to on ! average annual increase of below 2% for elementary levels. It should be noted that i over o longer evaluation period, the high point for secondary increase appears to , have peaked about five years ago with decreasing percentages of gain noted during I each successive year. i

110 TABLE 19 SCHOOL POPULATION SOUTH BUTLER COUNTY SCHOOL 1967

Elementary Schools Secondary (Jr, Sr.) Grades Penn Clinton Jefferson Winfield Knoch Special Ed. 16 36 36 1 108 50 63 50 2 90 27 57 74 3 75 40 70 74 4 77 35 70 64 5 78 37 73 64 6 71 24 69 73 7 238 8 25 1 9 25 1 10 256 11 206 12 22 1 0 TOTALS 515 213 402 435 1,459 Current educational trends are pointing to the creation of "middle schools." The grade distribution contemplated for this type of educational arrangement in the South Butler County schools is 1 - 5, 6 - 8, and 9 - 12. The middle school concept is not new, although not os prevalent as the 6 - 3 - 3 or 8 - 4 plans. Its primary objective is to group children of the same general growth and development characteristics together or in other words, ossembling sixth, seventh, and eighth grade students, who have more in common with one another than they do with the fifth or the ninth grades. The same reasoning applies to including the ninth grade with the tenth, eleventh and twelfth grades.

This plan will also keep all secondary pupils in any one grade together in one building. By having all pupils in a grade together, a more comprehensive program is possible. Those with unusual abilities or who are slower in learning can be offered more extensive programs under the proposed plan.

It is not a question in the South Butler Jointure of whether a new school should be built since all indications are that one will be required. The question is what type school should bb constructed. tx

111 The middle school program offers certain flexibility in this respect. Its moin advantage 0 would be to increase capacities at each of the elementary schools and at the present Junior-Senior facility without additional individual construction involving these structures. By withdrawing the sixth grade from the elementary schools and the seventh and eighth grades from the Junior-Senior school, the space formerly occupied by these grades becomes immediately available to accommodate enrollment increases. Rather than the prospect of additional construction at each elementary school, plus construction of a new Junior High, the jointure can concentrate its resources on one major construction project - a middle school facility for grades six, seven and eight.

Recommendations

Statewide reorganizational plans may completely alter present county and local school districts in coming years. Therefore, the fallowing recommendations are based on the assumption that the South Butler County School District will retain its present service area.

1. It is recommended that a 1 - 5, 6 - 8, 9 - 12 grade distribution be established and that the middle school concept be adopted. 2. Implementation of the middle school concept will involve a new school Facility 0 for grades 6 - 8, but would render construction of a new elementary school unnecessary. Recent approvals of the State Department of Public Instruction for construcfion of a new elementary school adjacent to the Knoch High School i site suggests that this elementory facility be constructed to include a gymnosium and cafeteria rather than o multi-purpose room, which will make possible transition to a middle school in the immediate future. - 3. If the high school population increases to such an extent that a new building will be required, the possibility of building a joint facility with the Mars Are0 Schools should be investigated as the County Plan suggests. r

i Freeport Area Schools ! School population in the Freeport Area Schools, based upon enrollments by facility, L indicates that all buildings are being used to capacity. Data contained in Table 18 shows the largest deficiency at the South Buffalo Elementary School in Armstrong !- County. Enrollments by grade and building are presented in Table 20, School Population.

Two factors involving this school district limit this analysis somewhat. First, a large portion of the district is beyond the Southeast Butler County Regional Planning Area i; and as a result, land use facton, population trends and other important imformation are

112 U lacking. Also, the composition of this district as it presently stands, as well as various proposals for future reo~anizationare apparently subject to change and hwe resulted in various controversies. A suggested reorganization, currently being challenged by the Jointure in the Dauphin County Courts, would combine existing membership with Leechburg, Apollo and Elders Ridge. Local officials consider this reorganization plan unfeasible.

A capital improvements program, begun in June, 1966, has cost over $2,000,000 to date. This program seeks to correct existing deficiencies and to prepare for anticipated enrollment increases. A $1,204,243 addition to the Senior High School includes remodeling, additions to the present library, cafeteria and kitchen, and new construction of seven standard-size classrooms, one double-size classroom, two small classrooms and an auditorium. Special-use classrooms will also be built and include an Earth and Space Science room, a Biology room, an Arts and Crafts room, a Music room, and a Student Activity room.

When these additions have been completed, ninth grade students will be transferred from the Junior High School to the enlarged Senior High School.

TABLE 20 SCHOOL POPULATION FREEPORT AREA SCHOOLS 1967

Elementary Secondary Grades Buffalo S. Buffalo Freeport Jr. High Sr. High

1 126 52 22 2 126 46 23 3 121 58 29 4 139 64 23 5 114 58 21 6 136 51 30 7 218 8 203 9 232 10 217 11 199 12 155 TOTALS: i* 762 329 148 653 571

113 The remaining $8681926 in the improvements .program is being used at the Junior High School in Freeport. A new cafeteria will be constructed and.extensive :r.emodeling accomplished in the library, the gymnasium and locker. rooms, the Health room,. the Faculty room, the Admiiristration Suite, the Student.Activity room,, the Industrial Arts room, the auditorium and the rest rooms. The hall corridors and the school entrance as well as the plumbing and electrical systems will be renovated and a,new roof and heatil plant installed. Special-use classroom are to be built also. These include an Earth and Space Science room, a Biology room, an Arts and Crafts room, a Music room, and a Student Activity room. ..

The Freeport Area Jointure is evaluated by the Butler County, Comprehensive Plan as follows:

"Though the Freeport Area Jointure is administered by Armstrong County, over one- half of the student enrollment comes from Buffalo Township in Butler County, Also, two of the school facilities are located in the County - Buffalo Township Elementary School and Freeport Area Senior High School."

"Buffalo Township has in recent years received a large population influx. It is recommended that additional classrooms be builtbt the Buffalo Township Elementory School to relieve present overcrowded conditions, or thot the same facilities be built at Free- port, which could adequately serve the southern portion of the Township. Also a small addition will be needed at the Freeport Senior High School." I "The County Comprehensive Plan also notes that 'the Armstrong County School Reor- L ganization Plan calls for a drastic reorganization of the existing school districts. Future needs must be determined from recommendations of this School. Reorganization Plan' i' ". il

Discussions with school officials indicate; however, that they feel the Buffalo Elemen- tary School is too large now and that either a new elementary or junior high school should be constructed elsewhere. il

Recommendations . In view of pending reorganization in Armstrong County, it is recommended that the suggestion contained in the Butler County Comprehensive Plon be utilized as an in- U terim general guideline and that broad policy and organizational changes be held in abeyance until such time as a reorganization plan is completed. U The jointure is also interested in a grade organization which would include a middle school. The discussion found in the South Butler County Schools section relating to u

114 fJ this concept has equal applicability in the Freeport Area schools.

Based on available studies and these found in this report, reorganization combing the existing school district with Leechburg, Apollo, and Elders Ridge, is not recommended at this time primarily due to the size and geographic irregularity of the proposed district.

Communily Facilities

Various facilities and sewices are required to support the physical and social needs of a community. The demands of modern society are constantly adding to the scope of the various amenities which are expected and necessary at the municipal level. The caliber of growth and the extent of commercial and industrial development are also related to the type, extent and quality of facilities available in any regional area. Individuals and businesses desiring to make capifal investments are acutely aware, more than ever before, of the need for adequate utilities, police protection, fire fighting facilities, recreational facilities, schools, and other elements which form the basis for long-term growth and maintenance of property values.

Public Buildings

Each of the five municipalities within the Planning Area have municipal buildings, or wailalbe meeting room facilities within their boundaries. The adequacy of these structures vary at the.present time and in most instances future demands of growth will require additions or replacement. More detailed information and recommendations regarding local municipal buildings is found in the recommendations at each community level.

Fire Protection

The Saxonburg and Buffalo volunteer fire departments provide fire protection within the Planning Area. In addition perimeter coverage and emergency assistance is available from the Herman Fire Company for the northern portion of Jefferson Township and from the Middlesex Company just west of Clinton Township. South Butler, Freeport and neighboring communities also have facilities which can be called upon in emergencies.

The Saxo@urg facility is housed in a brick and frame structure situated two blocks south of the business district. There are over 50 active firemen who respond to calls. Equip- 0 ment includes two pumpers and a water storage truck.

115 The Buffalo facility at Sower is housed in a concrete block structure. Equipment inoludes a pumper and water storage trunks which are manned by over 50 active deportment members.

Many factors are involved in determining just what should be considered adequate fire protection since the requirements of more urbanieed areas such as Saxonburg differ from rural areas. Hydrants are therefore available in Saxonburg, while water for fire-fighting in the Townships must be either transported to the scene of the fire or drawn from a near-by pond or stream.

At the present time the two fire departments are reasonably adequate although there are portions of the mare actively developing areas, particularly in Buffalo Township, which are beyond the recommended three mile fire service radius. Within the next five year interval, fire fighting facilities should be expanded to meet the needs of this growing area.

The following activities are recommended:

1. Saxonburg

The existing fire company should establish a sub-station in the Glade Mill. Road - Saxonburg Boulevard vicinity. This location would provide access to the southern two-thirds of Clinton Township, particularly the Ivywood, Lardintown and Ekastown areas. The main station and equipment should remain at Saxonburg.. The sub-station would house a single fire control unit plus necessary emergency equipment. Volunteers . living in the same vicinity would hove primary responsibility for immediate response to adjacent orea calls and could thus arrive at the scene prior to arrival of the main task.force.

This facility should involve minimum expense and is estimated to cost $15,000. Meeting rooms or similar facilities would not be required since it should be primarily for equipment storage. The possibility of such a structure adjacent to, or in conjunction with, existing or expanded facilities of the Clinton Township municipal complex should be considered.

2. Buffalo

When the Buffalo Fire Department was formed it was situated near the center of existing population concentrations. While these concentrations .~... . are still present, additional. . developments have occurred elsewhere in the community. Recent growth-'and.anticipated maior development

i 16 U districts are situated south of Sarver along and adjacent to Route 356. It is therefore proposed that a new main fire station be constructed with direct access to Route 356, in the vicinity of the Freeport Area Joint Senior High School. Construction cost is estimated at $40,000. This facility would offer immediate aid to major facilities and population centers with the existing Sarver Station remaining to serve the established community and adjacent Winfield Township..

Police Protection

A 1962 Federal Bureau of Investigation report, "Crime in the United States," cites a range of 0.2 to 5.3 full-time police per 1,000 population in urban areas under 10,000 population in the Middle Atlantic States. However, specific needs, particularly in rurol districts, are dependent upon types of land use, population density, property values, highway patterns and related criteria.

Full time police protection at the community level is not available within the Region. The townships rely upon local constables, State Police and the County Sheriff for protection. In Saxonburg, a part-time officer handles protection duties. Budgetary limitations will not permit formal organized police activities on a community basis within these areas for several more years even with needs which are apparent during emergencies.

It is recommended that representatives of the governing bodies and Planning Commissions within the Regional Planning Area confer jointly relative to the establishment of a dual police system. The Following proposals are suggested for considerotion.

1. Establishment of a central office or dispatcher facilities with contacts for emergency purposes in each community.

2. Provision of radio equippedvehiclesand other such equipment as necessary for protection purposes.

3. Appointment of a chief officer responsible to a joint committee composed of delegates from each governing body in the region. Additional personnel as necessary should be chosen to provide full time coverage. Part-time personnel should be available for emergency duty on the basis of geographical location.

Estimated costs for initiating such a program have been kept at a minimum and are indic0te.d for the first phase.

117 i I i

Radio Equipped Cruiser $ 3,000.00 0- Miscellaneous Equipment 1,Ooo.Oo I Salaries (Total full and part- time) 16,000 .OO I TOTAL $ 20,000.00 r I I

Libraries c

School libraries and the Butler County Traveling Library are the only library services i available to the presently estimated population of 13,800 people within the five communities.

The Traveling Library is located at 150 North Main Street in Butler City where space r rented by the County serves as a lending outlet reading room and base station for the bookmobile. The Traveling Library represents the only facility through which a majority of region residents may avail themselves of fairly convenient library service.

L From the standpoint of mileage, the location of the Traveling Library in Butler City is an almost central one for the County. However, Butler City and Butler Township presently have an adequate library on North McKean Street in Butler City and are not in dire need of an additional lending outlet. Since the Traveling Library does not serve these two areas, it is therefore in the odd situation of being based in an area it does not sewe. Its actual service orea consists OF the circle of communities between the Butler City - Butler Township Complex and the county borders. While this arrangement provides a service, it is not considered adequote for a growing community.

Standards of the American Library Associotion have been applied at the Regional Level to produce an indication of present ond future library requirements. This data is summarized in Table 21.

TABLE 21 LIBRARY REQUl REME NTS SOUTHEAST BUTLER COUNTY REGION

Facility Standard Current Need Future (1980) Area - Sq. Ft. 0.55 Per Capita 7,900 S.F. 12,500 Volumes 1.5 Per Capita 21,600 Vols. 34,300 Full Time Staff 1 Per2,500 persons 6 9

'-1 '-1 a/ American Library Association

118 The analysis of library requirements reveals a present and projected need for a maior new facility. This need is based upon standards which would produce an ideal situation within the region, yet which is not necessarily within financial resources at this time.

It is recommended that a committee be formed to explore the interest of local groups and individuals in the creation of a regional library facility. A citizen's group could be formed for this purpose or an existing civic group could accept such a project. In neighboring Zelienople, for instance, the Women's Community Club was responsible for the establishment of a library facility. Funds for such a project can be derived from a variety of sources including the Commonwealth under the Library Code, (Act 188 General Assembly - 1961), local tax levies, support from the school district through joint programs and private subscription.

Once an organization accepts this responsibility, the following steps should be pursued.

1. Establish firm objectives and goals.

2. Explore ways and means of raising necessary revenues.

0 3. Select a centrally located site and secure probably through rental or lease, physical facilities. (Saxonburg would be the best suited location for the facility at least during initial development due to population density factors.)

4. Employ professional staff to determine book requirements and aid in internal organization.

A minimum budget of $50,000 should be secured for the first phase. This represents a base amount for initiating the program and contemplates a minimum rental and utility cost. The possibility of donated space until the library facility is firmly established should also be considered such as the Saxonburg Municipal Building.

Refuse Disposal

Refuse disposal within the Regional Area is provided by private firms on a contractual basis. In view of all the other public services which must be assumed by the various communities during the next few years it appears that refuse disposal must remain a private::business function. However, it is important that the local governing body exercis&upewisory control to protect the resident from unfair rates and to assure that all portions of the community have equitable service. Litter control must also be 0

119 enforced. These can be accomplished through local municipal ordinances which require the licensing of refuse haulers and which stipulate the conditions and procedures which they must follow in the conduct of their businesses. I Recreation

Existing public recreation facilities at both local and regional levels are limited in the r Regional Planning Area. However, until recently, the low density population patterns had not created the demand for formal recreation programs. Except for school activities, little league ball clubs and similar pursuits i state, county or local recreation developments or programs are non-existent within the Planning Area. There follows a listing of public and private recreation facilities now found within the southeastern municipalities. [ Buffalo Township Jefferson Township P Skating Rink Fishing Lake I Roadside Rest Pool Association Facility

I. Clinton Township Winfield Township i_ Public Golf Course Hunting and Fishing Club Riding Stable

Saxonburg Borough Community Building - Town Hall r- PI a yg round t.

In addition to the facilities listed above, there are school playfields in each of the four rb townships; d

Obviously the existing recreation facilities are quite limited in the Southeastern Bufler 1,.. ., County Regional Planning Area. State, county, regional and local recreation facilities i .I should be combined to meet the total recreation requirements since the limited resources of the individual municipalities will not, nor should, provide for the total recreation demonds of a growing area. E

Basic standards have been suggested by the National Recreation Association as a guide for establishing the goals and objectives necessary to a successful overall recreation U program. The standards presented in Table 22 represent only the basic structure upon which a recreation system should grow. The responsibility of a successful system borne by each level of government and by every citizen, is essential to a quality U recreat.ion program. .. '. .

120 U In the application of basic standards every effort must be made to create facilities and programs within the economic means of each contributing agency. Also, the development of facilities-must take into account the total environment. Parks and recreation must have a double orientation. They must be both people and resource oriented. They must be people-oriented in that they are planned to serve and sat- Isfy the needs of all segments of the population and resource-oriented in that they are located to take advantage of natural and man-made resources - stream-beds, hills, valleys, and the system of land use and traffic ways.

It is no longer sufficient to scatter unrelated parks and parkways at random throughout a region; the effort must instead be to so devise park and recreation plans that the whole of the area becomes one inter-related system of parks and parkways, with homes, institutions, factories and commercial areas beautifully interspersed.

Such a program is proposed for the Southeast Butler County Regional Planning Area through the combination of regional and local recreation areas, screening easements, and conservation of open space.

TABLE 22 RECREATION STANDARDS

Area Size of Foci1i ties/ F ac iI i ty-~: Served Site Location Activities

Parks Region or 25 Acres Accessible to Passive and Active Municipality or more Service Area Areas - Development of natural scenic areas .. Playfields One mile 10-20 Situated to Serve Active playfields for Acres several neighborhoods organized athletics 'Playgrounds One-half 3-7 Acres Near or' Adjoining Active play/apparatus mile School Site and playfields Playlots 1-2 Blocks 0.1-0.3 Within neighbor- Active Play/apparatus Acres hood Special Areas Region or Varies Accessible to Swimming pools, com- Municipality Service Area munity center, etc.

Source: Notionol Recreation Association, American Public Health Association, Simonds and Simonds ...... , .. . i' Scre.ening yequi.rements for irldustry a.pd. cwnmerce incorporated into development controls 0 which specify the trpe and maintenance of such amenities will effect part of the program.

121 With few exceptions, a large portion of the open space is characterized by steep terrain. Although development of much of this land is highly improbable, controls can beapplied through zoning to limit adverse use. Although general public acquisition of this land is not economically feasible, consideration should be given to eventual use of some areas far trails and passive recreation. The fringe of some portions of this open space will provide more active recreation area, either public or private, for use by adjacent residential neighborhoods.

Allied with the general concept of providing open space reservation is the critical need for protecting the beauty of the landscape traversed by highways. Unattractive land uses, litter, advertising structures of all shapes and sizes and other unsightly elements dominate most of our existing highways. It is imperative that new highways be protected from these conditions and that existing roadsides receive the attention necessary to eliminate unsightliness.

These various concepts and programs involving recreation, open space and h,ighway beauti- Fication, if adopted by the communities within the region, will effect the preservotion of unspoiled open space. This will provide the entire region with a new dimension of outdoor recreation to meet the needs of today and anticipate those of tomorrow. The following recommendations are keyed to such a comprehensive approach.

Reaional Recreation and ODen SDace

Western Pennsylvania has been endowed with a striking natural setting and scenic beauty T which are a part of our natural resources which warrant protection from mons explortations. L. Relatively recent national and state programs are emphasing noturol beauty, open space preservotion and related recreation developments which are creating a whole new concept of outdoor recreation. These progroms are being futhered through funding sources such as the Pennsylvania Project "70" Program and Project "500 Million", and the Federal Open Space Program which together assist in acquisition and development of areas for various forms of recreation and open space conservation.

One such project now under construction is the 14,000 acre Moraine State Park situated approximately twenty miles northwest of the Planning Area. This facility will include a 3,200 acre lake and become a major Western Pennsylvania recreation area accessible to the Region. 11 The State has proposed another regional park site to be known as Buffalo Creek State Park and which lies partly in Buffalo Township and partly in Armstrong County. Encompassing approximately 10,000 acres, this pork would be maintained primarily for its natural bl scenic beauty and would serve passive recreation acitivites such as picniking and hiking. i' 11

122 0 The proposed park would be well oriented in relation to urbanization within and around the Southeast Butler County Region.

Another park has been pmposed by the Butler County Planning Commission for the South- east Region. This 275 acre facility situated east of Saxonburg in Buffalo and Clinton Townships is suggested as part of a County-wide park system. The park would be known as Sarver Run Park and serve almost exclusively the needs of the immediate vicinity. Although the development of a County system of regional parks is a long range program, this facility should became part of the total recreation and land use planning program for the regional area.

An excellent opportunity is present for the deyelopment of a regional recreation area within the immediate planning area. A site of approximately 90 acres has been deeded for recreation development to a semi-public group, the Southeast Butler County Pool Association. Although current acitivity has been limited to the provision of a swimming facility, which should open for the 1968 season, the overall site could be developed for a variety of uses as suggested on the Illustrative Site Scheme, Plate 22.

Located in Jefferson Township near the intersection of State Route 356 and Honnahstown Road (LR 10032), the park site is easily accessible to serve practically all portions of 0 the regional area. The above facilities shown on Plate 21, will provide excellent regional-level recreation sites once implemented. This will require local and regional cooperation as indicated in the following recommendations:

1. A Regional Recreation Commission should be formed for the purpose of encoupgihg County and State authorities to proceed with land acquisition of the Sower Run and Buffalo Creek recreation areas. In particular the following requests should be mode:

a. The Butler County Commissioners should be requested to I adopt a land acquisition policy and schedule for the development of regional parks including Sarver Run.

b. The Pennsylvania Department of Forests and Waters should be requested to submit a report to the Regional Recreation Com- mission on the status of studies conducted to date regarding the Buffalo Creek area.

2. 'The Regional Recreation Committee should hold discussions with the Board df'Directors of the Southeast Butler County Pool Association relative to the i ,I 123 I / BUTLER I i COUNTY I I I possibilities of region-wide development, use and operation of a park to be developed in Jefferson Township. Tha following elements should be resolved:

a. Legal restrictions to be determined relative to site use.

b. Type of organization and extent of participation by member communities.

C. Design of facilities and methods of financing improvements:

(1) Public subscription

(2) Industrial and individual donation

(3) Use of available grants

d. Operational responsibility

(1) Maintenance

(2) Police

(3) Fees and policy

(4) Capital Improvement Program

Estimates of costs to initiate this facility are premature at this time. The type of development, the phasing of improvements and the final determination of organizational matters must first be resolved.

Recommendations for local communities suggest accelerated recreational programming in conjunction with existing school programs and facilities. There may also arise certain aspects of planned recreotion programs which may be coordinated through the proposed Regional Recreational Committee. This Committee should always he available acting as a clearing house and, coordinating.agency for program ideas offered by the various municipalities. '

The regi'iinal recreation organization and facilities which have been proposed will form a basis fr& which local programs and facilities can continue in more detail at the community and neighborhood levels, The recommendations for these programs are found in succeeding chapters of this report.

125 The majority of planning recommendations for the Southeast Butler County Regional Plannihg Area, as proposed in the preceding sections of this report, will require cooperative actiqn among the participating municipalities. However, the specific legal and financial implementation of these programs in most instances will entail local approvals ond initiative. This portion of the report contains specific recommendations for proposed actions and requirements deemed necessary at the individual municipal level.

127 0

PLANNING RECOMMENDATIONS 0 BOROUGH OF SAXONBURG CHAPTER SEVEN RECOMME N DATl ONS SAXONBURG BOROUGH

The Borough of Saxonburg is generally centrally located with respect to the Reg.Jn and is the largest single core of development in terms of papulation and diversity of land use types. The community is the only one in the Region with both public water and sanitary sewer systems. with over fifty percent of the total land ore0 still vocont and developable. These combined factors point to Saxonburg as o maior growth area and, in fact, suggest that it will be one of the initial communities to experience a sharp increase in development during the early stages of the planning period.

Growth can take place in an uncontrolled and haphazard woy, or it can proceed in on orderly manner based upon local and regional planning considerations. This latter course will provide the community with quality growth as opposed to marginal development of limited value and doubtful duration. Saxonburg is in a position to capitalize on its advantages and develop as the urban center of the Region.

Lond Use Plan

It is proposed that Saxonburg adopt a land use program directed toward the creation of an urban area which will function as the primary business, cultural and social center for the surrounding vicinity. Although this center will be limited in size since its support will initially come from surrounding predominately rural region, it should maintain quality in its development which will serve a series of surrounding neighborhood districts which are already emerging. The plan for Saxonburg does not propose any drastic alterations to existing land use patterns but rather, redefinitions and extensions of present uses as shown graphically on Plate 23, Community Facility and Land Use Plan. .. Residential

Residential land use patterns will continue to appear throughout the perimeter districts of Saxonburg. However, with the recent trends in the Pittsburgh-Butler vicinity (and also in Saxonburg) which indicate the growth of apartment developments, multi-family residential uses, should be encouraged os port of this emerging residential expansion. Thisdevelopment ihould.be well controlled to insure that certain inadequacies found in apartment dwellings recently constructed in Saxonburg will not be duplicated in the future. In at least two instances, multi-family dwelling units have been constructed recentlg'with little or no concern for dwelling unit densities, yard area, off-street parking 2; similor amenities which should be on integral partof:tliis type of development.

130 COMMUNITY FACILITIES

AND LAND USE PLAN~ 1111 11111 ,111 ,I,., ., 111. 1HI BOROUGH OF SAXONBUR6 It is proposed that future residential development within the Borough be of a single family 01 character with multi-family units permitted subject to specific controls consistent with those specified for single family areas. Under such provisions, apartments, row housing and duplex units would be developed as community units with the required lot area per dwelling unit provided as part of the site development on a combined basis. The resultant "cluster type" development will result in more economic construction and maintenance and provide multi-family units within the framework of a single family neighborhood environment. This type of housing is particularly adaptable to the southern portions of the community where large tracts of vacant land are available,

Commercial

The position of Saxonburg as a basic ragional commercial center will be subject to local initiative. While the basic core of an existing commercial area is present on Main Street, lack of parking and general deterioration of the majority of structures is a deterrent to new development. A limited Urban Renewal Program combined with private development and municipal code enforcement programs could elevate Main Street to the status of a region-wide commercial facility. The existing branch office of a major banking institu- tion, professional offices and several established retail and service outlets could be supplemented with additional commercial facilities through a smal I renewal program designed to eliminate substandard structures and assemble land for new development. In a the absence of a program of improvement and expansion the opportunity for commercial activity in Saxonburg is limited.

The proposed renewal program would provide the means of acquiring for commercial L. expansion contiguous land which otherwise may not be available for many years. Also non-conforming uses would be eliminated along with substandard structures and a certain amount of flexability would be provided for a redesigned circulation pattern and the insertion of needed parking areas, all accomplished without destroying the historical character of the COT, ?unity. This comprehensive approach, possible under Urban Renewal, would more quickly establish Saxonburg as the prime regional commercial center for the entire Southeast Butler County vicinity.

It is recommended that the Borough of Saxonburg notify the Butler County Redevelap- ment Authority of its interest in o possible Renewal Program. After preliminary evaluation and approval by the County Authority and Federal representatives from the Department of Housing and Urban Development, the Borough should proceed with the preparation of a Survey and Planning Application for submittal to HUD. This application !' would indicate possible types of use and provide preliminary estimates of project costs, ii thereby establishing a Federal grant for the project. On approval of this Application by the DbRPrtment, actual project planning could begin. The cost of the Survey and

132 Planning Application would be a local expense; however, actual project planning which would follow would be eligible as a program cost and covered under the Federal two- thirds capital grant. The estimated cost of a Survey and Planning Application for the Main Street Project Area is between $1,500 ahd $2,200.

In addition to the proposed regional commercial complex, an area in the vicinity of Butler and water Streets is proposed as a general commercial district. Uses such as service stations, auto repair or sales and similar highway oriented commercial uses are anticipated in the vicinity. This proposal is baed upon the area wide need for such uses, the presence of on existing core of this type of use, and the effect of the proposed relocation of L.R. 10019 to this vicinity from its present routing along Dinner Bell Road.

General commercial uses are proposed to be limited to the west side of Butler Street from Water Street north to relocated L.R. 10019 for two reasons. First, the restriction will protect the residential character of the adjacent neighborhood to the east of Beover Street and secondly, it will reduce congestion on Beover Street since the heaviest traffic volumes expected to approach the district from L. R. 10019 to the north could then enter the commercial sites without crossing traffic in the opposite lane.

A convenience commercial site has been included in the vicinity of State and Water Streets. This use area is based on the minor expansion of business already established needed to serve the borough and residential neighborhoods to the immediate north. Grocery, drug and local service outlets ore proposed as predominant uses.

Public and Semi-public

Public uses include the existing municipal building on Main Street and a proposed park in the northeastern sector of Saxonburg which are! described in more detail under the community facilities section for Saxonburg. Other public and semi-public uses include churches, the cemetery bordering Water Street, the United States Post Office, a con- velescent home and the Fire Department site. This latter site, situtoted at the northeast corner of Pittsburgh Road and Horne Avenue, is proposed for expansion as shown on Plate 23 to provide for additional facilities which will be required as area growth continues.

Industrial

Limited..., industrial land use expansion is proposed within the municipality, primarily involvi~~nlargementof existing sites and the elimination of non-industrial uses within these sites. The present type of industrial operation, if provided with adequate buffer

133 areas, is not adverse to adjacent land uses and is beneficial to the community from a tax revenue basis. The main industrial area, west of Rebecca Street, has been designated for expansion; however, maximum expansion should not exceed the area as indicated on the Land Use Plan. The other industrial district adjacent to the eastern municipal boundary has potential for odditional expansion beyond the borough limits.

The merging of new and future land uses as proposed in these recommendations has not altered the basic patterns of development found in Saxonburg today. The program as projected will accomplish the following goals:

1. Elimination of substandard structural conditions.

2. A general increase in property values.

3. Strengthening of the tax base.

4. Provision of sites for public facilities.

5. Improved traffic circulation. 1’ L 6. Expansion ond refinement of the borough’s business and industrial oreos.

7. Establishment of Saxonburg os the economic and social center of Southest Butler County.

Street Systems

The majority of the highways in Saxonburg are State mointained and as a result many of the recommendations for regional highway improvements, os indicated by the regional plan, will affect the borough. These recommended state projects include: il 1. Major improvement and widening of Pittsburgh Road, Butler Street and Neupert Road (Water Street) within and beyond the borough.

2. Relocation of L.. R. 10019 north of Saxonburg.

3. . Intersection improvements along Main and Rebecca Streets.

As a supplement to these programs it is recommended that the Borough of Saxonburg adopt the follpwing policies regarding local street systems: -.,s: 1. Maintenance. Continue maintenance of existing local street systems

134 U based upon existing schedules. Proper maintenance will become increasingly important as traffic volumes increase within and around the Borough.

2. Private Construction. Upon adoption of the proposed Subdivision Regulations, a developer of a subdivision or community unit development will be responsible for construction of local service and access streets. These streets will be built to Borough specifications and approved prior to dedication by the munici.pality. Subdivision Regulations should be enacted immediately which contain these requirements and municipal inspection should be provided to guarantee enforcement.

3. New Construction. Large portions of the Borough, south of Main Street, are generally undeveloped due, in porti to lack of access roads.

Further, :. .continuing : the present street grid system prevalent in the community would be difficult in some areas due to topographic variations. It is recommended that a system of local streets be developed to provide access to the southerly half of Saxon- burg as depicted on Plate No. 23. South Butler Street from Main Street to Pittsburgh Road should receive first priority. An extension of this street from Pittsburgh Road to Freeport Road should follow. At a later date, South lsabella Street should be extended between Main Street and Horne Avenue.

The proposed street system will initially provide access to a new residential development area. Additional minor access streets will eventually develop, to include, in some instances, CUIde sacs which will open up additional lots for development.

The general proposed alignment of the new street system is based primarily on topographic features. Actual alignment may be modified according to availability of the land, location of property lines, willingness of owners to participate, detailed engineering studies and any pending proposals from private developers for use of this area ,in the immediate future. It is suggested that the Planning Commission take the initiative and meet with land owners who might be involved in order to determine actual routing, possible plans which there may be for development and cost factors.

The accomplishment of this local road system expansion should be scheduled by priority os outlined in Table 23, Street Construction Priorities - Saxonburg. The portion of Horne Avenue, west of South Butler Street is not included on Table 23. This road would more directly'vwe property development than through access and should be the exclusive responsibility of the land developer. It is mapped to indicate a method of opening this

135 portion of the borough for development. Cost esfimates are based upon a right-of- way fifty feet in width with a paved cart-way of twenty-four feet. Estimates include drainage and grading. Arrangmenets should be explored for sharing these costs by the borough, the land owners and possible developers.

While the Borough should not be expected to beor the financial cost of creating occess- ible sites for development through road construction, the initiation and control of a program to create the best use of land is a municipal responsibility. The exact projected alignment should be determined as indicated above and made a part of the plan. Any devlation to such alignment should require approval of the Planning Commission and Governing Body. The Borough would accept roads for dedication only when consistent with the plan. The Borough should assist in the construction of the road system indicated in Table 23 since it is vital to the local circulation system and to future growth in the southerly portion of the community. Other minor roads should be the responsibility of the developer or land owner and subject to review as specified in appropriate subdivision regulations.

The timing of this program of local road expansion will be subiect to development demands. The municipality should not spend public funds to condemn land for a purpose which will be directly beneficial to property owners who might create the expense through a lack of cooperation. The economic demand for residential sites within the Borough, where public utilities and facilities are provided, should minimize problems of cooperation due to the desire of land owners to market home sites. The Borough, in order to relate this street system to existing highways and to foster growth in this vicinity, should assist in the development of this additional road pattern through labor and financial support. A predetermined i amount should be budgeted annually for th'IS purpose.

TABLE 23 STREET CONSTRUCTION PRIORITIES SAXONBURG BOROUGH i'1 Priority Location Estimated Cost c 1 South Butler Street 105,600 Moin Street to Pittsburgh Road 2 South Butler Street 102,000 U Pittsburgh Road to Freeport Road 3 lsabella Street 57,200 Main Street to Horne Avenue U 4 C., Horne Avenue 22,000 x* Pittsburgh Road to South Butler Street U

136 U Community Facilities and Public Improvements

Police

Police protection which is now provided on a part time basis must be expanded as growth continues. Regional recommendations outlined in Chapter 6 propose joint police service in the Region. The system would operate from a central location such as Saxonburg where office facilities are already available and where the greatest concentrations of population and business activity are found.

This recommendation will, of course, require full cooperation from Saxonburg Borough. The region-wide community facilities program suggests an expense of $20,000 during the initiation stage. Future annual operating costs would probably remain about the same or slightly higher due to increases in operational demands brought on by population expansion. It is further recommended that the cost to each municipality be based on a formula such as that under which the communities have proceeded with the regional planning project. A thirteen percent share for the Borough would therefore require an initial expenditure of $2,600 for police protection. This is less thon the present budget amount expended in Saxonburs.- An additional local office could supplement the regional force, @ if desired, for local coverage.

-Fire

Fire protection in Saxonburg is now a- -quote. However, the Land Use Plan indicates expansion of the present volunteer fire department property ot the Pittsburgh Road - Horne Avenue site in anticipation of future growth demands. This is an excellent site providing good access to all portions of the surrounding service area.

Library

Library facilities are virtually non-existent in this regional area. The regional recommendations suggest o joint regional facility which could begin on a moderate basis with a minimum initial budget of $50,000 to be shared by the participating communities. A committee formed for this purpose could apportion shares on a variety of formulas; however, the 13% previously cited for police cost sharing would require a $6,500 expenditure from Saxonburg. It is, therefore, suggested that these funds be raised through public subscription. It is reammended further that the program start by leasing space in the Soxonburg Munici- pal Building until permanent quarters are selected on the basis of actual demand and use.

137 Recreation

A small recreation area has been developed adjacent to the Saxonburg Municipal Build- ing for playground purposes. In addition, theplayfields at Knoch High School to the immediate west of Saxonburg provide additional recreation facilities of this nature.

To supplement these active recreation areas, playlats are proposed within the develap- ing neighborhood areas in the northern and southern sections of the Borough. Land for these areas should be reserved as part of the overall subdivision design and the Borough should participate by providing equipment and maintenance of these recreation areas. Projected costs are not indicated for this municipal function since the timing of these

facilities will depend upon when actual growth which takes place. I

Within the Borough of Saxonburg is the Roeblicg House, the home of the founder of the town and inventor of steel wire rape. The site, at the corner of Water and Rebecca Streets has been donated to the Borough. It is recommended that contiguous land area be acquired and a municipal park facility be developed in conjunction with this historical landmark. The development should include quiet, landscaped areas, picnic facilities .. Provision should be made during site and playground areas for use of local residents. .. . design For the eventual inclusion of a community activity building which could be used for sociol functions by private and public groups and for community-wide recreation programs during all seasons of the year. This building would be planned on a long- range basis and constructed when financial feasibility permits or through Project "500 Mi II ion. "

The park is proposed to be developed over a period of years with a minimum of $4,000 allocated annually for planning and capital improvements within this facility. The development of the Southeast Butler County Pool Association provide a supplement to local recreation facilities, particularly the swimming pool. The Borough should cooperate with any efforts which can be arranged to turn this facility over For regional oriented uses.

Utilities

Saxonburg is the only community within the Regional Area which has both public sewer and water utilities. The extent of utility coverage is shown on Plate 20, Saxonburg Utility Systems. Minor perimeter areas of Jefferson and Clinton Townships are sewed by this system as well as the U. S. Steel plant and Knoch High School which are connected ...to the sewer system. The watksystem is more than adequote for expanded service and the sewerage treatment plant is being used only to about 25% of capacity. Plans should be formulated

U for the exponsion of utilities to perimeter areas where growth is occurring. It is recommended that the Saxonburg Municipal Authority be reorganized on an area-wide basis to include mgjor droinage area E shown on Plate 19. This system would then include the Borough, most of Jefferson Township and the northern portions of Clinton Township. The governing board of the Authority would be comprised of members from eoch community chosen by the Township Supervisors or Borough Council.. This system could be accomplished without major additional expense.

1QP PLANNING RECOMMENDATIONS 0 TOWNSHIP OF BUFFALO CHAPTER EIGHT RECOMMENDATIONS

BUFFALO TOWNSHIP

In recent years, Buffalo Township has experienced a comparatively greater degree of growth than the other regional municipalities primarily due to highway influences. These same influences will exert even greater development pressures with the construction of the Allegheny Valley Expressway which traverses the southeastern corner of 2 the township and the development of a full interchange with State Route 356. Valuable land, in close proximity to the Expressway and, in fact, on all major street systems within the township will be subject to development of all types and quality of uses, some of which could prove disadvantageous to the well-being of the community. It is, therefore, extremely important that local officials adopt the following land use development program which is, in turn, legally augmented by an official zoning ordinance.

The Land Use Plan

Residential

The land use plan for Buffalo Township, as illustrated on Plate 24, proposes a continuation of existing development patterns, with extensions to major subdivisions which have developed adjacent to Route 356 in the central and northcentral portions of the community. Additional single family residential growth is indicated in the Ralston Road vicinity and along L. R. 10026.

Other iesidential areas are proposed with access to the Expressway Interchange in the south central area of the Township and also to the northwest, adjacent to State Route 356. These districts would permit single family, two fa'mil y and community unit developments. The community . unit land use designation would permit various types of multi-family uses plus small retail and service commercial uses oriented to the immediate development. Residential densities permittedwould conform to those of the single' family homes in the same district; however, flexibility in land use design could be achieved which-is not possible under the basic single family development concept. Economic trends indicate that this type of residential development will be readily marketable particularily in view of the access to be provided by the nearby Expressway. h. A large'-@tiqn of the Buffalo Township land area is designated for Agricultural/Residential .. use. In' these areas the present deve1,opment patterns are expected to continue. Forming

.' 142 U a 0 activity will continue until the economic influences within the Region result in dis- placement by residential and commercial growth. Single family residential growth will be the major influence in these areas during the next IO to 20 years. Although supporting commercial activity will follow, it is premature at this time to indicate specific locations for these y6es. These elements must be carefully designed as part of the overall land use plan depending upon future growth and closely coordinated with the overall development patterns throughout other sectors of the municipality.

Commercial

Three types of commercial use areas are proposed for Buffalo Township. These include (a) convenience commercial areas which serve the everyday needs of neighborhood districts, (b) shopping center use oriented to regional commercial needs and highway commercial use which meet the economic demands of highway oriented business activity .

Convenience commercial centers are, by their location and size, limited in scope, providing groceries, service stations, drugs, cleaning establishments and similar commodities to the immediate neighborhood. Suggested sites for these uses have been chosen as they relate to existing and anticipated residential neighborhoods, and in some cases on the basis of established commercial areas. As residential development extends into now predominantly agricultural areas, additional sites for convenience commercial centers will be proposed and must be carefully evaluated in terms of the overall plan. i A projected site for shopping center commercial use is indicated on Route 356, approximately one-half mile north of the Allegheny Valley Expressway Interchange. While this site is tentative, it does indicate a desired location for a shopping center facility, close to the Expressway and easily reached from the Freeport and Tarentum areas to the south, all portions of southeastern Butler County via Route 356 and intersecting collector 1 routes to the north. Commercial uses would include convenience stores plus restaurants, hardware stores, offices, service stations and other uses providing a generally large i variety goods and services to patrons. of i

Highway commercial land use areas are proposed bordering Route 356 in the northern !' portions of Buffalo Township. Business uses such as transportation depots and distri- ,.I bution centers, warehousing, offices and research and development activities would ideally utilize these sites. This location is close to the industrial and business center of Butler several miles north with access to the Expressway a short distance to the south. .:' .. .. ; 3. .. .

--1 I Several limited manufacturing districts are projected for development in Buffalo Town- ship. In these areas permitted uses would include bakeries, bottling works, machine tool shops, various light manufacturing processes and uses similar to those permitted in highway commercial sites. The ideal location with the greatest potential for this land use in Buffalo Township is adjacent to the Expressway Interchange where both access and advertising site values are optimum. Similar sites are proposed in the northern and southern portions of the township.

Recreation

Several large land areas are specified for open space and conservation use. Except for proposed conservation areas parol le1 to the Expressway right-of-way, and those which are proposed as buffer areas, adjacent to commercial and industrial zones, the majority of this land use category involves land in extreme topography. This is particularly true where land parallels the valleys through which railroad systems lace this township.. These areas are of little value for development purposes and should be preserved for their natural beauty. A large area of open space land use shown in the northeastern corner of the community forms part of the proposed Buffalo Creek State Park.

As growth continues in Buffalo Township periodic modification of the land use plan will be required by the Planning Commission and Municipal Officials. The general structuring for future land uses as presented in this study will probably not change materially since the patterns express anticipated economic influences which will occur primarily from highway influences. When plan changes are made, however, certain considerations and goals should be utilized as a basis for modification. These should include the following:

1. The effect of the land use on adjacent parcelsoandthe neighborhood as a whole.

2. The economic value and expansion potential of a given site.

3. The strengthening and maintenance of the local economic structure.

4. The relationship of the proposed use to traffic volumes and local circulation patterns.

5. The permanent or temporary aspects of the land use.

145 :

Street Systems

The major traffic routes in Buffalo Township are under the jurisdiction of the Pennsylvania Department of Highways. Improvements and maintenance, therefore, are not locol responsibilities but fall upon the Commonwealth. Although the State Department of Highways has established county and district departments, they must by necessity cover many miles of r highways and are not always cognizant of many local problems which occur from time to time within individual municipalities. In many instances, inadequacies or problems regarding state road systems have o direct bearing on the local municipal roads and streets. It is, therefore, important for the local officials to be aware of all of these I elements so that they can logically coordinate local and state levels of maintenance and i improvement.

State Route 356, a major regional highway facility, the Saxonburg-Tarentum Road and

Legislative Route 10025, both major regional collector roads, together with Sarver Road, r a minor collector route, form the major local traffic system in the Township. During the next few years, the Allegheny Volley Expressway will traverse the southeast corner of the township, adding significant traffic volumes to the utilization of these roads. Local roods with direct occess to Route 356 and the Expressway Interchange will be the first to experience - i this increased use.

Rolston-Horbison Road (designated T-616),Doyle Road (designated T-663), Cole Road (designated T-669), and Porker Road (designated T-614) can be expected to receive the initial increased use. Therefore, it is recommended that these roads be assigned priority for local road improvement programs.

Ralston-Harbison Road. (Township Ro.ad T-616) This local route is a "loop" road approximately 2.5 miles in length, located. to the east of State Route 356. It will intersect Route 356 approximately .8 miles south of the proposed Expressway Interchange and again .6 miles north of the interchange, completing the loop and providing o major occess road for valuable,. industrial and residential. sites adjacent to the Expressway.

Original proposols to .terminate this road at the Expressway have been reconsidered due to the access it provides. It is recommended thot Ralston-Harbison Road be maintained as o through artery due to its importance as an access to developable sites and to the anticipated heavy use which it will receive.

It is recommended that the Township of Buffalo schedule complete rebuilding of Ralston- Harbinson Roodoprior to the Expressway opening. Construction should include o 24 foot cartway. Adequate drainage must be provided and curbing is not required. Estimated cost of.the.. . improvement: $55580,800.00. .e.. .e...... I :. ,: .. . ..' . ., ...... I ,.. _. .': . . .. :. <, . . , , ,, . ..

146 0 Due to local considerations the future land use recommendations reflect limited manufacturing sites to the south of the Expressway Interchange only. In all probability economic pressures for additional sites will prevail and significant acreage to the north of the interchange will also develop in industrial use in the future. In fact, the majority of land which is accessible to the Ralston-Harbison Road will be in demand far limited manufacturing uses, offering an excellent opportunity for Buffalo Township to create an industrial park. It is recommended that the Planning Commission and Township SuperGisors work closely with the Southeast Butler County Industrial Development Corporation in the planning of an industrial park development in this vicinity of the community. Under a . planned development for industrial use, funds are wailable for development of roads and other site facilities from State and Federal sources.' Also, assistanc'e from the Indujtiial Development Corporation may be possible in assisting the Supervisors in rebuilding Ralston-Harbison Road since it will be eventually used for industrial site access.

The widening of Cole Road, Doyle Road and Township Road T-616, west of State Route 356, should all be given priority. Also, Parker Road (T-614) which is west of and parallel to State Route 356 should be considered eventually for widening. These four township routes provide direct access to Route 356 and are in prime growth areas.

Estimated costs for the total township road improvements which include widening cart- ways to 24 feet and repaving are listed below.

TABLE 24 LOCAL ROAD IMPROVEMENTS BUFFALO TOWNSHIP

Road Esimated Cost

Cole Road (T-669) $ 44,000 Doyle Road (T-663) 52,800 T-616-West of Pa. 356 59,500 Parker Road (T-614) 192,500 Ralston-Harbison Road 580,800

Although other township roads will require similar treatment in succeeding years, those indicated above should be given priority since they serve the immediate areas where accelerated growth is anticipated.

... , S'

147 Community Facilities and Public Improvements

Police

A formal police organization has been recommended on a regional basis with the partici- potion of the five Southeast Butler County communities in the immediate planning area. Police protection is not an acute problem in Buffalo Township at the present time. How- ever, future growth of industrial and commercial facilities combined with increased population will increase the present need.

It is recommended that Buffalo Township participate in the proposed joint program. It is further proposed that the cost of the program be pro-rated on a formulo similar to I: that under which the regional planning program was accomplished. In this monner, Buf- b falo Township would contribute 30%, or $6,000 of the estimated $20,000 initial annual i. cost. Experience during actual operation of the system may result in re-evaluation of the percentages each community should contribute in future years.

Fire Protection

Over 50 active volunteer fireman working through the Salver Fire Station provide fire protection to Buffalo Township and the immediate surrounding areas. This force is in excess of Notional Board of Fire Underwriters standards which specify a minimum of 25 5' active personnel. Although the original Salver station is adequote at the present time, anticipated growth along Route 356 to the south of the Sower area indicates a need for additional fire protection focilitites. The Notional Board of Fire Underwriters recom- mends a maximum distance of three miles from a fire station for rural areas. However, this standard is increased to .75 miles for high value units which will develop along Route 356.

It is recommended that a new fire station be constructed in the vicinity of the Freeport Area Joint Senior High School with direct access to Route 356. Estimated cost of this structure is $40,000. An additional amount of $6O,OOO would be needed initially for a pumper and miscellaneous equipment. It is recommended that the structure be o joint fire-municipal office facility, provided by the Township SvpewisorS. A mutual rental agreement could be arranged by the Fire Company and the Supervisors. The existing Sower station should be retained as a sub-station serving the Salver vicinity and the northern portions of the service area. -.a -.a B 148 U Municipal Building

As growth continues, governmental services and functions will increase, resulting in the need for administrative activities on a full-time basis. Additional office space and meeting areas will be required. Within a few years the present municipal building will become inadequate to meet these projected needs. This structure should be retained as the headquarters for maintenance and road departments.

It is recommended that local officials consider a new municipal office facility and fire station as indicated in the preceding section under Fire Protection. This structure should include the following facilities.

1. Supervisors' Offices

2. Public Meeting Room

3. Secretary's Office

4. Engineering and Planning Office 0 5. Tax Office 6. Fire Department

This building should be designed for future expansion. Initially, a modest structure is estimated at a cost of $40,000, based upon 2,000 square feet at twenty dollars a square foot.

Library

It is recommended that the Township of Buffalo join the other regional communities in a joint library facility os outlined in the Regional Planning Recommendations in Chapter Six. The Buffalo Township pro-rated share of this program would be $15,000, to be raised by public subscription. Although this may seem rather substantial it should be pointed out that local industry, both existing and prospective, should be interested in community programs of this type and be willing to participate.

Recreation

Recreati& facilities in Buffalo Township are limited primarily to school site facilities. Two major recreation facilities are proposed gnd in the planning stage. Buffalo Creek 0

149 State Park will be partially situated in the eastern portion of the township and the proposed Butler County Sower Run Park will be in the northwest corner. Both of these facilities are based on long range programs for recreation development.

It is proposed that Buffalo Township, establish a Recreation Commission. Representatives from this group would work with the Regional Recreation Committee and also function locally within the township. The Recreation Commission should work closely with the Planning Commission to insure adequate recreation sites such as playfields, playlats and playgrounds as new neighborhood areas develop. This Commission should coordinate its activities with school officials to establish recreation programs at the community level. Municipal funds should be budgeted to provide playfield and playground sites to be appropriately equipped as residential growth creates the need. A minimum of $1,500 should be considered for this purpose annually. i

Sites should be acquired within the next two years in the Sarver area, Ekastown area and in proximity to major subdivisions in the vicinity of Route 356. If State and County proposals for regional parks are not acted upon favorably within the next four to six years the township should consider a community-wide park development. In the absence of State action, the Buffalo Creek vicinity would provide an ideal site for such a facility.

Uti1ities

Recommendations relating to public utilities in Buffalo Township have been fully explored in Chapter Six of the Regional Plan. In summary, these recommendations include the following proposals.

1. Expansion of the Scenic View Water System on a public basis.

2. A joint water system with portions of southern Buffalo Township, Harrison and Fawn Townships in conjunction with the Natrona Water Company.

3. Development of a sewerage system.

4. Immediate updating of past, feasibility studies and design drawings.

.., .. . 3'

150 U e

r-,, ..:: :T:.::. _I- ---- ...... :::I ...... _..... ? :;.::;:' ...< ..... 2 .. ..'..(::;.:? ...%. <:;:; PLANNING RECOMMENDATIONS 2 TOWNSHIP OF CLINTON CHAPTER NINE I RECOMMENDATIONS i ! CLINTON TOWNSHIP i r i i Future land use patterns in Clinton Township will be influenced -/ three major factors, all of which indicate that basic growth areas will be in the northern portions of the municipality. First, the valleys and steep slopes in the southern portions of the com- munffywlll restrictdevelopment due to the lack of large development sites and the I difficulty of access to many sites. Secondly, the growth patterns resulting from major highway influences in the region are oriented primarily to the northeastern sections of i Clinton Township. Finally, the influence of expansion from existing development in Saxonburg, together with the possibility of utility system expansions from that same area, will tend to concentrate growth in the northern sections of the township.

1 Land Use Plan

Much of the township is presently undeveloped with approximately one-half of the total land area used in some type of agricultural pursuit. On the basis of ocreage used for active development purposes os distinguished from open farm lands, residential and industrial land uses predominote with each category occounting for approximately one-third of the total developed land area. Under the Land Use Plan illustrated on Plate 25, these two basic uses will expand and remain the dominant development factors.

Residential

Residential development has been limited primarily to lineal patterns scattered at random along local road systems. A continuation of this development pattern is expected to continue throughout the township. However, some subdivision development is projected for areas contiguous to the Borough of Saxonburg where the feasibility of public sewer and water services appears most likely within a relatively short time. Residential growth beyond the Saxonburg perimeter will continue in a sparodic manner along established road systems.

Only two residential districts are proposed in the zoning program for Clinton Township. One of these, the agricuttural area, contemplates continuation of the low density agriculfural-residential character of the southern one-holf of the community. The other regdenfial clqssification proposed is a single family district tailored to the development potential around Saxonburg Borough. Although single family in character, this

152

area would be provided flexobility under a Community Unit Plan provision. This zoning concept permits a variation of housing types, including multi-family units, all under controlled conditions and densities comparable to the single family neighborhoods in which they are situated. This will encourage development of lands beyond the existing street patterns by providing developers with a means of reducing the amount of streets per dwelling unit and providing extra facilities and amenities on a cumulative basis which they could not otherwise afford.

Industrial

The United States Steel Sintering Plant located in Clinton Township is one of the largest industrial sites within the Regional Planning Area. Although local difficulties have resulted due to air pollution, the company has given assurances that steps are now being taken to alleviate this problem. A prime reason.for the construction of this plant in Clinton r Township was its transportation advantages for ore shipping via inter-connecting roil- ways in this vicinity. One of these, the Bessemer and Lake Erie Railrood, o subsidiary of the United Stotes Steel Corporation, traverses the township from north to south, serving the Pittsburgh-Butler-Erie industrial and transportation centers.

Although the southern portions of the township are characterized by areas of excessive slope there are many potential industrial sites adjacent to the Bessemer and Lake Erie 0 right-of-way in the central portions of the township south of the Sintering Plant site. Some sites ore owned by the Bessemer Line and are currently available for industrial development. Use of these sites would attract additional industrial interest to adjacent privately owned sites and could result in an economic asset to the municipality in terms of o strengthened tax base and employment opportunities.

It is recommended that the Planning Commission and Supervisors work with the Southeast Butler County Industrial Development Corporation to explore ways and means to develop these industriol sites. Improved access roads and public utilities are major incentives .. which will be needed to encourage this type of development. The type and nature of industrial uses can be controlled through zoning to insure that permitted activities will 1

not create a nuisance or be offensive due to noise, fumes, pollution, appearance or L similar element sometimes associated with uncontrolled industries. The industrial poten- .. tial in this community provides a unique opportunity for sound economic growth; how- ev.er, it must be deligently pursued by local efforts if success is to be achieved. U

Commercial... . -... . Two typ% of com,merp,ja! uses gre proposed for ultimate development. The first of these I’ is categorized as o planned shopping .area or a community business are0 for retail goods and sewices, office use and perhaps local entertainment facilities. This shopping

154 u business facility would serve a more local market in comparison to major regional shap- ping facilities which have been proposed for Saxonburg and Route 356 in Buffalo Town- ship.

The site shown hasbeen located relative to access and service area and is shown in the vicinity of the Ekastown or Glade Mill Roads near Saxonburg Boulevard.

Convenience commercial areas are also suggested to serve the needs of neighborhood areas as the community grows. These commercial sites should be limited in scope, compatible with surrounding residential areas and designed exclusively for neighborhood convenience. Such retail uses as drugs, small groceries, service: stations and limited personal services would be permitted. As in the case of the previously described commercial areas the location of specific sites at this time would be premature. The Land Use Plan designates possible sites on the assumption that other land uses will occur as indicated. In many instonces, convenience commercial sites will develop around an existing store, service station or small business.

Public and Semi-Public

Public use areas will be limited in Clinton Township. The existing Elementary School site should be retained and land area provided for eventual expansion on a long range basis. The present municipal building site should be expanded to occommodote increasing township requirements, including a proposed fire department sub-stotion to be situated on the same site.

In the southern portions of the community, the more heavily sloped lond tracts are categorized os open space;/conservation areas. This does not imply prohibiting use in these areas but rather, that uses will be limited and that these areas should be maintained in their notural state as appropriate.

Obviously growth trends in Clinton Township will not follow the exact program as outlined above. Therefore, it will be necessary for the Planning Commission and Super- visors to modify the long-ronge program periodically as reasonably proposals are suggested. These changes should be related to the geneml outlines and goals specified in the comprehensive plan and evaluated with the following considerations in mind.

1. The effect of the lond use on adjacent parcels.

2. . The economic value and expansion potential of a given site. xq 3. The strengthening and maintenance. of the local economic structure.

155 i

4. The relationship of traffic volumes and local circulation patterns.

5. The permanent or temporary aspects of the land use proposed.

Street Systems

The majority of the major road systems in Clinton Township are State Legislative Routes and subject to maintenance and improvement by the Pennsylvania Depart- ment of Highways. Glade Mill Road and Ekastown Road jointly form a major collector which traverses the northern portion of the township in an east-west direction. Freeport Road, another highway classified as a major collector, connects the northeast corner of the township with Saxonburg.

Saxonburg Boulevard, a minor collector route of the regional highway system, connects with Saxonburg Borough in the north and Allegheny County at'the southern township boundary. These major and minor collector facilities, all of which are State Legislative Routes, form the major street patterns in Clinton Township. These same roads traverse all of the anticipated maior development areas within the community. AI I of these roads except Freeport Road have been recommended for major improvements as port of the regional highway program outlined in Chapter Five. These improvements include widening, realignment and intersection modifications. Freeport Road is recommended for minor improvements.

It is important that Township Officials work with the Regional and County Planning Commissions to achieve completion of these state improvements which are of major importance to local growth and development. The township is in a fortunate position to have State maintained routes serving the prime residential ond industrial sites within the community.

There are local highways, particularly in the northern areas of the township, which will require improvement as development demands are manifest. The township roads listed in Table 25 should be improved based upon on order of priority. The exact timing of these improvements will be dependent upon the scope of development and the availability of funds. The accomplishment of this schedule of improvements will provide hard surface road facilities for the major growth'areas anticipated through the planning period. The cost estimates in Table 25 are based upon permanent construction arid include grading, drainage and a hard surface 24 foot cartway. Although temporary improvements such os minor grading, oiling or tor and chip treatment may be necessary.due.to budgetary limitations, the basic objective of the local road program skould be the permanent improvement of these local highways. Over a period of years.3iich an objective will prove the most economical ond maintenance free procedure. 9 156 U TABLE 25 LOCAL ROAD IMPROVEMENTS ' CLINTON TOWNSHIP

.- ....,i . Location Action .Estimated Cost .. 1. Knoch School Rd. (T-552) Pave to 24' $ 275,000.00 2. Westminster Church Rd. (T-552) ' Pave to 24' 187,000 .OO Saxonburg Boulevard to Albin Rd. 3. Brewer Road (T-554) Pave to 24' 143,000.00 Saxonburg Boulevard to lvywood Road

4. ' lvywood Road (T-559) Pave to 24' 2 19,000 .OO 5. Albin Road (T-559) Pave to 24' ' .121,000.00 6. West Sarver Road (557) Pave to 24' 308 ,000.00

Future road improvements will depend 'upon both internal and external growth pressure involving the regional areo. In some instances private assistance may be forthcoming. For example, Tower Road (T-554) may eventually prove important to industrial site a development to such a degree that financial assistance from local industiy could be received toward improvements. The same may be true of other local roads. Such possibilities should be constantly explored by local officials.

Fire Protection

The regional planning recommendations propose that a sub-station of the existing Saxonburg Volunteer Fire Department be established in the vicinity of, or as an expansion of, the Clinton Township Municipal Building. Such a facility would provide immediate service to the proposed residential and industrial growth in Clinton Township. Such service will become more and more necessary in view of projected industrial expansion. The sub-stotion, a branch of the Saxonburg Company would be designed to house a single fire control unit plus emergency equipment. The primary purpose of this facility would be for immediate response to the surrounding vicinity.

It is proposed that garage area for this facility be constructed os part of a recommended expansion of municipal facilities in Clinton Township with a rental agreement between the Supervisors and Fire Department.

.. . 'V

157 a- Municipal Building i Growth demand within the community will require additional administrative demands upon local government; It is proposed that an addition be made. to the present Clinton Township Municipal Building to include additional garage area to house emergency fire equipment, office storage space and a public meeting mom for Supervisors' meetings, hearings and similar public functions. Cost of such a facility expansion is estimated at $15,000 based upon 750 square feet at a unit cost of twenty dollars per square foot.

Police- It is proposed that Clinton Township participote in a Ioint program of police facilities with the other Southeast Butler County Regional Area municipalities as recommended in Chapter Six. A central office, probably situated in the Borough of Saxonburg .-. would be established under such a program with necessary equipment, communications and personnel to serve the entire region. As a supplement, deputy officers could be made available at the local municipal levels as required, with twenty-four hours service From.the central office.

Costs of this program are proposed on a pro-rated basis similar to the formula utilized for the regional planning cost apportionment. Under such an agreement, Clinton Township would contribute approximately 20%, or $4,000 of the estimated $20,000 initial annual cost. Future costs would depend an factors such as community growth requirements in proportion to the balance of the total service area which the system will serve.

Library

It is recommended that Clinton Township participate with other regional members in the joint library facility proposed in Chapter Six. A pro-rated share of the projected $50,000 program would be $lO,OoO on the basis of the regional Formula. This would not necessarily be a municipal cost but could consist of public solicitation and donations from local business and industry interested in the community and the region of which it is a part.

Recreation 11 Many tequirements which result from community growth will strain the financial abilities of the nXlnicipality to meet obligations and provide necessary public services. Through local and regional cooperation many programs can be accomplished on o U much more comprehensive basis than would be possible through individual action.

158 U .. This is particularly true of recreation.

Regional parks have been proposed in the vicinity of Clinton Township by several different governmental-levels. The proposed Sower Run County Park would in fact be situated primarily within the township; however, this proposal is of a very preliminary nature. Similar proposals for the Buffalo Creek State Park are alk stil'l in'the earty stages of planning. Although it is premature at this.time to prdpoSe o community park facility for Clinton Township due to monetary limitations, there are two recommendations which should be given serious'local con- siderat,ion in this respect. :. 1' .. .. First, a site for a community park' should be explored. 'Emphasis should be directed to the open space/consewation land areas as outlined in the Land Use Plan. The sloped'land'areas in the vicinity of Lardintown Rood, Cherry Valley Road or Wylie Road all 'offer ekcellent potential for'community park sites. The consideration of sites should be oriented to passive uses such'as' trails, picnic areos, play'areas, circulation and parking. The value of scenic areas and the preservation of natural resources should be basic considerations in the design and'development of this park site. Land options or acquisition should be considered as soon os financial provisions can be arranged.

0 Second, Clinton Township should participate in any manner possible to support the Southeast Butler County Pool Association development in Jefferson Township. If legal and other administrative questions ore resolved to permit the formation of a regional park facility at this site, Clinton Township should participate.

Playfield and playground sites should be reserved and developed through cooperation with land owners and developers as residential growth becomes more octive. The Community Facility and Land Use Plan, Plate 25 indicates vicinities in which such focilities should be situated to sewe future neighborhood areas.

In order:to accomplish these immediate and long-range recreation needs it is proposed that the Clinton Township Supervisors create a Township Recreation Commission to accomplish the following program.

1. Explore sites for the future development of the community park.

2. Cooperate with the Regional Recreation Committee in the development of a regional park site.

_I., 3. C.prdinote with the Planning Commission the long-range requirements for playgrwnd and playfield sites to serve growing residential development.

I59 4. Establish a program for recreation facilities and programs at the local and 0' regional levels to serve the papulation of Cliqton Township. T

Utilities

Recomqendations relating to public utilities in Clinton Township have been outlined in Chapter Six qf the Regional Plan. In summary, these recqmmendations include the following propoiatr;

1. Expansion of the Saxonburg sewer and water facilities to the major development sites in the northern portion of Clinton Township.

2. Service ta the central develqpment sites of Clinton Township, particularly those bordering the Bessemer and Lake Erie Railroad and Saxonburg Boulevard, by the establishment of pumping facilities connected to the Saxonburg system.

3. Clinton Township cooperation in the creation of a joint municipal authority with the Borough of Saxonburg and Jefferson Township.

I' i.

...... 'i'

U PLANNING RECOMMENDATIONS TOWNSHIP OF JEFFERSON C3APTER IO RECOMMENDATIONS

JEFFERSON TOWNS HIP I

L Jefferson Township is a predominantly rural community which contains more area devoted to agricultural prsuits than any of the other municipalities in the Southeast Butler County Regional Planning Area. In developed portions of the township residential land use has been the major activity; however, little concentrations of residential growth are apparent. I: Most neighborhoods are lineal developments fronting on major access roads. Commercial activity is extremely limited except for a few highway related uses. I The complexion of land use patterns in Jefferson Township can be expected to change rather significantly during the next few years becauseof its geographic position in re- p i. lation to regional development factors. State Route 356 which traverses the northeastern quadrant of the community, connects the City of Butler directly north of the township to ~. the Buffalo Township interchange of the Allegheny Valley Expressway which is proposed L. for construction directly south of Jefferson Township. The economic influences of this situation coupled with the urbanizing trends anticipated north into Jefferson Town- ship from Saxonburg Borough will generate numerous chonges in the land use potential of this community.

Land Use Plan 0 The Land Use Plan illustrated on Plate 26 indicates two basic types of proposed residen- u tial uses in Jefferson Township. The first of these is low density single family residential use to be established in predominantly rural settings where agriculture will remain a dominant co-use. Low density uses, similar to those now characteristic of this community, 11 shwld continue in the extreme western and northeastern areas of the township. Most housing units will be constructed along established road systems in the familiar lineal patterns now seen. 3

Other residential neighborhoods of higher density development can be anticipated contiguous to Borough of Saxonburg, in proximity to more heavily used access roads and around U existing residential clusters such as the one at Jefferson Center. Actual subdivision development will gravitate toward possible utility service oreas and other pblic facilities. u The vicmity immediately north of Saxonburg is the probable site of the most intensified residential d&elopments because of the feasibility of public water and sewer utilities. Single family homes and Community Unit Plan Development, which would provide flexibility in housing types and arrangement, are recommended for this area. This latter concept will

162 0

tend to encourage development of larger land parcels beyond the network of existing roads by permitting developers to reduce the amauntof street construction per housing unit and to provide other facilities to enhance the marketability of the units.

\ Increasing residential growth should also result in an expansion of the existing neighborhoods at Jefferson Center and Hannaktown, The creation of some conversion apartments and duplex units can be expected at these dtes in conjunction with improvement of older structures.

Two types of commercial development are recommended in Jefferson Township. The first of these is o series of convenience commercial facilities, oriented to neighborhood needs. In most instances these uses will be established around existing businesses such as small grocery stores, services stations and similarcnmmercial sites dependent primarily upon a localized trade area. In the Land Use Plan convenience commercial development5 are indicated at Jefferson Center, near Green Manor Drive on Saxonburg Road and at Hannahstown on r Freeport Road. These sites are based upon service areas, established business sites and the availability of land for commercial development.

The second proposed commercial use is a planned shopping area. This use is not proposed as a major regional shopping center but as m area facility of greoter scope than the neighborhood centers. An area is proposed in Jefferson Township near the northern border parallel to State Route 356. This vicinity was chosen to serve the growth oreas north of the immediate Saxonburg vicinity toward the City of Butler and subsidiary highway oriented trade within and near Jefferson Township.

In addition to commercial land uses, light industrial districts are recommended along Route 356. Zoning recommendations for Jefferson Township refer to this district as an Of- fice-Research Zone. Suggested uses include general and professional offices, transportation, distribution and related warehousing-fucilities and similar limited industrial uses. The Route 356 sites are considered prime areasfor this type of facility because of the commercial -industrial traffic which will shuttle between Butler and the Allegheny Expressway via i, this route. One area is proposed near the northern boundary of the township and the other in the southeast corner between Reimer Rod and Route 356. This latter area is an extension of similar proposals in adjacent Winfield Township. As in the case of other projected land uses the exact sites for development can not be specifically designated at this time, but it is important that sites for these uses net be squandered on developments of little or no value to the economic well-being and ptential of the community. By means of zoning areas can be reserved even though octuol boundaries of such zones require modification through amendment at some later date. land uses such as proposed herein for development in relation to the economic potentiol afforded by Route 356 will supply valuable revenues to the township through tax assessments, business generation and employment for local and district Stizens. These advantages should not be lost due to a lack of foresight. f! :: L

U 164 u Only a small portion of land area is proposed.forlpc.al public uses; however, several public areas which accomodate iegional.f&ilities are-situated in Jefferson. Township. The Southeast Regional Park site, curreatlpnder jurisdiction of the Southeast Butler Community Pool Associadon is sihted neTthe intersection of Route 356 and Hannahs- town Road. This is currently a.skql-puhlic;:uiwbot hopefully will become a regional public facility. Also within this commum'i).-is~the Jefferzon Elementary School, on Sax- onburg Road at the intersection'of.Makeley'fbad, and the Knoch School site near Sax- onburg. The Knoch site contains the ex'Ktr'mg.5enior High facilities and is the.site of a proposed new middle school. The othetpblic property is the site of the municipal building at Jefferson Center. .Noothecsiynificant public area ore anticipated in this community in the immediate future, ...... With the exception of Saxonburg~Bmwgh,Jefferson Township contoins less heavily sloped areas than the other regional commun'Wes. Therefore, most of the open land is being utilized for agricultural prrposes.and-wilI probably remain in this use until ultimately developed for residential or.buiiness prposes. Accordingly, few areas have been designated for open space/conservation areas except for the "Y'!shaped Thorn Creek Valley in the southwestern corner of the township and a small portion of the Patter- .son: Run water course in the northwest corner.

For many years various agencies have advocated programs for conservotion and flood control along the Connoquenessing Creek water shed of which Thorn Run is o part. Re- cently the U. s. Corps of Engineers and land conservation agencies have submitted proposals which would involve water impounding in various areas including the Thorn Run Valley. During the late winter of I9be-.l+leseagencies olso indicated that appropri- ations for additional studies would probably not be forthcoming until after 1970.

This meandering Thorn Creek Valley in Jefferson Township would make an excellent local or regional pork facility. Because of the long range character of proposals for this watershed area and the lack of action up to the present time no specific proposals for recreation programs have been madeanderthis planning program. However, it is recommended that local officials remain -re of the potential of the Thorn Creek Val- ley as a recreational asset to serve thecommunity and region in future years. This land should be conserved insofar as possible in its natural condition.

I The Land Use Plan for Jefferson Township isbased upon the continuing evolution of a predominantly residential community with crsignificant retention of agricultural activity. The economic potential of sites adjacent to a major regional highway facility, Route 356, should provide the township with a healthy variation to the residential tax base. hny changes in the basic land use potterns proposed at this time should be carefully ev-gvated in terms of:

I65 1. The economic value and expaosio of given sites, particularly relative commercial sites along Route 356,

2. The effect of land use on adjacent parcels.

3. The strengthening and maintenance of the local economic structure.

4. The relationship of traffic flow and volumes.

5. The permanent and temperary aspects of land uses.

Street Systems

Jefferson Township is similar to the other regional communities in having a highway pattern which is predominated by highways of regional importance. This situation offers the locality the advantages of state responsibility for maintenance of a large proportion of local roads, thereby relieving local financial requirements. State Route 356 a major regional collector route, as well as Saxonburg Road, Neupert Road and Dinner Bell Road, all minor collectors, serve the basic local highway needs in Jefferson Town- ship. Mojor highway improvements have been proposed for all of these routes. Of particular significance to Jefferson Township is the proposed relocation of Dinner Bell Rood (LR 10019) north of Saxonburg. This proposed road will open additional lands for immediate development in the township. In addition to these proposals minor improvements are recommended for the West Jefferson and Hannahstown Roads ( LR-10020 and LR 10032) which cross the center of the community in an east-west direction. These roods serve all of the major development portions of the township.

The majority of township maintained roads ore in adequate condition for the use which they receive and many are paved. In most instances paved roads now serve the majority of development sites which are specified on the land use plan. In addition to normal maintenance the Township Supervisors should be alert to growth demands and carry out programs aimed at hard surfaciw of all township routes clf development potential warrants.

An area for initial consideration is proposed in the sautheast corner of the township. In fluences from Route 356, the relocation of Dinner Bell Rod north of Saxonburg and proposals for industrial development in neighboring Winfield Township will place additional demands upon local road systems in this vicinity. It is proposed that Supervisors give consideration to paving of Alwine Road(T-569) from Saxonburg to Reimer Rwd, Reimer Road (T-578) from Alwine to Winfield Road and Heck Road (T-578) from Winfield Road to Neupert Road. The accomplishment of these improvements, os shown on Table 26, will openWs portion of the community for development. Cost estimates are based upon

I66 permanent construction and include drainage, grading and a hard surface asphalt 24 foot cqrtway with adequate base to witktand heavy traffic.

TABLE 26 LOCAL ROAD IMPROVEMENTS JEFFERSON TOW NSHl P

Location Action Estimated Cost

1. Alwine Road (T-569) Pave to 24' $ 231,000 2. Reimer Road (T-578) Pave to 24' 187,000 3. Heck Road (T-578) Pave to 24' 176,000

Fire Protection

The existing fire fighting facilities provided by the Saxonburg and Herman (Summit Township) Volunteer Fire Departments are adequate to serve both present and proposed developments in Jefferson Township. All areas of the community are easily accessible by these departments via adequate road systems.

Municipal Building

The Jefferson Township Municipal Building is located on Frazier Road at Jefferson Center. A frame structure, this facility serves as a meeting center, election hall and equipment garage. Although internal improvements have been made in recent years the structure is in only fair condition due to age.

The existing facility is adequate for the present; however, future growth will result in the need for additional administrative and office space as well as expanded public meeting facilities. It is recommended that a new site be chosen and planning be initiated for eventual construction of a new municipal building. A site is propased at the intersection of Hannahstown and Fisher Roads. Although the exact location could vary it is recommended that easy acces from all portions of the township be considered. This site would be readily accessible from the major development areas along Route 356 and Saxonburg Road as well as the major residential developments anticipated north of Saxonburg Borough.

I67 The municipal structure should be planned for construction within the next 5 to IO year period. Facilities should include the following elements:

1. Supervisors‘ offices and conference area

2. Public meeting room

3. Maintenance office and garage

4. Secretary and tax office

5. Meeting rooms and storage for local commissions and advisory groups

A site of at least three acres should be acquired as soon as feasible. Construction costs are increasing at a rapid rate annually making estimates difficult, but based on r current rates a base factor of $20 per square foot has been used. Based on a 2200 square foot structure to accomodate the facilities recommended above the minimum estimated cost is $44,000. Variables such as materials used and architectural treatment could substantially increase this estimate, but this figure will provide a starting point for fiscal planning.

Police

It is proposed that Jefferson Township participate in the joint program of police facilities with the other Southeast Butler County Regional Area municipalities as recommended in Chapter Six. A central office, probably situated in the Borough of Saxonburg would be established under such a program with necessary equipment, communications and personnel to serve the entire region. As a supplement, deputy officers could be made available, at the local municipal levels as required with twenty-four hours service from the central office. ‘1 i Costs of this program are proposed on a pro-rated basis similar to the formula utilized for the regional planning cost apportionment. Under such an agreement Jefferson Town- ship would contribute approximately 20%, or $4,000 of the estimated $20,000 initial annual cost. Future costs would depend on factors such as community growth requirements in proportion to the balance of the total service area which the system will serve.

Library fl It is recsmmended that Jefferson Township participate with other regional members in the joini”Cibrary facility proposed in Chapter Six. A pro-rated shore of the projected i) I68 hl $5O,OOO program would be $lO,OOO on the basis of the regional formula. This cost could be realized from public subscription and should be partially endowed by business and industry located within the community.

Recreation

Regional recreation facilities have been proposed by other government agencies which would serve local needs, but these proposals are only in the planning stages and can not be anticipated in the immediate planning period. It is therefore necessary for each municipality to take steps toward immediate initiation of programs to provide local residents with adequate recreation facilities.

It is recommended that the Township Supervisors appoint a Recreation Commission to evaluate local recreation requirements and programs as suggested below.

1. Of particular importance to Jefferson Township is the projected Southeast Re- gional Park. Property currently under development by the Southeast Butler Pool Association has been acquired just west of Route 356 in the Honnahstown vicinity. Regional proposals recommend that this entire site eventually be turned into a regional park for the immediate surrounding area. Jefferson Township should assist this program in every monner possible since the regional facility will serve local community park needs as well. This should be a prime project of the Recreation Commission.

2. The Recreation Commission should evaluate the long range possibilities of coordinating future flood control programs in the Thorn Creek Valley vicinity with the creation of a community park. Liaison with the Corp of Engineers

should be constantly maintained. I

3. Playground and playfield sites to serve future neighborhood developments should be planned. Land reservations for this purpose should be secured from major developers during subdivision planning stages in cooperotion with the requirements of the Township Planning Commission. Tentative sites, based upon anticipated service areas, are indicoted on the Community Facility and Land Use Plan, Plate 26.

UtiI i ties ...... , Recomm&@ations relating to pvblic utilities in Jefferson Township hove been outlined in Chapter Six of the Regional Plan. In summary these recommendations include the

I69 following proposals,

1. Coordination of sewage disvl qnd water wpply programs betweep the @rough of Saxonburg Municipal Authority and Jefferson Township to aqhieve a joint r authority serving both communities. i

2. Exparpion of presgnt facilities in the Smconburg Municipal water and sewer systems to encompass Jefferson Township.

..r

a'it

U 0

PLANNING RECOMMENDATIONS TOWNSHIP OF WINFIELD CHAPTER 11 RECOMMENDATIONS

WINFIELD TOWNSHIP

Winfield Township Is the least developed of any municipallty wlthln the Southeast Butler County Regional Planning Areo, wlth 95 percent of the total land area undeveloped or used for cgricultureol purposes, Malor portlam af the community have a Ilmlted development potential because of extremely heavy sloped terrain. Thls Is partlcularly true of the entire northeastern corner, the northern and sortern pertmeten and the Llttle Buffolo Creek Valley portlonrof the township. The only remalnlng area wlth potentlal for growth from regional influences will be the southwestern corner, Because of thli llmlted development potential It is very Important that growth areas be developed wtrely to produce the greatest economic benefits to both the tond ownoen and the munlclpallty. However, development must be occompllshed wlhln the Ilmlts of stoble, responsible and acceptable land use types.

land Use Plan

Two residential development types are antlclpated. Those portions of the communlty whlch ' lay west of the Little Buffalo Creek Valley wlll remain predominately agrlculturol~andlow density residential. Housing con be expected to develop along existing road systems as In the past in lineal patterns. Only, llmited subdlvlslon beyond exlsting access roads Is antlcl-

I pated. Cabot, Marwoad and Bear Creek Rood6 wlll probably experience -re antlcipated residential activity than wlll the more easterly local road syitsms,

More densely developed housing will contlnw to be found between State Route 356 ond the communities of Marwoad and Cabot. It Is recommended that the Planning Commlsslon re-evoluate the lnitlal zanlng program and extend rssldentlol ronlng requlrements 01 Intorest ond actlvlty in subdlvlslon development grw.

Public uses are limited to the Winfield element^ School slte and the Cabot Commudty Center odjacent thereto. The locatlon of tbm UIOI, oat of C&t and Mad, am well oriented to present ond antlclpatd population canteen wlthln the communlty. No additional publlc areas ore antlcipated during the next few years except far tbpoulblllty of the proposed Buffalo Creek State Park which may encompass the eastern prlmeter of the communlty. Thin use would not materldly alter land use proposols for Wlnfleld Town- ship. : '(.

172..

Convenience commercial sites will be necessary to serve the everyday needs of local residents. Retail uses of this nature already exist at Marwood, Cabot and along Route 356. Additional sites are projected on a tentative basis to serve new neighborhoods. The exact location of convenience commercial sites will depend on growth patterns and the location of existing facilities which may be expanded. No major retail commercial establishments are proposed in Winfield Township.

State Route 356 crosses the southwest corner of the municipality, a distance of slightly less than two miles. The limited distance which this route traverses offers a potential for the development of highway commercial uses in the township. The economic advantages of this regional highway should be channeled to create office sites for business and industry, research and development, transportation depots and distribution and storage facilities. Additional sites of this same general light industrial nature should be developed along the Penn-Central Railroad which is parallel and east of Route 356. These are the only developable portions of the township which offer the opportunity for sound economic growth as a supplemental use to residential land uses. Local officials should encourage this area for the uses recommended by every means at their disposal.

Existing industrial activity is currently situated in the West Winfield area. The Butler County Mushroom Farm and the Penn-Dixie Cement plant are situated in this vicinity because of the presence of natural resources vital to the particular operations involved. These industries are major employers and should be retained; however, the location at West Winfield is not especially conducive to most industrial processes and is not expected to ottroct additional heavy industrial Operations.

Although developable land areas are limited in comparison with other regional communities, Winfield Township has the potential to produce a variety of land use types. While the patterns of land use outlined in the Land Use Plan are subject to modification, it is recommended that the basic concepts be retained. Under this plan, it will be possible to achieve basic goals to include the following: .. 1; 1. Retention of agricultural uses as part of the basic economy in Butler County.

!! 2. Creation and maintenance of pleasant and adequate residential neighborhoods ii in a rural atmosphere. 1! 3. Development of business activities to supply employment opportunity and supple- ii ment residential land values for taxation purposes.

Street Systems %* The major highway of regional importance in Winfield Township is State Route 356 which connects the City of Butler with the Regional Planning Area and which will eventually U 0 Ll 1 74 0 intersect with the Allegheny Volley Expressway. Two minor collector routes run east .' frdm Route 356praviding'main-'access to -interior portions of the community. These ... routes, the Marwood and Cabat Roads; .are olswstate routes and both are, proposed for improvements under theRegional Thoroughfare Plan as outlined in Chapter Five:, An additional minor collector, State Route 228 carries traffic from Route 356 in.Buffalo Township to the southeastern area of Winfield Township.. These roads provide major access routes for the township circulation system and since they are the responsibility of the Commonwealth for maintenance and improvements they relieve the municipality of part of the burdenaf thorcughfare maintenance.

., : Many af'the township roads are unimpr6ved; however, in mast instances traffic volumes and local financial limitations do nat.justify major improvement projects. The township should concentrate its highway program Laround general maintenance of the local street system with emphasis'on the Communities of Marwood and Cabot where the greafest~conceritrafionsof population are found.

Fire Protection

Existing fibe fighting facilities provided by the Saxonburg Volunteer Fire Department and the Buffalo Volunteer Deportment at Sarver adequately protect the Winfield Township e orea. The facilities of both of these departments are near to the built-up oreas of the community along Route 356 and at Marwood and Cabot.

Municipal Building

Winfield Township Supervisors rent facilities of the Cabt Community Center for meetings and election functions. These facilities are adequate for the present and immediate future. Long range needs will in all probability require additional space for municipal functions but this need is not anticipated in the immediate future. The site of the Com- munity Center in Cabot is well situoted in relation to the service area. Supervisors should contemplate the eventual construction of a municipal building in this general vicinity. ,

Police

It is proposed that Winfield Township participate in a joint program of police protection with the other Regional communities as proposed in the Regional Planning Recommenda- tions. .%is would be of particular advantage to Winfield Township since the major development areas of the community are situated near the geographical center of the region and the service area of the police coverage as contemplated.

1.. 75 Costs of this program are proposed on a pro-rated basis similar to the formula utilized for regionol planning expenditures, Under such an agreement, Winfield Township would contribute approximately 17%, or $3,400 of the initial estimated $20,000 cost of a regional police protection system. This represents a far lessor sum than would be required for a local law enforcement program.

Library

It is recommended that Winfield Township participate in a regional program to provide library facilities. The proposed shore of this $50,000 program would amount to $8,500 on the basis of the regionol formula. This cost should be realized from public subscription and donations from local business and industry. The location of Winfield Township contiguous to Saxonburg, where the proposed library would be located, would make this facility particularly valuable to local residents.

Recreation

The size and lack of concentrated development in Winfield Township will create difficulties in establishing o local recreation program. It is suggested that the Township Supervisors establish a Township Recreation Commission to assure participation in all possible regional recreation endeavors which moy be of local benefit. This Commission should develop a program based upon the following suggested actions.

1. Cooperate with the Regional Recreation Committee to develop a regional D park at the recommended Jefferson Township site. This facility would provide Winfield residents with o community level park including pool facilities.

2. Work toward the development of playground and playlot sites to serve developing areos of the mqnicipality. Tentative sites are shown on the Community Facilities Plan, Plate 27, at the Winfield Elementary School site and ot other development sectors of the community such os Cobot and Marwood.

Utilities

Recommendations relating to public facilities in Winfield Township have been outlined in Chapter Six of the Regional Plon. In summary, these recommendations include the following proposals: ..'-.. . 1. Cooperation with the Buffalo Township Municipal Authority in developing

1 76 . ..

a public sewer and water system to serve the development needs in drainage area B of the regional utility program.

2. Assist local industry in the northeast section of Wnfield Township in the possible development of public utilities for industrial use so that adjoining non-residential yses in that vicinity could eventually be sewed.

... , ., . %*

177 The preceding chapters of this study have evaluated existing conditions and suggested programs to be initiated at the regional and local levels which are considered necessary to meet the needs being-created by municipal growth. The success or failure of the regional plqnning effort depends upon the degree of implementation which is achieved relative to specific planning proposals.

Implementation is directly related to the individual and collective ability of the regional communities to initiate, ffnance and administer planning proposals. Part Four of the program outlines these elements on the basis of conditions present within the Southeast Butler County Regional Planning Area.

...... , .... . S'

179 CHAPTER TWELVE FINANCE AND CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT

Community growth ordinorily result? in the increase of two bosic factors, people and economic value. However, the growth of these factors is seldom proportionate in terms of the economic impact which any given community receives. Population increases create a need for additional community facilities and services such as schools, recreation, roads, utilities, police and many other amenities of modern living which local residents expect the municipality to provide. If adequate levels of economic value are not experienced in conjunction with population increases, the ability of the municipality to provide these amenities is impaired to the degree that sefiices and facilities must be curtailed or excessive tax levies must be imposed.

The recommended program for land use within the Regional Planning Area has taken these considerations into account and has proposed commerciol and industrial land uses as supplements to residential and agricultural uses which now predominate in Southeast Butler County. This portion of the study is an analysis of the fiscal structure within the Region with accompanying projections based on the potential growth which is anticipated.

Assessed Valuation

The major source of revenue for most municipalities in Pennsylvania is the real estate tax. Tax levies of this type are based upon assessed valuation which in Butler County represents approximately one-third of the estimated market value of real property. A review of trends in assessed valuations by community, provides an indication of the rote and types of growth experienced to date. A projection of assessed value based upon growth type and potential also provides the community with a basis from which to estimate future revenue levels and tax rates.

The data in Table 27, Assessed Valuations, provides a comparison of growth levels in the Southeast Region by community from 1961 through 1968. The trends indicated by this study reveol several basic contentions which ore briefly summarized herewith:

1. All regional communities have shown constant growth during the past eight years. One minor exception to this in Clinton Township in 1965 has been overcome by succeeding gains.

2. Buffolo Township has consistently been a leader in the percentage of growth e-ept when equalled by Jefferson Township in 1965 and by Saxonburg Borsugh in 1966.

180 3. Except for Jefferson Township, significant increases in percentage of growth from the preceding year were registered in 1968.

4. During the study period from 1961 to 1968:

a. Buffalo Township recorded the highest annual average gain.

v- b. Saxonburg Borough and Jefferson Township recorded identical annual average gains.

C. Clinton and Winfield Township recorded similar annual average gains which were below the level of other regional municipalities.

The results of this evaluation are important to planning recommendations which have been proposed. They substantiate the conclusions reached from other planning elements that the two major areas of growth are Buffalo Township, due to highway influences, and the Saxonburg vicinity, due to the potential of public utility expansion. The remaining three Townships will develop in proportion to the degree that these influences are exerted within their respective municipal limits with Jefferson Township receiving the greatest influence from growth around Saxonburg.

0 It is anticipated that these past assessment trends will be continired in the immediate future at an even more accelerated rate than previously experienced. Table 28 provides a six-year projection of assessed valuations as a guide from which future local revenues can be based. These projections are based upon the average rate of growth actually experienced between 1961 and 1962, plus the injection of anticipated local events. Local considerations which were involved in these projections are given below.

1. Saxonburg - The percentage of growth has fluctuated, primarily due to periodic industrial expansion, and more lately as a result of new residential growth including apartment units. The past average has been projected according to increased growth estimated as a result of highway influences and proposed renewal which could expand the local commercial potential.

2. Buffalo Township - Growth in Buffalo Township is an established fact. The influence of the new Expressway is reflected in this projection. It is based on major expansion of commercial and industrial land uses.

3. Clinton Township - Major growth in Clinton Township will depend on two primary factors, the extension of public utilities from Saxonburg and the grokth of industry in proximity to the Bessemer and Lake Erie Railroad. The first of these factors, the utility expansion, will determine the success of the latter. Neither of these events are anticipated until the latter part of the 0 projection period.

181 TABLE 27 ASSESSED VALUATIONS SOUTHEAST BUTLER COUNTY REGIONAL PLANNING AREA

._i % % YO O/c o/r Year Saxohirg Change Buffalo Change Clinton Change Jefferson Change Winfield Change

1961 1,163,690 -- 4,087,180 -- 3,095,160 -- 2,477,030 -- 2,494,860 -- 1962 1,220,530 +4.8 4,411,980 +7.5 3,207,120 +3.6 2,569,540 +3.7 2,533,400 +1.5 1963 1,256,280 +2.9 4,674,240 +5.9 3,383,760 +5.5 2, 696, 060 +4.9 2,603,950 +2.7 1964 1,285,660 +2.3 4,821,160 +3.4 3,427,740 +1.3 2,741,750 +1.7 2,671,540 +2.6 1965 1 ,29 1,710 +0.5 4,955,150 +2.8 3,4 10 ,080 - .5 2,818,960 +2.8 2)711,310 +1.5 1966 1,349,980 +4.5 5,045,990 s2.8 3,474,2 10 +1.9 2,860,010 +1.5 2,738,630 +1 .o 1967 1 ,379,180 +2.2 5,251,350 +4.1 3,538,160 +1.8 2,968,070 +3.8 2 ,828,3 10 +2.6 1968 1,431,260 +3.8 5,542,920 +5.6 3,650,460 +3.2 3,040 ,740 +2.4 2,931,560 +3.7

Average Annual Change 1961-1968 +WO +4.6% +2.4% +3.0% +2.2%

TABLE 28 PROJECTED ASSESSED VALUATIONS SOUTHEAST BUTLER COUNTY REGIONAL PLANNING AREA

% o/c % ?4 YO Year Saxonburg Change Buffalo Change Clinton Change Jefferson Change Winfield Change

1968 1,431,260 +3.8 5,542,920 +5.6 3,650,460 +3.2 3,040,740 +2.4 2,931,560 +3.7 1969 1,474,198 +3.0 5,858,866 +5.7 3,747,071 +2.4 3,125,880 +2.8 3,004,849 +2.5 1970 I ,521,372 +3.2 6,198,680 +5.8 3,837,000 +2.4 3,219,656 ,, +3.0 3,079,970 +2.5 1971 1,582,227 +4.0 , 6,60 1,594 +6.5 3,944,437 +2.8 3,316,246 +3.0 3,160,049 +2.6 1972 1,653,427 t4.5 7,030,698 +6.5 4,062,770 +3.0 3,432,315 +3.5 3,24a,m +2.8 1973 1,736,098 +5.0- 7,522,847 +7.0 4 ,204,967 +3.5 3,569,608 +4.0 3,345,986 +3.0 1974 1,831,583 +5.5 8,087,061 +7.5 4,373,166 +4.0 3,748,088 +5.0 3,463,096 +3.5 4. Jefferson Township - Major growth in Jefferson Township will depend largely 011 utility expansion from Saxonburg much as in ClintorvTownship; however, other factors will assist development in this community. These factors include direct proximity to a large segment of State Route 356 and its attendant influences and a lorger residential nucleus than Clinton Township from which to expand.

5. Winfield Township - Growth in Winfield Township is expected to be limited as explained in the Land Use Plan. The major potential for increased land values is the limited area contiguous to Stete Route 356. This area has commercial potential while the rest of the community will be primarily low density residential and agricultural in nature.

Income

Revenues in the smaller municipalities, such as ore found within the Southeast Butler County Region, are derived mainly from State Highway Aid and property taxes. Since 1959, additional sources of revenue have been available at the local level under the provisions of Act 481 of the General Assembly. These include:

A one percent tax on wages, salaries, commissions and other earned income. 0 l. 2. A per capita tax, not to exceed $10.00.

3. A one mill tax on dollar value of business volume by wholesale dealers and a 1-1/2 mill tax on retail dealers.

4. A one percent tax on the transfer of real property.

5. A ten percent tax on amusement admission prices.

6. An occupation tax.

Additional sources of revenue are available to municipalities under this act; however, those listed above are the ones most commonly employed. Where the same Act 481 tax is levied by two taxing agencies such as a township and a school district of which the township is d part, ttie total amount collected is limited by law to the maximum which one alone would be permitted.

In addition to these revenues, additional assessments for protection, street lighting, municipal building bnstruction, recreation and other facilities may be levied.

,183 The income patterns of communities in the Southeast Region have been analyzed to determine local sources of revenue. Table .29, Average Municipal Receipts, pro-

vides a comparison of receipt patterns experienced during a recent five year period. ~ ., . A maior income source in all instances is derived from property taxes although in at least ,. .I, two of the five municipalities this is not the largest source of revenue. In the.town- .. . ships a major percentage of annual revenue is from State and County funds for highway -purposes. A substantial amount of this item is from the State with a lessor proportion from the county. The historic emphasis on rural township municipal function has been directed to the maintenance of highways and would not have been possible without substantial state assistance. Although state highway assistance will continue, the percentage of total receipts from this source will be minimized due. to additional municipal functions which will necessitate more revenue from real estate and other income sources.

TABLE 29 AVERAGE MUNICIPAL RECEIPTS rt SOUTHEAST BUTLER COUNTY .. REGIONAL PLANNING AREA

Buffalo Clinton Jefferson Winfield Revenue Source S oxo nburg Township Township Township Township

Real Estate Tax 74.9% 61.4% 61 .O% 39.7/0 31.2% Per Capita Tax -___ 17.3% ---- 3.3% 16.4% ri Wage Tax ------Real Estate Transfer 9.3?/0 ------7.1% ---- t State/County Aid 4.0% 33.1% 38.5% 44.9% 46.2% Fines and Licenses 4.6% .1% ---- .7% 1.8% Miscel laneous 7.2% 5.1% .5% 4.3% 4.4%

i New development will raise tax assessments as previously noted and all the regional com- 'I munities will come to rely more and more on the real estate tax as a major revenue source. As previously noted throughout this planning study, the key to providing municipal income at a level necessary to meet financial obligations is a continual improvement of the tax base.

In comparison to similar municipalities, those within the region have followed revenue u patterns which are consistent. A comparison of Table 29 and 30 reveals similar relationships with pr+erty tdand-State Highway 'Aid.standirig foremost as swrces of income.

:.. ... I II .1 . .,\* U

-184 U . ...

TABLE 30 AVERAGE TOWNSHIP REVENUES IN PENNSYLVANIA

Source of Revenue % of Income <

Taxes (Primarily Property) : 45.6% State Highway Aid 37.3% Licenses and Permits 5. Ph Home County Grants 5.2% Federal and State Grants 1.3% Miscellaneous '4.9%

Source: Township Government in Pennsylvania, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, Pennsylvania.

Expenditures

An examination of average expenditures within the regional communities is presented in Table 31. Several elements stand out in the comparison which indicate the present function of government at the local level and which also indicate future trends which can be expected.

TABLE 31 AVERAGE MUNICIPAL EXPENDITURES

SOUTHEAST BUTLER COUNTY i REGIONAL PLANNING AREA ,\

Buffalo Clinton Jefferson Winfield Expenditure Item Saxonburg Township Township Township Township

General Govern- ment 18.9 8.9 5.8 11.0 6.6 Protection 22.4 5.7 1 .o 1.9 2:1 Highways 37.1 80.6 81 .Ot 81.7 80.6 Debt Service 16.6 --- 8.0 --- 6.2 Miscel laneous 5.0 4.8 4.2 5,4 4.5 .. It will &¬ed that in Saxonburg, where a more heavily populated area is found that the expenditures for general government and protection are considerably more than in the rural areas. This is the result of additional programs and facilities which must be

185 provided by the municipality. These programs include protection to persons and property, traffic control, recreation, civic programs and many items not generally under- taken in the rural areas, As growth continues more and more of these municipal functions will be required in the townships and thus require budgets which reflect such functions.

Over eighty percent of the expenditures in all OF the townships are for highway needs. In the borough those expenses are lower since there are fewer miles of highways to maintain and the local street system is mare compact as opposed to the spawling noture i of rural systems, As community growth continues, the proportion of the budget expeqded for highways will be reduced as maior necessary improvements are accomplished. I I' Indebtedness i As indicated on Table 31, only minor proportions of the annual budgets in the Region Area have been utilized for debt service. In the townships,debt service has represented r payments on short term borrowing. In the Borough of Saxonburg, the budget expenditure reflected in debt service averages involved cost paid on a special time deposit at a local bank. No long term bonded indebtedness has been outstanding within the region.

Summary

Based on the above analysis the following evaluation of local fiscal patterns is summarized os f0l lows:

1. The total level of all municipal budgets have recorded dollar increases in recent years, but the percentage of income and expenditure on the basis of individual budget items hos remained generally constant. The significance of this fact is that little change in fiscal policy has occurred, or apparently been considered necessary throughout recent fiscal history.

2. Property taxes have been the basic revenue source and sufficient to operate all local functions except for highway needs. For this latter function, the townships rely primarily on State Highway Aid.

3. Debt has been kept to a minimum. Debt service has been of a short-term nature with no long term bonded debt outstanding.

4. No provision has been made for long range capital improvement planning. hither programs nor funding hwe beer, established to meet future community requirements. 8 186 U 5. Growth is expected to produce additional revenues, however, basic costs of government will increase at the same time. Careful budgeting will be required ta permit financing of established and continuing expenses ond at the some time initiate progroms to provide necessary capitol expenditures ond additional programs and services in support of community growth.

With the above factors in mind the fallowing considerations ore recommended to each municipal government within the Regional Area as o guide in the development of future fiscal policy:

1. Assessments

Future lond use recommendations should be followed closely as a possible means of strengthening the basic source of municipal income through the encouragement of sound ond diversified land uses.

2. Development Proposals

As new private developments are initiated within the community the adequacy of the design of improvements including streets, utilities and other amenities should be carefully reviewed. Inadequate original development con create mojor expense and problems to the municipality in future yeors which may nullify any apparent tax benefits..

3. Capital Improvements

Capitol budgeting must become o vital port of each local fiscal profile. Annual reservation of funds for capitol improvements should be geared to Master Plan proposals.

4. Budget Adjustment

Fiscal needs should be constantly re-evaluated. Budgets should not be developed solely on previous trends but should be oriented to appraisals of future fiscal requirements.

5. Tax Rates

.A constant review of tax levels and other income sources must be under- +%ken to determine the scope and feasibility of future improvement progroms.

187 6. Debt Structure

The initiation of required improvements may in some cases require long term municipal debt; however, this course must be pursued with prudence. Two basic types of bonding are ordinarily employed at the municipal level. General obligation bonds may be sold to finance permanent improvements. This procedure permits the spacing of costs over a period of years within the current budgetary limits, often without requiring a tax increase. An- other method of financing is through the use of revenue bonds which return revenue thrbugh the use of the focility. Under this procedure the principal and interest are discharged with revenue derived from use or operation of the improvement. Utility systems and parking facilities are commonly financhd' with revenue bonds.

Projected Revenue

In order to schedule capital improvements over an extended budget period it is necessary to consider the income potential in each municipality. Table 32, Projected Property Tax Receipts, has been prepared by application of the latest tax rate now levied at the municipal level to the projected assessments previously discussed in Table 28, Projected Assessed Valuation.

It must be remembered that these projections are based upon past growth averages and contemplated events which should occur during the projection period. While the actual dollar amount will vary up and down throughout the projection period this projection provides a general level from which to proceed with budget planning.

This projection applies only to tax revenue increases derived from property taxes. As indicated previously property taxes are a basic and major source of income but represent generally one-half of total income at the township levels and under three-fourths of total income at the borough level in this Planning Area. Although other income sources will register increases, there is rm data available within the scope of this study to adequately project these additional sources on the basis of anticipated growth potential. Occupation taxes which are being adopted by many communities depend upon the level of employment and the location in which employees of proposed new business firms reside. This is very difficult to project and relate to continuing development.

Expenditures for local governmental purposes will increase even if improvements are not effected regarding new community facilities or capital budgeting, but these increcwes will not be in proportion to anticipated additional revenues from growth trends. The inkease in receipts, other than those derived from real estate taxes, should prove ample to meet the greatest portion of these rising expenses. If these basic expenditures i

188 connot be accommodoted from current dollar levels of property tax income, plus increases in the other revenues, it ii recommended that new tax sources be employed to meet these basic costs. The purpose of this recommendation is to free insofar as possible the income derived from growth, as ieflected in increased assessed valuations, to meet growth demands by providing additional facilities and capital improvements. Accordingly, the recommended financing of the improvement program will be based upon this source of funds.

TABLE 32 PROJECTED PROPERTY TAX RECEIPTS SOUTHEAST BUTLER COUNTY REGIONAL PLANNING AREA

Buffalo Clinton Jefferson Winfield Fiscal Soxonburg Towhship Township Township Township Year (1.0 mills) (5 mills) (7 mills) (6 mills) (6 mills)

1968 14,310 27,715 25,555 18,245 17,590 1969 14,740 29,295 26,230 18,755 18,029 1970 15,215 30,995 26,860 19,320 18,480 0 1971 15,820 33,000 27,600 19,900 18,960 1972 16,535 35,155 28,440 20,600 19,490 1973 17,360 37,614 29,435 21,417 20,075 1974 18,315 40,435 30,610 22,490 20,780

Capital Improvement Program

Local government, much like a business, must continually seek to provide the best possible services to its citizens and replace obsolete and deteriorated facilities. This is occom- plished by undertaking copital projects for various purposes such os major street improvements, the acquisition and development of park facilities and similar programs.

The following Capital Improvement Program has been prepared on a regional basis to reflect the total needs and responsibilities for the entire Planning Areo. In addition, individual Capital Improvement Programs have been derived from the regional program and translated into Capitol Budgets for each member municipality.

189 TABLE 33 i REGIONAL CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM SOUTHEAST BUTLER COUNTY REGIONAL PLANNING AREA i

Pronosed Providing Estimated i Program Schedule Entity cost - i A. Hiahwaw mghenyValley 1968-1972 Pa. Department of Highways 4,475,000 Expressway 2. Route 356 - 1 Improvement 1968-1970 Pa. Department of Highwpys 3,226,000 3. Sarverville Inter- section Improve- ment 1968-1970 Pa. Department of Highwoys 12,000 4. Route 228 - r Improvement 1970- Pa. Department of Highways 663,000 5. C.R. 10031 Imprw ement 1972 Pa. Department of Highways 1,5Oo,M)O 6. L.R. 10094 Improvement 1969 Pa. Department of Highways 1,791,000 7. Jefferson Inter- section Improve- ment 1968 Pa. Department of Highways 13,000 8. L.R. 10126 Improvement 1970 Po. Department of Highways 593,000 9. Dinner Bell Road Relocation 1970 Pa. Department of Highways 1,411 ,000 10. L,R. 10094 T-558 Hazard Elimination 1969 Pa. Oepartment of Highways 10,ooo 11. Saxonburg U Hazard Elimination 1970 Pa. Department of Highways 33,000 12. Saxonburg Blvd. n Improvement 1972 Pa. Department of Highways 1,2 18,000 13. L.R. 10018 U Improvement 1972 Pa. Department of Highways 1,924,000 14. L.R. 10132- 10131 Improve- :ment 1974 Po. Department of Highways 290,000 15, kR. 10024 Widen and Relocation 1972 Pa. Department of Highways 732,000

190 YR TABLE 33 - CONTINUED

Proposed Providing Estimated Program Schedule ‘Entiv cost

B. Utilities

1. Saxonburg Water and Sewer Expan- sion Study 1969- 1970 Jefferson Township 3,000 Feasibility Study Clinton Township 2,000 2. Buffalo Township Water and Sewer System 1969-1970 Buffalo Township 12,000 Feasibility Study Winfield Township 2,000

C. Schools

Middle Schwl Con- struction 1970 South Butler County District 1,250,000

D. Public Sofety

Police Protection 1969 Regional Communities 20,000 (*)

E. Community Facilities

Library 1973-1974 Regional Communities 50,000 Municipal Buildings/ Fire Stations Buffalo Twp. 1971 Buffalo Township 40 ,000 Fine Apparatus (Buffalo) 1071 - I980 Fire Department/Supervisors 60,000 Clinton Twp. 1972 Clinton Township 15,000 Jefferson Twp. 1975 Jefferson Township 44,000

F. I Recreation

Saxonburg Pork Dey,elopment 1970- 1980 Saxonburg Borough 4,000 (*) BufFqIo Recreation Prog’ram 1970-1980 Buffalo Township 1,500 (*)

(*) Represents annual expenses. Following are the Capital Improvement hograms and Capital Budgets for each of the municipalities within the Regional Planning Area. Included herein are the recom-

mended means of financing these programs. Item A of the Regional Capital Improve- I ment Prograq as shown on Table 33 is not listed separately by community since the 1 I development and financing of these items will be assumed by the Pennsylvania Depart- ment of Highways. 1 <

Borough of Saxonburg

TABLE 34 BOROUGH OF SAXONBURG LONG RANGE CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM 1968-1 980

Estimated Responsible Proposed r Project Description Schedule cost Entity Financing

Local Street Program 1. S. Butler St.- Main to Pittsburgh Road 1 9 72 - 1 973 105,600 Borough Bond Issue 2. S. Butler St. - Pittsburgh to Free- Borough/ r. port Roads 1 975 - 1 976 1 02,000 Developer Bond Issue L. 3. lsabella Street 1976-1977 57,200 Borough/ *, Developer Bond Issue ! 4. Horne' Avenue 1978-1979 22,000 Borough/ LJ Developer Bond Issue i] Public Safety 1. 5. Police Protection Program 1969 2,600 (*) Borough General Fund I? Li Community Facilities 6. Library Program 1973-1974 6,500 Borough/Publ ic General Fund/ I I Public Subs. u 7. Recreation Program 1 969- 1980 4,000 (*) Borough General Fund 8. Urban Renewal 1969-1970 2,200 Borough General Fund

,192 u TABLE 35 BOROUGH OF SAXONBURG SIX YEAR CAPITAL BUDGET 1969- 1974

Project 1969 1970 1971 1972 1973 1974 1. Road Improve- ment s 7,500 $7,500 $ 7,500 2. Police Pra- tection 2,600 2,600 2,600 2,600 2,600 2,600 3. Library Program 1,625 1, 625 4. Recreation Program 4,000 4,000 4,000 4,000 4,000 4,000 5. Survey and Planning (renewal) 1,100 1,100

ANNUAL TOTAL 7,700 7,700 6,600 14,100 15,725 15,725

(*) Debt Service

The expenditure for police protection under a regional program will be less than actual expenditures during recent years in the borough, Any surplus in this account. should be sufficient to off-set some of the capital costs projected during the budget period. Survey and planning and recreation facility development should begin immediately. A two mill increase in the current 10 mill levy may be required to initiate these programs listed. By 1972, or perhaps sooner, it should pr&e expedient for the borough to embark upon the projected development of the internal road system at which time a bond issue should be utilized to produce sufficient funds for the project. Growth during the interim will provide additional tax revenues; however, an additional 2 mill increase is anticipated again by 1972 to provide revenues for local and regional programs on a continuing basis.

... , . ..w

193 Township of Buffalo

TABLE 36 TOWNSHIP OF BUFFALO LONG RANGE CAPITAS IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM 1968-1980

Estimated Responsible Proposed Project Description Schedule cost Entity Financing

Kocal Street Program 1. Cole Road 1971-1 97’4 $ 44lOoo Township Bond Issue 2. Doyle Road 1971 - 1974 5~1800 Township Bond Issue 3. T-616 1974- 1980 59,500 Township Bond issue 4. Parker Road 1974-1 980 192,500 Township Bond Issue 5. Ralston-Harbison r Road 1971-1974 580,800 Township/ 1. Development Corp. Bonds/Grants :f ’ L Public Safety 6. Police 1969 6,000 (*) Township General Funs! 7. Fire Equipmeni 1971- 1980 60 000 Township/\/ol. General Fun Fire Co; Subscription n Community Facilities 11 8. Municipal Bldg. 1970-1971 40,000 Township Bond Issue 9. Library Program 1973- 1974 15,000 Township/ General Fund/ Public Subscription 10. Recreation Pro- gram 1969-1980 1,500 (*) Tqwnship General Fund 11. Utility Study 1969- 1970 12,000 Township Bond Issue IJ

(*) Annuol Prosram Cost

..., IJ ..\. . nU 194 u TABLE 37 TOWNSHIP QF BUFFALO SIX YEAR CAPITAL BUDGET 1 969- 1974

Project 1969 1970 1971 1972 1973 1974 1. Road Imbrove- ments (i) $ 5,000 $ 5,000 $ 5,000 $10,000 2. Police Pro* tection 6,000 6,000 6,000 6,000 6,000 6,000 3. Fire Equipment 3,000 3,000 3,000 '3,000 4. Municipal Building (*) 3,000 3,000 3,000 3,000 3,000 5. Library Program 3,750 3,750 6. Recreation Pro- gram 1,500 1,500 1,500 1,500 1,500 1,500 7. Utility Study 6,000 6,000 ANNUAL TOTAL 13,500 16,500 18,500 18,500 22,250 27,250

(*) Debt Service

It is recommended that the existing 5 mill tax rate in Buffalo Township be raised 2 mills in 1969. This additional 2 mill levy, plus additional anticipated revenue from increased assessments, will provide sufficient funds to proceed with the recommended improvement program as outlined above.

..., .. . ',%*

1 95 i 1

0; Township of Clinton I TABLE 38 j TOWNSHIP OF CLINTON I LONG RANGE CAPITA4 IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM 19687 I980 r

Estimated Respopsible. : Prop .Project Description Schedule:. .. cost Entity Financing r . ., i Local Street Progrom - 1. Knoch School Road 1 971 - 1972 $ 275,000 Township Bond Issue ! 2. Westminster Church Rood 1974 187,000 Township Bond Issue 3. Brewer Road 1975 143,000 Township Bond Issue r lvywood Road ' 219,000 Township Bond Issue 4. 1977 i 5. Albin Road 1979 121,000 Township Bond Issue 6. West Sarver Road 1980 308,000 Township Bond Issue ..

Public Safety 7. Police Protection 1969 4,000 (*) Township General Fund 8. Fire Ctotion 1973-1974 15,000 Township Bond Issue 0.

Communitv Foci I ities i' L; 9. Library Progrom 1973-1974 10,000 Township/ General Fund/ Public Subscription ' * 10. Utility.Study 1969- 1970 2,000 Township General Fund

(*) Annual Program Cost 'Ii

...... x* TABLE 39 TOWNSHIP OF CLINTON SIX YEAR CAPITAL BUDGET 1969-1974

Project 1969 1970 1971 1972 1973 1974 1. Road Improve- ments (*) b 2,000 $ 2,000 $ 4,000 $ 4,000 2. Police Pro- tection 4,000 4,000 4,000 4,000 4,000 4,000 3. Fire Station(*) 2,000 2,000 4. Librory Pro- grom 2,500 2,500 5. Utility Study 1,000 1,000

ANNUAL TOTAL 5,000 5,000 6,000 6,000 12,500 12,500

(*) Debt Sewice

Tax increases will be required for implementation of a capital improvement program in Clinton Township. An initial increase from 7 to 8 mills in 1969 will permit the accomplishment of the utility study and initiation of the regional police protection program. An increase in assessed values will raise local revenues to permit a bond issue for road construction during 1971 and 1972. 4n additional one mill tax increase is suggested in 1973 to step-up rood improvement programs, construct additions to the municipal building for office space and fire protection and permit participation in the regional library program.

197 Township of Jefferson

TABLE 40 TOWNSHIP OF JEFFERSON LONG RANGE CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM 1968- 1980

Estimated Respondbl e Proposed Project Description Schedule cost Entity Financing

Local Street Program 1. Alwine Road 1972-1974 $ 231,000 Township Bond Issue 2. Reimer Road 1975 187,000 Township Bond Issue 3. Heck Road 1976 176,000 Township Bond Issue

Public Safety 4. Police Protection 1969 4,000 (*) Township General Fund

Community Facilities 5. Library Program 1973-1974 10,000 Township/ General Fund/ Public Subscription 6. Utility Study 1969- 1970 3,000 Township General Fund 7. Municipal Build- 0 ' "9 1975 44,000 Township Bond Issue

(*) Annaul Program Cost

! L

198 I' 0 TABLE 41 TOWNSHIP OF JEFFERSON SIX YEAR CAPITAL BUDGET 1969-1974

Project 1969 1970 ' 1971 1972 1973 1974 1 1. Road Improve- . ,.' I ments (*) $ 3,000 $ 4,000 $5,000 2. Police Protec- tion $4.000 $4,000 $4,000 4,000 4,000 4,000 3. Library Pro- gram 2,500 2,500 4. Utility Study 1,500 ,500 5. Land Acquisi- tion (Municipal Bu iI di ng) 2,000 2,000 2,000

ANNUAL TOTAL 5,500 7,500 6,000 9,000 10,500 1 1,500

(*) Debt Service

The existing tax structure will not support a capital improvement program. It is recommended that the present 6 mill levy be increased to 8 mills starting in 1969. The continuing additional revenue from this rate increase, plus on expected vpward tend in the value of taxable property, will produce sufficient revenues to permit the improvements outlined above.

.., .., , I .I . S' '0

199 Township of Winfield I TABLE 42 - TOWNSHIP OF WINFIELD LONG RANGE CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM 1968-1980

Estimated Responsible Proposed Project Description Schedule cost Entity Financing .a r !;blic Tfety 1. Po ice Protection 1969 $ 3,400 (*I Township General Fund I? Community Facilities li 2. Library Program 1973-1974 8,500 Township/ General Fund/ Public Subscription 3. Utility Study 1969-1970 2,000 Township General Fund n 4. Municipal Building 1980

p) Annual Program Cost

TABLE 43 TOWNSHIP OF WINFIELD SIX YEAR CAPITAL'BUDGET 1969- 1974

Project 1969 1970 1971 1972 1973 1974 1. Police Protection $ 3,400 $3,400' $ 3;490 $ 3,400 $ 3,400 $ 3,400 [I 2. Library Program 2,125 2,125 3. Utility Study 1,000 1,000 4. Municipal Build- rl I .. .. . u ing 2,500 3,000. ..

ANNUAL TOTAL 4,400 4-.400.I 5,900 6,400, 5;525 a1525 u!I The present 6 mill tax levy should be increased by 1.5 mills starting in 1969. This increase' will provide sufficient revenues to implement the capital improvement program outlined above and will provide surplus revenues by 1973 for an expansion of capital improvement programs. U ',X* U

200 U CHAPTER 13 CONTINUING PLANNING

The anticipated problems as well as the advantages of impending development in the Southeast Butler County Regional Planning Area have been outlined in the preceding chapters. This program will require the support and diligent actionof each participating community and related agency which is in any way connected with the region. This in turn can only be accomplished through an active organization which is capable of organizing and lending directions to all of the diversified activities which will be required.

It is strongly urged that the Regional Planning Commission remain active to assume these advisory and liaison functions. This organization should operate on a committee system with each committee responsible for specific aspects of master plan implementation. Frequent meetings of these committees will be required to coordinate activities throughout the region and quarterly or semi-annual meetings of the entire regional organization should be held to receive and analyze committee reports and requests.

At the municipal level the planning commissions should remain active to advise their respective governing bodies on current problems and periodically evaluate the plan it- 0 self, Individual planning recommendations will not be carried out in the exact manner suggested, and new growth will in many instances require a certain measure of flexibility in the original proposals. It is the function of the planning commission to resolve these problems within the concepts of the general planning program.

Zoning

One of the primary tools of planning implementation is the development and evolution of a zoning program. Such programs have been proposed to each of the participating municipalities involved in the current planning endeavor. These programs are geared to present conditions, contemplated development and the conservation of the general character of many portions of the region. This too is an area subject to continual modifications which must be carefully considered on the merits involved in relation to the long range development objectives. Here again is a continuing project for the local planning commission.

Subdivisip Regulation

S' The control of subdivision developed is very important to the Southeast Butler Region e because of the large amount of land capable of development. Regulations have been

201 prepared on a regional basis for consideration by the member communities. These regulations should be adopted in order to maintain the quality and design of site improvements, retain natural features of importance and establish minimum standards for street grades and other physical development of the land. Each community must enact zoning and subdivision control at the local level; however, these controls should be related on a regional basis to preserve regional development concepts.

Community Assistance

Many programs and proposals which have been made are eligible for federal and state assistance. Following is information to be used as a guide to officials in determining what assistance may possibly be available. Although these programs are continually changing, this data will provide a bosis for further detailed research as specific projects become involved,

The State of Pennsylvania provides funds for Planning Assistance, Redevelopment Assis- tance and acquisition of recreation area as.well as other related programs. Details on ! current proiects ore available from the Bureau of Community Development, Pennsylvania I Department of Commerce, with offices in Harrisburg and Pittsburgh. Funds and programs for assisting communities in industrial development are also available at the State level.

At the Federal level, the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) administers a wide range of programs. The Department, which came into existence Novem- ber 9, 1965, absorbed all of the programs formerly administered by the Housing and Home c Finance Agency ond its constituents. HUD also assumed responsibility for new programs launched by the Housing and Urban Development Act of 1965 (PL 89-117). '! -L The entire range of Federally aided progroms for urban renewal, prblic housing, urban planning, open space land, mass transit, and community facilities was continued and, in some cases, expanded by the 1965 Housing Act.

In addition, the Department administers such programs as: FHA mortgage insurance for new residential construction and home modernization; housing for the elderly and the 11 handicapped through prblic and privote financing; special housing needs, including the rehobilitotion and redevelopment of blighted areas; housing for moderate and lower- income families; college and university housing and related facilities, and housing for u servicemen and veterans.

The Department also has financial and technical programs to help localities plan and con- l! struct public.. . facilities. x* u

202 U New HUD.programs begun by the 1965 Housing Act include th,e rent supplement program - which Ijermits private bu'ilders to'tuild housing for low-income persons - and a program that permits FHA to insure-homes for all veterans who have not used their Veterans Admin- .. istiittion guaranteed loans.

The 1965 Act also extended Federal grants, on a matching basis, to cities to'finance water and sewer systems and neighborhood facilities. Limits on open space land grants were increased, and this program was expanded to help cities and towns.acquire and clear open space in built-up areas. Prograe were added for urban beautification and for development of land for parks and recreation.

Following are some of the basic programs of the Department which may assist local regional member communities.

Advances for Public Works Planning

Purposes: Interest-free advances to assist planning for local public works. Specific All types of public works, except public housing. Uses: Examples: water and sewer systems, school buildings, recreation projects , pl bli c bui Idings, irrigation proi ects , health f aci Ii ti es , bridges. Terms: Advance repayable to HUD promptly upon construction of the planned public work,

Grants for Advance Acquisition of Land

Purposes: To encourage Communities to acquire, in a plonned and orderly fashion, land for future'construction of public works and facilities. Terms: Grants moy not exceed the interest charges on a loan incurred to finance the acquisition of land for a period of not more than 5 years.

Grants for Basic Sewer and Water Facilities

Purposes: To assist and encourage communities to construct adequate basic water and sewer facilities to promote their orderly ond efficient .... growth and development. %.

203 Specific Grants to finance up to 5% of the cost of improving or constructing Uses: basic water and sewer facilities. Where there is no existing system, the pioiect must be SO derigned that it can be linked with other independent sewer and water facilities in the future. Terms: To be determined.

Grants for Neighborhood Facilities *.

Purposes: To provide neighborhood facilities needed for programs carrying out health, recreation, social or similar necessary community services in the area. Specific Finances neighborhood or community centers, outh centers, health I: uses: stations and other pvblic buildings to provide Kealth, re- creotional or similar social services. Terms: Up to two-thirds of project cost or 75% in redevelopment areas designated under the Public Works and Economic Development Act of 1965. ci

Public Facility Loans

Purposes: Long-term loans for construction of needed public facilities such os sewer or water facilities. Specific A variety of public works may be financed under this program. Uses: When oid is available from other Federal agencies, HUD assists only with those parts of the project not covered by other Federal programs. Terms: Loan may be up to 40 years. It will be governed by applicant's ability to pay and by the estimated useful life of the proposed fa- U cility.

Urban Renewal

Purposes: To assist cities undertaking local programs for the elimination U and prevention of slums and blight, and the elimination of the factors creating them. A long range effort to achieve better communities through planned redevelopment of deteriorated and U deteriorating areas through partnership among local governments, private enterprise, citizens and the Federal Government. U

204 D Specific Community-wide renewal programs identifying needs and resources Uses: and establishing schedules and priorities for accomplishing the work; planning and carrying out urban renewal projects for rehabilitation and redevelopment of blighted oreas; undertaking program of concentrated code enforcement and demolition of buildings that are substandard and constitute a hazard to public health and welfare. Terms: Federal advances and loans, Federal grants, local contributions Grants generally pay up to two-thirds of net project cost; but may be as high as three-fourths. Local contributions may include cash or non-cash grants-in-aid. Also available are special rehabilitation loans and grants, and housing assistance programs for low income, elderly, and handicapped individuals and families residing in project oreas.

Urban Planning Assistance Program

Purposes: To foster good community, metropolitan oreo, regional and statewide planning. Specific Preparation of comprehensive development plans, including planning Uses: for the provision of public facilities, transportation, long-range fiscal plans and programming and scheduling of capital improvements. Terms: Federal grants of two-thirds of the cost of the work; local contribu- tion of one-third. In some cases Federal grants may amount to os much as three-fourths.

Open Space Land and Urban Beautificotion Grants

Purposes: To assist communities in acquiring and developing land for open- space uses and in carrying out urban beautification programs. Specific Provide parks and other recreation, conservation, and scenic areas Uses: or preserve historic places. Urban beautification and improvement includes such activities as street landscaping, park improvements, tree planting, and upgrading of malls and squares. Relocation payments are provide for individuals, families, and businesses 'displaced by land acquisition. Terms: 50% to help public agencies acquire and preserve urban lands having value for park, recreation, scenic, or historic purposes. Where necessary to provide open-space in built-up urban areas, grants can ... , .. . cover up to of the cost of acquiring and clearing developed X' 500/0 land. 50% is also available to assist in developing lands ocquired

205 0' under the open-space land program. Grants up to 90% are outhori- zed to carry out projects of special value for demonstrating new and i improved methods and materials for urban beautification.

Additional Information

For additional information concerning the program listed, the appropriate Regional Qffiqe of the Department of Housing and Urbap Development to cpmmunicate with is:

The Department of Housing and Urbon Development Region II 1004 Widener bilding Chestnut and Juniper Streets Philodelphia, Pennsylvania 19107

?' i i.

i] i

U U ...... ! . 3- U

206 U