Central Pa. community pushes back against proposed apartment complex

Neighbors in a York County community are fighting against a proposed apartment complex over concerns about increased traffic on rural roads and unsafe conditions.

On Oct. 22, the Newberry Township Board of Supervisors is scheduled to vote on preliminary final subdivision plans submitted by Zenith Construction, Inc. in Hagerstown, Maryland, for Church Road Apartments at Church and Paddletown roads.

Zenith wants to build 120 apartments in 10 buildings on a portion of a 17-acre property.

Zenith has sought approval for several years, even appealing in York County Court against a decision in 2023 by the township's Zoning Hearing Board .

In September, the township's Planning Commission recommended not to approve Zenith's plans over questions including site distance and speed limit questions. The plans advanced to the board which voted on Sept. 24 to table the plans.

Residents have been outspoken during meetings about the development, noting the strains it will create in the community. Many say the "country two-way roads" can't accommodate the extra traffic.

Paddletown St. Paul's United Methodist Church Pastor Ryan Whisel, a spokesperson for the Newberrytown Neighborhoods Alliance, said the majority of residents would prefer the land remain untouched. Whisel, however, recognizes it's highly likely some type of plan will go through in the future.

"I think obviously the primary concern repeated time and time again is the traffic coupled with the infrastructure of the roads," he said.

Whisel said the development also raises questions about environmental and light pollution, wildlife displacement and lack of green space.

Plus, Whisel said he has a vested interest since his church and home are located close to Church Road where increased traffic could potentially be dangerous.

Church Road, Whisel said, does not have a posted speed limit.

Zenith recently revised its plans to include a recommended 35 mph speed limit to accommodate site distance and the time it takes for vehicles to stop and make turns into the development. An ordinance is required to establish a speed limit.

"We don't want an unsafe community. That is not good for anyone. We certainly recognize that," said Helen Gemmill, an attorney with McNees Wallace & Nurick LLC representing the developer.

Board chairman Rob Harkins said at the Sept. 24 meeting he would like an ordinance approved to change the speed limit. He recognized residents' concerns and acknowledged the developer's work.

"The laws are the laws. They're going through the guidelines with exception to a few waivers. I think they have done their work," Harkins said.

The meeting will be held at 6 p.m. Oct. 22 Tuesday at the Newberry Township municipal building.