PREPARED FOR MIDDLE TAYLOR TOWNSHIP CAMBRIA COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA

LONG RANGE PLAN

Prepared by

Cambria County Planning Commission Court House Ebensburg , Pennsylvania

June, 1969

The preparation of this report and the maps contained herein was financed in part through an urban planning grant from the Department of Housing and Urban Development, under the provisions of Section 701 of the Housing Act of 1954, as amended, administered by the Bureau of Planning, Pennsylvania Department of Community Affairs .

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C A M B R I A COUNTY P L A N N I N G COMMISSION

1. FRED YOUNG E X E C U T I V E D IRECTOR

couw nous€ E B E Y I B U I Q , P L Y U A 1BB31 PHONE 4 7 2 - 7 8 B B

September, 1969

Mr. Wil l iam Lewis, Chairman Middle Taylor Township Planning Commission Cambria County, Pennsylvania

Dear hlr. Lewis:

We are pleased t o submit herewith the LONG RANGE DEVELOWENT PLAN for Middle Taylor Township. i n the Existing Conditions Report and contains recornendations fo r a Long Range Plan to guide future development in the years ahead.

This report re f lec ts an analysis presented

The preparation of t h i s report required the help of many people and organizations within the community. given t o those persons and the members of the Middle Taylor Planning Commission for the i r contributions.

Special achowledgement is hereby

This report emphasizes the need fo r continuing review of the recomendations contained herein and to r e f l ec t changing needs and community a t t i tudes i n the years ahead. the ci t izens and the i r elected of f ic ia l s t o achieve an outstanding community.

We sincerely hope tha t t h i s report w i l l help

Respectfully submitted,

. Executive Director

TFY/ef

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TOWNSHIP COMMISSIONERS

Harry Berk, Chairman Thomas Larnek Monte11 Harrison

TOWNSHIP PLANNING COMMISSION

W i l l i a m Lewis, Chairman George Swick Ray Roberts Joe Golian Dean Rummell

CAMBRIA COUNTY PLANNING COMMISSION MEMBERS

John Kupchella, Chairman Gilbert Salsgiver, Treasurer Paul Melanson, Secretary Thomas N. Crowley Russell Thomas Fred J. McFadden, Jr. Elvin Overdorff , Jr. Leonard LaPorta James J. Long, Jr.

CAMBRIA COUNTY PLANNING COMMISSION

T. Frederick Young, Executive Director John R. Swanson, Senior Planner Barry G. Polster, Junior Planner Thomas E l i a s , Junior Planner Bradford G. Beigay, Planning Technician David L. Belz , Draftsman Gail Novotny, Secretary Gloria Kilraine, Stenographer Elaine Fuller, Stenographer

MIDDLE TAYLOR TOWNSHIP TABLEOFCONTENTS

TITLE PAGE LETTER O F TRANSMITTAL PARTICIPATING OFFICIALS TABLEOFCONTENTS LIST O F MAPS LIST OF CHARTS LIST OF TABLES LIST OF ILLUSTRATIONS REGIONAL LOCATION MAP

FUTURE LAND USE Introduction Summary of Existing Conditions Land U s e Objectives Future Land Use Plan Future Commercial Recommendations Future Indu str ial Recommendat ions Future mblic and Semi-Public Recommendations Summary

Fl T1 RE COMMUNITY FACILITIES Introduction Future Community Facility Objectives Future Community Facility Recommendations Future Schools Future Water System Future Sewage Facilities Sol id Waste Manage me nt Future Fire Protection Future Police Protection Future Recreation Conclusion

FUTURE THOROUGH FARES Introduction Goals and Objectives Major Highway Recommendations Local Collectors Local Streets Summary

CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM Capital Improvement Program Project Descriptions Capital Budget

APPENDIX

1 2 4 4 10 10 11 12

15 16 16 17 19 20 21 22 22 23 27

30 32 32 35 37 38

41 45 52

61

LIST O F MAPS

Map .No e Title Page

Regional Location Map Future Land Use Future Community Facilities Future Water System Regional Highway Network Future Thoroughfares

14 28 29 31 40

LIST O F CHARTS

Title Page

Projected Population Growth Future Housing Future Land Use

LIST OF TABLES

6 9

13

Title Page

Major Street and Highway Improvements Capital Improvements

Capital Expenditures Long Range Capital Improvement Program

High and Low Dollar Expenditures Six-Year Capital Budget

LIST OF ILLUSTRATIONS

39 41 43 52 53 54

Recreation Area Valley View Park

25 26

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F U T U R E L A N D U S E

MJDDLE TAYLOR TOWNSHIP

FUTURE LAND USE

INTROPU C TIQN

The purpose of the Future Land Use Plan for Middle Taylor Township is to serve

as a guide for future land development. The plan recommendg an organization of uses

which will promote efficient use of land, a more gttractive phyeical envirqnment, and a

stabilization of property yalues in the area.

In this plan attention is focused on three principal areae: Summary of Exigting

Conditions, Future Land U s e Objectives, and Future Land U s e Plan. The Summary of

Existing Conditions briefly analyzes the existing conditions to determine the pstential

for future growth in each land use categwy. The Future Land U s e Objectives are the

basis upon which the specific recommendations are made. The Future Land Use Plan

contains specific recommen&tions for the location and type of individual land use.

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SUMMARY OF EXISTING CONDITIONS

The following summary is a brief qnalysis of existing conditions within Middle

Taylor Township to determine the potential for future development.

TOP ography

Middle Taylor Township is predominantly rural in nature despite its proximity

to the City of Johnstown. Middle Taylor Township’s sparce and saattered development

can be attributed to its rugged topography. Of the’total area within the Township 70%

or 2,214 acres is excessively sloping land used primarily for agriculture or conservation

purposes. Only 30% or 926 acres are developable within Middle Taylor Township. Pres-

ently 365 acres are developed leaving only 18% of the total area or 561 acres available

for future development. These developable acres are located primarily along the Benshoff

Hill Road as illustrated an the Future Land Use Map.

The rugged topography that limits future development within Middle Taylor Town-

ship also restricts industrial growth. In addition to the absence of large tracts of develop-

able land, industrial development is restricted by the lack of an adequate trapsportation

network. The Benshoff Hill Road is the only paved roadway through the Township

Quality of Residential U s e s

Middle Taylor Township is primarily composed of single family residences. Of

all structures, 38% are classified as substandard of which 10% are in need of complete

reconstruction. Many of the substandard units are farm dwellings or buildings of faulty

original construction. If the quality of future residential construction is to be improved,

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the township should endeavor to eliminate all existing suh-standard dwellings through a

code enforcement and rehabilitation program.

Limited Commercial Land Use

Approximately two acres of land are used for commercial purposes in Middle

Taylor Township. The lack of extensive commercial facilities is related to two im-

portant factors:

1. very slow population growth; and

2. most township residents live within a five-minute driving radius of

Johnstown's Central Business District, making extensive commercial

facilities within Middle Taylor Township unnecessary.

Public, Semi-Public Areas

Approximately five acres within the township are classified as Public U n d Uses,

This area contains the school, municipal building, fire station and school playground.

The two Semi-Public Land Uses occupy approximately 16 acres of land. These uses

include the Benshoff Hill Cemetery and the Saint Nicholas Cemetery.

Recreational areas within Middle Taylor Township are limited to the two acre

school playground (Public) and the 15 acre Brethren Church recreation area, (qemi-

Public).

The limited Public, and Semi-Public areas are attributed to the wral nature of

the township the relatively few number of township residents, and the inaccessibility

of potentially developable land because of rugged topography.

3.

LAND USE OBJECTIVES

In developing a future land use plan for Middle Taylor Township, it is necessary

to base planning decisions upon a set of general land use objectives. The most important

Land Use Objectives for Middle Taylor Township may be stated as follows:

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2.

3 ,

4.

EncoTumge future development in areas which can be served through the

economic extension of existing utilities and community facilities.

Provide for the orderly development of Residential, Commercial and Recrea-

tional uses which are compatible with existing uses.

Provide for future development in harmony with existing topographic and

aesthetic features of the community.

Encourage the development of Public, Recreation and Commercial uses to

meet the cultural and service needs of future township residents.

In order to attain these goals, the type, location and distribution of future uses

of land a r e recommended as follows:

FUTURE LAND USE PLAN

Future Residential Land U s e

Residential Land Use is expected to be predominant in the future development of

Middle Taylor Township. Residential expansion can be anticipated because of the

township's relative locatiop to the Johnstown Urbanized Area. The township's relatively

small population base and the topographic features-which prohibits the construction of a

major highway access precludes the future development of extensive commercial and

industrial uses.

4.

The demand for future residential land use is obviously related to the anticipated

future population growth. The population projection for Middle Taylor Township is based

on data contained in the Existing Conditions Report and the projections made for the com-

munity in the preparation of the Johnstown Area Traqsportation Study, In the latter study,

the population forecast was made on the basis of past reglpnal trends and accessibiljty to

employmevt and commercial centers. The regional population projection was allocated

to each of the nineteen municipalities located within the Greater Johnstown Area.

By 1975, the population of Middle Taylor Township is projected to be 1,281 persons.

This represents an increase of 318 persons or 33% from the 1960 figure of 963 pereons.

The average rate of increase for the fifteen year period between 1960 and 1975 is approxi-

mately 2.1% per year, By 1990, the population is expected to increase to 1,524 persons

or an increase of 19% for the fifteen year period from 1975 to 1990. By 1990 the popula-

tion of Middle Taylor Township is expected to increase by 561 persons qvgr the 1960

figure. The rate of expansion for Middle Taylor Township is lower than most of the

suburban municipalities in the Greater Johnstown Area, however, the projected increase

is approximately double the 1% per year rate of expansion experienced in the townqhip

from 1950 to 1960.

Based on the anticipated population growth of 561 persons by 1990, the minimum

amount of future residential land use required to accommodate the future hoysing demand

was calculated as follows:

561persons = 155 Houses x 1 .5 AcredHouse 5 228 Acres 3.6 per sons/household

5.

160C

140C

1200

IOOC

$ 800 - s J 3

0 a

600

400

200

C

CHART I MIDDLE TAYLOR TOWNSHIP

PROJECTED POPULATION GROWTH

1960 1975 1990

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LEGEND 1960 CENSUS OF POPULATION

BASED ON JOHNSTOYN H A TRISIISPORTATW STUDY DATA

SOURCE: C A Y W U COUNTY PLANNING COYylSSlON

I i I I I i i I II I I I i I I I I 1 1

Approximately 228 acres of new residential land use will be required to accommo-

date the projected population for the township by 1990 assuming that the average family

size will be 3.6 persons and the average land area per house is 1 1/2 acre. Because of

the rural nature of the township, the necessity of using on-lot sewerage treatment method

and the topographic conditions of the land within the community, the average land area of

1 1/2 acres per house can reasonably be expected in the future development of the com-

munity despite the fact that it is nearly double the gross land area required to accommodate

a house in a typical suburban community of Greater Johnstown.

When combined with the existing residential land area of 140 acres , the total an-

ticipated future residential land use will require approximately 368 acres of land. Because

of the availability of public water, accessibility to the major road through the township,

and the availability of developable land; Future Residential Land U s e is recommended for

the topographically suited areas along Benshoff Hill Road. Because of the rugged topog-

raphy, the concentrations of residential development will be divided by steep wooded slopes

into clusters of development where there is sufficient amounts of flat land available to

accommodate the construction of houses. A s indicated on the Future Land Use Map, the

recommended area for future land use development is concentrated in a ribbon form along

the hilltop through the center of the township.

The a rea proposed for residential use encompasses approximately 500 acres which

is about 100 acres in excess of the anticipated demand based on the population projection.

The entire proposed residential area can be economically supplied with public water from

the existing main distribution line along Benshoff Hill Road. The Township should endeavor

to control and concentrate development in the area indicated to avoid the costly extension

of public services to scattered remote a reas of the township.

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The wooded slopes which divide the proposed residential concentrations should

be preserved to provide an aesthetic asset to the surrounding development. Development

of the proposed Residential Use should provide an enviable quality of residential environ-

ment in an openspace setting. The proposed trail system will enhance the functional use

of the wooded slopes and create a further asset to the residential development by providing

a natural outdoor recreation area within easy walking distance of every home in the town-

ship *

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400

200 LL 0

w m E 3 z

CHART n MIDDLE TAYLOR TOWNSHIP

FUTURE HOUSING

100

0 1960

372

I975 1990

LEGEND ...................... .................. -i ...................... 1960 CENSUS OF HOUSING

FUTURE PROJECTION

Future Commercial Recommendations I Middle Taylor Township's small population base, projected slow growth rate and

I proximity to Johnstown's Central Business District indicates a limited demand for exten-

sive expansion of commercial land use. The existing commercial a reas occupy approxi-

mately two acres and future expansion is not anticipated to exceed 30 additional acres.

The type of commercial facility recommended is that of the neighborhood convenience type

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such as a small grocery market, gas station, auto repair shop and a home supplies center.

Other major retail shopping needs can be accommodated in nearby downtown Johnstown.

Although Middle Taylor's need for future commercial facilities is limited, exist-

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ing facilities should be improved in terms of structural conditions, aesthetic appearance,

and adequate off -street parking provisions.

._

I Any future construction of commercial facilities should be limited to the areas

I I '' I Future 1ndustY.hI Recommendations ' 1

outlined in the Future Land Use Map. The future commercial a reas are conveniently

located within Middle Taylor Township along the major thoroughfare, Benshoff Hill Road,

thereby providing easy access for all residents. :

It is economically unfeasible for future development of an industrial site within

Middle Taylor Township. The lack of sufficient flat land for a building site, and the

absence of 8 major highway or railroad network makes it impractical as well as unecon-

omical for industrid development. The existing industrial site is devoted to the shortage

of slag and occupies 24 acres or less than one percent of the total land area within the I V% I ' township.

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Future Public and Semi-Public Recommendations

Future Public and Semi-Public Land Uses for Middle Taylor Township will be

centered around the improvement of the existing school playground, the construction

of a park in the Valley View neighborhood, and the creation of a trail system.

1

The present two-acre site should be expanded to include at least 15 usable acres

Expansion of Middle Taylor Elementary School Playground

of land. This would provide for the improvement and expansion of the existing all-purpose

field to provide for intermediate and senior league, in addition to little league baseball.

Areas for 8 paved tennis court and a grass volleyball court should be included in the site.

The area for playground apparatus should be expanded to accommodate all age groups,

including tot-lot facilities for pre-rschool children.

2. New Valley View Park

The southern portion of Middle Taylor Township is virtually without recreation

facilities; therefore, it is recommended that a new park be developed in the Valley View

neighborhood. The park should be a maximum of five acres including an all-purpose

field, a tot-lot with play apparatus geared for pre-school children, and playground

apparatus for children in the 5-15 age group. The proposed site for the park is indicated

on the Future Land U s e Map.

3. Future Conservation Area

The steep wooded hillsides which surround Middle Taylor Township afford an

inspiring opportunity for the conservation of Open Space and the creation of a trail system.

Development on the slopes should be carefully controlled to avoid costly street and utility

installations and to preserve the natural beauty of the area. Middle Taylor Township's

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proximity to the Western Pennsylvania Conservancy, Laurel Mountain Trail Park, affords

an opportunity for a system of interconnected trails to the Great Mountain Trail and the

Conemaugh Gap. It is recommended that a Trail System be developed along the steep

wooded slopes of the township which will be suitable to accommodate hiking as well as

horse back riding. The proposed Trail System is outlined on the Future Community

Facilities Map

SUMMARY

The planning recommendations for future land use in Middle Taylor Township

were based on the expansion of existing land use types and the incorporation of basic

objectives in guiding the orderly development of the community. These recommendations

a r e designed to replace past piece-meal growth with a more orderly approach by encour-

aging development in the areas indicated on the Future Land Use Map; community facil-

ities, utilities, and streets can be provided in a more economical fashion, The adoption

and enforcement of zoning and subdivision regulations will be essential tools in guiding

future growth in accordance with the recommendations set forth in the Future Land U s e

Plan

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LAND USE

Residential

Commercial

Industrial

Public and Semi-Public

Streets

Agriculture

Slope and Conservation

TOTAL

CHART I11 MIDDLE TAYLOR TOWNSHIP

FT'TURE LAND USE

E XIST ING Acres % of Total

3,140.0 140.00%

*No change in acreage

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PRO POSED Additional Acreag

+368,0

+ 30.0

*

+ 18.0

*

-416.0

*

FUTURE Acres % of Total

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FUTURE COMMUNITY FACILITIES

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MIDDLE TAYLOR TOWNSHIP

FUTURE COMMUNITY FACILITIES

INTRODUCTION

The Future Community Facilities section deals with services

and facilities which are provided by the Township to accommodate the

future needs of the residents. These include such facilities a s schools,

fire stations, municipal buildings and other related institutions. Added

to this a re the various utility services, both public and private, provid-

ing water and electricity throughout the Township. This report recom-

mends new, expanded and improved services to meet the future needs

of every citizen of Middle Taylor Township.

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FUTURE COMMUNITY FACILITY OBJECTIVES

The Future Community Facilities Report outlines a number of objectives that

should be reached within the next 15 to 20 years. The overall objective is to make

Middle Taylor Township a better place in which to live , work, and play. The fol-

lowing basic objectives , upon which the specific recommendations a re based, should

therefore be adopted and administered.

OBJECTIVES -

1, To improve the existing facilities and to create new facilities

which service the residents of Middle Taylor Township.

2. To provide modern elementary schooling for the children in

Middle Taylor Township

3. To encourage the extension of water lines into areas not served

by an adequate water supply.

4. To provide adequate on-lot sewerage enforcement in all future

development.

5. To provide for adequate fire and police protection.

6. To provide adequate recreation for residents of all ages.

FUTURE COMMUNITY FACILITIES RECOMMENDATIONS

An appraisal of the existing community facilities in Middle Taylor Township is

necessary to anticipate future needs. The quality and adequacy of school facilities is

of major importance to the development of a community because schools have a more

direct connection vvith more families than any other public service. Public utilities,

fire and police protection facilities and recreational facilities complete the roster of

community facilities ineluded in the future recommendations e Refer to the Future

Community Facilities Map. No.2.

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FUTURE SCHOOL RECOMMENDATIONS

Middle Taylor's present need for school service is limited to that of elementary I I schooling. Under the present schoal system, Middle Taylor Township is a part of the

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Ferndale Area School District. The students in Middle Taylor Township attend the local

elementary school for grades kindergarten through grade five. All sixth grade students

a re transported to the Brownstown Elementary School located in Brownstown Borough.

For grades seven and eight, students are transported to the Dale Borough School and

students in grades nine through twelve a re transported to the Ferndale High School.

Recommendations for Middle Taylor Township's future school needs are included in the

following paragraphs.

It is recommended that students in grades seven through twelve continue to be

transported to the Secondary Schools of the Ferndale Area School Distr ic t which are

located outside the boundaries of Middle Taylor Township. The projected secondary

enrollment of 250 students would not warrant the construction of a secondary school

within the Township. The adequacy of existing secondary schools must be determined

as a part of the Long Range Development Plan being prepared by the Ferndale-Dale

School District. Recommendations for secondary facilities must be done in the context

of the total district and are beyond the scope of the plan for Middle Taylor Township.

In order to accommodate existing and projected elementary enrollments in

grades kindergarten through six, it is recommended that the present elementary school

be renovated and expanded to provide four additional classrooms, cafeteria and multi-

purpose gymnasium facilities. The projected population indicates that the number of

elementary school students in grades kindergarten through six will be approximately

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220 by 1975 and 275 by 1990. The proposed expansion of the elementary school will

eliminate the cost and inconvenience of transporting elementary students to schools

in other municipalities within the district.

The existing school site should be enlarged to provide adequate areas for walks,

parking, recreation, landscaping and an on-site sewage treatment facility. The opti-

mum size of the elementary school site should be 10 to 25 acres. Therefore, it is

recommended that an additional 15 acres , (Map No. 2) be required to accommodate

the expansion of the building and related outdoor recreation facilities.

The expanded school site should be large enough to provide off-street parking,

passenger and freight loading, buffer strips, planted areas and the required yard

areas appropriate to the zoning district. Off-street parking space should be provided

for the school staff in the ratio of one space for each staff member. Parking for com-

munity functions should be provided on the site in the ratio of one space f o r each eight

seats (or seating capacity) in the auditorium or general assembly rooms. In the event

that some off-street parking space would be available elsewhere, as in the case of an

elementary school which is located in conjunction with a Firehall-Municipal building,

these requirements may be modified, If the parking requirements for the teaching

staff and for community functions were available, it would still be necessary to provide

off -street spaces for visitor parking.

The Playground site should be located in conjunction with the elementary school.

An analysis of potential playground sites and possible improvement of the existing play-

ground is discussed in the Future Recreation Plan. These potential areas a re located

on the Future Land U s e Map and the Future Community Facilities Map. A playground

should provide the following:

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1. Small apparatus areas for pre-school children. 2. Apparatus area for older children. 3. Qpen-space for informal play. 4. Surfaced area for court games such a s tennis, volleyball,

5 Softball, baseball, soccer and football areas. 6. Provision for sanitary facilities and drinking fountains. 7. Area for crafts, storytelling and dramatics. 8. Sheltered area. 9. Planted areas.

shuffelboard and basketball.

PUBLIC WATER SYSTEM RECOMMENDATIONS

The present water supply for Middle Taylor Township is provided by the

Johnstown Water Authority, the Middle Taylor Township Water Authority, and a

private water system owned and operated by the families in the Valley View area

for their use only.

Recommendations for the future public water system involves two basic

objectives. The first and most important objective is to discontinue the outdated

private water system in the Valley View area. One of the most important pre-

requisites for future residential expansion is an adequate and dependable water

supply. The present system in the Valley View area, with its outdated.pipelines

and non-dependable water supply, will have to be replaced. It is recommended

that the families in this area replace the present out-dated facility and tap into the

larger, more dependable water lines of the Middle Taylor Township Water Authority.

An adequate and dependable water supply will attract more families to the area.

The second objective is to extend the present lines of the Middle Taylor

Township Water Authority into areas where future residential development is alrtici-

pated. The most efficient way to provide water to a new residential area is to have

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the land developer of. subdivider install the water main themself and add the cost of

installation to the price of the lots. This will relieve the lot purchaser and- the Township

from the responsibility of installing a water main. Often the lack of an adequate water

line in an area will inhibit the purchase of lots and stimey the growth of an otherwise

potential residential area. These two objectives a r e shown on the Future Water System

Map for Middle Taylor Township. Refer to Future Water System Map No. 3.

FUTURE SEWAGE FACILITIES RECOMMENDATIONS

Because of the severe topographic limitations and scattered residential develop-

ment, it is unlikely that a Sanitary Sewer Collection System can be installed in an econ-

omic manner. Therefore, it is recommended that the Township adopt and enforce an

ordinance controlling the installation and operation of on-lot sewerage disposal methods.

It is also recommended that minimum lot sizes of 20,000 square feet be considered for

all future development within the Township. This lot size may be reduced to 12,000

square feet in a subdivision where the developer installs a package plant and collection

system for all lots within the subdivision.

The malfunction of on-lot treatment methods is apparent in several areas of the

Township and it is recommended that the Township make a detailed inventory of all

existing on-lot treatment facilities. Based on this detailed inventory, the Township

should determine the advisability of installing package plants where on-lot malfunctions

cannot be corrected by the proper installation of an appropriate method of on-lot dis-

posal. The adoption and diligent enforcement of the provisions of Act 537 will enable

the Township to provide a suitable means of sewerage disposal; however, it is absolutely

essential that all existing on-lot malfunctioning systems be brought up to standard im-

mediately. The continued neglect of the on-lot sewerage treatment malfunctions will inevitably result in the necessity of installing an extremely costly sewerage collection system.

20.

Pennsylvania Sewerage Facilities Act 537 empowers and mandates all munici-

palities to adopt and enforce an ordinance governing the installation and operation of

on-lot treatment installations

and provides 50% reimbursement to any municipality for costs incurred in enforcing the

Act. The Pennsylvania Department of Health conducts classes for enforcement officers

and it is recommended that the Township appoint an enforcement officer to be trained in

the proper administration of the Act. It is also recommended that the Township contact

adjacent municipalities to determine the advisability of enforcement on a regional basis e

The Act also establishes standards for all installations

In general, public sewer systems will not be required for Middle Taylor Township

if on-lot treatment methods a re controlled and properly installed. Package plants and

collection systems may be installed by a subdivider who wishes to reduce the minimum

lot size from 20,000 square feet to 12,000 square feet. A feasibility study should be

conducted in the Valley View area to determine the appropriate method of correcting

existing on-lot malfunctions.

RECOMMENDED SOLID WASTE MANAGEMENT

The Solid Waste Management Act provides that all municipalities with a popula-

tion density of 300 ~r more persons per square mile develop a plan for collection and

disposal of sslid wastes Presently, garbage collection is an individual responsibility

of Township residents. Most people rely on private contract haulers for disposal; how-

ever, some families maintain dumps or small individual land fills on their property.

In order for the Township to handle Solid Waste Management on an economical basis,

it is recommended khat the Tomship joint municipalities of the Greater Johnstown Area

in developing a Regional Plan for Solid Waste Management.

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FIRE PROTECTION RECOMMENDATIONS

Fire protection for Middle Taylor Township is provided by an efficient volunteer

organization. In addition, the volunteer organization has cooperating agreements with

volunteer fire companies in adjacent municipalities which facilitate reciprocal protection.

The company maintains a centrally located, one story, brick structure which houses the

equipment and is also used for social activities. The structure was started in 1959 and

completed In 1960 and is adequate to accommodate existing and future fire protection

needs

The fire fighting equipment owned by the company includes two pumpers and a

1,500 gallon tanker equipped with radio communications. Also available for use by the

company are portable pumps, lights and assorted first aid equipment. Presently the

fire protection in Middle Taylor is adequate and will need only to replace worn out and

outdated equipment for future fire protection. The company should establish a sinking

fund for equipment replacement and should replace the existing pumpers as soon as

funds are accumulated.

POLICE PROTECTION RECOMMENDATIONS

The future growth of Middle Taylor Township will require a full time police

officer. At present, the part-time officer provides adequate police protection, however

a s the number of residential and commercial dwellings increase in the Township, the

residents will experience an everhcreasing need for full time police protection.

It is recommended that the future police headquarters be located in the municipal

building rather than located at the officer's house. It is also recommended that the

Township invest in a patrol car with 2-way radio communication tied into the Suburban

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Police Communications System or the city radio communications system. The Township

should also join the suburban police organization to take advantage of the various training

programs sponsored by the regional group and to augment the local police force with back-

up man power and equipment.

FUTURE RECREATION

Presently, Middle Taylor Township does not own or maintain any recreation sites

or facilities. One of the existing parks is owned by the Brethren Church and the other is

a part of the school system. To insure greater availability of recreation facilities to

Township residents the recommended recreation facilities a re as follows:

1. Expansion of School Site

The elementary school site should be expanded to accommodate

additional recreation facilities. The present little league field should be

improved and expanded to an all-purpose field to provide for intermediate

and senior league in addition to little league baseball. A duel purpose

(tennis-volleyball) court should also be constructed at the site. In general,

recreation facilities should be expanded to accommodate a wider range of

age groups.

2. New Valley View Park

The southern portion of the Township is virtually without recrea-

tion facilities; and therefore, it is recommended that a new park be developed

in the Valley View area of the Township. The park should be a minimum of

five acres and should have an all-purpose field and a tot-lot with swings,

climbing apparatus, sand box and general playground equipment. It is

23 .,

MIDDLE TAYLOR TWI? IMPROVED RECREATION AREA E L EM EN TA RY SC H 00 L SITE

, SOFTBALL,

, - . . . . .

. . , . . . . ( . - . - - . . . .

. . . . . . . . - .

. . . . , . .

- - . .

* . - . : - .

" . . =_. PURPOSE FIELD . . . . . * i . . . . . . . . . . . - .

. . . . i

. . . . . . .

. .

. . . i r :

I .

. . . . .,>, . . . .i .: . . . . . . . . .

. . ., . . I . . ' .,, -. . . . . . . ._ . ...+ . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

APPROXIMATE SCALE I"= 200' -: cwly COUNTY ?L- C011W8810N

MIDDLE TAYLOR TWI? PROPOSED RECREATION SITE VALLEY VIEW PARK

APWOXHlATE SCALE 1". 400'

'--I- ' I TENNIS

j ' I

COURTS 1 APPROXIMATE SCALE I " = 60'

- i

I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I

recbmnien8ed that the land be acquired through the Project 70 Program

and the park be developed with grants available from the 500 Million

Dollar Bond Issue Program. Utilizing the combined programss 50% of

the funds for acquisition and development a re available from the grant

program administered by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Department

of Community Affairs.

3 Conservation Areas and Trail System

The steep wooded hillsides which surround Middle Taylor

Township afford an inspiring opportunity for the conservation and pres-

ervation of Open Space. Development on the slopes should be carefully

controlled to avoid costly street and utility installations and to preserve

the natural beauty of the area. The Townships proximity to the Western

Pennsylvania Conservancy Laurel Mountain Trail Park affords an oppor-

tunity to tie a system of Township Trails to the Laurel Mountain Trail and

the Conemaugh Gap. It is recommended that a Trail System be developed

along the steep wooded slopes of the Township which will be suitable to

accommodate hiking as well as horse back riding.

The Trail System will be instrumental in making the many farms

in the Township attractive as horse stables and therefore will provide a

new source of economic base for Township residents, as well as increasing

the value of existing farms in the community. An organized, coordinated

trail system would also give rise to a demand for public and private game

grounds. The wooded slopes a re one of the peatest assets of the Township

26.

I I l I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I

and should be tied together in a manner beneficial to all Township

residents, It is recommended that a detailed study be prepared to

determine the appropriate layout of a trail system and to determine

the means of assuring right-of-way or easements which should make

the system possible. A modest investment in a trail system should

bring many returns to the Township in terms of increased employ-

ment and increased property values. Refer to Future Community

Facilities Map No. 2.

CONCLUSION

The Community Facilities of Middle Taylor Township can be improved and

brought up to acceptable standards with very modest expenditures of funds. The

existing water system provides a basis for future water supply if development is

controlled to areas within the economic extension of existing lines. Regulation of

on-lot treatment methods will provide an adequate means of sewerage disposal. The

existing school can be expanded to accommodate increased enrollment e

Grants a re available to aid the Township in developing adequate recreation

facilities. The natural beauty of the wooded hillsides should be preserved and

developed for recreation purposes through a trail system. The Capital Improvements

Program outlines the necessary improvements to the Community Facilities and iden-

tifies cost and sources of revenue to finance the necessary improvements.

27.

I I 1 I I I 1

LEGEND EXISTING FACILITIES TO REMAIN

I. ~ o w s t a ~ t u u ~ i c l P r \ L ~ OFFEE) 0 MUNICIPAL BUILDING

@ FIRE STATIONS

A SEMI-PUBLIC

[> CEMETERY

2 MIDDLE TAYLOR STATION

&PLEASANT HILL BRETHERW CHURCH

1. BENSHOFF HILL CEMETERY a ST. NICHOLAS CEMETERY

FUTURE COMMUNITY FACILITIES SCHOOL TO BE IMPROVED 3. U W TAYLOR FLEUENTARY

RECREATION FACILITIES TO BE IMPROV 4 8 C H O a PLAYQSOUND E CHURCH PLAYFIELD

CONSERVATION AREA

NEW PARK

.WI TRAIL SYSTEM

--- 6" LINE

-SERVICE AREA 0 FIRE HYDRANT

I I I I I I I I I I I I 1 I I I 1 I I

FUTURE THOROUGHFARES

I I I I I I I I I

I1

MIDDLE TAYLOR TOWNSHIP

FUTURE THOROUGHFARES

INTRODUCTION

Local and Regional Highway systems play a critical part in the

projected growth or decline of a community. In compiling the Future __ _.

Thoroughfares Report for Middle Taylor Township both the condition of

existing streets and land available for new construction were analyzed, 1- I- "

Since 88% of the Township is presently undeveloped emphasis is placed on

new street construction required to provide access to all areas of the com-

munity. Therefore, the recommendations contained in this report a re con-

cerned primarily with improving and extending the existing street network.

The recommendations for reconstructing and resurfacing local and state

maintained streets a re intended to provide a safe and modern highway system

for the township.

I I I

I I I I I 1 I I I I 1 I I I

GOALS AND OBJECTIVES

Provide for the separation of through and local traffic.

Provide improved access from the Township to the region and market area.

Provide for the safe, efficient movement of t rdf ie within the Township.

MAJOR HIGHWAY RECOMMENDATIONS:

State Routes

State maintained routes a re generally classified as arterials which. take

traffic through the Borough in addition to providing access to areas within Middle

Taylor Township.

FUTURE THOROUGHFARE RECONLMENDATIONS

On the basis of the proposed highway standards and anticipated devel-

opment within the Township , recommended Future Thoroughfares are shown on

Map No. 4 and a re briefly described in the following paragraphs.

Regional Highways and Expressways

The proposed regional highway network has been prepared by the Regional

Planning Commission of the Johnstown Area and the Johnstown Area Transportation

Study. The Regional Thoroughfares Map illustrates the location of Middle Taylor

Township in relation to the existing and proposed regional highways. The proposed

Central Expressway has the greatest impact on the Future Thoroughfares for Middle

Taylor Township because it will provide direct access from the Township to the re-

gional and state highway system.

Cooper Avenue Extension

Cooper Avenue Extension is proposed as the northern section of the Central

Expressway. This section is proposed as a four lane limited access highway with a

design speed of 50 miles per hour. The highway is proposed as a 48 foot wide facility

32.

I I I I I I I I I I 1 I I I I I I I I

with traffic barrier median to seperate two traffic lanes in each direction. The

Proposed Cooper Avenue Extension will carry heavy volumes of through traffic and

will function as a by-pass for the heavily congested Broad Street where average daily

volumes of 20,000 vehicles are recorded.

An interchange is recommended in the vicinity of Iron Street and Prosser

Hollow Road to provide access to Middle Taylor Townshipe The construction of

Prosser Hollow Road is proposed as the major arterial collector to link the Township

with the State and Regional Highway network.

Regional Collectors

The Regional Collectors OF arterials are proposed to provide improved

access to the Township and to provide safe efficient movement to and from areas

within the Township. In general, the arterials a r e proposed to provide improved

access to the Township and to provide safe efficient movement to and from areas

within the Township. In general, the arterials should be constructed with a design

speed of fifty miles per hour with twenty-four feet of pavement width on a sixty foot

right-of-wqy, The collectors are intended to carry substantial volumes of through

traffic in addition to providing access to abutting property; therefore, sight distances

a re important safety considerations in the construction of these major roads.

Proposed Prosser Hollow Road

New construction is proposed for the approximate alignment of the existing

Prosser Hollow Road.as the major future access highway to Middle Taylor Township-

Construction standards for the highway should provide twenty-four foot of pavement

width on a sixty foot right-of-way in accordance with the Pennsylvania Department of

Highway design criteria No. 2.1 04. The proposed project would replace the present

steep hazardous access provided by Middle Taylor Road. Upon completion of the pro-

ject, the present Middle Taylor Road should be abandoned.

33 0

I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I

The project is recommended as an extension of Legislative Route 11015 from

the intersection of Nayer Road (T386) to the proposed interchange on the Cooper Avenue

Extension section of the Centpal Expressway a distance of approximately 1 3 miles.

The estimated traffic volumes on the completed roadway are 1 100 A.D. T. in 1975

and 1800 A.D.T. in 1990. The proposed project Is the responsibility of the Pennsyl-

vania Department of Highways and wi l l cost an estimated $600,006). The project is

recommended as the Number 1 priority ffor arterial improvements in the Middle

Taylor Township.

Middle Taylor Road

Middle Taylor Road is the present access highway from the valley floor to

the developed plateau area of Middle T a y l ~ a Township., Present grades on the road-

way exceed 10% and are excessive .in terms of the type and volume of traffic using

the highway. Excessive grades constitute a serious safety hazard in the prolonged

winter months when slippery conditions of ice and snow exist on the highway.

In addition to excessive grades, there is several sharp turns which restrict

sighting distances and are also a safety hazard. The narrow twenty-one foot wide

pavement width and two foot berms also contribute to the inadequacy of the present

roadway. Because of the rugged steep slopes along the present right-of-way, it is

unlikely that the paesen% inadequacies can be economically eliminated on the existing

aliggment . - It is recommended that the present Middle Taylor Road be abandoned OF re-

verted to a local access highway when the Proposed Presser Hollow Road is constructed.

The present 4,200 vehicle per day which uses Middle Ta31Q-r Road will be accommodated

by the Prosser Hollow Project. The reclassification of Middle Taylor Road is recommen-

ded as the Number 2 Priority Project.

34 0

I I

Benshoff Hil l Road Improvement and Relocation

Benshoff Hill Road is the principal arterial serving the existing and future

areas of development, within Middle Taylor Township, with a present traffic volume

of 350 to 1,400 vehicles per day. The existing right-of-way varies from thirty-eight

feet to fifty feet and the present pavement width is 18 feet with irregular shoulders

and berm conditions. Surfacing of the roadway consists of type 61 bituminous con-

crete and condition varies from fair to poor.

New construction and realignment is proposed for hazardous sections of the

Benshoff Hill Road as indicated on the Future Thoroughfares Map. Other improvements

to the Benshoff Hill Road include: widen the pavement width along the entire length

(approximately 3.9 mile) to a minimum of 24 feet; and widen and grade the intersection

of Benshoff Hill Road, Middle Taylor Road, and Earl Street in order to provide proper

sight distance and proper drainage.

Local Collectors

Local collectors serve as a means of linking the expressway and regional

collector systems to the local streets. Future local collectors should be constructed

with a minimum right-of-way of 60 feet and a pavement width of 24 feet. Parking

should be permitted on one side only, so that through traffic in either direction will

not be obstructed. The design speed should be 35 miles per hour.

The local collectors within Middle Taylor Township include Nayer , Linkfield,

and Hinkston Roads. Recommended improvements to each of these local collectors

a re as follows:

35.

;I 'I I

LOCAL COLLECTORS

Nayer Road

Nayer Road begins near the Benshoff Bill Cemetery and continues through

West Taylor Township to connect with State Route 403 at the west end of Johnstown.

Its present paved length within the Township is 2,6QO feet and services approximately

5 families. It is recommended that Nayer Road be realigned near the Township

boundary to eliminate the existing sharp xurve , and the berms should be widened

and graded to a width of 4 feet. The present pavement width of Nayer Road should

not be widened until sufficient development warrants it,

LINKFIE LD ROAD

Linkfield Road begins at its intersection of Benshoff Hill Road near the

Pleasant Hill Brethern Church and terminates at its intersection of Hopan Avenue

in the City of Johnstown, Linkfield Road is approzimately 21 fqet wide and paved

for a distance of 4,550 feet, the remaining 2,100 feet to the Honan Avenue inter-

section is unpaved. In addition to serving appraximately 35 families Linkfield Road

should be considered as a potential qccess road to Middle Taylor Township from the

City of Johnstown via Honan Avenue. The recommended improvements to Linkfield

Road include, widening and permanently paving the existing paved section to a minimum

width of 24 feet with a 4 foot berm. The unpaved section should be widened to a

minimum width of 24 feet with a 4 foot berm and temporarily surfaced wil$ tar and

chips until further residential expansion warrants permanent pavement.

HINKSTON ROAD

Hinkston Road services the central and northern portions of the Township.

It functions as a local collector for approximately 43 families, Hinkston Road pro-

36.

1

‘I 1 1 I 1 I 1 1

vides direct access to either the state maintained Benshoff Hill Road or unpaved

Honan Avenue, Hinkston Road is approximately 21 feet wide and paved for a distance

of 6,900 feet, the remaining 11 , 800 feet is unpaved. It is recommended that the paved

portion of Hinkston Road be realigned to eliminate the hazardous curves as illustrated I

on the Future Thoroughfares Map. The realigned portion should be widened and per-

manently paved to a minimum width of 24 feet with 4 foot berms. The remaining un-

paved portion of the Hinkston Road should be widened to a minimum width of 24 feet

and temporarily surfaced with tar and chips until sufficient development warrants

permanent paving.

LOCAL STREETS

Local streets , which are primarily confined to the Valley View Neighborhood,

provide direct access to individual properties which abut the streets. Traffic on local

streets should originate or terminate at some point along the street, thereby discour-

aging through traffic.

Al l future local streets should be constructed with a minimum right-of-way

of 50 feet and a pavement width of 32 feet. Parking should be permitted on one side

of all streets. The design speed should not exceed 25 miles per hour.

Earl , Taft , and Castle Streets a re located in the Valley View Neighborhood

adjacent to the intersection of Middle Taylor Road and Benshoff Hill Road. These

paved lscal streets serve the major portion of families located in Valley View, there-

fore have priority over other local streets which a re presently unpaved. It is reco-

mmended that Earl , Taft, and Castle Streets be regraded, where necessary , so that

the grade does not exceed 6% to permit adequate storm water drainage. These streets

37.

I 1 I I I I I I I II I I 1 1 I 1 i 1 I

should alqo be widened and permanently paved to a minimum width of 32 feet. The

remaining local streets located in Valley View are presently unpaved and should be

widened to a minimum width of 32 feet and temporarily surfaced with tar and chips

until further development warrants permanent paving. Al l alley ways located in the

Valley View Neighborhood not used for servicing rear utilities or for garbage col-

lection should be closed. All future construction of alley ways should be prohibited.

The hazardouq intersection of Middle Taylor Road and Benshoff Hill Road

should be realigned, regraded, and permanently paved in order to provide a gradual

turning radius, and proper sight distance

width of this intersection is 32 feet with a 4 foot berm.

The recommended minimum pavement

SUMMARY

The future development of Middle Taylor Township is dependent upon a

sound road program. Township Officials should, upon review of these recommen-

dations establish a program and fund for the systematic improvement of roads. The

most important roads should be improved as early in the program a s possible. The

recommended order of road improvements will be included in a priority list given in

the Capital Improvements section of this report. The timing of road improvements

is particularly important to the growth of residential and commercial areas of Middle

Taylor Township. The Township Planning Commission and Township Supervisors

should also meet with State Department of Highwayficials to program improvements

to State Highways and to coordinate activities.

38 0

I I 1 I I I I 1 i 11 I I 1 1 I 1 1 1 I

MIDDLE TAYLOR TOWNSHIP SUMMARY OF MAJOR STREET AND HIGHWAY IMPROVEMENTS

PROJECT DE SCRIPTION LENGTH

State Responsibility

Cooper Avenue Extension 1,400 Feet Prosser Hollow Road 5,900 Feet Benshoff Hill Road 20,600 Feet

Township Responsibility

Nayer Street 2,000 Feet . Realignment - Resurfacing

Linkfield Road 6,250 Feet Widening, Paving

Hinkston Road 18,700 Feet Realignment, Paving

Earl Street 2,500 Feet Grading , Paving

Taf t Street 1,100 Feet Grading, Paving

Castle Street 2,110 Feet Grading, Paving

Miscellaneous Maintenance and Resurfacing

INTERSECTION IMPROVEMENTS

Middle Taylor Road and Benshoff Hill Road

39.

COST

$ 2,600.000 600,000 659,200

32,000

78,700

261,700

40,000

17,600

33,760

5,000 Per Year

4,000

I

CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM

MIDDLE TAYLOR TOWNSHIP I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I

CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM

The implementation of recommendations contained in the Long-Range Plan can

be accomplished through the preparation of a Capital Improvement Program and Budget.

This involves:

1. The preparation of a comprehensive listing of all recommended capital improvements.

An analysis of the scope and relative need of each improvement.

The assignment of costs and responsible agency for each improve- ment.

2 .

3 .

4. Establishing priority for each improvement.

Through this process, the community is provided a Capital Improvement Program

which generally extends over a twenty-year period. From this program, a six-year

Capital Improvement Budget is drawn which will guide the township and provide an

orderly and systematic means of accomplishing each proposed improvement. Consistent

evaluation of the Capital Budget, and the Total Capital Improvements Program is required

to maintain a continuous program which reflects current community needs and available

or anticipated municipal funds

This evaluation must occur yearly. Municipal officials should check those im-

provements accomplished, delayed or revised during the previous year, assess the

township's resources for the coming year and add to the Capital Budget those projects

necessary for the future growth in the community, In this manner, a new budget is de-

vised, extending over the next six-year period.

41 e

I I I

Table II, Long-Range Capital Improvement Program, outlines 19 proposed capital

improvements which reflect proposals included in the Long-Range Plan. These improve-

ments a re grouped in three phases. Phase I should be included in the initial capital

budgeting period. Phase I1 and I11 are scheduled throughout the planning period of twenty

years I I I I I I I I I I I I

I !

I I

42.

TABLE 11 LONG RANGE CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM

MIDDLE TAYLOR TOWNSHIP CAMBRIA COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA

1970 - 1975

Phase I - Elements of Improvement Program to be Completed Under Initial Capital Budget Period. ~ .,

E stirnated Responsible Proposed Method Project Description Schedule cost Entity of Financing

1. Middle Taylor Road 1970 Benshoff Hill Road Inter sect ion Improvement

State & Township Highway Fund

$ 4,000.00 T own ship/State

2. Hinkston Road 1970-90 94,000.00 Township Township Realignment Tar & Chip

3. Linkfield Road 1970-71 16,800.00 Township Town ship Widening Tar & Chip

4. Earl Street 1972 Grading Tary & Chip

5. Castle Street 1973 Grading Tar & Chip

6. Taft Street 1974 Grading Tar, & Chip

9,600.00 Township Township

9,600.00 Town ship Township

7,200.00 Township Township

7. Nayer Street 1975 -76 16,000.00 Township Township

Phase I1 - Elements to be Initiated Immediately - completion of Phase During 20 Year Planning Period.

8. Water Line Construction Valley View Area

Town ship 1970-90 To Be Determined Town ship Water Authority

Project De scription Schedule

10. Solid Wa.st.e Plan 1970-71

11. Sewage Feasibility Study 1971 -72

12. School 1976

13. Recreation 1970-90 School Playground 1976 Little League Field 1970-72 Basketball Court 1973 Valley View Park 1971 -74 Trail System 1975 -90

Estimated Responsible Proposed Method Cost Entity of Fimnchg

Te Be Detex-rnined Twp Water Authority

To Be Determ-hed Township Township

To Be Determiaeed Tswnship Township

To Be Determined School District

To Be Determined Town ship Township

14. Fire Protection 1970-90 2 5 0 / ~ e a r Volunteer Fire Dept.

15 Police Protection 1970-90 6 OO/Year Township

16 Miscellaneous 1970-90 To Be Determined Township Township Maintenance & Resurfacing

Phase 111 - To Be Scheduled During Next Six Years for Financhg in Future Capital Budgets. ~~ ~

17 Cooper Avenue Extension 1976-79 To Be Determined State

18. Prosser Hollow Road 1976-79 To Be Determined State

19. Benshoff Hill Road 1980 To Be Determined State

Pa. Dept. Highways

Pa. Dept. Highways

Pa., Dept. Highways.

I I I I I I I I I I I I i I I I I I I

PROJECT DESCRIPTIONS

Middle Taylor Road - Reclassification

Action: It is recommended that the Middle Taylor Road be either abandoned

or reverted to a local access road when the Prosser Hollow Road is

constructed.

Pending the action of the Township Supervisors on abandoning or pro-

viding limited local access, the reclassification of Middle Taylor Road

will not require a major expenditure from the Township's General Fund.

cost:

Intersection Improvement - Realigned, Graded and Permanently Paved

Action: The hazardous intersection of Middle Taylor Road, Earl Street, and

Benshoff Hill Road should be realigned, graded and paved to provide a

gradual turning radius, and proper sight distance. The minimum pave-

ment width of this intersection should be 32 feet with a four-foot berm.

The estimated cost of this project is set at $4,000. This project should

be financed through the joint cooperation of the Pennsylvania Department

of Highways and Middle Taylor Township.

cost:

Hinkston Road - Realign, Widen and Pave

Action: It is recommended that the paved portion of Hinkston Road be realigned

to eliminate hazardous curves and widened to a minimum width of 24

feet with four-foot berms. The remaining unpaved portion of the Hinkston

Road should be widened to a minimum width of 24 feet and temporarily

surfaced with tar and chips.

The estimated cost of realignment, widening and permanently paving

the existing paved portion of Hinkston Road is set at $220,800. The

cost:

45.

I 1 I i I i I i u I I i I I i 1 I I I

estimated cost of laying a tar and chip surface on the unpaved portion

of Hinkston Road is $40,900. The revenue for this project should be

financed through the Township's General Fund.

Linkfield Road - Widen and Pave

Action: It is recommended that the existing paved portion of Linkfield Road be

widened and permanently paved to a minimum width of 24 feet with

four-foot berms. The unpaved section should be widened to a mini-

mum width of 24 feet with a four-foot berm and temporarily surfaced

with tar and chips.

The estimated cost of widening and permanently paving the existing

paved section of Linkfield Road is set at $72 , 000. The estimated cost

of laying tar and chips on the unpaved portion of Linkfield Road is set

at $5,890. The combined cost of $78,690. should be financed through

the Township's General Fund.

cost:

Earl Street - Regrade, Widen and Pave

Action: The Township Supervisors should provide for the widening of Earl

Street to a minimum of 32 feet and repave sections where the grade

exceeds 6% so as to permit adequate storm water drainage.

The estimated cost of this project is $40,000 to be financed through

the Township's General Fund.

Cost:

Castle Street - Regrade, Widen and Pave

Action: The Township Supervisors should provide for the regrading, widening

and repaving of Castle Street to a minimum of 32 feet.

46.

I 1 1 I 1

I 1 1 I 1 I I 1 1 I I I 1

Coat: The egtimated cost of this project is $33 , 760 to be financed through

the Township's General Fund.

Taft Street - Regrade, Widen and Pave

Action: The Township Supervisors should provide for the regrading, widening

and repaving of Taft Street to a minimim of 32 feet.

The estimated cost of this project is $17,600 to be financed through

the Township's General Fund.

cost:

Nayer Road - Limited Realignment and Berm Widening

Action: It is recommended that Nayer Road be realigned near the township

boundary to eliminate the existing sharp curve and berm widths should

be graded and widened to a width of four feet.

The realigned portion of Nayer Road is estimated to cost $32,000. The

cost of widening and grading the berm is to be determined. This project

is to be financed through the Township's General Fund.

cost:

Water Line Construction - Valley View

Action: The Township Supervisors should cooperate with the Middle Taylor

Township Water Authority in the construction of water lines in the

Valley View Area.

Estimated cost of this project is $44,000 but with the completion of a

Feasibility Study a more accurate figure will be determined.

cost :

Water Line Construction - Township Developing Areas

Action: The Township Supervisors should cooperate with the Middle Taylor

Township Water Authority in the construction of new water lines as

development warrants.

47 0

1 I I 1 I I I I I I 1 4 1 I I 1 I I 1

cost: Estimated cost of the total project is $110.000. This cost will not

occur at any one time but over the entire twenty-year period.

Feasibility Study - Solid Waste

Action: The Township Supervisors should prepare a Solid Waste Feasibility

Study for the existing developed areas and areas of potential develop-

ment.

cost: Five hundred dollars.

Feasibility Study - Water and Sewage

Action: The Township Supervisors should cooperate with the Middle Taylor

Township Water Authority in the development of a Water Feasibility

Study for the Valley View Area and developing areas of the township.

The Sewage Feasibility Study should coincide with the Water Study in

the Valley View Area and developing areas of the township.

Estimated cost of the study is $1,000 which should be shared by the

township and the Municipal Authority.

cost:

School Expansion

Action: The Planning Commission from Middle Taylor Township should coor-

dinate local growth data and report accordingly to the Ferndale Area

School Board relative to the exact timing of this facility.

To be determined by Feasibility Study. cost:

Recreation - School Playground, Valley View Park, Trail System

Action: A master plan for park development should be prepared which will

provide a schedule of improvements on a continuing basis according

to established phasing.

48.

I I I I I I I I I u 1 B i I I I

I 1

~I

cost: The estimated cost of $9,000 during the Six-Year Period will include

a yearly outlay of $1 , 500 for playground improvements.

Fire Equipment

Action: The Township Supervisors should provide for the modernization and

expansion of the existing fire fighting equipment.

To be financed through a special fund at a yearly cost to be determined

by the volunteer fire company.

cost:

Police Equipment

Action: The Township Supervisors should take action that would provide a police

car , office equipment and men for the protection of the township residents,

The estimated cost of $4,200 during the Six-Year Period includes a yearly

investment of $700. It is recommended that the yearly investment accum-

ulate for the entire Six-Year Period, whereby the Township Supervisors

can purchase a new Police Cruiser without going into further debt, Invest-

ments should continue indefinitely on a yearly basis to furnish additional

police equipment.

cost:

Berry Street - Regrade , Widen and Temporarily Surface

Action: The Township Supervisors should provide for the widening of Berry

Street to a minimum of 32 feet and surface with tar and chips only as

development warrants e

It is estimated that this project will cost $1,620 to be financed through

the Township's General Fund.

Cost:

49.

i I I I I I I i I I 1 I I I I I 1 I I

Stuart Street - Regrade, Widen and Temporarily Surface

Action: The Township Supervisors should provide for the regrading and widen-

ing of Stuart Street to a minimum of 32 feet and surface with tar and

chips only as development warrants..

The estimated cost of this project is $3,900 to be financed through the

Township's General Fund.

cost:

Knox Street - Regrade, Widen and Temporarily Surface

Action: The Township Supervisors should provide for the regrading and widen-

ing of Knox Street to a minimum of 32 feet and surface with tar and

chips only as development warrants

The estimated cost of this project is $5,550 to be financed through the

Township's General Fund.

cost:

Garden Street - Regrade, Widen and Temporarily Surface

Action: The Township Supervisors should provide for the regrading and widen-

ing of Garden Street to a minimum of 32 feet and surface with tar and

chips only as development warrants.

The estimated cost of this project is $1,387 to be financed through the

Township's General Fund.

cost:

Cooper Avenue Extension - Four-Lane Limited Access Highway

Action: The Township Supervisors should coordinate with City and State Highway

Officials so that the expressway extension will provide safe and efficient

movement of vehicles through Middle Taylor Township

Cost: The highway construction cost is approximately $2,600,000. Revenue

from the Pennsylvania Department of Highways will be used to finance

50.

I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I

this project. The cost includes permanent paving of the 48 foot wide

facility apd erection of a traffic barrier median to separate two traffic

lanes in each direction. This estimated cost should be adjusted upward

five to ten percent each year the project is extended as a result of

increasing construction and material rates.

Prosser Hollow Road - Realign, Widen and Permament Paving

Action: It is recommended that the Township Supervisors coordinate with State

Highway Officials so that a safe and efficient access road to Middle

Taylor Township from the Cooper Avenue Extension will be built.

The estimated cost of this project is $600,000.to be financed through

the Pennsylvania Department of Highways.

cost:

Benshoff Hill Road - Realign, Grade and Widen

Action: The Benshoff Hill Road should be realigned to eliminate all hazardous

curves, graded to provide proper storm drainage and permanently

paved to a minimum width of 24 feet.

The estimated cost for the realignment and reconstruction of Benshoff

Hill Road is set at $659,200. Revenue from the Pennaylvania Department

of Highways will be used to finance this project.

cost:

51.

I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I

CAPITAL BUDGET

A capital expenditures budget should be developed as recommended on Table 11,

which will specify funds for a continuing program of needed improvements. In past

years the township did n0t use a capital budget which resulted in an unbalanced, un-

planned improvement program. Table 111 illustrates the township expenditures for

Capital Improvements for the period 1963 to 1968.

TABLE I11 CAPITAL EXPENDITURES

1963-1 968

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

Project Total

Snow Removal and Snow Fence Purchase $14,399.15

Signs and Index Boards 660.67

Repairs of Tools and Machinery 7,823.82

Construction and Reconstruction of Roads 33,630.80

Storm Sewer Construction 1,655.93

Purchase of Tools and Machinery 14,536.60

Maintenance and Repairs of Roads and Bridges 13,387.46

Guard Rail Construction 13,776.13

Total Six-Year Capital Outlay $99,870.56

Six Year Average

$ 2,389.86

110.11

1,303.97

5,605 10

275.98

2,422.70

2,231.24

2,296.00

$16,634.96

Source: Middle Taylor Township Financial Reports 1963-1 968

The total monies spent for capital improvements is normal for Middle Taylor

Township and townships of this nature, but the yearly average for improvements are

low. Table IV illustrates the high and low expenditures for 1963 to 1968 and indicates

why the six year average in Table I11 is low.

52.

I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I

TABLE IV HIGH AND LOW DOLLAR EXPENDITURES

CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS 1963-1968

Project High

1. Snow Removal and Snow Fence Purchase $ 5,000

2. Signs and Index Boards 400

3. Repairs of Tools and Machinery 2,000

4. Construction and Reconstruction of Roads 15 , 000

5. Storm Sewer Construction 75 0

6. Purchase of Tools and Machinery 13,000

7 . Maintenance and Repair of Roads and Bridges 4,150

8. Guard Rail Construction 13,000

Source: Middle Taylor Financial Reports 1963-1968

Year

1967

1968

1964

1965

1966

1966

1967

1963

Year - 1965

1965-64-63

1963

1964-63

1964-63

1963

1964

1964

A s indicated on the above table, expenditures for itemized improvements fluctuate

from a high of $15,000 to a low of zero for a six-year period. This indicates the need for

a capital budget so improvements may be completed on a regularly scheduled basis. Total

expenses for all improvements during the 1963-1968 period have ranged from a high of

$15,000 to a low of $7,076.34. (Table III)

A capital expenditures budget should be developed as recommended on Table V,

which will specify funds for a continuing program of needed improvements and a stabiliza-

tion of expenditures. The elements listed in Table V represent the projects found in Phase

I of the Long Range Capital Improvement Program (Table In), which will be of local finan-

cial responsibility.

53.

I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

9.

10.

11 0

TABLE V SIX-YEAR CAPITAL BUDGET

1970 - 1975 MIDDLE TAYLOR TOWNSHIP

Proposed Projects

Middle Taylor Road and Benshoff Hill Road Intersection

Hinkston Road

Linkfield Road

Earl Street

Castle Street

Taft Street

Nayer Street

Police

Fire

Recreation

Miscellaneous Maintenance and Resurfacing

TOTAL

1975 - 1973 1974 - 1972 - 1971 - 1970 - 675 675 675 675 6 75 6 75

9,000

9,000

9,000

9,000

9,000

9,000

600 600 650 65 0 700 700

200 200 200 200 200 200

1,000 1,000 1 , 000 1,000 1,000 1,000

7,000 7,000 7,500 7,500 7,500 8,000

18,475 18,475 19,025 19,025 19,025 20,025

General operating expenses are expected to follow established patterns of annual

increase in succeeding years. Al l revenues which have been previously derived from the

current eighteen mill tax levy and other sources of local income will be required for cur-

rent expenses, normal maintenance, and debt service, Additional revenue derived from

increased assessments will be largely off-set by increased costs of government through-

out the initial Six-Year Capital Budget Period.

54.

I I I I I I I I I I

I I II I I I I I I I

In order to supply revenue sufficient to implement the Long-Range Development

Plan as proposed in the Six-Year Capital Budget, it is recommended that past operating

procedure be eliminated and a new operating procedure adopted. Specifically, the

Township should adopt a strict budget and not deviate from it. Table VI illustrates the

total assessed value and indebtedness from 1964 to 1968. According to established

trends of debt repayment, the current $8,693.33 indebtedness should be liberated by the

end of 1969. With the liberation of the debt, the Township will have a total borrowing

capacity of over $150,000. However, the Township should not incur any further debt

until a capital budget is approved and if the added debt will not result in an increase in

tax millage or place an extra burden on the Township.

Table VII, when interpreted, indicates that Total Assessed Valuation is decreas-

ing by 0,3% per year e This may at first appear to be a modest decrease, nevertheless,

the graduated 0.3% decrease results in a net loss of assessed valuation of $50,000 in

1969 to a $10,000 loss in 1975 (see Table VIII). Mineral Value is decreasing at a 12.0%

per year while real estate value is increasing at a modest one percent per year. The

decrease in mineral valuation is a normal loss in all municipalities and the real estate

increase will usually offset the loss in mineral valuation. This is not the case in

Middle Taylor Township. Based on past trends, Table VI projects the change in Mineral

Value and Real Estate Value from 1967 to 1975. The net time analysis decrease (change

in Total Assessed Valuation) is Oe3% per year based over the 1967-1975 period. The

real estate growth in the Township will not be sufficient to offset the mineral valuation

depletion until sometime after the turn of the century, (2,000 A.D.) This projection is

based on a progressive decrease of 12% yearly in mineral valuation and a 1.0% increase

yearly in real estate value.

5 5 .

~~~ ~ ~~ ~ ~~ ~ ~

= = = = = - = - = = = = - D = = D = =

TABLE VI MIDDLE TAYLOR TOWNSHIP

ASSESSED VALUE AND INDEBTEDNES$ 1964 - 1968

- _ 1964 1965 1966 1967 1968

*Real Estate 688 , 680 698 , 400 713 , 030 723,890 723,450 Mineral Value 324,530 324 530 316,570 316,570 278 , 440

Sub -Total 1 , 013 , 210 1 , 022,930 1 , 02 9 , 600 1 , 040,460 1 , 010 890 Occupations 44,700 45 , 550 48,200 47 , 900 45 , 450

Assessed Value Total 1,057,910 1,068,480 1,077,800 1,088,360 1 , 056 , 340

Debt Limit Board of Supervisors 5% 52 , 895 53 , 454 53 , 890 54,418 52 , 817 Action of Vobrs ' 10% 105,791 106 848 107 , 780 108 , 836 105 , 634

Total 15% 158,686 1&,302 161 , 670 163 , 254 158,451 1

Minus Debt Outstanding at Beginning of Year

Minus Amount Incurred During Year

6,000 3,000 10,000 16 , 500 14 , 500

4,500 12 , 000 16 500 5 , 500 3,000

Amount Paid During Year 7,500 5 , 000 10,000 7,500 8,806.67

N e t Debt at End of Year 3,000 10,000 16,500 14 , 500 8 , 693.33

Total Supervisors Borrowing

Total Electors Borrowing . Capacity 5% 48 , 895 43 , 454 37,390 39,918 44 , 123.67

Capacity 10% 105,791 106,848 107 , 780 108 , 836 105,634

Total Remaining Borrowing Capacity 155 , 686 150,302 145 , 170 148 , 754 149,757.67

Source : Middle Taylor Township Financial Reports : 56.

TABLE VI1 CHANGE IN ASSESSED VALUATION FROM 1964 to 1969

MIDDLE TAYLOR TOWNSHIP

IlBIl

"All Real Estate llA+B1l

Year (Sub-Surface) Change Value (Surface) Change Valation Change Mineral Value Yearly % Occupations Yearly % Total Assessed Yearly $6

1965 324 530 ------ 743 , 950 +14.4% 1 , 068,480 + 0.9%

1966 316,570 - 2.5% 761 , 230 +23.2% 1 , 077,8 00 + 0.8%

1967 316 , 570 771 , 790 +13.8% 1 , 088 , 360 + 0.9%

1968 278,440 . _ -12.0% 768 , 900 - 3.7% 1,047,340 - 3.7%

1969 242,570 -12.8% 764 , 900 - se2% 1,007,470 - 3.8%

Source: Middle Taylor Financial Reports Cambria County Planning Commission

,57.

TABLE Vm

MIDDLE TAYLOR TOWNSHIP CHANGE IN ASSESSED VALUATION FROM 1970 - 1975

"All tlBIl 1 TA +B It Mineral Value Yearly % Real Estate Yearly % Total Assessed Yearly %

Year (Sub-surface) Change Value (Surface) Change Valuation Change

1970 $ 212,492 -12.4% $ 772,549 + l o 0% $ 985,041 -1.9%

1971 186 143 -12.4% 780,274 +l. 0% 966 41 7 -1 6%

1972 163 , 061 -12.4% 788,076 + l o 0% 951 138 -1.3%

1973 142 842 -12.4% 795 , 956 +l.O% 938 800 -1.0%

1974 125 , 130 -12.4% 803 915 +1.0% 929 047 -0.7%

1975 109 614 -12 4% 811 , 954 +l. 0% 921 570 -0.4%

Source: Middle Taylor Financial Reports Cambria County Planning Commission

58. -2

TABLE M PROJECTED MUNICIPAL INCOME

MIDDLE TAYLOR TOWNSHIP 1968 - 1974

Income on Fiscal Assessed Current 14 Mill Levy Non-Revenue Gov. Operation Year Valuation Total Assessment Receipts Revenue Total*

1968 > 3 ,P56.,.340 14, 789 16,173 30,962

1969 1,007,470 14,105 20,108 34,213

1970 985,041 13,790 24,015 37 805

1971 966,417 13,530 28,244 41,774

1972 951, 138 13 316 32,844 46,160

1973 938,800 13 , 143 37,864 51,007

1974- 929, 047 13,007 43, 356 56, 363

1975 921,570 12,901 49,380 62,281

Source : Middle Taylor Township Financial Reports Cambria County Planning Commission

*Revenue from Real Estate, Occupations, Earned Income, and Grants based on past average increase of 10.5%.

I I I I I I I I I I I I I I ~I 'I 11 I I

Middle Taylor Township must assess their current situation and find solutions , '.i

to offset their mineral value loss. It is recommended that the Township Officials

stimulate and encourage quality housing developments to increase the Township's

assessed valuation. Projections indicate that housing units are increasing by six

units per year at an average value of $15,000 per unit. Based on the current 14 mill

tax levy the increase in revenue would be approximately $420 per year on each six units

built. If this trend is to continue, the increased revenue will be $16,380 by the end of

the first capital budget period. It may be therefore noted that if township officials

encourage and stimulate quality housing developments, the tax base can be stabilized

within the Long Range Planning Period.

Undoubtedly, adjustments will be required during the development of this program.

However , the outline provided herewith offers goals to be achieved which can channel the

energies and resources of Middle Taylor Township toward a new growth and opportunity.

Through several Grants-In-Aid Programs, the State of Pennsylvania and the

Federal Government provide assistance to community development, This subsidia.ry

benefit, which would be of value to the Township is outlined, in brief, in the appendixe

60.

I I I I I I I I I II I I I I I I I I I

APPENDIX

I I I I

FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE t.

Through various grant-in-aid programs, the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and the Federal Government provide financial assistance to local government. The following digest of assistance provides a general outline of some of the principal aids available to local government. These programs should be utilized by the community in carrying out the capital improvements program and other programs of community devel- opment.

PROGRAMS OF THE DEPARTMENT OF HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT

Advances for Public Works Planning

Purpo se s : Interest-free advances to assist planning for local public works.

Specific Uses: Examples: Water and sewer systems, school buildings,

Al l types of public works, except public housing.

recreation projects, public buildings, irrigation projects, health facilities, bridges.

Terms: Advance repayable to HUD promptly upon construction of the planned public work.

Grants for Advance Acquisition of Land

Purpo se s : To encourage communities to acquire, in a planned and orderly fashion, land for future construction of public works and facilities .

Terms : Grants may 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 Facildties.

Purposes : To assist and encourage communities to construct adequate basic water and sewer facilities to promote their orderly and efficient growth and development.

Specific Grants to finance up to 50% of the cost of improving or Uses: constructing basic water and sewer facilities. Where

there is no existing system, the project must be so designed that it can be linked with other independent sewer and water facilities in the future.

Terms: To be determined

I 1 'I I I I 1 I I I I I I 1 I I I 1 I

Grants for Neighborhood Facilities

Purposes :

Specific Uses :

Terms:

Public Facility Loans

Purposes :

Specific U s e s :

Terms:

Urban Renewal

Purpose s :

Specific Uses :

To provide neighborhood faci lities needed for programs carrying out helath, recreation, social or similar necessary community services in the area.

Finances neighborhood or community centers, youth centers , health stations and other public buildings to provide health, recreational or similar social services,

Up to two-thirds of project cost o r 75% in redevelopment areas designated under the Public Works and Economic Development Act of 1965 e

Long-term loans for construction of needed public facilities such a s sewer or water facilities.

A variety of public works may be financed under this program. When aid is available from other Federal agencies, HUD assists only with those parts of the project not covered by other Federal programs.

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 facility.

To assist cities undertaking local programs for the elimination and prevention of slums and blight, and the elimination of factors creating them. A long range effort to achieve better communities through planned r edevelopment of deteriorated and deteriorating areas through partnership among local governments, private enterprise, citizens and the Federal Government.

Community-wi& renewal programs identifying needs and resources and establishing schedules and priorities for accomplishing the work; planning and carrying out urban renewal projects for rehabilitation and redevelop- ment of blighted areas; undertaking programs of con- centrated 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 a 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 avaikble a re special rehabilitation loans and grants, and housing assistance programs for low income elderly, and handicapped individuals and families residing in project areas.

Urban Planning Assistance Program

Purposes :

Specific U s e s :

Terms:

To foster good community, metropolitan a rea , regional and statewide planning.

Preparation of comprehensive development plans, including planning for the provision of public facilities, transportation, 1ong.frange fiscal plans and programming and scheduling of capital improvements

Federal grants of two-thirds of the cost of the work; local contribution of one-third. In some cases Federal grants may amount to as much as three-fourths.

Open Space Land and Ur,an Beautification Grants

Purposes : To assist communities in acquiring and developing land for open space uses and in carrying out urban beauti- f ication programs

Specific Uses: scenic areas or preserve historic places. Urban

Provide parks and other recreation, conservation, and

beautification and improvement includes such activities as street landscaping, park improvements, tree planting, and upgrading of malls and squares Relocation payments a re provided 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 50% of the cost of acquiring and clearing developed land. 50% is also available to assist in developing lands acquired under the open space land program. Grants up to 90% are authorized to carry out projects of special value for demonstrating new and improved methods and materials for urban beautification.

I 'I I I I I I I I I

Solid Waste Disposal

Purposes :

Specific Uses:

Terms:

Law Enforcement Assistance

Purposes:

Specific Uses:

Terms:

Library Services and Construction

Purposes:

Specific Uses:

Financial Assistance for solid waste disposal projects

Grants ava.flable for planning constructing and operating disposal facilities and land acquisition.

To be determined.

Grants and technical assistance to develop the skills of the law officer.

Emphasis on improvement of techniques and demonstratfon projects.

To be determined.

Grants to states to extend and improve library services ..

Financial assistance available to local public and non profit library agencies through the State Library for salaries , books, equipment , and construction.

Terms: To be determined. * * * Today, in most areas of municipal activity there a re related State and Federal

programs which may be of local benefit. Also, new legislation is continually under con- sideration to broaden existing programs or initiate new ones. It will surely benefit the community to research these sources of assistance whenever local programs are con- templated.

The Housing Act of 1949, as amended, requires as a condition of certain financial assistance, the following:

I I I I

I I I I I I I I I

I I

'' . . . a workable program for community improvement (which shall include an official plan of action, as it exists from time to time, for effectively deal- ing with the problem of urban slums and blight within the community and for the establishment and preservation of a well-planned community with well- organized environment for adequate family life) for utilizing appropriate private and public resources to eliminate and prevent the development or spread of slums and urban blight, to encourage needed urban rehabilitation, to provide for redevelopment of blighted, deteriorated, or slum areas , or to undertake such of the aforesaid activities or other feasible community activities as may be suitably employed to achieve the objectives of such a program. li

The specific requirements of the workable program are based on the statu.tory objectives described above and are deeigned to provide a flexible framework for organizing community efforts to eliminate and prevent slums and blight. The work- able program calls for progress in the following four areas:

1.

2.

3 .

4.

Code Adoption and Enforcement. The adoption of housing, building, and related codes, and development of an effective code enforcement program which ig at least adequate to deal with areas having high priority need for enforcement, including both blighted areas and basically sound but deteriorating neighborhoods, and which is geared toward eventual community-wide compliance with such codes.

Planning, Programming, and Budgeting. The establishment of a continuing public planning, programming, and budgeting process which develops action programs within a comprehensive planning framework for overcoming the major physical, social I and economic problems related to the slum and blighted areas of the community, and for establishing and preserving a well-planned community with suitable living environment for family life.

Housing and Relocation. The development of a centralized or coordinated program for assisting in the relocation of all persons and business concerns displaced by public action in the community and the development of a program to expand the supply of housing for low - and moderate-income families on the basiq of equal opportunity.

Citizen Involvement. The establishment of programs designed to achieve meaningful involvement of citizens, including poor and minority groups, in planning and carrying out HUD-assisted programs related to the Workable Program.

A detailed explanation of the policies and requirements for each of the above four areas is set forth in the HUD Handbook, Workable Program for Community Improve- ment, October, 1968.

I I I I

PROGRAMS O F THE COMMONWEALTH OF PENNSYLVANIA

The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania has many programs of technical and financial assistance available to local municipalities e The Department of Community Affairs is the principal agency administering the State aid programs. The major programs a re as follows: Project 70

Purpose:

Terms:

To acquire land for recreation, open-space preservation, water -shed protection, historic preservation. To enable local municipalities to acquire land for neighborhood, community and regional parks.

Financial assistance up to 50% for land acquisition is administered through the Department of Community Affa i r s

Title VI1 - The Open Space Land Program

Purpose : To supplement Project 70 Program in developing urban open space land.

Terms : Grants up to 50% adm~inistered through the State by the Federal Urban Renewal Administration.

500 Million Dollar Conservation and Recreation Promam

Purpose :

Terms:

Solid Waste Management Act

Purpose :

Grants a re available for the development and acquisition of community and County park, recreation and open space lands and for the preparation of Community Recreation Studies, site plans and construction (architectural and engineering) plans and specifications

Up to 80% aid from State-Federal sources a re available through the Department of Community Affairs a

For counties municipalities, authorities or any combination thereof, including municipalities with a population density of less than 300 persons per square mile to develop a Comprehensive Plan for the planning, recreation, collection storage, transportation, processing and disposal of solid wastes

I I I I I I I I I 1 I I

I I

R I I

:I I

Terms: Grants up to 50% administered through the Department of Health.

Act 537 Sewage Facilities Plan

Purpose : To prepare a sewage feasibility study of existing conditions in areas cited for violation of the Commonwealth Clean Stream Law and prepare sewerage recommendations e To prepare "Official sewer plansYas required by the Act.

Terms: Up to 50% financing for feasibility study is available through the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania under the Pennsylvania Sewage Facilities Act (Po L. 1535).

In addition to the above mentioned programs, State aid is available for industrial site development , industrial financing, community facilities such as sewer and water, library, hospital and educational facilities. A directory of State aids is presently being printed by the Department of Community Affairs and should be available to the public in the near future.