'Preserve Hatboro's Character,' Resident Pleads

HATBORO, PA —Arielle Fisher hasn't liked what she is hearing about Hatboro lately.

As one of about 25 residents listening to another proposal by a developer to build apartments and retail in the downtown district, Fisher read a letter to the Hatboro Planning Commission about the state of the borough after reading a preview story about the meeting in Patch.

"I stand before you to express my deep concerns about the proposed development at the former Hatboro Diner location," she said. "I believe this development may have adverse effects on our downtown community."

Developers of 21-23 and 37 N. York Road pitched plans for 102 apartments and retail space to the planning commission Tuesday night in a meeting that lasted nearly three hours.

The conditional use and land development applications by JERC Partners LXIX, LLC is the second one before the planning commission for consideration under the Town Center Ordinance. The former CVS property is also under consideration.

Both plans worry Fisher and others about how the additional apartments will further congest a downtown district where traffic is always a burden on most days. Also, Hatboro's heritage and character are of concern as well.

"I respectfully request that (you) take these concerns into account and evaluate the impact of this proposed project on our town," Fisher said. "Let us prioritize the well-being and unique character of Hatboro as we move forward."

Fisher outlined several issues in her letter regarding the project:

Traffic Congestion and Safety —Our downtown is already grappling with severe traffic congestion, making navigation unsafe. I implore you to consider implementing turn signals at traffic lights and involving PennDOT in discussions to alleviate this issue.

Impact on Crime and Accidents —We need access to crime and accident statistics to ensure the safety of our community before introducing further commercialization and residential density.

Preserving Hatboro's Character —: Our downtown's unique charm is worth preserving. Over-commercialization may erode this charm and uniqueness.

Balanced Growth —Our community should prioritize balanced growth aligned with our long-term vision for Hatboro.

Market Saturation —Hatboro's commercial development is already saturated, and adding more apartments could lead to surplus commercial spaces, negatively impacting existing businesses and property values.

Maintaining a Balanced Community —A thriving community requires both residential and commercial components. We should avoid an overemphasis on commercialization.

Quality of Life —Excessive commercialization can harm our quality of life through increased traffic congestion, noise pollution, and loss of green spaces.

Economic Stability — Relying heavily on commercial development can make us vulnerable to economic fluctuations, potentially leaving empty storefronts.

Infrastructure Considerations —Adding more apartments without infrastructure investments can strain our resources and lead to issues like inadequate parking and overloaded sewage systems.

Preserving Small-Town Charm —Our town's distinctive identity must be preserved; excessive commercialization may transform it into something unrecognizable.

"Moreover, there are already numerous apartments in close proximity to Hatboro, many with vacancies," Fisher said. "This raises questions about the necessity of additional construction. We should assess occupancy rates and building safety protocols rigorously. Alternative uses for available land or existing commercial spaces that align with our town's character should also be considered, as well as community input and sustainable growth."