Foxhall Residents, Township Work To Fix Erosion Issue

Foxhall Estate residents are attempting to fix what started off as a small problem, but has turned into a potential hazard for pedestrians in their subdivision.

Resident Jim McBride addressed the Newtown Township Board of Supervisors Wednesday evening, asking for their assistance in fixing an area that has been washed away by recent heavy rains.

According to McBride, about four to five weeks ago during the heavy spring rains, foundation from an area of neighborhood sidewalk began to wash away because the slope of the adjacent ground was so steep.

"It is about a 75 percent grade right off the four-foot wide sidewalk. The hole runs about 40 feet and it is impossible to get a footing on it," McBride said.

According to McBride, he was unaware of the problem because his house is not near the spot, but fellow residents pointed out the possible hazard to him. He went to check it out and became concerned for the safety of neighborhood pedestrians, including children and bicyclists as well as the liability of the subdivision should someone be injured at that spot.

The neighborhood, located off of Washington Crossing Road, is between Lindenhurst and Linton Hill Roads. It is a newer development and still has yet to hold its dedication. McBride said he hoped to have the issue taken care of before the dedication occurs.

Township Engineer Michele Fountain had been in contact with McBride prior to the meeting and said she had visited the site. Fountain said after taking a look at it, the township had tried to repair the spot by adding dirt along with other materials to see if that would stop the erosion. A netting had been added on top to hold the materials into place. They are waiting to see if the work will combat the problem or it needs to be addressed further.

Fountain and the board agreed they would figure out a way to address the safety concern by adding a fence, safety gate or some cones to warn of the issue.