UST Zoning Hearing Board Approves Proposed Development

John Blair, president of Blair Custom Homes, cleared a major hurdle with the Upper Saucon Zoning Hearing Board June 13 when it unanimously granted necessary variances for a gated, age-restricted development off Route 378 with single units costing an estimated $600,000. 

The proposed 71-acre development, at 2115 Saucon Valley Road and 4373 Route 378, will be known as Old Saucon. Plans for the "village-style" development include 54 single-family homes and 26 twin homes. Roads in the development will be privately owned and maintained by the homeowners association.

Variances were needed for front-yard and backyard setbacks on 47 of the lots.  Blair was requesting a zero front-yard setback, where five feet is required, and a backyard setback of 15 feet, where 25 is required.  All variances were for homes in the rear of the development abutting open space.

Blair will now take his proposal to the township Planning Commission.  Once all the approvals are in place, it will take about five to six years to complete, with each single unit costing an estimated $600,000. 

“The development,” said Blair, “is in good proximity to The Promenade Shops and the Rails to Trails walking area.”

Sharyn Heater,  the township's Director of Community Development, said, “This plan is welcome by the township.  It is a unique project and no one in the township has objected.”