Commissioners postpone decision on Harrisburg Global Academy amid community safety concerns

Concerns over a proposed school site in Lancaster County took center stage at the Planning Commission meeting on April 22, 2025, as residents voiced serious apprehensions regarding safety and environmental issues. A local resident raised alarms about the adequacy of a three-foot buffer over a landfill, questioning how construction could proceed safely given the presence of coal ash on the property. “More inspection of the property needs to be done,” the resident insisted, highlighting the potential risks of placing children on land with such hazardous materials.

Traffic safety was another hot topic, with the same resident describing the chaotic conditions on Harrisburg Road, particularly during peak hours. “Traffic would be backed up... bumper to bumper,” they explained, emphasizing the dangers of navigating the road, especially for families living near the proposed school site.

In response to these concerns, the applicant defended the project, stating that extensive investigations had already been conducted, costing around $300,000. They expressed a commitment to addressing community concerns but faced pushback from the commission regarding the lack of responses to a Technical Review Committee report and the absence of a meeting with the Homeowners Association.

Ultimately, the commission voted to continue the discussion until the next meeting on May 20, allowing time for further review and community input. This decision underscores the ongoing dialogue between residents and officials as they navigate the complexities of development in sensitive areas. The outcome of the next meeting could significantly impact the future of the proposed school and the community's safety.