Blair County Planning Commission reviews road access and environmental concerns for solar proposal

The Blair Planning Meeting held on April 25, 2025, in Altoona, Pennsylvania, focused on several key issues regarding proposed developments in the area, particularly concerning access roads and environmental considerations.

The meeting began with discussions about the access road configurations for the Southern and Central arrays. Concerns were raised about the alignment of these roads at Hartman Hollow Road, where they intersect at an offset rather than being directly aligned. Traffic engineers typically recommend that intersections be directly across from each other for efficiency and safety. Although the anticipated traffic volume is low, the potential safety implications of this offset were highlighted, prompting a recommendation to include language in future applications addressing this concern.

Another point of discussion was the intersection with CGAP Road, which was noted to have minimal separation between access points. This lack of space could complicate the flow of traffic and create safety issues. The committee suggested that the design should allow adequate room for vehicles to merge into traffic without navigating through intersections.

Environmental concerns were also a significant topic. The presence of sensitive species, including the Indiana bat and various bird species, was acknowledged. The developers are aware of these concerns and have included them in their application. The committee emphasized the importance of adhering to local ordinances to ensure responsible development.

Further comments addressed the need for proper documentation, including property owner certifications for all involved parties. It was noted that the submitted plans lacked certification for certain properties, which should be rectified in future submissions.

The meeting also touched on stormwater management, particularly regarding the proposed solar panel field. The developers will need to conduct an engineering study to assess runoff and design appropriate retention systems. While multiple rain gardens are planned, the committee stressed the importance of ensuring these systems are effective in managing impervious runoff.

Lastly, the discussion included maintenance responsibilities for the site post-development. Concerns were raised about the potential for overgrowth of vegetation, which could impact the solar panels' efficiency. The committee suggested that maintenance protocols should be clearly outlined in the development's ordinances to prevent future issues.

In conclusion, the meeting addressed critical aspects of the proposed developments, focusing on traffic safety, environmental protection, and maintenance responsibilities. The committee's recommendations aim to ensure that future developments align with local regulations and community safety standards.