Mahoning Township reviews land development plan amid engineering concerns

On May 20, 2025, the Carbon County Planning Commission convened to discuss critical land development issues affecting Mahoning Township. The meeting highlighted significant concerns regarding a proposed project that requires thorough examination of local infrastructure and compliance with township regulations.

A key point of discussion was the applicant's obligation to submit a comprehensive rural travel plan. This plan must detail the roads and bridges that will be used during construction and maintenance, including an assessment of their current conditions. The commission emphasized the need for road bonding and financial assurances to cover any potential damage caused by heavy construction vehicles, particularly concerning a single-lane stone bridge on Ashdown Road. This bridge has raised safety concerns due to its lack of a posted weight limit, prompting fears that it may not withstand the stress of heavy trucks.

The commission also pointed out deficiencies in the applicant's plans, such as the incomplete depiction of sewer lines and the proposed underground electric conduit. These elements are crucial for ensuring that construction does not interfere with existing infrastructure. The need for a stormwater drainage pipe along Ashdown Road was also highlighted, indicating that proper drainage solutions must be integrated into the project to prevent future flooding issues.

The Planning Commission's review revealed several areas of noncompliance with Mahoning Township's land development ordinance, which ultimately led to a recommendation against the approval of the project in its current form. The commission stressed that all concerns must be adequately addressed before any preliminary approval can be granted.

In addition to the Mahoning Township discussions, the meeting included a review of right-to-know requests concerning tax parcels in East Penn Township. The commission noted that one parcel had no surveying or zoning records, while another had a history of a major subdivision plan that had been conditionally rejected in the past.

The meeting concluded with a motion to forward the commission's comments to the township council for further consideration. The commission's findings underscore the importance of thorough planning and community engagement in land development processes, ensuring that local infrastructure can support new projects while safeguarding public safety and environmental integrity. As the commission moves forward, it will continue to monitor these developments closely, advocating for compliance with local regulations and community needs.