Commissioners approve new city parks maintenance facility on consolidated Cameron/Hurst/Twelfth parcels

The Planning Commission voted to approve a preliminary/final land development plan to consolidate five parcels and construct a new Parks and Recreation maintenance facility at 1007 and 1021 North Cameron Street, 1105 Hurst Street, 1105 Hurst Street Rear and 1002 North Twelfth Street, subject to several conditions including FEMA mapping clearance and coordination on landscaping.

Staff said the project will modernize the city's parks-maintenance infrastructure and remove dilapidated buildings, improving working conditions and the appearance of a conspicuous block near Sunshine Park and the Harrisburg Cemetery. The site comprises five parcels totaling about 3.27 acres, including a 18,244-square-foot industrial building and a smaller 2,976-square-foot structure.

Planning conditions included obtaining FEMA approval (letter of map revision or similar) before proceeding with construction; coordinating with the city arborist to increase tree canopy and incorporate native and pollinator plantings, especially along the western edge around stormwater detention; and, if possible, removing the southernmost vehicular access point to reduce vehicular/pedestrian conflict near Sunshine Park. Staff noted the applicant has submitted required FEMA materials and is responding to FEMA comments.

Bill Schnoor of Stantec, representing the applicant and SRTA (Susquehanna Regional Transportation Authority), confirmed the team had reviewed staff conditions and agreed to them. Schnoor explained the project is part of a larger multi-phase redevelopment of the block that will allow SRTA to remain operational during construction and later vacate and consolidate rights-of-way as part of subsequent phases.

Commissioners questioned flood-elevation design and first-floor elevations; the applicant said first floors will be 18 inches (1.5 feet) above the base flood elevation and that the project team has submitted a LOMER/LOMA to FEMA and received initial comments. One commissioner said the project replaces long-unproductive uses along that corridor and expressed support. After discussion, a commissioner moved to approve the plan with the conditions; the motion was seconded and adopted by voice vote.

Less-critical details: staff said the project will remove two curb cuts on Hurst Street and reconstruct sidewalks, and that site plans may need separate access points for city vehicles and staff/visitor access depending on operational needs.