Springfield Commons residents ask Harris Township to allow on‑street parking on Deering Drive

Fred Maroney, a Springfield Commons resident, presented two years of neighborhood outreach and a survey that drew 39 responses of 64 possible. Maroney said roughly 49% of respondents favored some on‑street parking on Deering Drive and that two‑thirds of Deering residents who voted preferred parking on the east (northbound) side; the HOA recommended the so‑called Option B. "We received, 39 out of 64 votes...49%, almost 50% of the residents that voted voted for some form of parking on Deering Drive," Maroney said.

Residents who live on Homestead and Deering described potential sight‑distance and safety concerns if full‑time parking is introduced; one resident said a 4‑way stop had been discussed but that PennDOT/engineering standards typically require a formal traffic study. Leslie Asbury, a Deering Drive carriage‑house resident, described mobility and accessibility problems because her unit lacks a driveway and said she once received a ticket parked in front of her home after she had been told by others parking was permitted.

Board members asked staff to gather more data, including crash history and engineering input, before scheduling an ordinance amendment or public hearing. Staff noted that if the board wishes to proceed an amendment to chapter 8‑1.31 would be prepared and a public hearing scheduled; temporary parking permits can be issued by the township for short‑term needs such as guests.

The HOA map shown to the board estimated about six on‑street parking spaces would be created under the recommended configuration; the board agreed to gather more information and will return to the matter at a later meeting.