Supervisors seek full cost breakdown for Berlinsville Field wall after padding quotes exceed estimates

Lehigh Township supervisors on Feb. 25 reviewed the recent Berlinsville Field wall, earlier padding quotes and possible fencing alternatives and asked staff for a complete cost and donation breakdown at the next meeting.

Supervisor Jerry Pritchard reported the constructed wall cost roughly $14,700. Earlier padding quotes and a donor pledge (Lions Club planned to pay $14,000 for padding) were discussed; Supervisor Cindy Miller said the project had been presented previously as a roughly $20,000 expense but that current estimates approach $50,000. Resident Wayne Kleintop and Supervisor Pritchard reported padding quotes were coming in high and proposed a 10‑foot fence along the wall that could reduce total cost and remove the need for additional padding and a four‑foot fence extension.

Why it matters: The Board is reviewing how capital projects are presented and costed to ensure the Recreation Board and staff provide complete package estimates (total cost, donated amounts, and breakdowns) before approval or contractor selection.

The board asked staff to deliver at the next meeting: the full cost accounting for the wall, padding and fencing options; clarification of pledged donations; and a 2024 revenue breakdown for field and lights — Alice Rehrig said Slatington will pay about $1,500 for a season and that non‑home teams are charged $75 per game. No procurement decisions or contracts were approved at the Feb. 25 meeting.

What’s next: Supervisors requested the requested cost and donation detail for the next meeting so the board can decide whether to accept quotes, pursue a fence alternative, or adjust plans before authorizing additional spending.