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Board authorizes easement and Declaration of Taking for Joe Ricci Trail in 3–2 vote
Summary
The board approved Resolution 2025-12 to acquire a temporary construction easement and permanent right-of-way at 6479 Carlisle Pike for the Joe Ricci Trail sidewalk connection, voting 3–2 amid concern about impacts on the property owner and local business.
On March 26 the Silver Spring Township Board approved Resolution 2025-12 to acquire a temporary construction easement and a permanent right-of-way needed to extend the Joe Ricci Trail to the Carlisle Pike property at 6479 Carlisle Pike. The resolution authorizes township staff to negotiate and, if necessary, file a Declaration of Taking to secure the easement.
Solicitor Sean Shultz explained the authority and mechanics of the proposed taking and easement. During discussion Supervisor David Lenker urged the board to work with the property owner to reach an equitable solution and cautioned against steps that could unduly affect the owner's business. The motion passed 3–2, with Supervisors Lenker and Kotzmoyer voting against the measure.
The board's action allows township staff to continue negotiations and to proceed with legal steps if an agreement cannot be reached. The resolution directs staff and legal counsel to pursue the property interest necessary to construct the sidewalk connection; the board did not provide additional details about compensation or a construction schedule during the meeting.
Next steps include continued negotiation with the property owner and potential legal filings to obtain the easement if negotiations fail. The record shows the vote was recorded on March 26, 2025.
