Board ratifies RFP to study commercial impact fee for active-transportation projects

The Susquehanna Township Board of Commissioners on May 14 ratified a request for proposals (RFP) to engage planning firms with economic expertise to evaluate and recommend a commercial impact fee intended to support the township’s active-transportation priorities.

Planning and Zoning Administrator Mack Breech described the RFP scope as amendments to Sustainable Susquehanna 2030, the 2017 Parks and Recreation Master Plan and the Township-wide Bicycle Plan; the work will provide supporting economic data and a proposed fee structure that could be folded into a future ordinance. Commissioner Sean Sanderson moved to ratify the RFP with a June 12, 2026 due date; Commissioner Carl Hisiro seconded and the motion carried unanimously.

Officials said the fee would be earmarked to the Developers Recreation Fund and directed toward active-transportation improvements such as sidewalks, bike lanes and trails. During discussion Commissioner Hisiro asked whether the funds would favor transportation projects or greenbelt projects; the presentation clarified the RFP’s intent is to prioritize active-transportation infrastructure identified in the Bike/Ped Plan. When asked about legal authority for such a fee, the transcript notes the fee is permissible as an offset fee; any ordinance adoption would follow further study and drafting.

Next steps: Township staff will issue the RFP, evaluate proposals and return with recommendations that could include a proposed fee schedule and draft ordinance language for future board consideration.