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Planning commission recommends Hastings Phase 5 subdivision with four modifications after geotech review
Summary
The commission recommended the Phase 5 subdivision (14 single-family, 10 townhome units) with modifications to cul-de-sac length, riparian buffer encroachment, utilities-in-pavement, and use of man-placed steep slopes, conditioned on the Gibson Thomas review letter; a roll-call vote recorded two yes and one no.
The South Fayette Township Planning Commission on July 23 recommended approval of the Hastings Phase 5 preliminary and final subdivision application (F-03-2026) with four specified modifications and conditions.
Staff described the plan as unchanged from the version previously reviewed but noted a new geotechnical report had been submitted. Jason Polovich said the geotech was "very inclusive" and requires on-site geotechnical oversight and special footing protocols. The project team said the site is developable but will require compaction and special measures where prior phases left stockpiled material.
The motion the commission recommended would: (1) allow a cul-de-sac up to 670 feet (section 2-15-74), (2) permit encroachment into the 35-foot riparian buffer up to 15 feet (section 2-15-78(c)(5)), (3) allow utilities within the pavement per township construction standard detail 5.6.2, and (4) permit development on man-placed steep slope areas per section 2-15-39(k). The motion was conditioned on the Gibson Thomas review letter dated July 17, 2026.
Project representatives answered technical questions about utilities: storm, sanitary and water lines are planned in the cartway with separation requirements (at least 10 feet from sanitary), and the team must avoid an existing MATSF trunk line that runs under the road. The presenter said the team had obtained an HRP for the water connection but had not finalized water design while awaiting gas and electric layouts.
Commissioners asked about circulation and the trail connector; the presenter said the trail alignment remains the same, collapsible bollards will be added and tightened to limit daily vehicular use, and staff said smaller emergency vehicles could use the connector. The project team removed a previously proposed bump-out at a dead-end alley per geotechnical recommendations and proposed signage to discourage delivery vehicles from entering the alley.
Roll call on the Phase 5 recommendation recorded Tom McNamara voting No, Joseph Johnson Yes and Jamie Noland Yes; two commissioners were absent. The chair stated the motion carried (2–1). The commission’s recommendation will be forwarded to the township board for final action and the applicant must complete permitting (including PennDOT and DEP coordination) prior to construction.
