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PREPARED FOR MIDDLE TAYLOR TOWNSHIP CAMBRIA COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
LONG RANGE PLAN
Prepared by
Cambria County Planning Commission Court House Ebensburg , Pennsylvania
June, 1969
The preparation of this report and the maps contained herein was financed in part through an urban planning grant from the Department of Housing and Urban Development, under the provisions of Section 701 of the Housing Act of 1954, as amended, administered by the Bureau of Planning, Pennsylvania Department of Community Affairs .
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C A M B R I A COUNTY P L A N N I N G COMMISSION
1. FRED YOUNG E X E C U T I V E D IRECTOR
couw nous€ E B E Y I B U I Q , P L Y U A 1BB31 PHONE 4 7 2 - 7 8 B B
September, 1969
Mr. Wil l iam Lewis, Chairman Middle Taylor Township Planning Commission Cambria County, Pennsylvania
Dear hlr. Lewis:
We are pleased t o submit herewith the LONG RANGE DEVELOWENT PLAN for Middle Taylor Township. i n the Existing Conditions Report and contains recornendations fo r a Long Range Plan to guide future development in the years ahead.
This report re f lec ts an analysis presented
The preparation of t h i s report required the help of many people and organizations within the community. given t o those persons and the members of the Middle Taylor Planning Commission for the i r contributions.
Special achowledgement is hereby
This report emphasizes the need fo r continuing review of the recomendations contained herein and to r e f l ec t changing needs and community a t t i tudes i n the years ahead. the ci t izens and the i r elected of f ic ia l s t o achieve an outstanding community.
We sincerely hope tha t t h i s report w i l l help
Respectfully submitted,
. Executive Director
TFY/ef
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TOWNSHIP COMMISSIONERS
Harry Berk, Chairman Thomas Larnek Monte11 Harrison
TOWNSHIP PLANNING COMMISSION
W i l l i a m Lewis, Chairman George Swick Ray Roberts Joe Golian Dean Rummell
CAMBRIA COUNTY PLANNING COMMISSION MEMBERS
John Kupchella, Chairman Gilbert Salsgiver, Treasurer Paul Melanson, Secretary Thomas N. Crowley Russell Thomas Fred J. McFadden, Jr. Elvin Overdorff , Jr. Leonard LaPorta James J. Long, Jr.
CAMBRIA COUNTY PLANNING COMMISSION
T. Frederick Young, Executive Director John R. Swanson, Senior Planner Barry G. Polster, Junior Planner Thomas E l i a s , Junior Planner Bradford G. Beigay, Planning Technician David L. Belz , Draftsman Gail Novotny, Secretary Gloria Kilraine, Stenographer Elaine Fuller, Stenographer
MIDDLE TAYLOR TOWNSHIP TABLEOFCONTENTS
TITLE PAGE LETTER O F TRANSMITTAL PARTICIPATING OFFICIALS TABLEOFCONTENTS LIST O F MAPS LIST OF CHARTS LIST OF TABLES LIST OF ILLUSTRATIONS REGIONAL LOCATION MAP
FUTURE LAND USE Introduction Summary of Existing Conditions Land U s e Objectives Future Land Use Plan Future Commercial Recommendations Future Indu str ial Recommendat ions Future mblic and Semi-Public Recommendations Summary
Fl T1 RE COMMUNITY FACILITIES Introduction Future Community Facility Objectives Future Community Facility Recommendations Future Schools Future Water System Future Sewage Facilities Sol id Waste Manage me nt Future Fire Protection Future Police Protection Future Recreation Conclusion
FUTURE THOROUGH FARES Introduction Goals and Objectives Major Highway Recommendations Local Collectors Local Streets Summary
CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM Capital Improvement Program Project Descriptions Capital Budget
APPENDIX
1 2 4 4 10 10 11 12
15 16 16 17 19 20 21 22 22 23 27
30 32 32 35 37 38
41 45 52
61
LIST O F MAPS
Map .No e Title Page
Regional Location Map Future Land Use Future Community Facilities Future Water System Regional Highway Network Future Thoroughfares
14 28 29 31 40
LIST O F CHARTS
Title Page
Projected Population Growth Future Housing Future Land Use
LIST OF TABLES
6 9
13
Title Page
Major Street and Highway Improvements Capital Improvements
Capital Expenditures Long Range Capital Improvement Program
High and Low Dollar Expenditures Six-Year Capital Budget
LIST OF ILLUSTRATIONS
39 41 43 52 53 54
Recreation Area Valley View Park
25 26
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F U T U R E L A N D U S E
MJDDLE TAYLOR TOWNSHIP
FUTURE LAND USE
INTROPU C TIQN
The purpose of the Future Land Use Plan for Middle Taylor Township is to serve
as a guide for future land development. The plan recommendg an organization of uses
which will promote efficient use of land, a more gttractive phyeical envirqnment, and a
stabilization of property yalues in the area.
In this plan attention is focused on three principal areae: Summary of Exigting
Conditions, Future Land U s e Objectives, and Future Land U s e Plan. The Summary of
Existing Conditions briefly analyzes the existing conditions to determine the pstential
for future growth in each land use categwy. The Future Land U s e Objectives are the
basis upon which the specific recommendations are made. The Future Land Use Plan
contains specific recommen&tions for the location and type of individual land use.
1..
SUMMARY OF EXISTING CONDITIONS
The following summary is a brief qnalysis of existing conditions within Middle
Taylor Township to determine the potential for future development.
TOP ography
Middle Taylor Township is predominantly rural in nature despite its proximity
to the City of Johnstown. Middle Taylor Township’s sparce and saattered development
can be attributed to its rugged topography. Of the’total area within the Township 70%
or 2,214 acres is excessively sloping land used primarily for agriculture or conservation
purposes. Only 30% or 926 acres are developable within Middle Taylor Township. Pres-
ently 365 acres are developed leaving only 18% of the total area or 561 acres available
for future development. These developable acres are located primarily along the Benshoff
Hill Road as illustrated an the Future Land Use Map.
The rugged topography that limits future development within Middle Taylor Town-
ship also restricts industrial growth. In addition to the absence of large tracts of develop-
able land, industrial development is restricted by the lack of an adequate trapsportation
network. The Benshoff Hill Road is the only paved roadway through the Township
Quality of Residential U s e s
Middle Taylor Township is primarily composed of single family residences. Of
all structures, 38% are classified as substandard of which 10% are in need of complete
reconstruction. Many of the substandard units are farm dwellings or buildings of faulty
original construction. If the quality of future residential construction is to be improved,
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the township should endeavor to eliminate all existing suh-standard dwellings through a
code enforcement and rehabilitation program.
Limited Commercial Land Use
Approximately two acres of land are used for commercial purposes in Middle
Taylor Township. The lack of extensive commercial facilities is related to two im-
portant factors:
1. very slow population growth; and
2. most township residents live within a five-minute driving radius of
Johnstown's Central Business District, making extensive commercial
facilities within Middle Taylor Township unnecessary.
Public, Semi-Public Areas
Approximately five acres within the township are classified as Public U n d Uses,
This area contains the school, municipal building, fire station and school playground.
The two Semi-Public Land Uses occupy approximately 16 acres of land. These uses
include the Benshoff Hill Cemetery and the Saint Nicholas Cemetery.
Recreational areas within Middle Taylor Township are limited to the two acre
school playground (Public) and the 15 acre Brethren Church recreation area, (qemi-
Public).
The limited Public, and Semi-Public areas are attributed to the wral nature of
the township the relatively few number of township residents, and the inaccessibility
of potentially developable land because of rugged topography.
3.
LAND USE OBJECTIVES
In developing a future land use plan for Middle Taylor Township, it is necessary
to base planning decisions upon a set of general land use objectives. The most important
Land Use Objectives for Middle Taylor Township may be stated as follows:
1,
2.
3 ,
4.
EncoTumge future development in areas which can be served through the
economic extension of existing utilities and community facilities.
Provide for the orderly development of Residential, Commercial and Recrea-
tional uses which are compatible with existing uses.
Provide for future development in harmony with existing topographic and
aesthetic features of the community.
Encourage the development of Public, Recreation and Commercial uses to
meet the cultural and service needs of future township residents.
In order to attain these goals, the type, location and distribution of future uses
of land a r e recommended as follows:
FUTURE LAND USE PLAN
Future Residential Land U s e
Residential Land Use is expected to be predominant in the future development of
Middle Taylor Township. Residential expansion can be anticipated because of the
township's relative locatiop to the Johnstown Urbanized Area. The township's relatively
small population base and the topographic features-which prohibits the construction of a
major highway access precludes the future development of extensive commercial and
industrial uses.
4.
The demand for future residential land use is obviously related to the anticipated
future population growth. The population projection for Middle Taylor Township is based
on data contained in the Existing Conditions Report and the projections made for the com-
munity in the preparation of the Johnstown Area Traqsportation Study, In the latter study,
the population forecast was made on the basis of past reglpnal trends and accessibiljty to
employmevt and commercial centers. The regional population projection was allocated
to each of the nineteen municipalities located within the Greater Johnstown Area.
By 1975, the population of Middle Taylor Township is projected to be 1,281 persons.
This represents an increase of 318 persons or 33% from the 1960 figure of 963 pereons.
The average rate of increase for the fifteen year period between 1960 and 1975 is approxi-
mately 2.1% per year, By 1990, the population is expected to increase to 1,524 persons
or an increase of 19% for the fifteen year period from 1975 to 1990. By 1990 the popula-
tion of Middle Taylor Township is expected to increase by 561 persons qvgr the 1960
figure. The rate of expansion for Middle Taylor Township is lower than most of the
suburban municipalities in the Greater Johnstown Area, however, the projected increase
is approximately double the 1% per year rate of expansion experienced in the townqhip
from 1950 to 1960.
Based on the anticipated population growth of 561 persons by 1990, the minimum
amount of future residential land use required to accommodate the future hoysing demand
was calculated as follows:
561persons = 155 Houses x 1 .5 AcredHouse 5 228 Acres 3.6 per sons/household
5.
160C
140C
1200
IOOC
$ 800 - s J 3
0 a
600
400
200
C
CHART I MIDDLE TAYLOR TOWNSHIP
PROJECTED POPULATION GROWTH
1960 1975 1990
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LEGEND 1960 CENSUS OF POPULATION
BASED ON JOHNSTOYN H A TRISIISPORTATW STUDY DATA
SOURCE: C A Y W U COUNTY PLANNING COYylSSlON
I i I I I i i I II I I I i I I I I 1 1
Approximately 228 acres of new residential land use will be required to accommo-
date the projected population for the township by 1990 assuming that the average family
size will be 3.6 persons and the average land area per house is 1 1/2 acre. Because of
the rural nature of the township, the necessity of using on-lot sewerage treatment method
and the topographic conditions of the land within the community, the average land area of
1 1/2 acres per house can reasonably be expected in the future development of the com-
munity despite the fact that it is nearly double the gross land area required to accommodate
a house in a typical suburban community of Greater Johnstown.
When combined with the existing residential land area of 140 acres , the total an-
ticipated future residential land use will require approximately 368 acres of land. Because
of the availability of public water, accessibility to the major road through the township,
and the availability of developable land; Future Residential Land U s e is recommended for
the topographically suited areas along Benshoff Hill Road. Because of the rugged topog-
raphy, the concentrations of residential development will be divided by steep wooded slopes
into clusters of development where there is sufficient amounts of flat land available to
accommodate the construction of houses. A s indicated on the Future Land Use Map, the
recommended area for future land use development is concentrated in a ribbon form along
the hilltop through the center of the township.
The a rea proposed for residential use encompasses approximately 500 acres which
is about 100 acres in excess of the anticipated demand based on the population projection.
The entire proposed residential area can be economically supplied with public water from
the existing main distribution line along Benshoff Hill Road. The Township should endeavor
to control and concentrate development in the area indicated to avoid the costly extension
of public services to scattered remote a reas of the township.
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The wooded slopes which divide the proposed residential concentrations should
be preserved to provide an aesthetic asset to the surrounding development. Development
of the proposed Residential Use should provide an enviable quality of residential environ-
ment in an openspace setting. The proposed trail system will enhance the functional use
of the wooded slopes and create a further asset to the residential development by providing
a natural outdoor recreation area within easy walking distance of every home in the town-
ship *
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400
200 LL 0
w m E 3 z
CHART n MIDDLE TAYLOR TOWNSHIP
FUTURE HOUSING
100
0 1960
372
I975 1990
LEGEND ...................... .................. -i ...................... 1960 CENSUS OF HOUSING
FUTURE PROJECTION
Future Commercial Recommendations I Middle Taylor Township's small population base, projected slow growth rate and
I proximity to Johnstown's Central Business District indicates a limited demand for exten-
sive expansion of commercial land use. The existing commercial a reas occupy approxi-
mately two acres and future expansion is not anticipated to exceed 30 additional acres.
The type of commercial facility recommended is that of the neighborhood convenience type
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such as a small grocery market, gas station, auto repair shop and a home supplies center.
Other major retail shopping needs can be accommodated in nearby downtown Johnstown.
Although Middle Taylor's need for future commercial facilities is limited, exist-
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ing facilities should be improved in terms of structural conditions, aesthetic appearance,
and adequate off -street parking provisions.
._
I Any future construction of commercial facilities should be limited to the areas
I I '' I Future 1ndustY.hI Recommendations ' 1
outlined in the Future Land Use Map. The future commercial a reas are conveniently
located within Middle Taylor Township along the major thoroughfare, Benshoff Hill Road,
thereby providing easy access for all residents. :
It is economically unfeasible for future development of an industrial site within
Middle Taylor Township. The lack of sufficient flat land for a building site, and the
absence of 8 major highway or railroad network makes it impractical as well as unecon-
omical for industrid development. The existing industrial site is devoted to the shortage
of slag and occupies 24 acres or less than one percent of the total land area within the I V% I ' township.
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Future Public and Semi-Public Recommendations
Future Public and Semi-Public Land Uses for Middle Taylor Township will be
centered around the improvement of the existing school playground, the construction
of a park in the Valley View neighborhood, and the creation of a trail system.
1
The present two-acre site should be expanded to include at least 15 usable acres
Expansion of Middle Taylor Elementary School Playground
of land. This would provide for the improvement and expansion of the existing all-purpose
field to provide for intermediate and senior league, in addition to little league baseball.
Areas for 8 paved tennis court and a grass volleyball court should be included in the site.
The area for playground apparatus should be expanded to accommodate all age groups,
including tot-lot facilities for pre-rschool children.
2. New Valley View Park
The southern portion of Middle Taylor Township is virtually without recreation
facilities; therefore, it is recommended that a new park be developed in the Valley View
neighborhood. The park should be a maximum of five acres including an all-purpose
field, a tot-lot with play apparatus geared for pre-school children, and playground
apparatus for children in the 5-15 age group. The proposed site for the park is indicated
on the Future Land U s e Map.
3. Future Conservation Area
The steep wooded hillsides which surround Middle Taylor Township afford an
inspiring opportunity for the conservation of Open Space and the creation of a trail system.
Development on the slopes should be carefully controlled to avoid costly street and utility
installations and to preserve the natural beauty of the area. Middle Taylor Township's
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proximity to the Western Pennsylvania Conservancy, Laurel Mountain Trail Park, affords
an opportunity for a system of interconnected trails to the Great Mountain Trail and the
Conemaugh Gap. It is recommended that a Trail System be developed along the steep
wooded slopes of the township which will be suitable to accommodate hiking as well as
horse back riding. The proposed Trail System is outlined on the Future Community
Facilities Map
SUMMARY
The planning recommendations for future land use in Middle Taylor Township
were based on the expansion of existing land use types and the incorporation of basic
objectives in guiding the orderly development of the community. These recommendations
a r e designed to replace past piece-meal growth with a more orderly approach by encour-
aging development in the areas indicated on the Future Land Use Map; community facil-
ities, utilities, and streets can be provided in a more economical fashion, The adoption
and enforcement of zoning and subdivision regulations will be essential tools in guiding
future growth in accordance with the recommendations set forth in the Future Land U s e
Plan
I I I I I I 1 I I I I I I I I I I I I
LAND USE
Residential
Commercial
Industrial
Public and Semi-Public
Streets
Agriculture
Slope and Conservation
TOTAL
CHART I11 MIDDLE TAYLOR TOWNSHIP
FT'TURE LAND USE
E XIST ING Acres % of Total
3,140.0 140.00%
*No change in acreage
13
PRO POSED Additional Acreag
+368,0
+ 30.0
*
+ 18.0
*
-416.0
*
FUTURE Acres % of Total
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FUTURE COMMUNITY FACILITIES
I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I
MIDDLE TAYLOR TOWNSHIP
FUTURE COMMUNITY FACILITIES
INTRODUCTION
The Future Community Facilities section deals with services
and facilities which are provided by the Township to accommodate the
future needs of the residents. These include such facilities a s schools,
fire stations, municipal buildings and other related institutions. Added
to this a re the various utility services, both public and private, provid-
ing water and electricity throughout the Township. This report recom-
mends new, expanded and improved services to meet the future needs
of every citizen of Middle Taylor Township.
15.
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FUTURE COMMUNITY FACILITY OBJECTIVES
The Future Community Facilities Report outlines a number of objectives that
should be reached within the next 15 to 20 years. The overall objective is to make
Middle Taylor Township a better place in which to live , work, and play. The fol-
lowing basic objectives , upon which the specific recommendations a re based, should
therefore be adopted and administered.
OBJECTIVES -
1, To improve the existing facilities and to create new facilities
which service the residents of Middle Taylor Township.
2. To provide modern elementary schooling for the children in
Middle Taylor Township
3. To encourage the extension of water lines into areas not served
by an adequate water supply.
4. To provide adequate on-lot sewerage enforcement in all future
development.
5. To provide for adequate fire and police protection.
6. To provide adequate recreation for residents of all ages.
FUTURE COMMUNITY FACILITIES RECOMMENDATIONS
An appraisal of the existing community facilities in Middle Taylor Township is
necessary to anticipate future needs. The quality and adequacy of school facilities is
of major importance to the development of a community because schools have a more
direct connection vvith more families than any other public service. Public utilities,
fire and police protection facilities and recreational facilities complete the roster of
community facilities ineluded in the future recommendations e Refer to the Future
Community Facilities Map. No.2.
16.
FUTURE SCHOOL RECOMMENDATIONS
Middle Taylor's present need for school service is limited to that of elementary I I schooling. Under the present schoal system, Middle Taylor Township is a part of the
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Ferndale Area School District. The students in Middle Taylor Township attend the local
elementary school for grades kindergarten through grade five. All sixth grade students
a re transported to the Brownstown Elementary School located in Brownstown Borough.
For grades seven and eight, students are transported to the Dale Borough School and
students in grades nine through twelve a re transported to the Ferndale High School.
Recommendations for Middle Taylor Township's future school needs are included in the
following paragraphs.
It is recommended that students in grades seven through twelve continue to be
transported to the Secondary Schools of the Ferndale Area School Distr ic t which are
located outside the boundaries of Middle Taylor Township. The projected secondary
enrollment of 250 students would not warrant the construction of a secondary school
within the Township. The adequacy of existing secondary schools must be determined
as a part of the Long Range Development Plan being prepared by the Ferndale-Dale
School District. Recommendations for secondary facilities must be done in the context
of the total district and are beyond the scope of the plan for Middle Taylor Township.
In order to accommodate existing and projected elementary enrollments in
grades kindergarten through six, it is recommended that the present elementary school
be renovated and expanded to provide four additional classrooms, cafeteria and multi-
purpose gymnasium facilities. The projected population indicates that the number of
elementary school students in grades kindergarten through six will be approximately
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220 by 1975 and 275 by 1990. The proposed expansion of the elementary school will
eliminate the cost and inconvenience of transporting elementary students to schools
in other municipalities within the district.
The existing school site should be enlarged to provide adequate areas for walks,
parking, recreation, landscaping and an on-site sewage treatment facility. The opti-
mum size of the elementary school site should be 10 to 25 acres. Therefore, it is
recommended that an additional 15 acres , (Map No. 2) be required to accommodate
the expansion of the building and related outdoor recreation facilities.
The expanded school site should be large enough to provide off-street parking,
passenger and freight loading, buffer strips, planted areas and the required yard
areas appropriate to the zoning district. Off-street parking space should be provided
for the school staff in the ratio of one space for each staff member. Parking for com-
munity functions should be provided on the site in the ratio of one space f o r each eight
seats (or seating capacity) in the auditorium or general assembly rooms. In the event
that some off-street parking space would be available elsewhere, as in the case of an
elementary school which is located in conjunction with a Firehall-Municipal building,
these requirements may be modified, If the parking requirements for the teaching
staff and for community functions were available, it would still be necessary to provide
off -street spaces for visitor parking.
The Playground site should be located in conjunction with the elementary school.
An analysis of potential playground sites and possible improvement of the existing play-
ground is discussed in the Future Recreation Plan. These potential areas a re located
on the Future Land U s e Map and the Future Community Facilities Map. A playground
should provide the following:
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I1 B I I I I 1 1 I I
1. Small apparatus areas for pre-school children. 2. Apparatus area for older children. 3. Qpen-space for informal play. 4. Surfaced area for court games such a s tennis, volleyball,
5 Softball, baseball, soccer and football areas. 6. Provision for sanitary facilities and drinking fountains. 7. Area for crafts, storytelling and dramatics. 8. Sheltered area. 9. Planted areas.
shuffelboard and basketball.
PUBLIC WATER SYSTEM RECOMMENDATIONS
The present water supply for Middle Taylor Township is provided by the
Johnstown Water Authority, the Middle Taylor Township Water Authority, and a
private water system owned and operated by the families in the Valley View area
for their use only.
Recommendations for the future public water system involves two basic
objectives. The first and most important objective is to discontinue the outdated
private water system in the Valley View area. One of the most important pre-
requisites for future residential expansion is an adequate and dependable water
supply. The present system in the Valley View area, with its outdated.pipelines
and non-dependable water supply, will have to be replaced. It is recommended
that the families in this area replace the present out-dated facility and tap into the
larger, more dependable water lines of the Middle Taylor Township Water Authority.
An adequate and dependable water supply will attract more families to the area.
The second objective is to extend the present lines of the Middle Taylor
Township Water Authority into areas where future residential development is alrtici-
pated. The most efficient way to provide water to a new residential area is to have
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the land developer of. subdivider install the water main themself and add the cost of
installation to the price of the lots. This will relieve the lot purchaser and- the Township
from the responsibility of installing a water main. Often the lack of an adequate water
line in an area will inhibit the purchase of lots and stimey the growth of an otherwise
potential residential area. These two objectives a r e shown on the Future Water System
Map for Middle Taylor Township. Refer to Future Water System Map No. 3.
FUTURE SEWAGE FACILITIES RECOMMENDATIONS
Because of the severe topographic limitations and scattered residential develop-
ment, it is unlikely that a Sanitary Sewer Collection System can be installed in an econ-
omic manner. Therefore, it is recommended that the Township adopt and enforce an
ordinance controlling the installation and operation of on-lot sewerage disposal methods.
It is also recommended that minimum lot sizes of 20,000 square feet be considered for
all future development within the Township. This lot size may be reduced to 12,000
square feet in a subdivision where the developer installs a package plant and collection
system for all lots within the subdivision.
The malfunction of on-lot treatment methods is apparent in several areas of the
Township and it is recommended that the Township make a detailed inventory of all
existing on-lot treatment facilities. Based on this detailed inventory, the Township
should determine the advisability of installing package plants where on-lot malfunctions
cannot be corrected by the proper installation of an appropriate method of on-lot dis-
posal. The adoption and diligent enforcement of the provisions of Act 537 will enable
the Township to provide a suitable means of sewerage disposal; however, it is absolutely
essential that all existing on-lot malfunctioning systems be brought up to standard im-
mediately. The continued neglect of the on-lot sewerage treatment malfunctions will inevitably result in the necessity of installing an extremely costly sewerage collection system.
20.
Pennsylvania Sewerage Facilities Act 537 empowers and mandates all munici-
palities to adopt and enforce an ordinance governing the installation and operation of
on-lot treatment installations
and provides 50% reimbursement to any municipality for costs incurred in enforcing the
Act. The Pennsylvania Department of Health conducts classes for enforcement officers
and it is recommended that the Township appoint an enforcement officer to be trained in
the proper administration of the Act. It is also recommended that the Township contact
adjacent municipalities to determine the advisability of enforcement on a regional basis e
The Act also establishes standards for all installations
In general, public sewer systems will not be required for Middle Taylor Township
if on-lot treatment methods a re controlled and properly installed. Package plants and
collection systems may be installed by a subdivider who wishes to reduce the minimum
lot size from 20,000 square feet to 12,000 square feet. A feasibility study should be
conducted in the Valley View area to determine the appropriate method of correcting
existing on-lot malfunctions.
RECOMMENDED SOLID WASTE MANAGEMENT
The Solid Waste Management Act provides that all municipalities with a popula-
tion density of 300 ~r more persons per square mile develop a plan for collection and
disposal of sslid wastes Presently, garbage collection is an individual responsibility
of Township residents. Most people rely on private contract haulers for disposal; how-
ever, some families maintain dumps or small individual land fills on their property.
In order for the Township to handle Solid Waste Management on an economical basis,
it is recommended khat the Tomship joint municipalities of the Greater Johnstown Area
in developing a Regional Plan for Solid Waste Management.
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FIRE PROTECTION RECOMMENDATIONS
Fire protection for Middle Taylor Township is provided by an efficient volunteer
organization. In addition, the volunteer organization has cooperating agreements with
volunteer fire companies in adjacent municipalities which facilitate reciprocal protection.
The company maintains a centrally located, one story, brick structure which houses the
equipment and is also used for social activities. The structure was started in 1959 and
completed In 1960 and is adequate to accommodate existing and future fire protection
needs
The fire fighting equipment owned by the company includes two pumpers and a
1,500 gallon tanker equipped with radio communications. Also available for use by the
company are portable pumps, lights and assorted first aid equipment. Presently the
fire protection in Middle Taylor is adequate and will need only to replace worn out and
outdated equipment for future fire protection. The company should establish a sinking
fund for equipment replacement and should replace the existing pumpers as soon as
funds are accumulated.
POLICE PROTECTION RECOMMENDATIONS
The future growth of Middle Taylor Township will require a full time police
officer. At present, the part-time officer provides adequate police protection, however
a s the number of residential and commercial dwellings increase in the Township, the
residents will experience an everhcreasing need for full time police protection.
It is recommended that the future police headquarters be located in the municipal
building rather than located at the officer's house. It is also recommended that the
Township invest in a patrol car with 2-way radio communication tied into the Suburban
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Police Communications System or the city radio communications system. The Township
should also join the suburban police organization to take advantage of the various training
programs sponsored by the regional group and to augment the local police force with back-
up man power and equipment.
FUTURE RECREATION
Presently, Middle Taylor Township does not own or maintain any recreation sites
or facilities. One of the existing parks is owned by the Brethren Church and the other is
a part of the school system. To insure greater availability of recreation facilities to
Township residents the recommended recreation facilities a re as follows:
1. Expansion of School Site
The elementary school site should be expanded to accommodate
additional recreation facilities. The present little league field should be
improved and expanded to an all-purpose field to provide for intermediate
and senior league in addition to little league baseball. A duel purpose
(tennis-volleyball) court should also be constructed at the site. In general,
recreation facilities should be expanded to accommodate a wider range of
age groups.
2. New Valley View Park
The southern portion of the Township is virtually without recrea-
tion facilities; and therefore, it is recommended that a new park be developed
in the Valley View area of the Township. The park should be a minimum of
five acres and should have an all-purpose field and a tot-lot with swings,
climbing apparatus, sand box and general playground equipment. It is
23 .,
MIDDLE TAYLOR TWI? IMPROVED RECREATION AREA E L EM EN TA RY SC H 00 L SITE
, SOFTBALL,
, - . . . . .
. . , . . . . ( . - . - - . . . .
. . . . . . . . - .
. . . . , . .
- - . .
* . - . : - .
" . . =_. PURPOSE FIELD . . . . . * i . . . . . . . . . . . - .
. . . . i
. . . . . . .
. .
. . . i r :
I .
. . . . .,>, . . . .i .: . . . . . . . . .
. . ., . . I . . ' .,, -. . . . . . . ._ . ...+ . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
APPROXIMATE SCALE I"= 200' -: cwly COUNTY ?L- C011W8810N
MIDDLE TAYLOR TWI? PROPOSED RECREATION SITE VALLEY VIEW PARK
APWOXHlATE SCALE 1". 400'
'--I- ' I TENNIS
j ' I
COURTS 1 APPROXIMATE SCALE I " = 60'
- i
I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I
recbmnien8ed that the land be acquired through the Project 70 Program
and the park be developed with grants available from the 500 Million
Dollar Bond Issue Program. Utilizing the combined programss 50% of
the funds for acquisition and development a re available from the grant
program administered by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Department
of Community Affairs.
3 Conservation Areas and Trail System
The steep wooded hillsides which surround Middle Taylor
Township afford an inspiring opportunity for the conservation and pres-
ervation of Open Space. Development on the slopes should be carefully
controlled to avoid costly street and utility installations and to preserve
the natural beauty of the area. The Townships proximity to the Western
Pennsylvania Conservancy Laurel Mountain Trail Park affords an oppor-
tunity to tie a system of Township Trails to the Laurel Mountain Trail and
the Conemaugh Gap. It is recommended that a Trail System be developed
along the steep wooded slopes of the Township which will be suitable to
accommodate hiking as well as horse back riding.
The Trail System will be instrumental in making the many farms
in the Township attractive as horse stables and therefore will provide a
new source of economic base for Township residents, as well as increasing
the value of existing farms in the community. An organized, coordinated
trail system would also give rise to a demand for public and private game
grounds. The wooded slopes a re one of the peatest assets of the Township
26.
I I l I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I
and should be tied together in a manner beneficial to all Township
residents, It is recommended that a detailed study be prepared to
determine the appropriate layout of a trail system and to determine
the means of assuring right-of-way or easements which should make
the system possible. A modest investment in a trail system should
bring many returns to the Township in terms of increased employ-
ment and increased property values. Refer to Future Community
Facilities Map No. 2.
CONCLUSION
The Community Facilities of Middle Taylor Township can be improved and
brought up to acceptable standards with very modest expenditures of funds. The
existing water system provides a basis for future water supply if development is
controlled to areas within the economic extension of existing lines. Regulation of
on-lot treatment methods will provide an adequate means of sewerage disposal. The
existing school can be expanded to accommodate increased enrollment e
Grants a re available to aid the Township in developing adequate recreation
facilities. The natural beauty of the wooded hillsides should be preserved and
developed for recreation purposes through a trail system. The Capital Improvements
Program outlines the necessary improvements to the Community Facilities and iden-
tifies cost and sources of revenue to finance the necessary improvements.
27.
I I 1 I I I 1
LEGEND EXISTING FACILITIES TO REMAIN
I. ~ o w s t a ~ t u u ~ i c l P r \ L ~ OFFEE) 0 MUNICIPAL BUILDING
@ FIRE STATIONS
A SEMI-PUBLIC
[> CEMETERY
2 MIDDLE TAYLOR STATION
&PLEASANT HILL BRETHERW CHURCH
1. BENSHOFF HILL CEMETERY a ST. NICHOLAS CEMETERY
FUTURE COMMUNITY FACILITIES SCHOOL TO BE IMPROVED 3. U W TAYLOR FLEUENTARY
RECREATION FACILITIES TO BE IMPROV 4 8 C H O a PLAYQSOUND E CHURCH PLAYFIELD
CONSERVATION AREA
NEW PARK
.WI TRAIL SYSTEM
--- 6" LINE
-SERVICE AREA 0 FIRE HYDRANT
I I I I I I I I I I I I 1 I I I 1 I I
FUTURE THOROUGHFARES
I I I I I I I I I
I1
MIDDLE TAYLOR TOWNSHIP
FUTURE THOROUGHFARES
INTRODUCTION
Local and Regional Highway systems play a critical part in the
projected growth or decline of a community. In compiling the Future __ _.
Thoroughfares Report for Middle Taylor Township both the condition of
existing streets and land available for new construction were analyzed, 1- I- "
Since 88% of the Township is presently undeveloped emphasis is placed on
new street construction required to provide access to all areas of the com-
munity. Therefore, the recommendations contained in this report a re con-
cerned primarily with improving and extending the existing street network.
The recommendations for reconstructing and resurfacing local and state
maintained streets a re intended to provide a safe and modern highway system
for the township.
I I I
I I I I I 1 I I I I 1 I I I
GOALS AND OBJECTIVES
Provide for the separation of through and local traffic.
Provide improved access from the Township to the region and market area.
Provide for the safe, efficient movement of t rdf ie within the Township.
MAJOR HIGHWAY RECOMMENDATIONS:
State Routes
State maintained routes a re generally classified as arterials which. take
traffic through the Borough in addition to providing access to areas within Middle
Taylor Township.
FUTURE THOROUGHFARE RECONLMENDATIONS
On the basis of the proposed highway standards and anticipated devel-
opment within the Township , recommended Future Thoroughfares are shown on
Map No. 4 and a re briefly described in the following paragraphs.
Regional Highways and Expressways
The proposed regional highway network has been prepared by the Regional
Planning Commission of the Johnstown Area and the Johnstown Area Transportation
Study. The Regional Thoroughfares Map illustrates the location of Middle Taylor
Township in relation to the existing and proposed regional highways. The proposed
Central Expressway has the greatest impact on the Future Thoroughfares for Middle
Taylor Township because it will provide direct access from the Township to the re-
gional and state highway system.
Cooper Avenue Extension
Cooper Avenue Extension is proposed as the northern section of the Central
Expressway. This section is proposed as a four lane limited access highway with a
design speed of 50 miles per hour. The highway is proposed as a 48 foot wide facility
32.
I I I I I I I I I I 1 I I I I I I I I
with traffic barrier median to seperate two traffic lanes in each direction. The
Proposed Cooper Avenue Extension will carry heavy volumes of through traffic and
will function as a by-pass for the heavily congested Broad Street where average daily
volumes of 20,000 vehicles are recorded.
An interchange is recommended in the vicinity of Iron Street and Prosser
Hollow Road to provide access to Middle Taylor Townshipe The construction of
Prosser Hollow Road is proposed as the major arterial collector to link the Township
with the State and Regional Highway network.
Regional Collectors
The Regional Collectors OF arterials are proposed to provide improved
access to the Township and to provide safe efficient movement to and from areas
within the Township. In general, the arterials a r e proposed to provide improved
access to the Township and to provide safe efficient movement to and from areas
within the Township. In general, the arterials should be constructed with a design
speed of fifty miles per hour with twenty-four feet of pavement width on a sixty foot
right-of-wqy, The collectors are intended to carry substantial volumes of through
traffic in addition to providing access to abutting property; therefore, sight distances
a re important safety considerations in the construction of these major roads.
Proposed Prosser Hollow Road
New construction is proposed for the approximate alignment of the existing
Prosser Hollow Road.as the major future access highway to Middle Taylor Township-
Construction standards for the highway should provide twenty-four foot of pavement
width on a sixty foot right-of-way in accordance with the Pennsylvania Department of
Highway design criteria No. 2.1 04. The proposed project would replace the present
steep hazardous access provided by Middle Taylor Road. Upon completion of the pro-
ject, the present Middle Taylor Road should be abandoned.
33 0
I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I
The project is recommended as an extension of Legislative Route 11015 from
the intersection of Nayer Road (T386) to the proposed interchange on the Cooper Avenue
Extension section of the Centpal Expressway a distance of approximately 1 3 miles.
The estimated traffic volumes on the completed roadway are 1 100 A.D. T. in 1975
and 1800 A.D.T. in 1990. The proposed project Is the responsibility of the Pennsyl-
vania Department of Highways and wi l l cost an estimated $600,006). The project is
recommended as the Number 1 priority ffor arterial improvements in the Middle
Taylor Township.
Middle Taylor Road
Middle Taylor Road is the present access highway from the valley floor to
the developed plateau area of Middle T a y l ~ a Township., Present grades on the road-
way exceed 10% and are excessive .in terms of the type and volume of traffic using
the highway. Excessive grades constitute a serious safety hazard in the prolonged
winter months when slippery conditions of ice and snow exist on the highway.
In addition to excessive grades, there is several sharp turns which restrict
sighting distances and are also a safety hazard. The narrow twenty-one foot wide
pavement width and two foot berms also contribute to the inadequacy of the present
roadway. Because of the rugged steep slopes along the present right-of-way, it is
unlikely that the paesen% inadequacies can be economically eliminated on the existing
aliggment . - It is recommended that the present Middle Taylor Road be abandoned OF re-
verted to a local access highway when the Proposed Presser Hollow Road is constructed.
The present 4,200 vehicle per day which uses Middle Ta31Q-r Road will be accommodated
by the Prosser Hollow Project. The reclassification of Middle Taylor Road is recommen-
ded as the Number 2 Priority Project.
34 0
I I
Benshoff Hil l Road Improvement and Relocation
Benshoff Hill Road is the principal arterial serving the existing and future
areas of development, within Middle Taylor Township, with a present traffic volume
of 350 to 1,400 vehicles per day. The existing right-of-way varies from thirty-eight
feet to fifty feet and the present pavement width is 18 feet with irregular shoulders
and berm conditions. Surfacing of the roadway consists of type 61 bituminous con-
crete and condition varies from fair to poor.
New construction and realignment is proposed for hazardous sections of the
Benshoff Hill Road as indicated on the Future Thoroughfares Map. Other improvements
to the Benshoff Hill Road include: widen the pavement width along the entire length
(approximately 3.9 mile) to a minimum of 24 feet; and widen and grade the intersection
of Benshoff Hill Road, Middle Taylor Road, and Earl Street in order to provide proper
sight distance and proper drainage.
Local Collectors
Local collectors serve as a means of linking the expressway and regional
collector systems to the local streets. Future local collectors should be constructed
with a minimum right-of-way of 60 feet and a pavement width of 24 feet. Parking
should be permitted on one side only, so that through traffic in either direction will
not be obstructed. The design speed should be 35 miles per hour.
The local collectors within Middle Taylor Township include Nayer , Linkfield,
and Hinkston Roads. Recommended improvements to each of these local collectors
a re as follows:
35.
;I 'I I
LOCAL COLLECTORS
Nayer Road
Nayer Road begins near the Benshoff Bill Cemetery and continues through
West Taylor Township to connect with State Route 403 at the west end of Johnstown.
Its present paved length within the Township is 2,6QO feet and services approximately
5 families. It is recommended that Nayer Road be realigned near the Township
boundary to eliminate the existing sharp xurve , and the berms should be widened
and graded to a width of 4 feet. The present pavement width of Nayer Road should
not be widened until sufficient development warrants it,
LINKFIE LD ROAD
Linkfield Road begins at its intersection of Benshoff Hill Road near the
Pleasant Hill Brethern Church and terminates at its intersection of Hopan Avenue
in the City of Johnstown, Linkfield Road is approzimately 21 fqet wide and paved
for a distance of 4,550 feet, the remaining 2,100 feet to the Honan Avenue inter-
section is unpaved. In addition to serving appraximately 35 families Linkfield Road
should be considered as a potential qccess road to Middle Taylor Township from the
City of Johnstown via Honan Avenue. The recommended improvements to Linkfield
Road include, widening and permanently paving the existing paved section to a minimum
width of 24 feet with a 4 foot berm. The unpaved section should be widened to a
minimum width of 24 feet with a 4 foot berm and temporarily surfaced wil$ tar and
chips until further residential expansion warrants permanent pavement.
HINKSTON ROAD
Hinkston Road services the central and northern portions of the Township.
It functions as a local collector for approximately 43 families, Hinkston Road pro-
36.
1
‘I 1 1 I 1 I 1 1
vides direct access to either the state maintained Benshoff Hill Road or unpaved
Honan Avenue, Hinkston Road is approximately 21 feet wide and paved for a distance
of 6,900 feet, the remaining 11 , 800 feet is unpaved. It is recommended that the paved
portion of Hinkston Road be realigned to eliminate the hazardous curves as illustrated I
on the Future Thoroughfares Map. The realigned portion should be widened and per-
manently paved to a minimum width of 24 feet with 4 foot berms. The remaining un-
paved portion of the Hinkston Road should be widened to a minimum width of 24 feet
and temporarily surfaced with tar and chips until sufficient development warrants
permanent paving.
LOCAL STREETS
Local streets , which are primarily confined to the Valley View Neighborhood,
provide direct access to individual properties which abut the streets. Traffic on local
streets should originate or terminate at some point along the street, thereby discour-
aging through traffic.
Al l future local streets should be constructed with a minimum right-of-way
of 50 feet and a pavement width of 32 feet. Parking should be permitted on one side
of all streets. The design speed should not exceed 25 miles per hour.
Earl , Taft , and Castle Streets a re located in the Valley View Neighborhood
adjacent to the intersection of Middle Taylor Road and Benshoff Hill Road. These
paved lscal streets serve the major portion of families located in Valley View, there-
fore have priority over other local streets which a re presently unpaved. It is reco-
mmended that Earl , Taft, and Castle Streets be regraded, where necessary , so that
the grade does not exceed 6% to permit adequate storm water drainage. These streets
37.
I 1 I I I I I I I II I I 1 1 I 1 i 1 I
should alqo be widened and permanently paved to a minimum width of 32 feet. The
remaining local streets located in Valley View are presently unpaved and should be
widened to a minimum width of 32 feet and temporarily surfaced with tar and chips
until further development warrants permanent paving. Al l alley ways located in the
Valley View Neighborhood not used for servicing rear utilities or for garbage col-
lection should be closed. All future construction of alley ways should be prohibited.
The hazardouq intersection of Middle Taylor Road and Benshoff Hill Road
should be realigned, regraded, and permanently paved in order to provide a gradual
turning radius, and proper sight distance
width of this intersection is 32 feet with a 4 foot berm.
The recommended minimum pavement
SUMMARY
The future development of Middle Taylor Township is dependent upon a
sound road program. Township Officials should, upon review of these recommen-
dations establish a program and fund for the systematic improvement of roads. The
most important roads should be improved as early in the program a s possible. The
recommended order of road improvements will be included in a priority list given in
the Capital Improvements section of this report. The timing of road improvements
is particularly important to the growth of residential and commercial areas of Middle
Taylor Township. The Township Planning Commission and Township Supervisors
should also meet with State Department of Highwayficials to program improvements
to State Highways and to coordinate activities.
38 0
I I 1 I I I I 1 i 11 I I 1 1 I 1 1 1 I
MIDDLE TAYLOR TOWNSHIP SUMMARY OF MAJOR STREET AND HIGHWAY IMPROVEMENTS
PROJECT DE SCRIPTION LENGTH
State Responsibility
Cooper Avenue Extension 1,400 Feet Prosser Hollow Road 5,900 Feet Benshoff Hill Road 20,600 Feet
Township Responsibility
Nayer Street 2,000 Feet . Realignment - Resurfacing
Linkfield Road 6,250 Feet Widening, Paving
Hinkston Road 18,700 Feet Realignment, Paving
Earl Street 2,500 Feet Grading , Paving
Taf t Street 1,100 Feet Grading, Paving
Castle Street 2,110 Feet Grading, Paving
Miscellaneous Maintenance and Resurfacing
INTERSECTION IMPROVEMENTS
Middle Taylor Road and Benshoff Hill Road
39.
COST
$ 2,600.000 600,000 659,200
32,000
78,700
261,700
40,000
17,600
33,760
5,000 Per Year
4,000
I
CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM
MIDDLE TAYLOR TOWNSHIP I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I
CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM
The implementation of recommendations contained in the Long-Range Plan can
be accomplished through the preparation of a Capital Improvement Program and Budget.
This involves:
1. The preparation of a comprehensive listing of all recommended capital improvements.
An analysis of the scope and relative need of each improvement.
The assignment of costs and responsible agency for each improve- ment.
2 .
3 .
4. Establishing priority for each improvement.
Through this process, the community is provided a Capital Improvement Program
which generally extends over a twenty-year period. From this program, a six-year
Capital Improvement Budget is drawn which will guide the township and provide an
orderly and systematic means of accomplishing each proposed improvement. Consistent
evaluation of the Capital Budget, and the Total Capital Improvements Program is required
to maintain a continuous program which reflects current community needs and available
or anticipated municipal funds
This evaluation must occur yearly. Municipal officials should check those im-
provements accomplished, delayed or revised during the previous year, assess the
township's resources for the coming year and add to the Capital Budget those projects
necessary for the future growth in the community, In this manner, a new budget is de-
vised, extending over the next six-year period.
41 e
I I I
Table II, Long-Range Capital Improvement Program, outlines 19 proposed capital
improvements which reflect proposals included in the Long-Range Plan. These improve-
ments a re grouped in three phases. Phase I should be included in the initial capital
budgeting period. Phase I1 and I11 are scheduled throughout the planning period of twenty
years I I I I I I I I I I I I
I !
I I
42.
TABLE 11 LONG RANGE CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM
MIDDLE TAYLOR TOWNSHIP CAMBRIA COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA
1970 - 1975
Phase I - Elements of Improvement Program to be Completed Under Initial Capital Budget Period. ~ .,
E stirnated Responsible Proposed Method Project Description Schedule cost Entity of Financing
1. Middle Taylor Road 1970 Benshoff Hill Road Inter sect ion Improvement
State & Township Highway Fund
$ 4,000.00 T own ship/State
2. Hinkston Road 1970-90 94,000.00 Township Township Realignment Tar & Chip
3. Linkfield Road 1970-71 16,800.00 Township Town ship Widening Tar & Chip
4. Earl Street 1972 Grading Tary & Chip
5. Castle Street 1973 Grading Tar & Chip
6. Taft Street 1974 Grading Tar, & Chip
9,600.00 Township Township
9,600.00 Town ship Township
7,200.00 Township Township
7. Nayer Street 1975 -76 16,000.00 Township Township
Phase I1 - Elements to be Initiated Immediately - completion of Phase During 20 Year Planning Period.
8. Water Line Construction Valley View Area
Town ship 1970-90 To Be Determined Town ship Water Authority
Project De scription Schedule
10. Solid Wa.st.e Plan 1970-71
11. Sewage Feasibility Study 1971 -72
12. School 1976
13. Recreation 1970-90 School Playground 1976 Little League Field 1970-72 Basketball Court 1973 Valley View Park 1971 -74 Trail System 1975 -90
Estimated Responsible Proposed Method Cost Entity of Fimnchg
Te Be Detex-rnined Twp Water Authority
To Be Determ-hed Township Township
To Be Determiaeed Tswnship Township
To Be Determined School District
To Be Determined Town ship Township
14. Fire Protection 1970-90 2 5 0 / ~ e a r Volunteer Fire Dept.
15 Police Protection 1970-90 6 OO/Year Township
16 Miscellaneous 1970-90 To Be Determined Township Township Maintenance & Resurfacing
Phase 111 - To Be Scheduled During Next Six Years for Financhg in Future Capital Budgets. ~~ ~
17 Cooper Avenue Extension 1976-79 To Be Determined State
18. Prosser Hollow Road 1976-79 To Be Determined State
19. Benshoff Hill Road 1980 To Be Determined State
Pa. Dept. Highways
Pa. Dept. Highways
Pa., Dept. Highways.
I I I I I I I I I I I I i I I I I I I
PROJECT DESCRIPTIONS
Middle Taylor Road - Reclassification
Action: It is recommended that the Middle Taylor Road be either abandoned
or reverted to a local access road when the Prosser Hollow Road is
constructed.
Pending the action of the Township Supervisors on abandoning or pro-
viding limited local access, the reclassification of Middle Taylor Road
will not require a major expenditure from the Township's General Fund.
cost:
Intersection Improvement - Realigned, Graded and Permanently Paved
Action: The hazardous intersection of Middle Taylor Road, Earl Street, and
Benshoff Hill Road should be realigned, graded and paved to provide a
gradual turning radius, and proper sight distance. The minimum pave-
ment width of this intersection should be 32 feet with a four-foot berm.
The estimated cost of this project is set at $4,000. This project should
be financed through the joint cooperation of the Pennsylvania Department
of Highways and Middle Taylor Township.
cost:
Hinkston Road - Realign, Widen and Pave
Action: It is recommended that the paved portion of Hinkston Road be realigned
to eliminate hazardous curves and widened to a minimum width of 24
feet with four-foot berms. The remaining unpaved portion of the Hinkston
Road should be widened to a minimum width of 24 feet and temporarily
surfaced with tar and chips.
The estimated cost of realignment, widening and permanently paving
the existing paved portion of Hinkston Road is set at $220,800. The
cost:
45.
I 1 I i I i I i u I I i I I i 1 I I I
estimated cost of laying a tar and chip surface on the unpaved portion
of Hinkston Road is $40,900. The revenue for this project should be
financed through the Township's General Fund.
Linkfield Road - Widen and Pave
Action: It is recommended that the existing paved portion of Linkfield Road be
widened and permanently paved to a minimum width of 24 feet with
four-foot berms. The unpaved section should be widened to a mini-
mum width of 24 feet with a four-foot berm and temporarily surfaced
with tar and chips.
The estimated cost of widening and permanently paving the existing
paved section of Linkfield Road is set at $72 , 000. The estimated cost
of laying tar and chips on the unpaved portion of Linkfield Road is set
at $5,890. The combined cost of $78,690. should be financed through
the Township's General Fund.
cost:
Earl Street - Regrade, Widen and Pave
Action: The Township Supervisors should provide for the widening of Earl
Street to a minimum of 32 feet and repave sections where the grade
exceeds 6% so as to permit adequate storm water drainage.
The estimated cost of this project is $40,000 to be financed through
the Township's General Fund.
Cost:
Castle Street - Regrade, Widen and Pave
Action: The Township Supervisors should provide for the regrading, widening
and repaving of Castle Street to a minimum of 32 feet.
46.
I 1 1 I 1
I 1 1 I 1 I I 1 1 I I I 1
Coat: The egtimated cost of this project is $33 , 760 to be financed through
the Township's General Fund.
Taft Street - Regrade, Widen and Pave
Action: The Township Supervisors should provide for the regrading, widening
and repaving of Taft Street to a minimim of 32 feet.
The estimated cost of this project is $17,600 to be financed through
the Township's General Fund.
cost:
Nayer Road - Limited Realignment and Berm Widening
Action: It is recommended that Nayer Road be realigned near the township
boundary to eliminate the existing sharp curve and berm widths should
be graded and widened to a width of four feet.
The realigned portion of Nayer Road is estimated to cost $32,000. The
cost of widening and grading the berm is to be determined. This project
is to be financed through the Township's General Fund.
cost:
Water Line Construction - Valley View
Action: The Township Supervisors should cooperate with the Middle Taylor
Township Water Authority in the construction of water lines in the
Valley View Area.
Estimated cost of this project is $44,000 but with the completion of a
Feasibility Study a more accurate figure will be determined.
cost :
Water Line Construction - Township Developing Areas
Action: The Township Supervisors should cooperate with the Middle Taylor
Township Water Authority in the construction of new water lines as
development warrants.
47 0
1 I I 1 I I I I I I 1 4 1 I I 1 I I 1
cost: Estimated cost of the total project is $110.000. This cost will not
occur at any one time but over the entire twenty-year period.
Feasibility Study - Solid Waste
Action: The Township Supervisors should prepare a Solid Waste Feasibility
Study for the existing developed areas and areas of potential develop-
ment.
cost: Five hundred dollars.
Feasibility Study - Water and Sewage
Action: The Township Supervisors should cooperate with the Middle Taylor
Township Water Authority in the development of a Water Feasibility
Study for the Valley View Area and developing areas of the township.
The Sewage Feasibility Study should coincide with the Water Study in
the Valley View Area and developing areas of the township.
Estimated cost of the study is $1,000 which should be shared by the
township and the Municipal Authority.
cost:
School Expansion
Action: The Planning Commission from Middle Taylor Township should coor-
dinate local growth data and report accordingly to the Ferndale Area
School Board relative to the exact timing of this facility.
To be determined by Feasibility Study. cost:
Recreation - School Playground, Valley View Park, Trail System
Action: A master plan for park development should be prepared which will
provide a schedule of improvements on a continuing basis according
to established phasing.
48.
I I I I I I I I I u 1 B i I I I
I 1
~I
cost: The estimated cost of $9,000 during the Six-Year Period will include
a yearly outlay of $1 , 500 for playground improvements.
Fire Equipment
Action: The Township Supervisors should provide for the modernization and
expansion of the existing fire fighting equipment.
To be financed through a special fund at a yearly cost to be determined
by the volunteer fire company.
cost:
Police Equipment
Action: The Township Supervisors should take action that would provide a police
car , office equipment and men for the protection of the township residents,
The estimated cost of $4,200 during the Six-Year Period includes a yearly
investment of $700. It is recommended that the yearly investment accum-
ulate for the entire Six-Year Period, whereby the Township Supervisors
can purchase a new Police Cruiser without going into further debt, Invest-
ments should continue indefinitely on a yearly basis to furnish additional
police equipment.
cost:
Berry Street - Regrade , Widen and Temporarily Surface
Action: The Township Supervisors should provide for the widening of Berry
Street to a minimum of 32 feet and surface with tar and chips only as
development warrants e
It is estimated that this project will cost $1,620 to be financed through
the Township's General Fund.
Cost:
49.
i I I I I I I i I I 1 I I I I I 1 I I
Stuart Street - Regrade, Widen and Temporarily Surface
Action: The Township Supervisors should provide for the regrading and widen-
ing of Stuart Street to a minimum of 32 feet and surface with tar and
chips only as development warrants..
The estimated cost of this project is $3,900 to be financed through the
Township's General Fund.
cost:
Knox Street - Regrade, Widen and Temporarily Surface
Action: The Township Supervisors should provide for the regrading and widen-
ing of Knox Street to a minimum of 32 feet and surface with tar and
chips only as development warrants
The estimated cost of this project is $5,550 to be financed through the
Township's General Fund.
cost:
Garden Street - Regrade, Widen and Temporarily Surface
Action: The Township Supervisors should provide for the regrading and widen-
ing of Garden Street to a minimum of 32 feet and surface with tar and
chips only as development warrants.
The estimated cost of this project is $1,387 to be financed through the
Township's General Fund.
cost:
Cooper Avenue Extension - Four-Lane Limited Access Highway
Action: The Township Supervisors should coordinate with City and State Highway
Officials so that the expressway extension will provide safe and efficient
movement of vehicles through Middle Taylor Township
Cost: The highway construction cost is approximately $2,600,000. Revenue
from the Pennsylvania Department of Highways will be used to finance
50.
I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I
this project. The cost includes permanent paving of the 48 foot wide
facility apd erection of a traffic barrier median to separate two traffic
lanes in each direction. This estimated cost should be adjusted upward
five to ten percent each year the project is extended as a result of
increasing construction and material rates.
Prosser Hollow Road - Realign, Widen and Permament Paving
Action: It is recommended that the Township Supervisors coordinate with State
Highway Officials so that a safe and efficient access road to Middle
Taylor Township from the Cooper Avenue Extension will be built.
The estimated cost of this project is $600,000.to be financed through
the Pennsylvania Department of Highways.
cost:
Benshoff Hill Road - Realign, Grade and Widen
Action: The Benshoff Hill Road should be realigned to eliminate all hazardous
curves, graded to provide proper storm drainage and permanently
paved to a minimum width of 24 feet.
The estimated cost for the realignment and reconstruction of Benshoff
Hill Road is set at $659,200. Revenue from the Pennaylvania Department
of Highways will be used to finance this project.
cost:
51.
I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I
CAPITAL BUDGET
A capital expenditures budget should be developed as recommended on Table 11,
which will specify funds for a continuing program of needed improvements. In past
years the township did n0t use a capital budget which resulted in an unbalanced, un-
planned improvement program. Table 111 illustrates the township expenditures for
Capital Improvements for the period 1963 to 1968.
TABLE I11 CAPITAL EXPENDITURES
1963-1 968
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
Project Total
Snow Removal and Snow Fence Purchase $14,399.15
Signs and Index Boards 660.67
Repairs of Tools and Machinery 7,823.82
Construction and Reconstruction of Roads 33,630.80
Storm Sewer Construction 1,655.93
Purchase of Tools and Machinery 14,536.60
Maintenance and Repairs of Roads and Bridges 13,387.46
Guard Rail Construction 13,776.13
Total Six-Year Capital Outlay $99,870.56
Six Year Average
$ 2,389.86
110.11
1,303.97
5,605 10
275.98
2,422.70
2,231.24
2,296.00
$16,634.96
Source: Middle Taylor Township Financial Reports 1963-1 968
The total monies spent for capital improvements is normal for Middle Taylor
Township and townships of this nature, but the yearly average for improvements are
low. Table IV illustrates the high and low expenditures for 1963 to 1968 and indicates
why the six year average in Table I11 is low.
52.
I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I
TABLE IV HIGH AND LOW DOLLAR EXPENDITURES
CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS 1963-1968
Project High
1. Snow Removal and Snow Fence Purchase $ 5,000
2. Signs and Index Boards 400
3. Repairs of Tools and Machinery 2,000
4. Construction and Reconstruction of Roads 15 , 000
5. Storm Sewer Construction 75 0
6. Purchase of Tools and Machinery 13,000
7 . Maintenance and Repair of Roads and Bridges 4,150
8. Guard Rail Construction 13,000
Source: Middle Taylor Financial Reports 1963-1968
Year
1967
1968
1964
1965
1966
1966
1967
1963
Year - 1965
1965-64-63
1963
1964-63
1964-63
1963
1964
1964
A s indicated on the above table, expenditures for itemized improvements fluctuate
from a high of $15,000 to a low of zero for a six-year period. This indicates the need for
a capital budget so improvements may be completed on a regularly scheduled basis. Total
expenses for all improvements during the 1963-1968 period have ranged from a high of
$15,000 to a low of $7,076.34. (Table III)
A capital expenditures budget should be developed as recommended on Table V,
which will specify funds for a continuing program of needed improvements and a stabiliza-
tion of expenditures. The elements listed in Table V represent the projects found in Phase
I of the Long Range Capital Improvement Program (Table In), which will be of local finan-
cial responsibility.
53.
I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11 0
TABLE V SIX-YEAR CAPITAL BUDGET
1970 - 1975 MIDDLE TAYLOR TOWNSHIP
Proposed Projects
Middle Taylor Road and Benshoff Hill Road Intersection
Hinkston Road
Linkfield Road
Earl Street
Castle Street
Taft Street
Nayer Street
Police
Fire
Recreation
Miscellaneous Maintenance and Resurfacing
TOTAL
1975 - 1973 1974 - 1972 - 1971 - 1970 - 675 675 675 675 6 75 6 75
9,000
9,000
9,000
9,000
9,000
9,000
600 600 650 65 0 700 700
200 200 200 200 200 200
1,000 1,000 1 , 000 1,000 1,000 1,000
7,000 7,000 7,500 7,500 7,500 8,000
18,475 18,475 19,025 19,025 19,025 20,025
General operating expenses are expected to follow established patterns of annual
increase in succeeding years. Al l revenues which have been previously derived from the
current eighteen mill tax levy and other sources of local income will be required for cur-
rent expenses, normal maintenance, and debt service, Additional revenue derived from
increased assessments will be largely off-set by increased costs of government through-
out the initial Six-Year Capital Budget Period.
54.
I I I I I I I I I I
I I II I I I I I I I
In order to supply revenue sufficient to implement the Long-Range Development
Plan as proposed in the Six-Year Capital Budget, it is recommended that past operating
procedure be eliminated and a new operating procedure adopted. Specifically, the
Township should adopt a strict budget and not deviate from it. Table VI illustrates the
total assessed value and indebtedness from 1964 to 1968. According to established
trends of debt repayment, the current $8,693.33 indebtedness should be liberated by the
end of 1969. With the liberation of the debt, the Township will have a total borrowing
capacity of over $150,000. However, the Township should not incur any further debt
until a capital budget is approved and if the added debt will not result in an increase in
tax millage or place an extra burden on the Township.
Table VII, when interpreted, indicates that Total Assessed Valuation is decreas-
ing by 0,3% per year e This may at first appear to be a modest decrease, nevertheless,
the graduated 0.3% decrease results in a net loss of assessed valuation of $50,000 in
1969 to a $10,000 loss in 1975 (see Table VIII). Mineral Value is decreasing at a 12.0%
per year while real estate value is increasing at a modest one percent per year. The
decrease in mineral valuation is a normal loss in all municipalities and the real estate
increase will usually offset the loss in mineral valuation. This is not the case in
Middle Taylor Township. Based on past trends, Table VI projects the change in Mineral
Value and Real Estate Value from 1967 to 1975. The net time analysis decrease (change
in Total Assessed Valuation) is Oe3% per year based over the 1967-1975 period. The
real estate growth in the Township will not be sufficient to offset the mineral valuation
depletion until sometime after the turn of the century, (2,000 A.D.) This projection is
based on a progressive decrease of 12% yearly in mineral valuation and a 1.0% increase
yearly in real estate value.
5 5 .
~~~ ~ ~~ ~ ~~ ~ ~
= = = = = - = - = = = = - D = = D = =
TABLE VI MIDDLE TAYLOR TOWNSHIP
ASSESSED VALUE AND INDEBTEDNES$ 1964 - 1968
- _ 1964 1965 1966 1967 1968
*Real Estate 688 , 680 698 , 400 713 , 030 723,890 723,450 Mineral Value 324,530 324 530 316,570 316,570 278 , 440
Sub -Total 1 , 013 , 210 1 , 022,930 1 , 02 9 , 600 1 , 040,460 1 , 010 890 Occupations 44,700 45 , 550 48,200 47 , 900 45 , 450
Assessed Value Total 1,057,910 1,068,480 1,077,800 1,088,360 1 , 056 , 340
Debt Limit Board of Supervisors 5% 52 , 895 53 , 454 53 , 890 54,418 52 , 817 Action of Vobrs ' 10% 105,791 106 848 107 , 780 108 , 836 105 , 634
Total 15% 158,686 1&,302 161 , 670 163 , 254 158,451 1
Minus Debt Outstanding at Beginning of Year
Minus Amount Incurred During Year
6,000 3,000 10,000 16 , 500 14 , 500
4,500 12 , 000 16 500 5 , 500 3,000
Amount Paid During Year 7,500 5 , 000 10,000 7,500 8,806.67
N e t Debt at End of Year 3,000 10,000 16,500 14 , 500 8 , 693.33
Total Supervisors Borrowing
Total Electors Borrowing . Capacity 5% 48 , 895 43 , 454 37,390 39,918 44 , 123.67
Capacity 10% 105,791 106,848 107 , 780 108 , 836 105,634
Total Remaining Borrowing Capacity 155 , 686 150,302 145 , 170 148 , 754 149,757.67
Source : Middle Taylor Township Financial Reports : 56.
TABLE VI1 CHANGE IN ASSESSED VALUATION FROM 1964 to 1969
MIDDLE TAYLOR TOWNSHIP
IlBIl
"All Real Estate llA+B1l
Year (Sub-Surface) Change Value (Surface) Change Valation Change Mineral Value Yearly % Occupations Yearly % Total Assessed Yearly $6
1965 324 530 ------ 743 , 950 +14.4% 1 , 068,480 + 0.9%
1966 316,570 - 2.5% 761 , 230 +23.2% 1 , 077,8 00 + 0.8%
1967 316 , 570 771 , 790 +13.8% 1 , 088 , 360 + 0.9%
1968 278,440 . _ -12.0% 768 , 900 - 3.7% 1,047,340 - 3.7%
1969 242,570 -12.8% 764 , 900 - se2% 1,007,470 - 3.8%
Source: Middle Taylor Financial Reports Cambria County Planning Commission
,57.
TABLE Vm
MIDDLE TAYLOR TOWNSHIP CHANGE IN ASSESSED VALUATION FROM 1970 - 1975
"All tlBIl 1 TA +B It Mineral Value Yearly % Real Estate Yearly % Total Assessed Yearly %
Year (Sub-surface) Change Value (Surface) Change Valuation Change
1970 $ 212,492 -12.4% $ 772,549 + l o 0% $ 985,041 -1.9%
1971 186 143 -12.4% 780,274 +l. 0% 966 41 7 -1 6%
1972 163 , 061 -12.4% 788,076 + l o 0% 951 138 -1.3%
1973 142 842 -12.4% 795 , 956 +l.O% 938 800 -1.0%
1974 125 , 130 -12.4% 803 915 +1.0% 929 047 -0.7%
1975 109 614 -12 4% 811 , 954 +l. 0% 921 570 -0.4%
Source: Middle Taylor Financial Reports Cambria County Planning Commission
58. -2
TABLE M PROJECTED MUNICIPAL INCOME
MIDDLE TAYLOR TOWNSHIP 1968 - 1974
Income on Fiscal Assessed Current 14 Mill Levy Non-Revenue Gov. Operation Year Valuation Total Assessment Receipts Revenue Total*
1968 > 3 ,P56.,.340 14, 789 16,173 30,962
1969 1,007,470 14,105 20,108 34,213
1970 985,041 13,790 24,015 37 805
1971 966,417 13,530 28,244 41,774
1972 951, 138 13 316 32,844 46,160
1973 938,800 13 , 143 37,864 51,007
1974- 929, 047 13,007 43, 356 56, 363
1975 921,570 12,901 49,380 62,281
Source : Middle Taylor Township Financial Reports Cambria County Planning Commission
*Revenue from Real Estate, Occupations, Earned Income, and Grants based on past average increase of 10.5%.
I I I I I I I I I I I I I I ~I 'I 11 I I
Middle Taylor Township must assess their current situation and find solutions , '.i
to offset their mineral value loss. It is recommended that the Township Officials
stimulate and encourage quality housing developments to increase the Township's
assessed valuation. Projections indicate that housing units are increasing by six
units per year at an average value of $15,000 per unit. Based on the current 14 mill
tax levy the increase in revenue would be approximately $420 per year on each six units
built. If this trend is to continue, the increased revenue will be $16,380 by the end of
the first capital budget period. It may be therefore noted that if township officials
encourage and stimulate quality housing developments, the tax base can be stabilized
within the Long Range Planning Period.
Undoubtedly, adjustments will be required during the development of this program.
However , the outline provided herewith offers goals to be achieved which can channel the
energies and resources of Middle Taylor Township toward a new growth and opportunity.
Through several Grants-In-Aid Programs, the State of Pennsylvania and the
Federal Government provide assistance to community development, This subsidia.ry
benefit, which would be of value to the Township is outlined, in brief, in the appendixe
60.
I I I I I I I I I II I I I I I I I I I
APPENDIX
I I I I
FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE t.
Through various grant-in-aid programs, the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and the Federal Government provide financial assistance to local government. The following digest of assistance provides a general outline of some of the principal aids available to local government. These programs should be utilized by the community in carrying out the capital improvements program and other programs of community devel- opment.
PROGRAMS OF THE DEPARTMENT OF HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT
Advances for Public Works Planning
Purpo se s : Interest-free advances to assist planning for local public works.
Specific Uses: Examples: Water and sewer systems, school buildings,
Al l types of public works, except public housing.
recreation projects, public buildings, irrigation projects, health facilities, bridges.
Terms: Advance repayable to HUD promptly upon construction of the planned public work.
Grants for Advance Acquisition of Land
Purpo se s : To encourage communities to acquire, in a planned and orderly fashion, land for future construction of public works and facilities .
Terms : Grants may not exceed the interest charges on a loan incurred to finance the acquisition of land for a period of not more than 5 years.
Grants for Basic Sewer and Water Facildties.
Purposes : To assist and encourage communities to construct adequate basic water and sewer facilities to promote their orderly and efficient growth and development.
Specific Grants to finance up to 50% of the cost of improving or Uses: constructing basic water and sewer facilities. Where
there is no existing system, the project must be so designed that it can be linked with other independent sewer and water facilities in the future.
Terms: To be determined
I 1 'I I I I 1 I I I I I I 1 I I I 1 I
Grants for Neighborhood Facilities
Purposes :
Specific Uses :
Terms:
Public Facility Loans
Purposes :
Specific U s e s :
Terms:
Urban Renewal
Purpose s :
Specific Uses :
To provide neighborhood faci lities needed for programs carrying out helath, recreation, social or similar necessary community services in the area.
Finances neighborhood or community centers, youth centers , health stations and other public buildings to provide health, recreational or similar social services,
Up to two-thirds of project cost o r 75% in redevelopment areas designated under the Public Works and Economic Development Act of 1965 e
Long-term loans for construction of needed public facilities such a s sewer or water facilities.
A variety of public works may be financed under this program. When aid is available from other Federal agencies, HUD assists only with those parts of the project not covered by other Federal programs.
Loan may be up to 40 years. It will be governed by applicant's ability to pay and by the estimated useful life of the proposed facility.
To assist cities undertaking local programs for the elimination and prevention of slums and blight, and the elimination of factors creating them. A long range effort to achieve better communities through planned r edevelopment of deteriorated and deteriorating areas through partnership among local governments, private enterprise, citizens and the Federal Government.
Community-wi& renewal programs identifying needs and resources and establishing schedules and priorities for accomplishing the work; planning and carrying out urban renewal projects for rehabilitation and redevelop- ment of blighted areas; undertaking programs of con- centrated code enforcement and demolition of buildings that are substandard and constitute a hazard to public health and welfare ..
Terms: Federal advances and loans , Federal grants, local contributions a Grants generally pay up to two-thirds of net project cost; but may be as high as three-fourths. Local contributions may include cash or non-cash grants- in-aid. Also avaikble a re special rehabilitation loans and grants, and housing assistance programs for low income elderly, and handicapped individuals and families residing in project areas.
Urban Planning Assistance Program
Purposes :
Specific U s e s :
Terms:
To foster good community, metropolitan a rea , regional and statewide planning.
Preparation of comprehensive development plans, including planning for the provision of public facilities, transportation, 1ong.frange fiscal plans and programming and scheduling of capital improvements
Federal grants of two-thirds of the cost of the work; local contribution of one-third. In some cases Federal grants may amount to as much as three-fourths.
Open Space Land and Ur,an Beautification Grants
Purposes : To assist communities in acquiring and developing land for open space uses and in carrying out urban beauti- f ication programs
Specific Uses: scenic areas or preserve historic places. Urban
Provide parks and other recreation, conservation, and
beautification and improvement includes such activities as street landscaping, park improvements, tree planting, and upgrading of malls and squares Relocation payments a re provided for individuals, families, and businesses displaced by land acquisition.
Terms: 50% to help public agencies acquire and preserve urban lands having value for park, recreation, scenic, or historic purposes, Where necessary to provide open- space in built-up urban areas , grants can cover up to 50% of the cost of acquiring and clearing developed land. 50% is also available to assist in developing lands acquired under the open space land program. Grants up to 90% are authorized to carry out projects of special value for demonstrating new and improved methods and materials for urban beautification.
I 'I I I I I I I I I
Solid Waste Disposal
Purposes :
Specific Uses:
Terms:
Law Enforcement Assistance
Purposes:
Specific Uses:
Terms:
Library Services and Construction
Purposes:
Specific Uses:
Financial Assistance for solid waste disposal projects
Grants ava.flable for planning constructing and operating disposal facilities and land acquisition.
To be determined.
Grants and technical assistance to develop the skills of the law officer.
Emphasis on improvement of techniques and demonstratfon projects.
To be determined.
Grants to states to extend and improve library services ..
Financial assistance available to local public and non profit library agencies through the State Library for salaries , books, equipment , and construction.
Terms: To be determined. * * * Today, in most areas of municipal activity there a re related State and Federal
programs which may be of local benefit. Also, new legislation is continually under con- sideration to broaden existing programs or initiate new ones. It will surely benefit the community to research these sources of assistance whenever local programs are con- templated.
The Housing Act of 1949, as amended, requires as a condition of certain financial assistance, the following:
I I I I
I I I I I I I I I
I I
'' . . . a workable program for community improvement (which shall include an official plan of action, as it exists from time to time, for effectively deal- ing with the problem of urban slums and blight within the community and for the establishment and preservation of a well-planned community with well- organized environment for adequate family life) for utilizing appropriate private and public resources to eliminate and prevent the development or spread of slums and urban blight, to encourage needed urban rehabilitation, to provide for redevelopment of blighted, deteriorated, or slum areas , or to undertake such of the aforesaid activities or other feasible community activities as may be suitably employed to achieve the objectives of such a program. li
The specific requirements of the workable program are based on the statu.tory objectives described above and are deeigned to provide a flexible framework for organizing community efforts to eliminate and prevent slums and blight. The work- able program calls for progress in the following four areas:
1.
2.
3 .
4.
Code Adoption and Enforcement. The adoption of housing, building, and related codes, and development of an effective code enforcement program which ig at least adequate to deal with areas having high priority need for enforcement, including both blighted areas and basically sound but deteriorating neighborhoods, and which is geared toward eventual community-wide compliance with such codes.
Planning, Programming, and Budgeting. The establishment of a continuing public planning, programming, and budgeting process which develops action programs within a comprehensive planning framework for overcoming the major physical, social I and economic problems related to the slum and blighted areas of the community, and for establishing and preserving a well-planned community with suitable living environment for family life.
Housing and Relocation. The development of a centralized or coordinated program for assisting in the relocation of all persons and business concerns displaced by public action in the community and the development of a program to expand the supply of housing for low - and moderate-income families on the basiq of equal opportunity.
Citizen Involvement. The establishment of programs designed to achieve meaningful involvement of citizens, including poor and minority groups, in planning and carrying out HUD-assisted programs related to the Workable Program.
A detailed explanation of the policies and requirements for each of the above four areas is set forth in the HUD Handbook, Workable Program for Community Improve- ment, October, 1968.
I I I I
PROGRAMS O F THE COMMONWEALTH OF PENNSYLVANIA
The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania has many programs of technical and financial assistance available to local municipalities e The Department of Community Affairs is the principal agency administering the State aid programs. The major programs a re as follows: Project 70
Purpose:
Terms:
To acquire land for recreation, open-space preservation, water -shed protection, historic preservation. To enable local municipalities to acquire land for neighborhood, community and regional parks.
Financial assistance up to 50% for land acquisition is administered through the Department of Community Affa i r s
Title VI1 - The Open Space Land Program
Purpose : To supplement Project 70 Program in developing urban open space land.
Terms : Grants up to 50% adm~inistered through the State by the Federal Urban Renewal Administration.
500 Million Dollar Conservation and Recreation Promam
Purpose :
Terms:
Solid Waste Management Act
Purpose :
Grants a re available for the development and acquisition of community and County park, recreation and open space lands and for the preparation of Community Recreation Studies, site plans and construction (architectural and engineering) plans and specifications
Up to 80% aid from State-Federal sources a re available through the Department of Community Affairs a
For counties municipalities, authorities or any combination thereof, including municipalities with a population density of less than 300 persons per square mile to develop a Comprehensive Plan for the planning, recreation, collection storage, transportation, processing and disposal of solid wastes
I I I I I I I I I 1 I I
I I
R I I
:I I
Terms: Grants up to 50% administered through the Department of Health.
Act 537 Sewage Facilities Plan
Purpose : To prepare a sewage feasibility study of existing conditions in areas cited for violation of the Commonwealth Clean Stream Law and prepare sewerage recommendations e To prepare "Official sewer plansYas required by the Act.
Terms: Up to 50% financing for feasibility study is available through the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania under the Pennsylvania Sewage Facilities Act (Po L. 1535).
In addition to the above mentioned programs, State aid is available for industrial site development , industrial financing, community facilities such as sewer and water, library, hospital and educational facilities. A directory of State aids is presently being printed by the Department of Community Affairs and should be available to the public in the near future.