Bethel Township Approves Bidder For Construction of Shirksville Road Bridge

The Bethel Township Board of Supervisors held a meeting on Thursday, February 9th, where they discussed several pressing issues, including traffic studies, guidance on solar panels, construction of the bridge on Shirksville Road, and the advertisement for lifeguards. The meeting provided a platform for the township to tackle these pressing matters and move forward with their plans for the community.

Traffic studies were a hot topic at the meeting, as Township Engineer Matthew Mack mentioned that it’s not easy to install stop signs just anywhere, especially on state-owned roads. The intersection of Chestnut Hill Road and Fredericksburg Road has seen an increase in traffic due to the number of workers at ACE Hardware. This issue prompted multiple phone calls from concerned residents, leading Mack to state that “I saw when the cars were turning, that’s when the conflict was happening.” In order to resolve the issue, PennDOT will conduct a traffic study on the area to determine the average number of vehicles on the road and produce an ordinance.

As solar energy continues to grow in popularity, Bethel Township is taking an active role in establishing their stance on the matter. Solicitor John Enck, after discussing with the planning commission, raised concerns about the limitations being placed on the number of kilowatts allowed per household, as well as the limitations set by utility companies on the amount of energy any household can produce. To further discuss the matter, a special meeting will be held.

For the last several years the Shirksville Road Bridge has been out of commission. After seeking the lowest bidder, Grace Industries Inc., came in at $867,467.65, additionally a $45,200 engineering service will be issued for the project completion. Thankfully $600,000 will be covered by a grant.

The board also voted unanimously to advertise for lifeguards so that the township will not go another year without a community pool. If anybody is interested in a position with the community pool, feel free to reach out to the township for more information. This move will provide residents with a safe and enjoyable place to swim and have fun in the sun.

In conclusion, the Bethel Township Board of Supervisors meeting on February 9th was productive, as the township took steps towards resolving pressing issues and improving the community for its residents. The traffic studies, guidance on solar panels, construction of the Shirksville Road Bridge, and advertisement for lifeguards are all initiatives aimed at making Bethel Township a better place to live for all.