The proposed new Northampton Area Middle School took a step forward Aug. 8 when the Northampton Borough Planning Commission granted preliminary approval for the project.

No major issues came up as the plans for the middle school were reviewed. Many of the conditions for construction have been satisfied, such as storm water drainage, a retaining wall, road alignment, access, topography slopes and contours.

M. Arif Fazil, principal with D'Huy Engineering Inc., Bethlehem, and James A. Clough of KCBA Architects, Hatfield, presented an outline for the project. Bids would be sought early in 2013 and the project would take two years to complete and another year for the demolition of the present circular pod middle school.

Phasing of construction is a vital part of the overall construction of the middle school.

Borough Solicitor William McCarthy, who is also solicitor for the planning commission, reported that the issues for the site plan "are pretty much resolved."

Robert Delker, an unemployed union tradesman, noted because construction workers such as him are currently out of work, local union workers should be considered for jobs as electricians, welders and other trades rather than the general contractor which would bring in people from outside the region.

Clough and Fazil said the law will be followed and they will employ as many local people on the construction project as possible.

As presented, the project is more than a new middle school. The present field house will be torn down and a new one erected. The middle school will be demolished and a new swimming pool and athletic field will be constructed where the present middle school stands. Roads will be upgraded and trees planted on the campus.

District Superintendent Joseph Kovalchik attended the planning commission meeting, which was led by planning commission Chairman Nicholas Politi Jr. Commission members include Duane Filchner, Kenneth Hall and Roger Bodnar.