In response to residents' complaints of darkness and graffiti under several Route 22 bridges, South Whitehall staff are working on a plan to obtain illumination to improve safety and security.

Director of Administration Howard Kutzler reported to the board the township will have to secure permits from PennDOT and work with PPL to have the lights set up.

"The cost is nominal," Kutzler said.

The work is planned for the Route 22 underpasses at 28th Street, Whitehall Avenue and Springhouse Road.

In other matters, commissioners awarded a bid of $84,145 to Telco Inc. for installation of emergency preemption systems at nine intersections.

This priority control system works with emitter units in the fire company fleet, causing the traffic signal to turn green in the emergency responders' direction, allowing them to proceed through the intersection without conflict.

The township is working with the City of Allentown to acquire emergency preemptions for several other locations.

The commissioners approved a $479,521 draw down from a Neffs National Bank loan fund for purchase of a new pumper for Greenawalds Fire Company.

"The purchase order has been issued, and we hope to get it going now," Kutzler said.

He reported the township scored "a good solid B" for fire services in a recent insurance review.

Kutzler said staff will be looking at training and equipment to see where improvements can be made.

Another area of focus for the township is the matter of incentives for volunteer firefighters.

"Their numbers are dwindling, not just here but all over," Kutzler said. "We are doing research now to consider the possibility of incentives to attract and retain volunteer firefighters.

The type of incentive has not been determined.

Kutzler reported administrators are keeping in touch with the Lehigh Valley Planning Commission and transportation study group in regards to forthcoming PennDOT projects to make certain South Whitehall interests are taken under consideration.

"We want to have a seat at the table," Kutzler said.