James Lynch, from D'Huy Engineering, gave a presentation Sept. 18 to the Lower Macungie Township Board of Commissioners about plans for redesigned fields at Quarry Park.

The plan calls for synthetic fields at a cost of $2.7 million, which can withstand 35 events in a month compared to the current amount of 35 per year. This will allow the township to consolidate activities which are presently scheduled away from the area.

The maintenance of the fields will be around $10,000 compared to $35,000 to $40,000 for natural turf. Some grooming of the synthetic turf is required. There is an installation cost as well as a warranty on the turf for eight years. Replacement is usually needed in about 10 to 15 years.

The decision to proceed with the synthetic field will go through the proper channels and may be considered for the 2015 budget.

In other business, the additional site plan for Trexlertown Shopping Center was approved includng access improvements.

The library board has two new directors. Dain King and Matthew Johanson were appointed with their terms to end Jan. 31, 2016.

Michael Stegura, an AARP representative, requested use of the Wescosville Recreation Center for tax assistance which is an annual event.

Concordia Lutheran has requested a time extension on its school addition project which was accepted.

There was an update on the traffic simulation model. The granted extension should be completed with a presentation for early 2015.

The Estates of Mill Race will begin construction within a week on 27 lots. The new owner/ developer is Chesapeake Builders.

The lease for the new office in the township building by State Rep. Ryan McKenzie, R-134th, was approved.

The basketball hoop and fire pit issues are still being investigated. Lower Macungie Township is currently looking at other townships to see how these issues are handled.

The sign for the entrance into the township complex was advertised for bidding for construction with Bartush Signs as the lowest bidder.

The 2015 preliminary budget was presented. Among some of the highlights are possible elimination of the street light tax, decrease of the real estate tax and reverse 911 for announcements to residents.