The South Whitehall Police Department will be receiving four new Ford Interceptor Utility body SUVs at a total cost of $150,595.

Police Chief John Christman said at the March 2 South Whitehall commissioners’ meeting the new units will replace two Ford Explorers and two Crown Victorias which are being retired and will be sold at a municipal auction.

Purchase price includes installation of new equipment and transfer of existing components, plus lettering and striping of the new cars.

The vehicles will be obtained from KME Kovatch, Nesquehoning.

“We have purchased cars from KME for the last five years and have been very happy with their service,” Christman told the board of commissioners.

He noted South Whitehall Police Department mechanics have established a good relationship with KME mechanics, enabling the work to be performed to standards outlined by the township.

“We have a very close relationship with KME,” the chief said.

In other business, commissioners reviewed a report from township engineer Ralph Russek Jr. regarding traffic calming measures for Lincoln Avenue from the Salisbury Township border to Hamilton Boulevard.

Township Manager Howard Kutzler reported concerns had been raised by residents about safety near Chase Park and visibility at the intersections.

Russek recommends upgraded signage in the area of Chase Park to include additional speed limit signs, new intersection warning signs and new playground signs.

Commissioners authorized Russek to proceed with the new signage and to coordinate with Bob Ibach, director of public works, on the project.

In another matter, commissioners granted approval for staff to bid out certain grounds maintenance services.

The work will be done at detention ponds which will allow the South Whitehall crew to focus on sports fields and parks.

For 2016, $125,000 is budgeted for lawn services.

The board also granted approval to township representatives to apply for a grant for development of the Jordan Park Greenway.

Kutzler said the amount could be about $500,000.