A proposed Eli Lilly pharmaceutical manufacturing campus dominated discussion at the Upper Macungie Township Board of Supervisors meeting June 4, highlighting a major economic development project expected to transform a large section of Fogelsville.

Supervisors granted preliminary subdivision and land development approval for “Project Kennedy,” a plan to construct a nearly 800,000-square-foot pharmaceutical facility on approximately 150 acres along Main Street. The project would consolidate six existing parcels into a single campus featuring manufacturing operations, laboratories, office space, a visitor center and an automated storage and retrieval system.

Township officials noted the proposal underwent an extensive review process lasting five to six months. The board approved several waivers and deferrals tied to future infrastructure improvements, including those connected to the planned Adams Road interchange.

Project representatives said traffic projections are based on a comparable Eli Lilly facility in North Carolina, estimating approximately 90 truck trips per day once operational. During construction, truck traffic will be routed primarily along Glenlivet Drive West. Plans also call for off-site employee parking with shuttle transportation to reduce on-site congestion. Supervisors unanimously approved the preliminary plan, subject to conditions recommended by township staff and engineers.

While the Eli Lilly project was the focal point of the meeting, supervisors also reviewed updates on other developments. Vanguard Development Group reported progress on the Twin Ponds mixed-use project along Hamilton Boulevard, where the residential portion is nearing completion. However, concerns remain about the yet-to-be-developed commercial tract, which is being marketed primarily for a day care center. In addition, the board granted final approval for a 25-unit town house development at 6045 Reppert Lane, with some waivers approved but a request to allow shallower sewer lines denied. The meeting concluded with Supervisor Julien Godbarge announcing his intent to resign due to an upcoming move out of the township. Township Solicitor Andrew Schantz outlined the formal process to fill the vacancy, which includes a public application and appointment procedure. Board Chairman Jeff Fleischaker and Supervisor Sunny Ghai thanked Godbarge for his service, emphasizing his commitment to township business.