The Lower Macungie Township Planning Commission unanimously recommended approval Aug. 11 for the Hardt Preserve subdivision, a 26-home development proposed along Indian Creek Road with access to Olympic Drive.

The project, located at 4103 Indian Creek Road and connecting with Olympic Drive, includes 26 single-family homes. The subdivision also includes a parcel to the southeast that will contain the property’s stormwater management facilities.

Planning Director Nathan Jones discussed the proposed cluster mailboxes, walking trail and sidewalks included in the development plan.

The project was presented by Justin Strahorn of W.B. Homes. Strahorn said the development would include a road connection between Indian Creek Road and Olympic Drive, as well as a cul-de-sac within the subdivision.

Strahorn said the developer has worked with the township’s goal of preserving as many existing trees on the property as possible. He requested a partial sidewalk waiver in one area to help preserve existing trees.

He also discussed plans for additional trees and landscaping throughout portions of the development.

Township Engineer Meagan McKeon discussed lighting along bike paths and walkways within the subdivision. Commissioners and township staff also discussed the possibility of adding a streetlight near the mailboxes and additional parking in front of the mailbox area.

Additional discussion focused on fencing around the stormwater detention basins and where the project’s sanitary sewer line would connect.

Following the discussion, the planning commission voted unanimously to recommend approval of the preliminary/final land development application for the Hardt Preserve subdivision.

The commission also reviewed proposed revisions to the township’s zoning and Subdivision and Land Development Ordinance (SALDO).

Jones said the modifications were previously presented to the planning commission for review and comment and have also been sent to the Lower Macungie Township Board of Commissioners for review.

According to Jones, the proposed changes are administrative in nature and are intended to help township staff more effectively enforce and administer land use regulations. He also emphasized the importance of maintaining consistency between the zoning and SALDO ordinances.

The Planning Commission recommended approval of the zoning and SALDO ordinance revisions through two separate motions.

A sketch plan application for a subdivision at 1741 Trexlertown Road was also listed on the agenda, but the applicant tabled its presentation until the next meeting.

The next Lower Macungie Township Planning Commission meeting is scheduled for Sept. 8. The commission typically meets on the second Tuesday of each month, with occasional workshop meetings on the third Tuesday. There will be no workshop meeting in August.

Meetings begin at 6 p.m. and are held both in person and via Zoom. Video recordings are posted to the township’s YouTube channel following each meeting.