Residents voiced concerns about a proposed housing development on East Texas Road during the public comment portion of the Lower Macungie Township Board of Commissioners meeting Aug. 6.

The proposed land development project has generated opposition from some residents, who cited concerns about traffic congestion, preservation of open space and other potential impacts. Several speakers noted the parcel had previously been discussed as a possible land preservation acquisition.

Questions were also raised about funding. Township officials noted Lower Macungie maintains a preservation fund supported through a small tax, which has helped finance several land acquisitions in recent years.

Commissioner Wesley Barrett provided an update on the status of the proposed development, emphasizing that the project remains in the early stages of the review process.

“If there are 100 steps to approve a plan, we’re at step two or three,” Barrett said, adding that the development sign posted at the site does not indicate that the project has been approved.

In other business, the commissioners approved authorization to advertise an amendment to Chapter 27 of the township zoning ordinance. The proposed changes address regulations involving solar panels, fences and walls.

The board also authorized advertisement of amendments to Chapter 22A, the township’s Subdivision and Land Development Ordinance (SALDO), which would update procedures and certain land development regulations.

Commissioners approved advertisement of an ordinance related to Liquid Fuels reimbursement for designated roadways.

The board also agreed to support a request from Salisbury Township regarding brake retarder restriction warning signs along Cedar Crest Boulevard. Salisbury Township is seeking Lower Macungie’s support in discussions with the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation.

A Sewage Facilities Planning Module for a property at 2025 Dougherty Circle was approved.

Commissioners also approved an application for a traffic signal preemption device at the intersection of Lower Macungie Road and Church Lane. The system will allow emergency vehicles to control traffic signals while responding to emergencies.

Work on the Smith Lane Bridge project is expected to begin soon. Township officials reported that arrangements have been made with Liberty Properties for access to the project area. The road is expected to be closed for four to six weeks during construction.

The board approved an agreement with Jefferson Lehigh Valley that will allow parking at Camp Olympic during an upcoming golf tournament.

Resolution 2026-31 was approved by a 4-1 vote. Commissioner Melissa Rozak abstained because she resides within the development affected by the resolution. The measure grants tax exonerations for the years 2023 through 2025 due to development-related issues.

Commissioners also approved a contract with Boles, Smyth Associates for specialized traffic consulting services.