Macungie Borough Council approved a proposed 49-unit apartment development on Lumber Street Sept. 8, despite concerns from nearby residents about traffic, neighborhood impacts and access issues.

The project calls for a two-story apartment building with 49 units on 3.02 acres. The development will have two full-access driveways on Lumber Street.

During discussion, council members reviewed a Pennsylvania Department of Transportation traffic study that examined the Route 100 and Lumber Street intersection. Concerns were raised that the study did not include the Lumber and Lehigh streets intersection or the Brookside Road and Lehigh Street intersection.

Because of limited space on the property, the developer was granted relief from providing an on-site recreation area and instead will make a fee-in-lieu contribution for recreation purposes. The measure passed 5-2, with Megan Sell and Tom Ashelman voting no.

Council also approved a modification reducing the number of trees required on the site because of space limitations. The developer must pay $250 for each required tree that is not planted. The measure passed 6-1, with Ashelman casting the lone dissenting vote.

Council ultimately approved the development plan by a 5-2 vote, with Sell and Ashelman opposed.

Residents living along Lehigh Street expressed concerns about how close the development will be to existing homes. Questions also were raised about a paper alley referenced in property deeds.

In other business, Mayor Bob Sell reminded residents about upcoming events, including the farmers market, a Sept. 19 craft show and a Community Day celebration Oct. 24.

Council accepted the resignation of police Officer Dean Lukens.

Todd Bernhard was appointed officer in charge of the Macungie Police Department effective Aug. 2. Nathan Brown was appointed zoning and code enforcement officer and is scheduled to begin Oct. 1.

Borough Engineer Joshua Fry reported the Church Street ADA ramp replacement project is expected to begin Sept. 23 and conclude by Nov. 6.

Council also discussed an Aug. 12 railroad crossing incident that affected emergency response operations. Lower Macungie Fire Chief Ryan Trexler submitted a letter outlining emergency response procedures when train crossings are blocked.

Sidewalk construction associated with the Mavis Discount Tire project is scheduled to begin Sept. 14.