The blueprint for the Reiff Tract parkland presented last evening to the residents showed access to the park directly off Ridge Road between several established residences. Another point of access which had been presented to the Board of Supervisors in November 2007, showed access through the East Vincent Elementary School grounds. The East Vincent Township Open Space and Recreation Plan adopted October 17, 2007 states "36 acres of the Reiff Tract that the Township has negotiated to purchase with State grant funds, for use as a passive use, interpretive park." The DCNR website clearly states "The new Township Park is central to the Township and will provide extensive outdoor recreation facilities-both passive and active-and trails through the park that will connect to the adjacent Vincent Elementary School and link to other parts of the township. The large natural area to be preserved will afford residents and visitors educational opportunities to study wildlife habitats, stream studies, as well as hiking and fishing."
One resident expressed safety concerns for the students and staff of the East Vincent Elementary School if access were permitted utilizing elementary school grounds. This resident requested our supervisors follow the lead of East Pikeland Township and the Phoenixville School District which made access to their trail accessible for the public by moving the trail away from students of the proposed Kimberton Elementary School. Another resident who will be directly affected if access is permitted between his and his neighbor's established property also spoke about his concerns.
Chairman Funk made it clear these access points are only options and have not yet been resolved. Supervisor Dunphy stated he wants what is best for the entire Township and the Reiff Tract park, with the issues of access, population data and the financial obligation it cost the Township to purchase this parcel, does not appear to benefit the entire Township. Mr. Dunphy made it clear he was glad the 72 homes were not built, but felt this Reiff Tract purchase could have been better handled. Pam Brown, Director of the French and Pickering Creek Trust shared with the Board there must be public access if the Township receives public money.
The Transfer of Development Rights/Open Space Design Option Ordinance Amendment (Residential Density Multiplier) was not discussed at last evening's meeting but we will be sure to keep our residents informed of the date and time of the evening workshop meeting.
The reorganization meeting of the Board of Supervisors will be held on Monday, January 5, 2009 immediately followed by the regular Board of Supervisors meeting.
Please be sure to contact us with any questions or concerns you may have about any proposals brought forth in East Vincent Township.
Yours in a balanced East Vincent Township,
The Informed East Vincent Residents Group
