As I wrote in an previous blog, I suspected a new development proposal was pending for the Lanceo property. Today. the Morning Call broke the story about a new development proposal.
It seems a Dollar Tree and Planet Fitness may occupy a portion of the Old Laneco building. Right now, the proposed plan will also have a McDonald's as a pad site. This proposal will still leave about 80,000 sq ft to be developed at a later date.
The Metro Commercial brochure shows some interesting facts about our township and the surrounding communities.
| Category | 3 Miles | 5 Miles | 7 Miles |
| 08 Population Estimates | 72,144 | 112,310 | 151,604 |
| 08 Household Estimates | 26,885
| 42,130 | 55,919 |
| 08 Est Avg HH Income | $64,871
| $69,834 | $73,943 |
It is no wonder, we are starting to get interest from fast food restaurants.
So, I have a few concerns about the proposed developed as reported by the Morning Call. First, the new fitness center may draw new customers from the Easton YMCA and the Forks Community Center fitness center. This could mean additional taxpayer money may be needed to fund the Community Center fitness programs. Second, I am really sure a new fast food restaurant will draw business from the local restaurants and could further hurt our local economy. The question is whether the new businesses incremental revenues will offset the loss of revenue from local businesses.
Finally, I am not sure whether the new business reflect the character of our town center or help Forks Township retain it's unique identity. Surely, we need to fight to retain our local charm and unique character.
This is a fight for the soul of our town center and community.
Update #1: I have spend this afternoon talking to people about the proposed Lanco development. Many people believe this is a "net gain" for our community, as it will bring in additional tax revenue. Allot of the people was hoping for "higher quality" development proposal, but the current proposal is better than the status quo.
1 comment:
I find it disturbing that you are not disturbed that the deed restrictions on the old Laneco/Giant may have expired. If that is the case, that shoots to hell 1/2 of the argument to re-zone Uhler and Sullivan Trail for the convenience of Weis Markets. As you "fight for the soul of town center", maybe you should start going below the surface to find out what the reporters are finding with little to no effort rather than accepting what long-term incumbent independent contractors peddle, or developers offer.
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