Preserving Natural Resources during Times of Growth

 

During the 1990s, East Bradford Township experienced growth rates that exceeded those of Chester County as a whole, leading the municipality to update its existing comprehensive plan. One of the township's main priorities for the new plan was the protection of significant natural resources, such as the Brandywine Creek. RETTEW conducted a threat-of-loss analysis to assist in determining which lands to prioritize for conservation easements. This analysis included such factors as Pennsylvania Natural Diversity Inventory sites, development pressures, presence of scenic vistas, and watershed protection. Through research of recent court cases, RETTEW established that the Township could draw on the land uses of neighboring municipalities in order to meet the fair-share requirements of the Municipal Planning Code. RETTEW's unique approach allowed East Bradford Township to both maintain valuable open space and manage growth.

 

 

 

 

East Bradford Township Comprehensive Plan

Chester County, PA