August 2022
America250PA Chester County Commission Holds First Official Meeting
Posted August 17, 2022
Chester County joined communities across the nation in support of America's 250th celebration taking place in 2026 by forming the America250PA Chester County Commission. At their organizational meeting on 7/12, the commission selected officers, discussed a theme for the commemoration, and proposed six new sub-committees. Check out the follow up to learn more.
L3 Success Story — Restoration of Longwood's Orchid House
Posted August 16, 2022
Longwood Garden' Orchid House reopened in February 2022 as the first step of Longwood Reimagined — a transformation of the gardens to open in 2024. The restoration of the Orchid House supports the Appreciate goal in Landscapes3, as it preserves the historic resources and landscapes that define our cultural heritage to inspire the future through tangible connections to our shared past. Learn more.
VPP Round 2 Now Open
Posted August 10, 2022
The Chester County Planning Commission is pleased to announce the opening of Round 2 of the Vision Partnership Program (VPP) for 2022! Eligible projects include individual and multi-municipal comprehensive plans, ordinances, official maps, and a variety of specialized studies. Learn more about the program.
Chester County Launches Walk. Ride. Drive. Safe Campaign
Posted August 4, 2022
Chester County's new Walk. Ride. Drive. Safe campaign offers tips and rules to keep pedestrians and bicyclists safe — and drivers aware. The county's more congested urban and suburban areas make safety awareness very important, especially with the outdoor activity season in full swing. Learn more about the campaign.
Chester County Commissioners Approve Contract to Bolster Historic Tourism
Posted August 3, 2022
The Chester County Commissioners recently approved a $156,000 contract to bolster historic tourism in Chester County. The contract is with Luzerne County-based Heritage Strategies LLC, and will help to rebuild the tourism lost due to the pandemic, especially as the county prepares for the celebration of the nation's 250th anniversary in 2026. Learn more.
Meet our Summer Interns
Posted August 1, 2022
The Chester County Planning Commission is pleased to feature our 2022 Summer Interns, James Steuteville and Marina Rullo, as this month's Staff Spotlight! James has been supporting several projects in CCPC's Environment and Infrastructure Division, while Marina has been working with the new Sustainability Director. Learn more about James and Marina.
July 2022
Save the Date for Chester County's Clean Energy Tour
Posted July 13, 2022
Hundreds of solar-savvy installers and grassroots organizations will showcase their solar-powered homes, schools, and businesses on 10/1 and 10/2 to prove how clean energy practices can drastically reduce energy bills and carbon emissions. Chester County residents who are interested in sharing their own Clean Energy systems are encouraged to upload a three-minute video to the website by 8/15. There is also an option to be a host in the in-person tour. Learn more and get involved.
Chester County's Annual Farm Guide
Posted July 11, 2022
For over 20 years, the Chester County Farm Guide has served as an annual resource that many residents and visitors look forward to reading. It supports the "Live" goal in Landscapes3 by promoting increased access to fresh, healthy, and local food. With so many great options to choose from in Chester County, consumers can pinpoint exactly what they're looking for and feel good about growing our regional economy. Learn more about the guide.
The Importance of Native vs. Non-Native Plants
Posted July 8, 2022
Have you ever wondered why are native plants are so important? Unlike non-native plants, they protect and restore wildlife habitats and water, lessen the use of pesticides, and play a critical role in protecting the county against the spread of invasive plants. Check out this month's featured eTool to learn more about the importance of landscaping with native plants.
Meet our new Transportation Planner
Posted July 6, 2022
Our transportation planners play an important role in the day-to-day initiatives as well as the future of Chester County. We are excited to welcome our newest transportation planner to the Chester County Planning Commission — Alex Sankaran! Learn more about Alex.
June 2022
Updates from Thornbury Township
Posted June 22, 2022
Congratulations to Thornbury Township for the recent completion and update of their 1983 Subdivision and Land Development Ordinance (SLDO), as well as their 1996 Official Map! The adoption of the SLDO and Official Map completes the Township's process of updating their full suite of planning policy documents and regulatory ordinances. Learn more.
Implementing Zoning Overlay Districts
Posted June 21, 2022
When it comes to zoning districts, municipalities often include zoning overlays to effectively address the needs within their community. To learn more about zoning overlays, including how to implement them within a community, information on the Pennsylvania Municipalities Planning Code (MPC), and additional examples in Chester County, check out this month's featured eTool.
New Amtrak Bus Service
Posted June 17, 2022
A new bus service connecting residents and visitors from Reading and Pottstown to Central Philadelphia serves as an important first step in the tri-county initiative to restore passenger rail service between Phoenixville, Pottstown, and Reading. This initiative supports the Connect goal in Landscapes3, as it helps to advance efficient, reliable, and innovative transportation, utility, and communications infrastructure systems that responsibly serve thriving and growing communities. Check out a summary to learn more.
Chester County's Preserved Farm Tours
Posted June 8, 2022
This past May, the county hosted various guided tours to showcase the variety of preserved farms and farm products in Chester County, as well as provide residents with a unique opportunity to visit and learn about the value of agricultural preservation. Check out a summary from each of the tours.
Celebrating Chesco's Open Space Achievements — A Follow Up to the 2022 Open Space Summit
Posted June 7, 2022
Chester County celebrated a milestone achievement in open space preservation during the 2022 Open Space Summit on Tuesday, May 10, at Springton Manor Farm. Check out the follow up to learn more.
Protected Open Space Reaches Milestone in Chester County
Posted June 3, 2022
According to Chester County's Protected Open Space Tracking (POST) system, as of December 31 2021, 147,000 acres of protected open space, or 30.2% of the county was preserved! This includes an estimated 2,930 acres of open space protected in 2021 — with county-funded Ag Conservation Easements accounting for 1,424 acres, land trusts accounting for 105 acres in-fee and 1,139 acres through conservation easements, and homeowner associations accounting for 380 acres. Learn more.
May 2022
Explore Chester County Agriculture
Posted May 27, 2022
Warmer weather means it's a great time to start exploring Chester County's pick-your-own farms, wineries, farmers markets and more. From strawberry fields to rows of radiant peonies, the county's diverse array of farms offers many springtime opportunities for fresh-air fun and locally grown farm products. Learn more.
2022 Town Tours & Village Walks
Posted May 25, 2022
For its upcoming 28th season, the 2022 Town Tours & Village Walks program offers a unique opportunity for residents and visitors to learn about the "Founding Mothers and Fathers" who played a significant role in Chester County's history. Learn more.
Updates from Valley Township
Posted May 23, 2022
Valley Township's Manager, Scott Piersol, provided a presentation on planning updates and other relevant activities during the Chester County Planning Commission's May 2022 Board meeting. Check out the follow up to see what's happening in Valley Township.
Brandywine Battlefield Sign Unveiled in Pennsbury Township
Posted May 20, 2022
As part of Chester County's efforts to preserve the historic resources and landscapes that define our cultural heritage, we are excited to share that a new historic marker was recently unveiled at the Barns-Brinton House in Pennsbury Township! The sign was the seventh to be installed in a series of 15 — with eight more to be constructed on the grounds where the September 11, 1777, Battle of Brandywine took place. Learn more.
Managing Chester County's Stormwater: BMPs and Floodplain Protection eTools
Posted May 19, 2022
Intense summer storms can cause an excess amount of flooding, and one of the most effective ways to mitigate this issue is through the use of Stormwater Best Management Practices, or BMPs. Similarly, floodplain protection is an important factor in the county's stormwater management as they are necessary for a healthy ecosystem. Check out this month's featured eTools to learn more.
Chester County's Vision Partnership Program — 2022 Round 1 Recipients
Posted May 18, 2022
Chester County's Environmental and Energy Advisory Board (EEAB) helps to enhance the county's commitment to preservation and protection of the environment by focusing on the balance, interplay, and impact of energy related initiatives and issues. The Board includes a mix of residents, representatives of businesses, energy initiatives, municipalities, land conservancies and county departments. This month, we're excited to highlight new EEAB member, Karena DiLeo! Learn more about Karena
Chester County's Vision Partnership Program — 2022 Round 1 Recipients
Posted May 18, 2022
Congratulations to the county's Vision Partnership Program (VPP) Round 1 award recipients for the 2022 program, including three cash grants to the municipalities of Downingtown Borough, West Caln Township, and Upper Uwchlan Township! Read about their projects
West Chester Welcomes New Artist Coworking Space and Gallery
Posted May 13, 2022
Ginkgo Arts offers unique spaces for local artists to display their work and collaborate with others. With a variety of amenities, this space helps to implement the Prosper and Appreciate goals in Landscapes3 as it supports main street design and vitality, adaptive reuse, and historic preservation through the restored Tudor-style building they occupy, which dates back to 1900. Learn more
New Report Shows 20-Year High in Chester County Home Construction
Posted May 12, 2022
Our new report shows that more homes were built in the county in 2021 than in any year since 2001, and that the growth was largely driven by apartment construction. It also says that despite soaring prices, more homes were sold than in any year since 2005. Learn more
April 2022
Chester County Celebrates Opening of Final Phase of Schuylkill River Trail
Posted April 28, 2022
Chester County Commissioners and Chester County Parks + Preservation, along with CCPC and many local trail partners, celebrated Earth Day on April 22 with the official opening of a two-mile section of the county's final portion of the Schuylkill River Trail! This initiative supports the "Connect" goal in Landscapes3. Learn more
Chester County Joins Berks & Montgomery Counties to Authorize the Schuylkill River Passenger Rail Authority
Posted April 28, 2022
Chester County, along with Berks and Montgomery Counties, recently authorized the creation of the Schuylkill River Passenger Rail Authority (SRPRA), which will oversee and implement the restoration of passenger rail service between Reading and Philadelphia. While the SRPRA is not a guarantee that passenger rail will return, it's a crucial next step to continue the process of research and planning. View the press release to learn more.
Enhancing Chester County's Green Spaces
Posted April 27, 2022
Green spaces not only provide an aesthetic appeal within a community, but they also provide numerous benefits to the environment. Municipalities can expand Chester County's green spaces by implementing urban green spaces and through parkland dedication and fee-in-lieu provisions in their subdivision and land development ordinances. Learn more about this month's featured eTools.
Following Up: Landscapes3 Protect Forum
Posted April 27, 2022
CPCC's 2022 Landscapes3 Protect Forum took place on April 19 with a lively discussion and presentations about what municipalities can do to protect the county's natural resources and promote clean energy through local actions and ordinances. View the event follow-up and PowerPoint presentations.
2021 Metrics — Another great year for Chester County
Posted April 26, 2022
Each year CCPC tracks a variety of metrics which provide a measurable snapshot of progress on Landscapes3, and Chester County saw another great year with the release of the 2021 metrics! Learn more about the 2021 Metrics and to view each individual goal category.
Chester County's Solar Power Guide
Posted April 25, 2022
When it comes to solar power, it's important to understand the needs and framework on both a national and local level. Because of this, CCPC recently released a Solar Power Guide with useful information and guidance on regulating solar power facilities. Check out the guide and learn more.
Open Space Summit and Preserved Farm Tours
Posted April 21, 2022
CCPC and the county's Parks + Preservation Department will host several fun and informative events all showcasing agriculture happening on preserved lands in Chester County this May. The 2022 Open Space Summit - Farms for the Future will take place on May 10 at Springton Manor Farm. Additionally, the county is offering tours of preserved farms and unique agricultural operations. Registration for the tours is limited, so be sure to register ASAP! Learn more and register for these events.
Chester County Celebrates Milestone with Open Space Summit
Posted April 21, 2022
To commemorate and celebrate Chester County's 30 percent milestone of protected open space, and to share information on the focus for open space preservation in the future, please join the Chester County Commissioners, along with the County's Planning Commission and Department of Parks + Preservation for the 2022 Open Space Summit on Tuesday, May 10! Learn more and register.
Meet CCPC's New Board Member
Posted April 21, 2022
We are excited to welcome our new CCPC Board Member, Roberta Cosentino! Roberta looks forward to addressing accessible transportation, affordable housing, and equitable public spaces during her time on the CCPC Board. She currently serves as Director of Community Food Access & Education Programs for the Chester County Food Bank, and enjoys sharing food and stories — whether it's chatting with local farmers or inviting friends to her house for dinner. Learn more about Roberta.
Following Up: Spring 2022 Planners' Forum
Posted April 15, 2022
The 2022 Spring Planners' Forum welcomed more than 90 attendees joining to discuss current planning topics and issues such as climate change, equity, affordable housing and local economic growth this past March 31. The forum was held both in person at the West Goshen Township Building, and via Zoom. It was the thirteenth semi-annual Planners' Forum hosted by CCPC. Learn more and view the slideshow.
2021 Non-residential Construction Report Released
Posted April 14, 2022
CCPC's Senior Housing & Economic Planner recently presented the results of Chester County's 2021 Non-residential Construction Report, which included a total of 36 non-residential projects totaling 1,139,151 square feet. Of this new square footage, institutional and commercial uses contributed the most, with West Chester University's "The Commons" property and The Springer Commercial building in New Garden Township leading the way. Learn more and check out the report.
March 2022
Chester County Ag Council Releases New Strategic Plan
Posted March 23, 2022
The Chester County Ag Development Council recently released the new Chester County Agricultural Economic Development Strategic Plan (AEDSP), which outlines how to sustain and grow a successful agricultural economy in the face of growth pressures, industry challenges, and limited resources. Learn more and check out the plan.
Check out our 2021 Landscapes3 Success Stories
Posted March 22, 2022
Each year, CCPC tracks stories that support the goals and vision of Landscapes3, the county's comprehensive plan. While the past two years have been quite unpredictable (to say the least), we've seen continued successes across the county in each of the plan's goal areas, proving that despite the ongoing challenges, Chester County continues to grow in a positive way! Check out some highlights to learn more.
Selecting a Planning Consultant
Posted March 21, 2022
Planning consultants can help to create and implement community planning programs, initiatives, and developmental projects by bringing a wide range of skills and expertise to the table. However, it's important to select a consultant that best suits the needs of your project and community. Learn more about this month's featured eTool, Consultant Selection.
2022 Landscapes3 Protect Forum
Posted March 18, 2022
CCPC's Landscapes3 Protect Forum will take place on Tuesday, April 19, from 3:00 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. via Zoom. This year's forum will provide an engaging discussion about what municipalities can do to protect natural resources and support solar facilities through their local actions. It's free to attend, and open to municipal officials, non-profit organizations, local partners, and members of the public. Learn more and register.
New Sustainability Director
Posted March 16, 2022
Chester County has a new person at the helm of managing the County's Climate Action Plan — and we are excited to announce that it's our very own Rachael Griffith, who moves up from her role as Senior Trails and Open Space Planner! As Sustainability Director, she will assist county departments, municipalities, and other stakeholders to meet Chester County's goals for sustainability, clean energy, greenhouse gas reduction, resource protection, and public outreach and communications. Learn more.
Meet our New Community Planner
Posted March 15, 2022
We are excited to introduce Joe Shanley as our new Community Planner! Our Community Planners play an integral role in the day-to-day services offered at CCPC, as well as our long-term projects and planning for the future of the region. Joe is a lifelong resident of Chester County and is eager to help guide the county's path into the future, as well as help enable municipalities pursue sustainability. Learn more about Joe.
Join us for the Spring 2022 Planners' Forum
Posted March 8, 2022
Chester County's spring 2022 Planners' Forum features an exciting lineup of topics touching on important issues such as climate change vulnerability, a homegrown economy, and transforming alleys with accessory dwelling units. The forum will take place as a hybrid event, held virtually and in-person at the West Goshen Township Building from 8 a.m. to 10 a.m. on Thursday, March 31. Learn more and register.
Commissioners Approve Public Hearing for Consideration of New Rail Authority
Posted March 4, 2022
The Chester County Commissioners have taken the next step toward restoring passenger rail between Reading and Philadelphia in a joint effort with Berks and Montgomery Counties. On March 3, the Commissioners unanimously approved a resolution announcing a public hearing to consider a proposal to create the Schuylkill River Passenger Rail Authority (SRPRA). Learn more.
Chester County Planning Commission to Hold Monthly Board Meeting
Posted March 4, 2022
The Chester County Planning Commission will conduct its monthly board meeting at 2:00 p.m. on March 9, 2022. This will be a hybrid meeting allowing the public to attend in person or via Zoom. The location of the meeting is Suite 351 in the Government Services Building (601 Westtown Road, West Chester, PA 19380). Please visit https://zoom.us/j/91604214510 to join the webinar or telephone toll free at 877-853-5247 and enter Webinar ID 916 0421 4510. Learn more.
February 2022
Explore our Inventory of Natural Resources
Posted February 25, 2022
We recently released an Inventory of Natural Resources featuring an interactive map of the county's natural resources including geology and soils, water resources, open space, and natural habitats. The map can serve as a great tool for land conservation and resource protection planning as it helps to guide development away from critical natural areas, minimize impacts on environmentally sensitive resources, and mitigate impacts that do occur - helping to ensure overall environmental and community health. Learn more.
New Guide Supports Planning for an Aging Community
Posted February 24, 2022
Because of an anticipated increase in our senior population over the next two decades (which stands true across the U.S.), the Chester County Planning Commission recently released an Aging-Friendly Planning Guide to help municipalities prepare for this shift by adapting their existing housing stock to meet the needs of the county's aging population. Check out the guide to learn more.
Protecting Chesco's Farmlands, Natural Areas, & Cultural Resources
Posted February 18, 2022
With factors like heightened use and value placed on outdoor recreation since the start of the pandemic, the threats presented by climate change, a new wave of interest in suburban living, and mounting pressures on farming - preserving land is more important now than ever. Chester County established some of the first land trusts back in the 1940s to preserve land throughout the county, which is carried on today through conservation easements. Check out this month's eTools to learn how conservation easements can be used and how to implement them within a community.
2021 Act 247 Reviews
Posted February 17, 2022
Despite the ongoing challenges caused by COVID-19, Chester County saw increases in almost every development category in 2021 indicating that the county is continuing to grow in a variety of ways. CCPC's Act 247 Review team recently wrapped up the 2021 Subdivision, Land Development, and Conditional Use Review Activity and Ordinance and Comprehensive Plan Review Activity reports. Check out the summary.
Meet Our Board Chairman
Posted February 16, 2022
After serving as a Tredyffrin Township Supervisor for five years and developing a particular interest in land use planning and infrastructure, Michael Heaberg was honored to be appointed to the CCPC Board in 2016. After spending nearly six years on the Board, Michael was nominated and appointed as the 2022 Board Chairman this past January. Learn more about Michael.
2021 Annual Report
Posted February 15, 2022
The Chester County Planning Commission recently presented the 2021 Annual Report to the Chester County Commissioners, showcasing a summary of achievements from throughout the year that support the implementation of Landscapes3. The report highlights achievements from the plan's six goal areas and vision. Learn more.
Municipal Planning Grant Round Opening!
Posted February 14, 2022
The first round of the Vision Partnership Program (VPP), Chester County's municipal planning grant program, is now open! The deadline for applications is March 31, 2022. Details and the application can be found in the Municipal Corner section of our website. Questions about the grant program and requests for pre-application meetings (strongly encouraged) can be directed to William Deguffroy, Community Planning Director, at 610-344-6285 or wdeguffroy@chesco.org. Learn more.
Chester County Planning Commission to Hold Monthly Board Meeting
Posted February 6, 2022
The Chester County Planning Commission will conduct its monthly board meeting at 2:00 p.m. on February 9, 2022. This will be a hybrid meeting allowing the public to attend in person or via Zoom. The location of the meeting is Suite 351 in the Government Services Building (601 Westtown Road, West Chester, PA 19380). Please visit https://zoom.us/j/91604214510 to join the webinar or telephone toll free at 877-853-5247 and enter Webinar ID 916 0421 4510. Learn more.
January 2022
America250 Chester County Commission
Posted January 26, 2022
On July 4, 2026, communities across the nation will come together to celebrate the 250th anniversary of the United States of America. From concerts and parades, to ceremonies and formal gatherings, this multiyear effort will inspire Americans to connect to the past by celebrating our nation's first 250 years, and inspire our future by thinking about the next 250 years. Learn more.
New Suburban Landscapes Design Guide Released
Posted January 26, 2022
The Planning Commission recently released a new design guide to support the planning principles and design elements for development in the county's Suburban landscapes. The guide is the third in a series of six to be completed, with each one including recommended planning polices, design treatments, regulatory strategies, and links to online resources Learn more.
Tredyffrin Comprehensive Plan Update
Posted January 25, 2022
This past October, Tredyffrin Township completed an update of their 2009 Comprehensive Plan with the Chester County Planning Commission serving as the consultant. The Township was awarded a grant through the county's Vision Partnership Program to complete the project. Learn more.
Stay on the lookout for our 2021 Success Stories
Posted January 24, 2022
On an annual basis, we share success stories that support the six goals and vision of Landscapes3. They cover a wide range of topics and initiatives, which ultimately helps us determine how well — and what — the county is accomplishing each year. Stay on the lookout as we'll be featuring the list of 2021 stories next month! Learn more.
Chester County Economy Report Released
Posted January 21, 2022
This past year, Chester County completed an Economy Report providing local data that can be used to guide economic planning and future growth for the county. The data in the report highlights the county's economic strengths and weaknesses, helping to guide recommendations and implementation of the county's comprehensive plan, Landscapes3. Learn more.
New Guide Supports Planning for Affordably-Priced Homes
Posted January 19, 2022
As the cost of living continues to rise across the U.S., many families have become burdened by the cost of housing. Because of this, the Chester County Planning Commission recently completed a report on the various costs related to housing construction. Learn more.
Transportation Improvement Program
Posted January 18, 2022
As another initiative that supports the "Connect" goal in Landscapes3, the Transportation Improvement Program is the regionally agreed-upon list of priority transportation projects for the southeastern PA region, as required by federal law and adopted by the Delaware Valley Regional Planning Commission. Learn more.
Implementing Good Development Practices to Protect our Natural Resources
Posted January 14, 2022
Since many people choose to live or visit Chester County to enjoy its natural qualities and resources, it's important to follow good development practices to ensure they remain in place for years to come. In some instances, these resources can be protected in new developments by implementing performance zoning and cluster development regulations within a community. Learn more.
Community Conservation Partnerships Program Awards Announced
Posted January 12, 2022
Congratulations to the Chester County municipalities and non-profits that were recipients of the Community Conservation Partnerships Program awards! On December 30th, Governor Wolf announced the investment of $70 million toward 317 projects across the Commonwealth. Chester County received awards for 17 of those projects totaling over $8 million. Learn more.
Transportation Priority Projects
Posted January 10, 2022
In support of the Landscapes3 Connect recommendation to "advance implementation of transportation improvements," the Chester County Planning Commission works with a committee of transportation planning partners and county agencies, as well as Chester County elected officials including PA House Representatives, PA Senators, and the Chester County Commissioners to identify and promote Chester County's Transportation Priority Projects. Learn more.
Chester County Planning Commission to Hold Monthly Board Meeting
Posted January 7, 2022
The Chester County Planning Commission will conduct its monthly board meeting at 2:00 p.m. on January 12, 2022. This will be a hybrid meeting allowing the public to attend in person or via Zoom. The location of the meeting is Suite 270 in the Government Services Building (601 Westtown Road, West Chester, PA 19380). Please visit https://zoom.us/j/91604214510 to join the webinar or telephone toll free at 877-853-5247 and enter Webinar ID 916 0421 4510. We recommend beginning to log in at 1:45 in case of technical difficulties. The public is invited to join, and there will be an opportunity for public comment during the meeting. Learn more.
Recapping 2021 and Setting Goals for 2022
January 4, 2022
While 2021 was yet another unpredictable and challenging year, we are happy to report that the Planning Commission has continued to adapt to these challenges and remain successful in our efforts to implement the county's comprehensive plan, Landscapes3. Some notable 2021 achievements included the funding of various projects through the county's Vision Partnership Program (VPP), the preservation of the 577-acre Glenroy Farm along the Octoraro Creek, the adoption of the county's new Climate Action Plan, the annual Town Tours & Village Walks program, the A+ Homes Forum, the preparation of a Chester County Agricultural Economic Strategic Plan, as well as the adoption of a Complete Street Policy and planning for trails and other amenities. Check out some more 2021 achievements and look forward to what's happening in 2022.