3 min read February 2024 — In an interview with Invest:, Bill White, township manager for Radnor Township, discussed its strategic initiatives to promote sustainability, the proactive measures taken to address flooding concerns, and the process of developing a comprehensive plan for redevelopment and community engagement.
What have been some major highlights for Radnor over the past 12 months?
A significant long-term concern has been flooding in Radnor. Over the past year, we took proactive measures by updating our stormwater management ordinance, anticipating positive impacts on redevelopment projects already underway. Addressing flood mitigation, we successfully completed one project last summer, witnessing immediate benefits in the targeted areas. At the same time, the Township has approximately ten to fifteen other stormwater projects in various stages of development and implementation throughout the township.
Also, to enhance our police department’s efficiency, a recent staffing study was completed. We strategically expanded by adding a community support unit led by a dedicated social worker. This innovative approach allows us to respond more effectively to calls requiring specialized services. In just three months since its launch in October, this unit has handled over 130 referrals, demonstrating its impact.
Notably, we are proud of our service delivery across all departments. In Radnor, our public works department, responsible for trash and recycling collection, consistently provides top-notch service. Establishing relationships with residents through regular visits, our team takes pride in maintaining a high standard of service delivery, fostering a sense of community pride.
These initiatives reflect a broader shift in policing, emphasizing community support and connections with resources for those in need. While there is still a backlog of flood management projects, the progress made in the last year signals a positive trajectory. We remain committed to addressing challenges and continually enhancing our services for the well-being of our community.
How do you expect the Radnor 2035 comprehensive plan to unfold and what will be the expected impacts once the plan is implemented?
Currently, our focus is on the initial stages of the project as it is still in its infancy. We are actively collecting public input, a crucial step before delving into substantive discussions that will guide our elected leadership.
However, what I can share is that the impending creation of a 10-year comprehensive plan is not only a state-planning code requirement but a pivotal opportunity to set the course for the township’s future. While stormwater management remains a priority, with steps already taken to address concerns, we anticipate broader discussions on zoning, development, and planning.
As a predominantly built-out community, redevelopment takes center stage. We foresee conversations on increased density and housing affordability across income levels, addressing the unique challenges posed by our existing housing stock’s high costs. Public transportation, particularly being on the SEPTA mainline, adds a crucial dimension to our discussions.
Preliminary conversations and public outreach have hinted at these topics. Additionally, environmental concerns, spanning from redevelopment to open spaces and parks, form an integral part of our ongoing community dialogue.
Could you provide insights into the economic makeup of Radnor, and are there any industries in particular that you are looking to attract?
Radnor boasts intangible assets, leveraging its strategic location with easy access to public transportation, 476, and the turnpike, facilitating efficient travel along the East Coast. This serves as a significant draw for businesses and residents.
From an economic development standpoint, Radnor hosts a diverse range of corporations, fostering sustainability in the long term. A noteworthy advantage lies in the absence of an earned income tax, particularly beneficial for high-wage earners and businesses considering relocation. This intentional tax structure enhances Radnor’s attractiveness.
While ongoing discussions focus on budget considerations and revenue generation, any alterations to the tax makeup are quickly dismissed, recognizing the positive impact on attracting individuals and businesses. As Radnor navigates its comprehensive plan, anticipations arise for more intentional conversations about future business attraction. Presently, the township continues to globally promote its inherent benefits, and businesses that do their due diligence often discover Radnor’s appeal during their comprehensive location analyses.
What are the overarching budgetary priorities, and how is the township capitalizing on the funding made available from the federal government in recent years?
We have our hands in a couple of jars. In 2021, Radnor Township embraced an energy reduction plan based on insights from Practical Energy Solutions. With a focus on environmental enhancements, we secured grants facilitating the acquisition of two electric cars and the installation of an electric charging bank. The municipal and public works buildings are undergoing conversion to solar power, leveraging available federal grants for these initiatives.
Our commitment extends to park enhancements, where grants are employed to upgrade our diverse park system. From popular trails in the woods to well-maintained playing surfaces, Radnor’s parks cater to varied preferences. While our park system is extensive, it is also aging, prompting us to seek grants for necessary upgrades.
Lastly, for stormwater management, we initiated a project in late 2023, benefiting from federal funding tied to a nature preserve acquisition made 25 years ago. This aligns with our broader environmental efforts and allows us to tap into additional grant resources.
Can you share any conservation initiatives or programs that highlight Radnor’s emphasis on conservation?
Land conservation has been a long-standing focus for the township, predating me by several decades. The township’s commitment to preserving land from development is evident in its historical practice of borrowing funds to acquire land for conservation purposes. A notable recent endeavor involved the acquisition of approximately 70 acres of the Ardrossan property, representing the largest preserve owned by the township.
Furthermore, the township has actively collaborated with developers to incorporate open space and preservation into their development plans. This approach not only fosters environmental conservation but also allows developers to leverage federal tax benefits. This collaborative effort has contributed to the extensive inventory of parks and open spaces within the township, a source of pride for the community.
How are you addressing the prevailing challenges Radnor faces and working to navigate or mitigate the associated negative impacts of these challenges?
In terms of development, Radnor is essentially built out. We do not have any concerns about vast farmlands being converted into extensive housing projects. However, the ongoing conversation revolves around redevelopment, focusing on higher-density housing and development. A pivotal consideration in this dialogue is the impact on schools, emphasizing the need to avoid overburdening educational institutions.
While discussions about traffic impacts arise, acknowledging the community’s sensitivity to increased congestion, the overall effect on service delivery is not overly significant. The township is cautious about potential shifts in zoning that could lead to the construction of large apartment structures, necessitating a balance between development and its impact on essential services.
In terms of service delivery, considerations arise particularly in the realms of police, fire, and ambulance services. For instance, discussions may include ensuring that fire trucks can efficiently service tall structures and that ambulances can effectively manage call volumes in densely populated areas. While these challenges are not unique to Radnor, they are approached within the context of redevelopment, emphasizing a balanced and thoughtful perspective on the township’s evolving makeup.
What is your outlook for the next two to three years and your top priorities within this time frame for Radnor and the Greater Philadelphia region?
The outlook for Radnor is exceedingly positive, maintaining its reputation as the best place to work, play, and raise a family on the Main Line. With the No. 1-ranked public school district in the state, it remains an ideal location for families, although affordability can be a challenge for newcomers.
Despite the affluent nature of the community, the high turnover in housing and businesses has not posed a threat to Radnor’s appeal. Even with economic fluctuations, historical trends suggest a resilient rebound. Looking ahead, the township is anticipated to strengthen its position, especially for those seeking proximity to the city without the associated urban challenges.
This is why I am optimistic for the larger Philadelphia area, and Radnor’s positive trajectory aligns with expected growth in the region overall. While acknowledging the need for a more detailed analysis from Philadelphia residents, the overall sentiment remains optimistic.
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