Adding to the layers of speculation surrounding the future of this ambitious project, a rumor has begun to circulate that Allan Smith has sold the Steeple View property to Jim Worthington of the Newtown Athletic Club (NAC).
Such a transfer of ownership, if true, could significantly alter the project's trajectory, either accelerating its completion under new leadership or leading to an entirely different vision for the site, which in turn could further impact the fate of the proposed creek walk and public areas.
[If it is true that the land was sold to Mr. Worthington, it could also mean that Mr. Worthington is no longer interested in developing a housing project on Lower Silver Lake Rd, which was claimed by the Newtown Sewer Authority via Eminent Domain for a sewer treatment plant. That plan was put on hold (read “Sewer Authority at a "Juncture." Which Road Will It Take in the Future?”) and there are rumors that the Authority has offered to sell the land back to Mr. Worthington for the same price it paid, which is allowable under Eminent Domain rules. If Mr. Worthington refuses to buy the property back the Authority may again pursue the sewer treatment plant idea. Or, it could donate the land to Newtown Township to prevent any future development. - my opinion]
The Steeple View project aims to redevelop a nine-acre parcel stretching from Centre Avenue to the former Stockburger property, incorporating residential, retail, and restaurant spaces across seven new buildings. Smith, a seasoned developer in Newtown with projects like the Stocking Works to his name, has seen his plans evolve considerably since their initial conception.
Proposed Pedestrian Creek Bridge
One of the most persistent difficulties has revolved around parking and traffic circulation. Another key point of contention has been the proposed pedestrian bridge connecting Newtown Borough to Newtown Township's Carl Sedia Park. While integral to Smith's vision of a connected community, the bridge project requires separate approval from the Newtown Township Board of Supervisors.
[My survey says the majority of Newtown Township residents are not fans of this bridge; read “Proposed Steeple View Pedestrian Bridge: Is It a Bridge Too Far?”]
This dual-jurisdiction requirement adds a layer of complexity, with the borough expressing concerns about the project's viability if the township doesn't approve the bridge. This isn't just a matter of waiting; it means engaging a whole new set of stakeholders, facing potentially different concerns, and incurring additional costs for separate applications and presentations. Should the township deny the bridge, the entire project's appeal and functionality could be significantly diminished, potentially rendering years of effort moot for that specific, crucial component.
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Meanwhile, residents of the Newtown Walk Community have a significant safety concern with the intersection located at Tara Blvd and Newtown-Yardley Rd. This is the main crossing point for residents to access the sidewalk to walk into Newtown Borough (there is no sidewalk on the Newtown Walk side of the street).
Despite the clear crosswalk indications and sign denoting the crosswalk, drivers regularly do not yield and drive through the crosswalk, claim several residents in emails to the supervisors and township management.
In response, the NTPD did a video surveillance - 47 separate details at the location over 29 hours - and found that there were 93 pedestrians to cross. There were only six violations observed and in each violation the driver's behavior was not egregious and on at least two occasions the violation was made by the pedestrian.
Residents requested a pedestrian-activated beacon or flashing light.
When the issue of pedestrian safety on N Sycamore St came up in November 2021, before a pedestrian was killed crossing using the crosswalk in December, Police Chief Hearn said “It comes down to educating the public....Additional signage with lighting elements, that runs into an additional cost factor and involves ongoing maintenance and a liability factor if a bulb burns out and it’s not replaced in a timely manner. It’s a managed approach, but I believe education is the best way to go at this point.”
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