Chick-fil-A developer Newtown Equities LLC has requested an indefinite extension of its zoning hearing application, meaning the controversial application has been withdrawn and will not be scheduled for review unless the developers decide to proceed.
Concerned residents, who blasted the plan to build the fast food eatery at the former TD Bank site on the Newtown Bypass, see it as good news but not a clear win.
“While this is a positive step, it is a conditional and temporary halt, not a definitive victory,” said Donna Serdula, the township resident who has spearheaded opposition to the plan. “The application could be resubmitted in the future, possibly in a different form or location. We must stay vigilant and prepared to mobilize again if necessary.”
The developer’s zoning application shows the restaurant facing Newtown-Yardley Road and Upper Silver Lake Road, with waiver requests submitted that ask the township to allow Chick-fil-A to place signage for its store on the Newtown Bypass.
[Read more about the plan here… “Chick-fil-A Wants to Set Up Shop at Intersection of NT-Yardley Rd and #NewtownPA Bypass”; https://sco.lt/5L9k7U].
Serdula, a Wiltshire Walk resident, said the variances would disrupt the peaceful neighborhood and environment.
“If the supervisors approve the zoning changes and variances, it will be a turning point for Newtown’s future,” she said. “We face a choice: Do we want the Newtown Bypass to remain a bypass, or do we want it to turn into a congested and commercialized business route like Route 1?”
Serdula went on to detail several concerns she and the community have with the proposed development, including increased traffic and safety risks, environmental impacts and emergency access issues.
A petition Serdula started entitled “Stop Zoning Changes Allowing Chick-fil-A Construction in Newtown” garnered more than 700 signatures as of May 12.
“After living in New Jersey for eight years, surrounded by retail stores and fast food restaurants that populate Route 130 in Delran, my family decided to move back to Bucks County. We sought the peace and quiet away from commercial hustle, aiming to return to a quieter area reminiscent of my childhood. I am not against Chick-fil-A as a business.”
“But I firmly believe that a fast food restaurant known for creating insane traffic backups does not belong in our small residential neighborhood, disrupting the tranquil life we chose to return to. The site, previously a quiet TD Bank, is simply unsuitable for such a high-traffic business.
Serdula said the 2025 local elections will be crucial in the fight against overdevelopment.
“The candidates we choose will significantly influence our community’s future,” said Serdula. “Please remain engaged and ready to act. Your continued support is crucial as we strive to preserve the charm and safety of Newtown.”
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Speaking of electing supervisors, my term ends December 31, 2025. I shall not seek, and I will not accept, any nomination for another term as Supervisor. Dennis Fisher's term is also up in 2025. Consequently, there may be a possibility to elect up to 2 new supervisors in the 2025 election. IMHO, I think Ms. Serdula should be a candidate to continue the fight against over development in Newtown.
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