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Patton Twp Approves Mixed-Use Zoning, Moving Patton Crossing Development Closer To Reality

The Patton Township Board of Supervisors has approved a new mixed-use development zoning code. The change likely opens the way for the controversial Patton Crossing development to move forward.

For nearly three hours Wednesday night, residents voiced mostly concerns about the new Mixed-Use Overlay District, or MXD2. Patton Township resident Rick Maher objected that it seemed the zoning was created specifically for one development.

“This MXD2 ordinance is being tailored with the Patton Crossing property in mind," Maher said. "It’s not right and it stinks!”

Residents’ other concerns included density, traffic, environmental impacts and building height. 

A previous version of the proposed zoning code was voted down. The new zoning incentivizes the creation of additional affordable housing over the required 5 percent. Developers can build one additional market-rate residence over the residential density limit for every additional affordable housing unit up to 10 percent.

Patton Township board member Dan Trevino told residents he went back and forth before deciding to support the zoning change.

“I think with all the adjustments that we’ve made I’m more inclined to view this type of development in the long range for this community as a positive,” Trevino said.

Council members added they’ll keep a close eye on individual development proposals.

The council voted unanimously to adopt the new mixed-use zoning. They’ll wait until July 18 to vote on the Patton Crossing development itself. 

Emily Reddy is the news director at WPSU-FM, the NPR-affiliate public radio station for central and northern Pennsylvania.