Upper Committee to Make Safety Upgrades at Community Center

PETERSBURG – Upper Township Committee met Feb. 27 and addressed the safety concerns with crowded parking and poor street lighting on Route 50 adjacent to the township’s Community Center in Tuckahoe. 
The committee reported that several short and long-term goals are being introduced to help alleviate the problem.
Municipal representatives have met with officials from the school district and township recreation personnel to discuss making use of school facilities for some of the events that would normally be held at the community center. A dialogue is ongoing regarding this possibility.
In the short term, the township will be painting parking spaces at the community center making it clearer where to park. It is also considering adding more parking spaces behind the center’s building.
Township officials reported that they would be upgrading three street lights outside the center that will be relit with 100 watts LED bulbs. That should improve visibility and safety for those parking on Route 50. Other traffic safety improvements for the center being considered include installation of a flashing light on Route 50 as a warning to drivers to slow down during times of events; and possibly installing additional street lights on the other side of Route 50.
Resolutions of recognition:
* Corville Griner for 65 years of service to Upper Township Fire District No. 2 and the Tuckahoe Volunteer Fire Company.
* Edwin G. Kooker, Sr. for over 50 years of service to the Marmora Volunteer Fire Company.
Mayor Richard Palombo, on behalf of the township, extended to both gentlemen the township’s sincere thanks and appreciation for these record-setting decades of selfless dedication.
The committee approved a resolution which authorized the execution of a shared services agreement with Corbin City. It would provide zoning officer services in the event of a conflict of interest with the Upper Township zoning officer.
Also approved was a resolution authorizing the township to enter into an inter-local contract for cooperative purchasing with the Houston-Galveston Area Council. That entity operates a program that assists local governments in reducing costs through a government-to-government procurement service that is available nationwide. The program is available to local government entities and qualifying non-profit corporations, according to its website.
Start Advisory Group
The committee approved for final adoption an ordinance that established an economic development advisory commission.
Mayor Richard Palombo emphasized that officials had been thinking for a while of establishing such a commission to stimulate commercial development. “I’m really pleased that we’re now going to benefit from this action tonight,” Palombo said.
Laud Champions
A formal presentation was made to the players and coaches of the Upper Township Indians Junior Varsity Football team on becoming the 2016 Cape Atlantic Junior Football League Champions.
Palombo pointed to the outstanding achievement this was and what good ambassadors of the township the team has been.
On Nov. 26, 2016 the 9-1 Indians defeated the Galloway Renegades 24-0 in the championship game.
To contact Camille Sailer, email csailer@cmcherald.com.