Montgomery County planner Brian Olszak presented a proposal at the Montgomery County Board of Commissioners meeting earlier this month that would redesign the Springfield Township trail system, adding new routes and connecting neighborhoods over a span of 25 miles.

The Trails and Connectivity Plan, which was developed by the township’s Master Trail Plan Task Force, aims to make Springfield Township more pedestrian and biker friendly despite the lack of available green space. The goals of the plan are to provide for recreational needs, identify routes that connect key destinations, make trails accessible for all ages and abilities, and to create a list of clear projects to present to the township.

Commissioners will likely vote on the plan in December, but officials cautioned that the proposal, if approved, probably would be implemented in stages depending on financial resources available in the township budget. Depending on state approval…. But they said it was likely some part implementing, one of because lack of budget of resources or land ownership. 

The plan’s new trail system focuses on important destinations, identifying “community features” such as schools, key businesses, open spaces, trail heads and more. The task force proposes 28 new trails, including 9.76 miles of multi-use trails, 2.6 miles of priority bike networks, 7.98 miles of neighborhood greenways, and 4.1 miles of complete streets.

The proposal is the result of more than a year of work by the task force whose members include township officials, county planners and representatives of concerned organizations. The task force and township officials surveyed residents on trail use and also sought input from township students, and Springfield residents who attended public meetings on the initiative.

The complete Trails and Connectability Plan, both the walking and biking editions, can be found on the township website, springfieldmontco.org

Wyndhill Park

The Board decided to close the pickleball court at Wyndhill Park after residents raised concerns about noise and other disruptions. Court lines and nets will be removed, the board decided. Players were advised to look for indoor options. In the meantime, the board decided to repave the Wyndhill Park court and set aside funds for the repair but not to be used to e pockle, while also contacting Springfield Township Superintendent Dr. Mary Jo Yannacone about the possibility of transforming one of the district’s tennis courts into a pickleball court.

Recycling Report

Over the month of September, Springfield Township donated 154.6 tons of materials with a household participation rate of 79.3%. The Board reminded residents of a bagged leaf program that operates from March to February. Raked leaves and yard waste can be collected on the regular trash day at 7 a.m. Officials added that it is illegal to rake or blow leaves into the street because it is a fire hazard and can block grates creating flooding. 

Township Auditor

The Board approved the appointment of Bee, Bergvall & Co. to serve as  township auditor. Their role includes auditing Springfield’s financial statements for the year. 

Business Tax Auditor 

The Board also approved the appointment of Marcum Accountants and Advisors to serve as Springfield’s business tax auditor. As business tax auditor, Marcum Accountants and Advisors will perform business tax compliance audits and consulting services. 

2024 Budget Meeting Schedule

Nov. 8: Budget presentation at 7:30 p.m.

Dec. 13: Budget hearing and vote at 7:30 p.m.