Solebury Township is seeking public comment on the future development of the 166-acre former New Hope Crushed Stone quarry property, which it acquired earlier this year.
The acquisition was completed in the spring at a cost the township of $1.6 million.
The amount was less than the appraised value of $3.66 million. Township officials said the reduction in cost was made possible by an easement agreement with the Solebury School.
Under the agreement, the school contributed $1,654,429.59 toward the purchase price. In exchange, the Solebury School gains non-exclusive access to potential hiking trails and eventual access to the 75-acre lake within the quarry pit for water sports.
“Acquisition of this property with its pristine lake will undoubtedly prove to be a jewel in Solebury Township’s park system for generations to come,” Supervisors Chairperson Mark Baum Baicker said earlier this year.
The property at 6970 Phillips Mill Road had been a focus of the township since the New Hope Crushed Stone and Lime Quarry closed in 2019 following years of problems and neighbor complaints that involved state mitigation efforts.
Officials said the acquisition ensures the long-term environmental protection of the site and provides potential for public recreation.
The township is in the beginning stages of planning for the phased development over several years.
Officials said the development of the property is contingent on available funding.
Currently, the township is focused on early-stage priorities, including remediation, structural improvements, and site security.
The formal master planning process is projected to begin in 2027.
The township shared on its website that early work is ongoing.
An engineer has been contracted by the township to begin the environmental remediation process, which is expected to take several months to a year.
As of August, the Public Works Department and the police are installing site security measures such as motion-controlled lighting and security cameras.
Public works crews and contractors plan to restore electric service to the maintenance building, and service has already been restored to the roadside buildings.
In late summer, crews were clearing vegetation around utilities.
The township said they have installed warning and boundary signage and secured access to buildings at the site.
A boundary survey started in August, and a survey of natural resources will be done after. The surveys are set to be done by mid-2026.
The township has obtained tax-exempt status for the property and is negotiating with the Pennsylvnaia Department of Environmental Protection to get rid of a $211,000 lien.
Additionally, the township has applied for $1.2 million in grant funding for the acquisition through the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development.
Officials said the Solebury Township Board of Supervisors are working on potential use agreements for training with county dive team, Central Bucks Emergency Medical Services, local fire companies, and police K-9 units.
The township encourages and welcomes public input throughout this process.
“Your voice will help shape the future of this remarkable property,” the township said.
Comments and suggestions can be submitted at any time by email to soleburytownship@soleburytwp.org.
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