About the Project

The Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection, whose mission is “to protect Pennsylvania's air, land, and water resources while ensuring the health and safety of all residents and visitors to the commonwealth,” is considering issuing an NPDES stormwater permit for the proposed 3-warehouse complex at 3485 Ritner Highway in West Pennsboro Township. Area citizens and subject matter experts have expressed concern regarding groundwater pollution for several municipalities, businesses, schools, and residences, potentially affecting thousands of Pennsylvanians.  

The proposed plan, including a total of 1.36 million square feet of warehouse space, and parking for a whopping 481 semi tractor trailers as well as 881 non-trailer trucks, could irreparably pollute Big Spring Creek, a concern shared by the Pennsylvania Fish & Boat Commission, given the ecological and commercial value of this famous fishery. Additionally, it’s important to recognize the cultural and historical significance of Big Spring Creek to those who have built their lives and livelihoods along its banks for generations.

We are calling on the DEP to require safeguards to protect our vital water resources. Multiple experts have warned that blasting 30 feet down into karst bedrock will pollute the groundwater and interfere with flow patterns. We believe requiring use of "Best Management Practices on Karst Geology,” as published by the DEP, is absolutely critical to protecting our water and our citizens. Furthermore, given the sensitive nature of the site and the potential for significant negative impacts on water resources, the DEP should require further geotechnical investigation of the site and groundwater monitoring before, during, and after construction.  

Governor Shapiro’s administration strives to streamline permitting processes via the SPEED program, but as the Governor himself has personally publicly stated, development must happen with the health and safety of Pennsylvanians in mind.