DLN series examines county’s future growth

Landscapes3 is the county’s new plan to examine growth and preservation

WEST CHESTER » Beginning this Sunday and running every Sunday in June, the Daily Local News will feature a four-part series on the county’s new initiative – Landscapes3 – that will examine the importance of balancing preservation and managed growth. The series will also look at how local residents can help to shape the decisions that will be made.

The articles will highlight some of the core issues facing Chester County and potential solutions to be addressed during the preparation of Landscapes3, the county’s long-range comprehensive plan.

“Public input is critical for making Landscapes3 the best plan possible,” said Chester County Planning Commission Executive Director Brian O’Leary. “The survey results will help determine the vision and priorities for the county.”

The articles will highlight different choices and options available to county residents, such as modes of

transportation and housing choices. The intent of this series is to draw attention to Chester County, the balance between growth and preservation, the planning process and the public opinion survey.

The first article will deal with the quality of place residents enjoy, the rich and diverse history of Chester County and why so many choose to live here. An overview of preservation and protection efforts – both historic and green space – will be included and the article will discuss the challenges presented by the need for development as the county grows in population.

The second article will examine the challenges of sustaining economic growth while balancing it with preservation as the county looks toward the future. This includes a discussion on the county’s efforts to invest in older commercial districts in order to

preserve open space, and the challenges of accommodating a projected 146,000 additional people by the year 2045 and the increases in jobs and housing units that go along with that.

Week three will focus on discussion on transportation in the county, including the various modes — driving, transit, walking, etc. The article will identify some of the challenges facing Chester County, and celebrate the vast trail network.

Finally, the last part in the series encourages readers to participate in the survey process, and how to do it. The article will present a summation on the importance of participating in this effort. It also will look at how county officials will use the responses from residents in making final determinations. The survey seeks to gather feedback on several issues, including managed growth, open space and environment, sense of place, modern infrastructure, transportation, the economy, healthy lifestyles, and housing options.

In the end, it’s all about quality of life here in Chester County. Don’t miss this exciting and informative series beginning Sunday in The Daily Local News. Join the discussion by filling out the public survey here: www.chesco.org/ Landscapes3Survey.