It’s time for Unity officials to update the township’s comprehensive plan and supervisors say they want to look at ways to support business development and encourage modern signage along Route 30 while improving infrastructure and access to recreational facilities.

This will be the third review of the plan, which assesses needs in the township and outlines short-term and long-term goals. It is meant to be updated every 10 years.

“We want to make it business-friendly,” Supervisors Chairman John Mylant said, adding, “We want to get input from the public. We’ll have a hearing next month.”

The hearing is set for 5:30 p.m. on Feb. 11. It will follow the supervisors’ regular monthly meeting, which begins at 4:30 p.m.

Township officials aren’t anticipating many changes in the plan, according to Supervisor Mike O’Barto. “Any changes because of public input will be factored into the plan,” he said. “Then, it will be sent to the township planning commission for their recommendation.”

In line with the last plan review, O’Barto said, the supervisors amended zoning regulations to make it easier for small businesses to locate in villages in the township.

This time, he said, they’re contemplating a change that would ease a restriction on electronic billboards, reducing the minimum setback along the Route 30 corridor from 1,000 feet to 500 feet and encouraging modernization of standard billboards.

He noted many standard billboards along the highway are closer than 1,000 feet, but some have fallen into disrepair.

“It’s not fair to some of the owners of these billboards,” he said. “Most are owners of the property they sit on. Ones that are closer than 1,000 feet will just sit there. In most cases, they’re just falling apart,” becoming an eyesore.

The proposed change also would be reviewed by county planners.

According to O’Barto, the Unity supervisors also would like to update fire regulations to require all businesses provide secure entry keys that can be accessed by firefighters in the event an emergency occurs after operating hours.

O’Barto said the updated comprehensive plan also should reflect improvements the supervisors want to make to Unity’s stormwater and recreational facilities. “We’re looking at upgrading our playground equipment for handicapped accessibility,” he said.

Given current low interest rates, the board is considering financing such improvements through a proposed bond issue, which would be a first for the township.

Because of pandemic-related limitations on the audience size in the supervisors’ meeting room, those who plan to attend the comprehensive plan hearing should contact building department secretary Gail Rause at least 24 hours in advance, at 724-539-2546, ext. 4023.

Those attending in person must wear a face mask and observe social distancing. Options will be available for those who want to participate remotely.

The supervisors also will consider written comments sent to the attention of Rause and received by noon on Feb. 10 at the township municipal building, 154 Beatty County Road, Latrobe, Pa. 15650. The submission must include the person’s name and address.

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