Union Township Comprehensive Zoning Ordinance & Map Update

Providing for Future Development

With major transportation routes (PA 72, I-81, and I-78) traversing Union Township, they recognized that proper planning for future growth would be essential. In 2004, the township adopted its Comprehensive Plan, which was a significant step in their strategy to address the many changes in development patterns that were beginning to occur. A significant part of the Comprehensive Plan was to update the township’s Zoning Ordinance and Map. This update required review and analysis of the types of zoning districts that would be appropriate, where they should be located, the various uses that would be permitted within those districts, and the criteria and performance standards necessary to minimize any detrimental effects associated with growth and development to enhance the positive attributes. Working with the Township Planning Commission, a Zoning Ordinance Planning Committee, and the residents of the Township through numerous public workshops, meetings and hearings, the Township adopted the new Ordinance and Map in 2009.

Unique aspects of this project included:

• Significant public and governmental lands (Swatara State Park, Fort Indiantown Gap, State Game Lands).
• Major interstates (I-78, I-81) and a State Road (PA 72).
• Natural resources (Appalachian Mountains, Swatara Creek).
• Contrasting land uses (military reservation, commercial and industrial, residential, agricultural, public park and game lands).