The West Torresdale/Morrell Park Civic Association last week approved two zoning proposals.
Santini’s Grille plans to open at 3294 Red Lion Road, in Academy Plaza, the former home of Lily’s Nails. The shop will be take-out and offer delivery. There will be no eat-in or alcohol. Civic members unanimously approved the plan.
The civic also considered two special exceptions for the Union League Golf Club at Torresdale, one for expansion of use and the other for removal of “heritage” trees, following its purchase of the former Northeast Auto Outlet/Potamkin.
Longtime Union League CEO Jeff McFadden was on hand. He and his team explained that 395 trees will be planted to replace others that will be cut down, including 43 heritage trees, which get their name due to size and species. In removing trees, the Union League was also able to dispose of a lot of trash.
The Zoning Board of Adjustment has to approve the removal of heritage trees and construction of a golf learning center.
The Union League said its plans have received the OK from the City Planning Commission, the Water Department, the Army Corps of Engineers, the Department of Streets and a certified arborist.
The Union League Golf Club at Torresdale told the crowd it’s a good neighbor. General manager Sandee Cataldi said there’s a free annual outing for police officers, firefighters and the military, adding that many of the employees are from local schools such as Archbishop Ryan, Father Judge and George Washington.
Also, First Tee executive director Bill Hyndman explained that the Union League helps fund youth programs at John F. Byrne Golf Club, which is managed by First Tee.
Union League officials said the new trees will be a thick buffer planted in a stagger, and that they will be at least 50 feet high at maturity. There will be no deer hunting, which is illegal on the property.
Members voted overwhelmingly to support the plans.
In other news, Christ the King School will hold a “dough rai$er” on March 24 at Uno Pizzeria and Grill, at Neshaminy Mall. Uno will donate up to 20 percent of dine-in or takeout order sales.
Also, state Rep. Ed Neilson will be holding a free shredding event on April 30, from 9 a.m. to noon in the Our Lady of Calvary Church parking lot, 11024 Knights Road. An e-cycling truck will be available for small electronics.
Before adjourning, the civic approved a $250 donation to an upcoming Easter Egg Hunt at Mitchell Playground. ••
