The Fox Chase Civic Association last week heard an update about the Lorimer Trail Project.
Road-Con Inc. is handling the project, from Rhawn Street to Rockledge, a half-mile that will connect with the Pennypack Trail near Blake Avenue.
The construction company will create a 10-foot-wide walking and bicycling trail, clearing debris and trees on a former SEPTA rail line. There will be a new traffic light at the Rhawn Street trail entrance, along with fencing and curb ramps. SEPTA will install bicycle racks. Work will be completed by spring 2024.
In all, the project will cost $1.85 million, paid for with federal funds.
Some at the meeting questioned the need for another traffic light, fearing traffic congestion.
In other news from the June 14 meeting:
• The group heard from Capt. Marc Metellus and community relations officer Mark Mroz, of the 2nd Police District; Joe Staszak, of the 7th Police District; and Rockledge Police Chief John Gallagher.
In a recent period in the 2nd, 50 of the 69 stolen cars were Kias or Hyundais. Seven of the cars were stolen while the vehicle was running. Two were the result of carjackings. Twenty-nine were recovered after short joy rides. Kia and Hyundai provided each police district with 112 steering wheel locks for drivers of their 2011-19 models. The 2nd said it has received reports of a lot of thefts from autos at the Planet Fitness parking lot, 2201-35 Cottman Ave.
In the 7th, 25 of 34 recent stolen cars were Kias and Hyundais. There was an overnight burglary of the Dunkin’ Donuts at 8000 Pine Road, but the cash registers were empty.
In Rockledge, there was a robbery of high-end tequila at the state liquor store at 404 Huntingdon Pike. The police department will be hiring two full-time officers by mid-July. Departing will be Mike Whalon, headed to the East Norriton Police Department. Rockledge has a reputation as a borough with strict traffic enforcement, and Whalon usually led the way with vehicle stops.
• The civic association is not happy about the ongoing construction at 451 Rhawn St. The group is appealing to the Zoning Board of Adjustment about that site and two other planned apartment complexes at 448-52 Rhawn St. and 518 Hartel Ave. There are 179 units planned, in all.
• The Medical Mission Sisters want a mixed-use expansion on their property at 8400 Pine Road. Neighbors are worried about density, traffic and a loss of green space, and remain hopeful that an agreement can be reached for land preservation.
• To anonymously report graffiti or illegal pole signs, text the Fox Chase Town Watch at 215-694-6666.
• The 2nd and 7th police districts will hold a leisurely community bike ride on Tuesday, Aug. 1, at 5 p.m. at Fox Chase Elementary School, 500 Rhawn St. All riders will be entered into a drawing for a free new bike at 5:30.
• The 7th Police District, 1701 Bowler St., will host a Family FunDay on Sept. 23, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. There will be food, music, information tables, giveaways and appearances by police and fire vehicles.
• Fox Chase Civic Association will meet on Wednesday, July 12, at 7:30 p.m. at American Legion Loudenslager Post 366, 7976 Oxford Ave. ••
