Some things for the BOT to consider

As Penn State’s board of trustees ponders whether to approve the sale of 45 acres along Whitehall Road to the Toll Brothers development company, there are a few crucial details I hope they consider:

▪ Perhaps razing land situated uphill from local abundant wellheads currently providing our area with high-quality water directly contradicts the university’s new strategic plan, which positions PSU as “a leader in creating comprehensive solutions to mitigate the dangers of climate change and address the challenges of providing safe and abundant water, clean and renewable energy sources.”

▪ How does building upscale student housing across town square with “Ensuring a Sustainable Future”? Why not choose to build close to or on campus, thus reducing commuter traffic?

▪ Why not build smartly and efficiently, include solar panels, even a rooftop garden? Isn’t it time for Penn State to rectify its actions with its stated vision?

▪ As the demonstrated community actions (legal action, support by judicial system, voter turnout, 120-day occupation, petitions) indicate, this plan is not supported by residents. Is it in the best interest of PSU to perpetuate a negative relationship with its neighbors?

▪  Look at the recent success of the adjacent parcel known as the Slab Cabin Run Initiative — an innovative solution to a similar development proposal.

I trust that the trustees will come to the most appropriate conclusion to satisfy student housing needs, while considering the needs of and the university’s relationship with the local community, while supporting its stated mission.

This story was originally published September 30, 2017 at 11:22 PM with the headline "Some things for the BOT to consider."