By Jessica Kenley

SWEDEN VALLEY, Pa. — Public safety dominated discussion during the Sweden Valley Township Supervisors meeting Monday evening, August 3, as residents urged township officials to address excessive speeding along Cherry Springs Road, illegal tire burning within the community, and a longstanding drainage issue that continues to plague a busy intersection.

The meeting, held at the Sweden Valley Grange Hall, was attended by the township supervisors and several community members, who used the public comment period to voice concerns affecting the quality of life in the township.

Speeding Near Family Recreation Area

Residents expressed growing concern about motorists ignoring the 35 mph speed limit along Cherry Springs Road, particularly near Gary’s Family Resorts, a popular destination that includes miniature golf, a restaurant, a gift shop, duck-feeding pond, zip line, and other family attractions where children are frequently present.

Several speakers said vehicles routinely travel well above the posted speed limit, creating what they described as dangerous conditions for children, pedestrians, and motorists entering or exiting the business.

One resident warned that it is “only a matter of time” before someone is seriously injured if speeding continues unchecked.

Supervisors acknowledged the concern, noting they have previously contacted the Pennsylvania State Police about enforcement. They explained that while patrols have occurred in the past, enforcement is limited because of the transition into the reduced-speed zone.

As a possible next step, supervisors agreed that a public safety reminder could be worthwhile. A community press release will be drafted encouraging motorists to slow down and remind parents that young bicyclists and scooter riders should wear helmets. Township officials also said they would again reach out to the Pennsylvania State Police to request additional traffic enforcement in the area.

Illegal Tire Burning Sparks Environmental Concerns

Another major topic centered on reports of residents burning tires—an act prohibited under Pennsylvania law because of the toxic chemicals released into the air.

Residents described recent incidents involving tire fires and said the smoke lingered throughout the valley, causing health concerns for neighbors, particularly those with respiratory illnesses and compromised immune systems. Speakers noted that burning tires releases hazardous pollutants and urged township officials to publicly discourage the practice.

Supervisors discussed possible responses, including sending a letter or speaking directly with individuals responsible for the fires. One supervisor felt a personal conversation would likely be more effective than formal correspondence, while others agreed the township should make its position clear that tire burning is both dangerous and illegal.

The board indicated it would consider both a public statement and direct outreach to residents involved.

Standing Water Continues to Frustrate Residents

Another resident raised concerns about the persistent accumulation of water near the intersection of School Street and Cherry Springs Road after heavy rainfall.

According to residents, water has collected in the area for decades, creating hazardous driving conditions and an unsightly entrance into the community. Discussion focused on an old catch basin that may have been filled in years ago, preventing proper drainage. Supervisors and residents explored several possible solutions, including locating and reopening the buried drainage structure or investigating other methods to improve runoff.

While no immediate action was approved, supervisors said they would continue investigating possible remedies.

Additional Business

In other township business, supervisors:

  • Approved a minor subdivision request involving property on South Dry Run Road.
  • Approved a $500 donation to support Gary’s Family Resorts’ 2026 community fireworks display.
  • Discussed upcoming grant applications for road equipment.
  • Received updates on road maintenance, dust suppression work, and township equipment projects.
  • Heard an update that natural gas pipeline construction is expected to begin later this year.

The meeting concluded after approximately 40 minutes, with township officials emphasizing their willingness to continue working with residents on the public safety issues raised during the evening.