308 apartments are proposed in our neighborhood. Most of us will hear about the vote after it happens.
Most neighbors find out about township meetings after they've happened. This list fixes that. It's free, it's run by a neighbor, and it only texts you when something actually matters.
Takes about a minute. Reply STOP any time. Nobody sees your number but us.
What this is
We're a group of neighbors on Lafayette and Sterling, including Alex at 610 Lafayette St. We started this because keeping track of every plan, hearing, and agenda has turned out to be genuinely difficult, and we were worried we'd find out about major changes to our neighborhood only after the decisions were made.
So when a meeting, hearing, plan revision, or comment deadline comes up that affects us, you get one short text: what, when, where, and what you can do about it.
It's one-way. You can't reply to the group, and neighbors can't see each other's numbers. If you want to reach us, email yournewtownneighbors@gmail.com.
Where we stand
We're not against development. We're against development that changes the fabric of this community: erasing the open space, redrawing traffic patterns, and putting hundreds of additional cars onto small residential streets.
Families have lived here for generations because it's walkable and safe. That's what we're trying to protect. You don't have to agree with us to be on this list — if you just want to know when the meetings are, sign up.
What to expect
You'll get a text when
- The Planning Commission or Board of Supervisors puts a nearby project on its agenda
- A developer files a new plan or a revision
- There's a zoning hearing or a public-comment deadline
- A vote is scheduled and showing up matters
You won't get a text about
- Lost pets, raccoons, or noise complaints
- Anything for sale
- Elections or candidates
- Anything outside land development near this neighborhood
How often: it varies. Some months nothing. A busy month with multiple meetings might be five or six. On average, a couple of texts a month.
Sign up
First name, cell number, and street address. The address is there for one reason: this list is only for people who live in this neighborhood, and it's how I confirm you do. It's never shared.
After you submit, you'll be asked to text JOIN to confirm. That's the carrier's rule, and it's how you know the list can't add you without your say-so.
What's being proposed
308-unit "mixed use" apartments — 638 Newtown-Yardley Rd & 661 Penn St
A preliminary land development plan filed by 661 Penn Street, LLC (Jim Worthington, owner of the Newtown Athletic Club) would replace two light-industrial parcels with two four-story apartment buildings (150 and 158 units), two parking garages totaling 776 spaces, three office buildings, and a stormwater basin, all on 15.75 acres. It relies on the J-1 Mixed Use designation in the LI/O-LI overlay district.
Next public meeting: UPDATE — date, time, body
Background: summary of the plan · plan summary PDF
Lafayette One — where Lafayette St dead-ends past Sterling St
A sketch plan for four single-family lots on the LSAC-owned parcels at the end of Lafayette Street. Currently in sketch-plan review, meaning it isn't approved for construction and still needs a full land development plan, utility design, and an NPDES permit from PA DEP. Nearby residents have submitted written concerns, including questions about a recorded license agreement governing the berm and buffer.
Next public meeting: UPDATE — date, time, body
Background: sketch plan summary · Bucks County Herald coverage
Where the meetings are
Newtown Township Municipal Building, 100 Municipal Drive, Newtown, PA 18940. Agendas for the Planning Commission and Board of Supervisors are posted at newtownpa.gov, usually a few days before each meeting. Public comment is allowed at both.
By signing up you agree to receive occasional informational text messages from Newtown Neighbors about local land development and township public meetings. Message frequency varies, typically 1–3 per month. Message and data rates may apply. Reply STOP at any time to unsubscribe, or HELP for help. Your phone number and address are used only to run this list and are never sold or shared. Questions: yournewtownneighbors@gmail.com.
This is a personal project of one resident. It isn't affiliated with Newtown Township, any HOA, any candidate, or any organization.