Limerick Land Swap: A Historic Blunder Comparable to Chip Kelly’s Infamous Trade

A contentious land trade proposal in Limerick Township has ignited significant opposition among local residents. The proposal, which involves a swap between a warehouse developer and the state, aims to facilitate industrial development along the Schuylkill River. Local officials were reportedly taken by surprise as the deal raises concerns about potential land use, including the future establishment of a data center.

Details of the Limerick Land Swap

The proposal, filed with the Pennsylvania Game Commission, involves the following key changes:

• Acres Gained by the State: 559 acres across three counties, including Delaware County’s first state game lands.
• Land Secured by Limerick Town Center LLC: 55 acres in Limerick.

The land being traded has historical significance, previously housing the Publicker distillery. The developer’s plan is to exchange some land in Berks and Delaware counties in return for the 55-acre lot, which borders an area near the old Pennhurst Asylum.

Community Concerns

Residents in the Montgomery County area are worried about the potential transformation of the area into an industrial zone. Key issues include:

• Concerns about a data center possibly being built in the area.
• Impact on wildlife and community resources.
• Traffic and overdevelopment issues.
• Lack of public benefits from the trade.

Many locals feel blindsided by the proposal and express frustration that they were not consulted prior to the announcement. The general sentiment among residents is one of mistrust regarding future developments in their community.

Upcoming Decision by the Game Commission

The Pennsylvania Game Commission is scheduled to vote on the proposal soon, which adds urgency to the local opposition. Limerick Township officials can only voice their discontent, as the land is under the Commonwealth’s jurisdiction. This situation has parallels to well-known sports trades, likened to the infamous deal involving Chip Kelly, highlighting the community’s view of this exchange as a significant misstep.

As concerns escalate, the future of the Limerick land trade remains uncertain, with community members actively rallying against the deal, emphasizing their desire for more transparency and consideration for local needs.