As we enter the fourth quarter of 2020, I reflect upon the year so far with mixed emotions.
On one hand, 2020 has brought South Fayette Township a series of challenges like never before. The coronavirus pandemic forced us to cancel South Fayette Community Day, our July Fourth fireworks celebration, Summer Playground Camp and just about every other community gathering that we take such pride in offering.
However, despite all the obstacles of 2020, I am optimistic and excited about the future.
In this issue of South Fayette Connect—the magazine’s 20th issue since it first published in 2016—I would like to highlight the very good work the township has been able to accomplish this year.
Going into 2020, our primary goal was to expand and enhance the annual road paving program.
The 2020 budget earmarked more than $2 million for roadway improvements. Despite construction activities being temporarily shut down due to the coronavirus, and safety precautions impacting our traditional office work environment, our ambitious plan to improve the road network has been successful.
The vision and leadership of the township Board of Commissioners have been key, as the elected officials urged us to forge ahead when many communities were reluctant to take on large projects due to the uncertainty of the pandemic.
And forge ahead, we did. Not only have we undertaken the largest road paving program in township history, but we also have pursued long-term capital projects that will serve the community for years to come.
Most notably, the township plans to construct a new municipal building and police station on recently purchased land along Hickory Grade Road.
The new facility will provide the police with desperately needed accommodations to provide professional services and will equip township staff with space to operate more efficiently and cooperatively. We anticipate a groundbreaking in early 2021.
Additionally, the commissioners have formed a strategic plan for the existing municipal complex on Millers Run Road that will address the facility needs of the South Fayette Township Library, provide community spaces and potentially offer indoor recreational amenities.
These projects have long been talked about, but for a variety of reasons could not be completed. With strong teamwork and leadership from the commissioners, these projects now are being pursued in a responsible manner. Soon the community will have the opportunity to participate in the planning process to help make this vision a reality.
I look forward to our momentum carrying over into 2021. For example, as part of our five-year Capital Improvements Plan, we will leverage more than $1 million in grant awards to make significant improvements to Fairview Park and Morgan Park.
The future is bright in South Fayette!
Sincerely,
John M. Barrett
South Fayette Township Manager