Zoar Home site in Shaler could become housing

Shaler commissioners next month will hear one man's idea to revitalize the former Zoar Home property on Mt. Royal Road.

Anthony Schwab of Shaler will discuss developing land once used as the Zoar Home for Mothers, Babies and Convalescents but that has sat vacant for several years.

Zoar's main facility would be converted into a 25-unit apartment complex. The house next to it would be made into a recreation center and the former carriage house into a workshop.

"This is a project with a lot of visibility," said township Engineer Kevin Creagh. "It's right at our border with Hampton, and it's an important development."

The development has been before the planning commission since early this year and has undergone several revisions.

Residents voiced concerns about stormwater, access and safety. Planning commissioners want the development to be aesthetically pleasing because the property sits at a heavily traveled intersection.

"Considering the fact we had an extensive -- almost two-hour -- meeting on site with (the developer), and considering the fact that all these things we addressed have been covered, I think we can move forward," said planning commission Chairman Thomas Montgomery.

The development received conditional approval from the planning commission last week.

If the plan passes the township board, Schwab hopes to break ground before the end of the year. Construction could last about a year.

Schwab and his family want to add seven duplex patio homes along the southern border of the property and an outdoor pool, which would be attached to the recreation center.

Two open-air ponds would control stormwater runoff and water drainage; the main access to the development would come from Elfinwild Road.

The township board is scheduled to meet at 7 p.m. Nov. 11 at the municipal building.