Letter to the Editor:

I am writing to inform the public about the possible construction of very large digital billboards, inconsistent with the character of our rural community, near the intersection of Route 10 and Route 1.

The proposal is to build a barnlike structure which will be 48 feet tall (about five stories tall), 60 feet long and 50 feet wide. The digital displays will be on the two long sides of the structure, in very large sizes:  16 feet high and 60 feet long, totaling 960 square feet each.  This is twice the size of the displays on the digital billboards on Route 202 just south of West Chester.

The proposed digital billboards will violate several provisions of Lower Oxford’s Zoning Ordinances, including size — it will be three times larger than allowed — and the “barn” structure will not need to meet the zoning setback requirements. Catalyst, the builder and possible tenant, is proposing an amendment to the current ordinances which will change current billboard requirements to make this digital billboard possible. 

Catalyst asserts that it has our interests at heart and will sacrifice dollars to create something valuable to the community.  But it has resisted requests to share its plans with the wider public, fearing it will only lead to opposition and delay.

The Lower Oxford Planning Commission is considering this proposed digital billboard and the changing of zoning regulations.  A vote may be taken at the next meeting on Thursday, January 23 at 7:30 p.m. at the Lower Oxford Township Building. The public can attend.

This construction will affect the entire Southwestern area of Chester County, and all who live here.  Let your voice be heard.

Anita Bower

Nottingham