The East Allen Township Board of Supervisors recently granted conditional use approval to BrightFarms for its ambitious 1.5 million-square-foot greenhouse project. This decision was made through a unanimous vote, with the exception of Supervisor Frank Kostecky who was absent during the decision-making process.
Before construction can commence, the project will need to undergo the township’s land development process. BrightFarms prides itself on using hydroponic growing methods that do not involve pesticides. The locally-grown produce from this greenhouse complex can reach store shelves within hours of being harvested, providing a significant advantage over products from California that may spend up to five days in transit.
The proposed development will be situated on two parcels totaling 112 acres at the northeast corner of Locust and Arrowhead roads in East Allen Township. Currently, the property is used for agricultural purposes as stated in the conditional use application. The land falls within the Agricultural/Rural Residential zoning district where greenhouses are permitted by right. However, due to the project being classified as “intensive agricultural land development” according to the township’s zoning ordinance, a conditional use hearing was necessary. The plan involves the construction of four greenhouses with a total area of 1.5 million square feet, along with two headhouses or work center buildings totaling 318,000 square feet.
For further details on this project, interested individuals can refer to the article on LeHigh Valley Live. The publication date for this information is Wednesday, December 18, 2024.
In addition to the above, it is important to note that the project is aligned with eco-friendly practices and aims to contribute positively to the local community. The use of hydroponic methods not only ensures the absence of pesticides but also promotes sustainable agriculture practices. By reducing the transportation time from farm to store, the greenhouse project seeks to provide fresher produce to consumers while minimizing the carbon footprint associated with long-distance food transportation.
Overall, the approval of BrightFarms’ greenhouse complex marks a significant step towards advancing agricultural practices in East Allen Township. This project not only showcases innovative growing methods but also emphasizes the importance of local, sustainable food production. As the development moves forward, it is expected to bring economic benefits to the area and contribute to the overall well-being of the community.
In conclusion, the approval of the 1.5 million-square-foot greenhouse project by the East Allen Township Board of Supervisors reflects a commitment to fostering sustainable agriculture and promoting local food production. With careful planning and adherence to eco-friendly practices, this development has the potential to make a positive impact on the region and set a precedent for future agricultural initiatives.