Phone Outage Scheduled for City Facilities On January 12 and 13

Posted by rbutler on Friday, January 11 @ 2:04pm

The City of Allen will be upgrading its phone system January 11 - 13.

Emergency dispatch will not be affected; however, regular phone service to all facilities will be out beginning at 6 p.m. on Friday, January 11 through Sunday, January 13. Phone service is scheduled to resume by 8 a.m. on Monday, January 14.

The following temporary phone numbers will be available for the following facilities:

• Stacy Road Pump Station (for reporting water/sewer related emergencies)
  214-986-8312 or 214-986-5579
• Don Rodenbaugh Natatorium
  214-986-8599 or 214-986-7680
• Joe Farmer Recreation Center
  214-986-7517 or 214-986-7704
• The Edge Youth Center
  214-986-7502 or 214-986-7488

City Considering Juvenile Curfew

Posted by rbutler on Thursday, August 9 @ 12:36pm

The Allen City Council will conduct a public hearing on Tuesday, August 14, 2007, at 7:00 p.m. in the Council Chambers of the Allen City Hall, 305 Century Parkway, Allen, Texas, to consider continuing and adopting a curfew for juveniles.

Anyone wishing to speak either FOR or AGAINST the continuance and adoption of a curfew for juveniles is invited to attend the public hearing and voice his/her opinion.

For further information, contact the Allen Police Department, 205 W. McDermott, Allen, Texas, or by telephoning (214) 509-4200.

Council Approves Suspension of Water Rate Surcharge effective August 1

Posted by rbutler on Thursday, July 26 @ 7:27pm

The Allen City Council recently approved suspension of the water rate surcharge effective August 1. The City will remain on the current twice weekly water use schedule (Thursday and Sunday for our neighborhood) until until that time.

After August 1 upon transition from Stage 3 of the Drought Contingency Plan to the Water Conservation Plan, there will be no day of use restrictions on landscape irrigation uses for water. However, the City Council strongly encourages all water customers to continue to conserve water and to practice twice weekly landscape irrigation.

City Council Approves Stage 3 "Light" Restrictions

Posted by rbutler on Wednesday, June 13 @ 11:38am

Last night, the Allen City Council approved a Stage 3 "Light" designation as part of the Drought Contingency Plan.

Changes to watering restrictions under the Stage 3 "Light" designation, include:

• Effective immediately - Washing or rinsing of vehicles and watercraft by hose will be permitted as long as a shut-off nozzle is used to stop the flow of water when not being used to rinse off the vehicle.
• Effective July 1 - Landscape watering with sprinklers or irrigation systems will be permitted twice a week per a designated schedule. The schedule will be mailed to all water customers on or before June 30.

On July 1st, the watering schedule for our area will become Thursdays and Sundays, from 4am-10am and from 6pm-12a.

Don't Let the Rain Fool You - We're Still in a Drought

Posted by rbutler on Monday, May 14 @ 7:53pm

The following message was put out by the North Texas Municipal Water District:

Here in North Texas, we’re all thankful for recent rain. Lawns are green, plants are blooming and some lakes are filling up.

That’s why some people have asked why the North Texas Municipal Water District (NTMWD) service area remains in Stage 3 Severe Drought.

A drought is measured by more than rainfall (or lack of it).

NTMWD relies on three reservoirs—Lake Lavon, Lake Jim Chapman and Lake Texoma—to serve more than 1.6 million people in and around the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex. While Lake Lavon—our primary water source—has risen to 94 percent capacity, Lake Jim Chapman is still less than half full.

Other drought factors include:

• Drought conditions in the region and the watersheds of our lakes
• Lake levels/capacities
• Amount of water we’re permitted to draw from our reservoirs (the amount is limited by the State of Texas)
• Current and projected demand for water from our customers, which is increasing

Several projects, initiated prior to the drought, are under way that will add more water to our supply next year and help us keep pace with demand. While NTMWD may relax some watering restrictions later this year or early next year, our region may never return to a time when we could use all the water we wanted without worrying about the consequences.

Water conservation will always be an important part of NTMWD's water management strategy.

So we’re asking you to continue to save. Follow your community’s watering schedule and avoid wasting water. You will find easy water-saving tips at www.NorthTexas.WaterIQ.org

Working together, we can ensure there will plenty of water for our future. Always.

Updated: Monday, May 14 @ 8:53pm

City of Allen Storm Damage Recovery Plan

Posted by rbutler on Thursday, May 3 @ 9:37pm

Due to the impact of the high winds on Wednesday, May 2, a significant amount of tree and fence damage ocurred in Allen. The City's first priority has been the removal of wind damage debris from all streets, alleys, and public property. City staff has received hundreds of calls for assistance with debris removal. In response, city staff has developed the following response plan:

• Curb side pick up of storm damage debris at residential properties will be conducted.
• The City cannot come on private property to help reduce, cut up, or remove debris. The City will collect storm debris from the curb side (along a street) including: damaged tree and shrub plant materials and small quantities of fence boards and shingles. Small or loose plant materials should be placed in lawn/leaf type bags. The materials should not be placed in the street, but behind the curb. Any material placed along alleyways will not be collected by the City.
• All tree material must be no more than 6 feet in length. A limited quantity of fence materials that has been broken down into individual boards will also be accepted.
• The City will not collect whole fence panels or entire fences. The residents may personally take their complete fence panels or fence parts to the Custer Road Transfer Station Monday through Saturday from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. The transfer station is located on Ridgeview Drive just west of Custer Road. Residents must take their driver's license and most recent City utility bill as proof of residency.
• We are not collecting construction or remodeling debris including, but not limited to: large quantities of roofing shingles, plywood, electrical items, computer equipment, sheet rock, dimensioned wood, wood-like products such as Hardi Plank, metal, bricks, rocks, insulation, carpeting, carpet padding, electrical wiring, or dirt.
• City staff will begin residential storm debris removal on Tuesday, May 8. This allows citizens time to trim trees and get the debris to curb side over the next few days. This process should be complete in about two weeks.
• The City has been divided into four quadrants with a work crew assigned to each quadrant.
• You may request pick up of debris at (214) 509-4509. However, City staff will inspect each street for storm debris that has been placed out for collection.
• The cost of this service is paid for as part of your residential waste service fees. This curb service is not being extended to any commercial or homeowner's association owned properties.
• On Friday, May 4, the City is placing 30-yard open top debris containers at two locations: Jupiter Park, south of Main Street and Allen Station Park (in the compacted gravel parking lot) south of Exchange Parkway on Cedar Drive. These containers are intended for storm debris disposal. They are not intended for disposal of household food wastes or household hazardous wastes. After the open top service appears to be reduced in usage, the containers will be removed.
• Please call (214) 509-4509 with your questions.

Planning and Zoning Plat Discussion

Posted by rbutler on Monday, April 30 @ 4:35pm

At tomorrow night's City Planning and Zoning Committee Meeting, there will be a discussion to consider a Preliminary Plat for Morgan Crossing, Phase 3, being 15.866± acres located at the southwest corner of Angel Parkway (FM 2551) and the proposed Chaparral Drive.

This is in the open field area directly south of our neighborhood.

Zoning Change Public Hearing

Posted by rbutler on Tuesday, April 24 @ 12:07pm

The City of Allen City Council will be conducting a Public Hearing tonight to Adopt an Ordinance Granting a Change in Zoning for Tract A of PD Planned Development No. 65 from TH Townhome to R-7 residential on 15± Acres of Land Located Southwest of Angel Parkway and Chaparral Road.

This is the same area that was discussed at the Planning and Zoning Committee three weeks ago.

Participate in the Great American Clean Up

Posted by rbutler on Monday, April 16 @ 12:54pm

Everyone is invited to "dump their junk" at the upcoming Great American Clean Up set for Saturday, April 21 from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Trash of all kinds will be accepted with metals, computers, household goods, brush, cardboard and shoes being recycled and kept out of the landfill.

Area Zoning Change

Posted by rbutler on Saturday, March 31 @ 11:54pm

At the next meeting of the City's Planning and Zoning Committee on Tuesday, April 3rd there will be a public hearing to consider a request to amend Tract A of PD Planned Development No. 65 from TH Townhome to R-7 Residential for Morgan Crossing. The property is 15.87± acres of land situated in the D.B. Hearne Survey, Abstract No. 427; located southwest of Angel Parkway and Chaparral Road.

According to the maps available from the City, our neighborhood is zoned R7.

New Recycling Schedule

Posted by rbutler on Monday, January 8 @ 11:57am

The City has posted the new CWD recycling schedule, for most of 2007 we are now on the 2nd and 4th weeks of the month instead of the 1st and 3rd. However, please review the calendar posted for specific dates, as it varies throughout the year.

Bethany Lakes Park Preliminary Samples Indicate No Public Health Risk

Posted by rbutler on Friday, December 8 @ 7:59pm

Southwest Geoscience has completed the preliminary sampling of the northeast corner of Bethany Lakes Park as a result of lead shotgun pellets surfacing in this area. The preliminary sampling indicates that lead concentrations of the tested soil and water are well below the human health exposure standard set by the United States Environmental Protection Agency.

Southwest Geoscience will complete extensive sampling of this area late next week. It will remain closed to the public during this time and as needed for clean up efforts.

The pellets surfaced in this area due to the location of a firing range on the property prior to being purchased by the City over 10 years ago. The original property owners, Dallas Texas Rod and Gun Club, were required to perform site remediation for lead in order to comply with standards and other federal guidelines at the time prior to the City’s purchase.

The public should stay out of the closed area and observe other posted rules such as catch and release when fishing and no swimming or wading in the ponds. The trail through Bethany Lakes Park will remain open; however, holes #2 and #3 of the disc golf course are not accessible for play.

Area of Bethany Lakes Park Closed For Environmental Testing

Posted by rbutler on Thursday, November 9 @ 7:21pm

Approximately a one acre area in the northeast corner of Bethany Lakes Park will be closed to the public. The closing is a result of lead shotgun pellets surfacing in this area due to the location of a firing range on the property prior to being purchased by the City over 10 years ago.

The original property owners, Dallas Texas Rod and Gun Club, were required to perform site remediation for lead in order to comply with standards and other federal guidelines at the time prior to the City's purchase.

The public should stay out of the closed area and observe other posted rules at this time such as catch and release when fishing and no swimming or wading in the ponds. The trail through Bethany Lakes Park will remain open.

Testing of the area, including pond and related environmental samples, is being performed by Southwest Geoscience. Findings and recommendations are pending at this time.

West Nile Virus in the City of Allen

Posted by rbutler on Tuesday, September 12 @ 2:40pm

Due to recent notification from Collin County Health Care Services confirming a case of West Nile Fever in an Allen resident, the City of Allen Environmental Services Division is actively treating all standing bodies of water with larvacide.

To help protect yourself from the West Nile Virus, the Texas Department of State Health Services recommends the following:

• Apply insect repellent that contains DEET (N, N-diethyl-m-toluamide). Be sure to read label instructions. Spray clothing and exposed skin with repellent.
• Dress in long sleeves and long pants when you are outside.
• Stay indoors at dusk and dawn, times when infected mosquitoes are most active.
• Drain standing water in your backyard and neighborhood; old tires, flowerpots and clogged rain gutters are mosquito-breeding sites.

To learn more about West Nile Virus, please visit: Collin County Health Care Services. A copy of the most recent report from Collin County Health Care Services is provided for your review.

Updated: Tuesday, September 12 @ 2:41pm

Notice of Recall on Summer Reading Program Toy Giveaways

Posted by rbutler on Friday, September 1 @ 9:33pm

Due to a recall initiated by the U.S. Consumer Products Safety Commission (CPSC), the Allen Public Library is requesting the return of the bendable toy products given out as part of the children's summer reading program.

The CPSC recalled the bendable cats and dogs due to possible high lead content. Please see the CPSC web site at http://www.cpsc.gov/cpscpub/prerel/prhtml06/06236.html.

City of Allen Water Restriction

Posted by rbutler on Friday, August 25 @ 7:31pm

The City of Allen staff will begin installing signs next week at subdivision entrances throughout the city that say Water Use Restrictions in Effect with the City logo, website, and phone number. Please contact Andrea Smith at (214) 509-4553 if you have questions or concerns.

Stage 3 Drought Contingency Alert

Posted by rbutler on Friday, May 19 @ 8:54pm

Stage 3 of the Drought Contingency Plan will be initiated on June 1, 2006, as a result of the City of Allen's notification from the North Texas Municipal Water District (NTMWD), our water supplier. Stage 3 includes mandatory water use restrictions.

In accordance with City Ordinance No. 2520-5-06, a warning or citation can be issued for water use violations. Please note that a warning carries no penalties; however, warnings may be followed by citations if further violations occur. Citations may carry fines up to $2,000.

Residential and commercial water customers will need to follow the restrictions in Stage 3 of the City’s Drought Contingency Plan. The water use restrictions include:

• Limit landscape irrigation to once every seven days on the same day as residential trash pick up. (Thursday for our neighborhood)
• Do not water between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m.
• Do not drain or fill existing pools except to replace normal water loss.
• No hosing of paved areas, buildings, or windows.
• No wasteful water runoff.
• No vehicle washing or rinsing by hose.

In accordance with City Resolution Nos. 2500-3-06 and 2520-5-06, residential accounts will incur a 25% rate surcharge for water usage over 10,000 gallons per month. Since the mandatory water use restrictions will go into effect on June 1, 2006, the new rate surcharges will be reflected on the utility bills sent out in July 2006 and will continue as long as Stage 3 of the Drought Contingency Plan is in effect.

City of Allen Remains Under Drought

Posted by rbutler on Friday, April 14 @ 3:39pm

Please help conserve water as municipalities in the North Texas Municipal Water District remain in Stage 2 of the Drought Contingency Plan. The easiest and most effective way to reduce water use is to reset residential sprinkler systems to water less frequently. See www.wateriq.org for more information about water conservation.

Rabies Case Confirmed

Posted by rbutler on Friday, April 7 @ 9:31pm

One positive case of rabies in a skunk was confirmed in the 700 block of Rockefeller.

Residents are reminded to make sure all pets have current vaccinations. Parents should remind children not to approach or touch any wildlife.

Questions can be directed to Animal Control at (214) 509-4378.

City Planning & Zoning Public Hearing/Replat

Posted by rbutler on Friday, March 31 @ 8:39pm

During the Tuesday, April 4th meeting, the City Planning & Zoning Committee will conduct a public hearing and consider a replat for Lots 16B-1 and 16B-2, Block C, North Bethany Lake Estates, Phase One, being a Replat of Lot 16B, Block C, North Bethany Lake Estates, Phase One. The property is 5.66± acres of land located at the northwest corner of Bethany Drive and F.M. 2551.

This is the property just west of the Walgreens at the corner of Bethany and 2551. The full details and plat drawing are available on the City's web site.

Animal Shelter Reports Rabies Case

Posted by rbutler on Monday, January 30 @ 9:36am

The City of Allen Animal Control reported confirmation of one positive case of rabies on January 27. The rabies case was confirmed by the Department of State Health Services in Austin from a skunk that was picked up on January 24 from a backyard in the 500 block of Northridge Dr. (located near the SE corner of Bethany and Greenville).

Residents are reminded to vaccinate all animal against rabies and to contact Animal Control if any wildlife is seen in the area. Children should be reminded not to approach or handle wild or stray animals.

For more information, call Animal Control at (214) 509-4378.

Resident Participation Encouraged for Planning City's Future Growth Projects

Posted by rbutler on Wednesday, January 18 @ 12:21pm

Allen residents are encouraged to participate in a planning process to determine the future capital improvement projects for the City of Allen as part of the 2006-2012 Bond Program.

Participation in this process will result in a recommendation for a five-year Capital Improvement Program (CIP) to the Allen City Council. With support provided by City staff, interested residents will serve on sub-committees to identify and prioritize needs as related to Parks/Recreation, Streets/Drainage, Water/Sewer, Public Safety, and other City facility needs for the next five years.

The Allen City Council will appoint sub-committee chairs in March. Sub-committee meetings will be conducted on rotating Thursday evenings, beginning in April and ending in May. Funding for projects approved in the bond election will be initiated with the sale of the first series of bonds in June 2007.

The last comprehensive general obligation bond election for the City of Allen was in June 1999. Most the projects funded in that bond election have been completed.

Residents interested in participating on a CIP bond sub-committee can contact the City Secretary's office at 214-509-4107 for more information.

Stage 2 of Drought Contingency Issued

Posted by rbutler on Tuesday, January 17 @ 6:50pm

On January 11, the North Texas Municipal Water District (NTMWD) initiated Stage 2 of the NTMWD Model Drought Contingency Plan.

Stage 2 was initiated in response to:

• Extreme drought conditions in the service area;
• Continuing decline of water levels of the NTMWD water supply reservoirs; and
• Long-range weather forecast that projects the drought to persist.

Actions that residents and business owners in Allen can voluntarily take:

• Reduce all water usage; and
• Wait to establish new landscaping until the drought situation has passed.

For more information, see the letter and information provided by NTMWD or see the information posted on the Community Services web page.

Jan 3rd Planning & Zoning Meeting

Posted by rbutler on Saturday, December 31 @ 10:39am

During the January 3rd Planning & Zoning commitee meeting, there will be a discussion of two topics for neighborhoods in the nearby area:

• Final Plat - Consider a Final Plat for Parkside Village, being 28.012± acres located at the southeast corner of Shelley Drive and Malone Road.
• Preliminary Plat – Consider a Preliminary Plat for Morgan Crossing, being 156 Residential lots on 51.597± acres of land located at the southeast corner of Shelley Drive and Malone Road.

New Speed Limits Set for Allen Roadways

Posted by rbutler on Wednesday, December 28 @ 12:53pm

Completion of several roadway projects and relevant speed studies led the Allen City Council to pass an ordinance amending maximum speed limits for Bethany Drive, Bray Central Drive, Exchange Parkway, Hedgcoxe Road, and Watters Road within the city limits.

In many cases, existing speed limits were used for extended portions of roadways either nearing completion or recently completed. Other speed limits were based on speed studies and set in accordance with the Texas Administrative Code, Title 43, Part 1, Chapter 25, Subchapter B, Rule 25.20. This rule calls for a maximum speed limit to be set based on an 85% speed calculation. In simplified terms, the average speed of the majority of vehicles in a speed study sets the maximum speed allowed for that roadway.

Residents are encouraged to note and adhere to the new speed limits were applicable.

Neighborhood Along Shelley and Malone

Posted by rbutler on Monday, July 18 @ 12:48pm

At Tuesday night's City Planning and Zoning meeting, there will be a discussion and vote for the Preliminary Plat for Parkside Village Addition, being 28.012± acres located at the southeast corner of Malone Road and Shelley Drive. This proposal represents property previously owned by the Allen Independent School District that was zoned for CF Community Facilities. In January 2005 it was determined that a school is not required at this location and the tract was rezoned for residential uses.

City of Allen Water Emergency Ended

Posted by rbutler on Friday, July 15 @ 10:34am

The North Texas Municipal Water District has lifted all water use restrictions and terminated their water emergency alert. The City of Allen has also lifted all water use restrictions and terminated its water emergency alert.

• Please note that the City's water conservation plan, a separate plan from the drought and emergency water plan, is still in effect. That plan continues to restrict landscape irrigation uses from 10AM to 6 PM daily from June 1st through September 30 annually. The complete City water conservation ordinance is available at the following URLs:
  1. http://www.cityofallen.org/commservices/23320904 Water Conservation Plan.pdf
  2. http://www.cityofallen.org/commservices/aFinal Model Water Conservation Plan.pdf
• The City of Allen will complete its work to turn residential irrigation systems back on by noon today, Friday, July 15th. Residents are encouraged to check to assure their landscape irrigation (lawn sprinkler) systems have water supply as soon as possible after noon on Friday. Please report any water supply problems to the utility billing office at 214-509-4510/4509/4562/4563/4564/4566/4568/4570. The City's water and sewer division is staffed on Saturdays. Customers who do not discover that they do not have water supply to their irrigation systems after 5 PM and over the weekend may call the Stacy Road Pump Station at 214-509-4530 for assistance.
• The City staff appreciates the residents' understanding and support during this emergency situation.

City of Allen Water Emergency Update

Posted by rbutler on Thursday, July 14 @ 10:33am

North Texas Municipal Water District completed repairs on the broken water line at the Wylie plant last night. They are in the process of restoring full system capacity and water reserve storage today.

Allen's ground and elevated storage reached maximum storage capacity of 25.5 million gallons during the night.

This morning North Texas Municipal Water District and the Allen City Manager have lowered the City's Drought Contingency level from Stage 4 (Emergency) to Stage 2 (Moderate).

At stage 2:

• City governments are asked to halt nonessential use and use for governmental landscape irrigation.
• The public is encouraged to wait until the emergency situation has passed to establish new landscaping.
• The public is encouraged to make voluntary water use reductions.

During the day today, staff will circulate the City to turn residential and commercial irrigation systems back on. Allen residents with an irrigation system that does not flow water by 9 a.m. Friday morning, can contact the City's utility billing office at 214-509- with any of the following extensions: 4562/4563/4564/4566/4568/4570. City staff will check reported systems during the day on Friday, July 15.

The City of Allen expects the drought contingency stage to continue to improve later today or tomorrow if the water line repairs at the NTMWD plant in Wylie continue to hold.

City of Allen Water Alert!

Posted by rbutler on Wednesday, July 13 @ 9:12am

Allen residents and businesses must curtail all non-essential use of water until further notice due to a broken water pipe at the Wylie production plant of the North Texas Municipal Water District. NTMWD stopped delivering water to the City of Allen (and several other cities) early this morning. NTMWD is requesting all water customers in affected areas to not irrigate, use minimum water, not wash cars, etc. Allen has about one-half of its ground storage capacity at the present time.

NTMWD states that it will be at least noon before they can deliver water at low flow to Allen and it will take at least 24 hours to affect complete repairs. This estimate may change as time goes by. Check the City of Allen web site (http://www.cityofallen.org/) for updates.

Update @11:21AM: There is currently NO water delivery taking place to Allen. We now have only 10 hours supply in our ground and elevated storage tanks at normal usage levels. If we successfully limit our water use to essential uses only, we can make this water last 36- 48 hours.

The water the City of Allen still has to deliver to residences and businesses is still safe and drinkable- the present situation is not a water quality issue.

The North Texas Municipal Water District has issued a News Release on the current Water Emergency situation:

• Allen, Frisco, McKinney, Plano, Melissa, Lucas, Parker, Prosper, The Colony, Princeton, and several smaller towns and water supply systems are all affected.
• The problem is a broken pipeline that NTMWD is going to repair as soon as possible. Actions by the water district are underway to restore JUST partial service to affected communities; about 30-40% restoration of delivery is all that is anticipated. This partial restoration is hoped for in the next 12 to 24 hours. When repairs are affected, it will take several days to restore full system capacity. The water district cannot estimate how long it will take to affect full repairs at the present time.
• The NTMWD and the City Manager of The City of Allen have declared a Stage 4 Emergency Condition. The following water use restrictions are now in affect:
  1. All non essential usage of water is prohibited. Essential means required for health, safety, and welfare of our citizens.
  2. Vehicle washing is prohibited, including commercial car washing.
  3. All commercial and residential landscape watering is prohibited.
  4. No filling of new swimming pools; existing pools may maintain their water levels.
  5. All commercial water users must reduce uses by 60-70%.
  6. The City is also shutting down all commercial construction including home building with below ground activities, directional boring, and water/sewer line installation to help avoid water line breaks.

Update @1:13PM:

• The Community Services Staff and Parks and Recreation Staff field staffs have met to implement a decision to cut off all landscape irrigation systems in the City at the Check Valves as soon as possible. This will be done City-wide for all 21,000 residential and commercial customers. We have made this decision because the current best-case scenario is for 30-40% water supply restoration by NTWMD by this evening some time. At even 40% supply, we cannot afford to allow any landscape irrigation.
• NTMWD reports that they are soon to establish the alternate delivery system to provide 30-40% of normal supply but it will take several hours to fill the pipes with water and for the cities to see any delivery.
• At 1 PM, we had about 11.5 million gallons of water in ground and elevated storage; this is down from 13 million gallons we had at 9 AM. We have reduced consumption to 0.5 million gallons per hour. Curtailing irrigation uses is critical to maximizing our time with the water we have on board now.
• If repairs to the broken 78" line in Wylie are completed as expected in 24-36 hours, it will still be a total of 3-4 days with reduced water supply to the many affected cities.
• We have not shut down any businesses in Allen except car washes. We have shut down all residential home and commercial construction with underground activities to minimize our chance for a water main break. McKinney has shut down all restaurants and some other businesses as they evidently did not have as much water in storage when the event hit as we did in Allen.
• The water that is in our system is safe. This is not a "water quality" issue, it is a water supply issue.
• A decision will be made later today about activating the City EOC to manage calls and our response. The Collin County EOC was activated at about noon. The City's Emergency Manager, Craig Gillis, is in constant contact with Collin County.
• Teresa Warren us inviting media coverage through print and television media to aid in getting the word out on conservation. Staff has already met with Channel 11 and spoken with 8; and the Dallas Morning News and the Allen American. Both papers will have articles tomorrow.

Update @ 8:15PM

• North Texas Municipal Water District (NTMWD) has begun to deliver the 30-40% of the City's usual water demand. The limited supply will be directed first to the cities that have the lowest current water supply.
• The low supply allows for continued residential usage for purposes other than landscape irrigation and car washing.
• Allen plans to continue the Stage 4 (Highest Stage) Water Emergency Condition until NTMWD repairs the broken water main in Wylie and restores full system capacity. Repair is expected to be completed by tomorrow, Thursday, July 14.

Updated: Wednesday, July 13 @ 8:15pm

No Fireworks Permitted Within Allen City Limits

Posted by rbutler on Thursday, June 30 @ 4:17pm

With the 4th of July fast approaching, the City of Allen released a reminder about fireworks being prohibited within the city limits. City Ordinance No. 256-2-79 prohibits fireworks including sparklers. A fine of up to $2,000 can be imposed for those in violation of the ordinance.

Collin County also released a notice about the restriction of certain types of aerial fireworks within county limits due to a burn ban that began June 24. The burn ban is effective for a period of 90 days or such time conditions change and the ban is either lifted or extended.

Allen Sets Public Meeting for SH 121

Posted by rbutler on Friday, June 17 @ 8:36pm

The City of Allen will host a public meeting in regards to the future development of SH 121 on Thursday, June 23, beginning at 7 p.m. at Allen City Hall, 305 Century Parkway. Tolling and non-tolling options for funding the expansion of S.H. 121 will be presented.

Bethany Road Expansion

Posted by rbutler on Monday, June 13 @ 9:38am

The City will award the contract to widen Bethany Drive to four lanes divided (two lanes each direction divided by a median) from Malone Road to FM 2551 on June 14, 2005. This means that Bethany Drive should be under construction starting mid-July. The Bethany Road project will also widen the Malone Road intersection. Due to funding limitations, the project does not include lighting or improved medians at this time; however, the roadway will be constructed with sleeves and conduits under the paving, such that those improvements (lighting, irrigation) can be added at a later date. The total budget for this project is estimated at $1,872,217.

There will be a new lane for northbound right turn and northbound through traffic. There will also be a dedicated left turn lane on Malone Road to serve northbound traffic that is turning left on Bethany Drive. The northbound right turn and through traffic lane is identified for the initial phases of construction so you may expect to see the City's contractor start work in this area shortly after July 15th. The Malone Road and Bethany Drive intersection will also have a traffic signal added as part of this construction.

Staff does not plan to allow for a complete Bethany Drive or Malone Road closure as part of this construction project. However, residents should anticipate the temporary traffic interruptions that are a normal part of such construction. The Bethany Drive widening project is expected to be about a six month construction period, subject to weather delays and is about a $1.2 million construction project.

Development Plan for SE Corner Malone & Shelley

Posted by rbutler on Monday, June 6 @ 11:04am

At tomorrow night's City Planning and Zoning meeting, the committee will be considering a General Development Plan for Parkside Village Addition, being 28.012± acres located at the southeast corner of Malone Road and Shelley Drive. A drawing of the proposed development is also available.

This proposal represents property previously owned by the Allen Independent School District that was zoned for CF Community Facilities. In January 2005 it was determined that a school is not required at this location and the tract was rezoned for residential uses. This proposal includes 113 residential lots and 4 open space lots at a density of 4.03 units per acre.

Bethany Road Expansion

Posted by rbutler on Wednesday, May 25 @ 9:07am

The City opened bids on May 24th for our City project to widen Bethany Drive to four lanes divided (two lanes each direction divided by a median) from Malone Road to FM 2551. We anticipate that City Council will award this construction project to a contractor at the June 14th City Council meeting. This means that Bethany Drive should be under construction starting mid-July.

Residents will notice that no curb is being placed by SJ Louis Construction on the east side of Malone Road near Bethany Drive. This is because the Bethany Road project will widen the road to provide for a new traffic lane at that location. The new lane will be for northbound right turn and northbound through traffic. There will also be a dedicated left turn lane on Malone Road to serve northbound traffic that is turning left on Bethany Drive. The northbound right turn and through traffic lane is identified for the initial phases of construction so you may expect to see the City's contractor start work in this area shortly after July 15th. The Malone Road and Bethany Drive intersection will also have a traffic signal added as part of this construction.

City staff does not plan to allow for a complete Bethany Drive or Malone Road closure as part of this construction project. However, residents should anticipate the temporary traffic interruptions that are a normal part of such construction. The Bethany Drive widening project is expected to be about a six month construction period, subject to weather delays. The Bethany Road widening project is about a $1.2 million construction project.

Sewer Line Construction

Posted by rbutler on Wednesday, May 25 @ 9:05am

Last Friday, the City met with the NTMWD and their sewer line contractor, SJ Louis Construction, to discuss the NTMWD sewer line project that is progressing along Malone Road south of Bethany Drive. The new 60-inch sewer line in this area is now in the ground and ends inside the fenced NTMWD Junction Structure enclosure. Because the contract stipulated a maximum closure of two (2) months, the contractor indicated that the roadway replacement work will continue until June 18, 2005. This is a few weeks longer than we had previously indicated that the project would run.

The City is pleased that construction did not impact Bethany Ridge Estates homeowners' property as severely as originally thought. However, many residential and homeowners' association (HOA) landscape sprinkler systems were damaged and are to be repaired by the contractor. If your or your HOA's irrigation system was damaged, please test your sprinkler system as soon as it is repaired or the road is reopened, whichever is first. We understand that SJ Louis will make every attempt to repair known irrigation breaks and landscape damage, but overlooked problems attributed to the construction project may well happen. Anyone with a problem may call Chris Flanigan from the City's Engineering Staff to report the problems. Chris is available at 214-509-4578. He will interface with the NTMWD and the construction firm to have any problems corrected. You do not have to directly confront the construction contractor if you have an issue.

Parental Advisory

Posted by rbutler on Thursday, May 19 @ 10:24pm

The City of Allen has issued a parental advisory regarding a web address that is similar to the web address maintained by the Allen Public library. The Allen Public Library's official and only web address is www.allenlibrary.org.

The alternate web address is the same, but with a .com suffix. The .com site contains material and content that is inappropriate for minors.

Though the City has pursued efforts to negotiate the purchase of the alternate domain name to eliminate this conflict, the domain is registered to a foreign company and these efforts have been unsuccessful to date.

Honda Dealer In Allen?

Posted by rbutler on Tuesday, May 17 @ 12:24pm

One of the topics being discussed at tonight's City Planning and Zoning commitee meeting is the consideration of a General Development Plan for Honda of Allen, being 5.38± acres located west of US 75 between Venture Drive and McDermott Drive.

City of Allen Initiates Blue Star Program

Posted by rbutler on Tuesday, May 17 @ 11:36am

The City of Allen initiated a new tradition with the presentation of Blue Star Flags to local families with deployed service members.

To be eligible to receive a Blue Star Flag, the serviceman or servicewoman must be currently deployed and their parent(s) and/or spouse must currently reside in Allen. An application to receive a Blue Star Flag must be completed through the City Secretary's Office on the third floor of Allen City Hall, 305 Century Parkway. An online application form will be available soon.

Blue Star Flags will be awarded to families at the first City Council meeting of each month (second Thursday). Meetings begin at 7 p.m. in the Council Chambers located at Allen City Hall, 305 Century Parkway, Allen, Texas. Information about the program is available by calling 214-509-4105.

Sewer Line Construction / Bethany Expansion Update

Posted by rbutler on Wednesday, February 9 @ 10:58am

Originally slated to begin on February 1st, the sewer line construction project has been delayed again slightly. We received this update from the City on February 9th:

The North Texas Municipal Water District had a preconstruction meeting with their contractor (SJ Louis) last Friday (Feb 4) that will be performing the work. Their estimated schedule is to start as soon as possible and be complete with the installation along Bethany by March 31.

The installation of the pipeline along Malone Road, which will require the closure of Malone, is yet to be determined. The City of Allen is urging NTMWD and SJ Louis to consider doing this work immediately following the installation along Bethany.

If they are able to meet our request, it will permit us to immediately follow their work with paving improvements to both Bethany and Malone, which the City of Allen already has designed and is ready to implement.

Zoning Change Hearing

Posted by rbutler on Wednesday, January 12 @ 1:23pm

The Allen City Council will hold a public hearing on January 25, 2005, at 7:00 p.m. in the Allen City Hall Council Chambers to consider a recommendation for approval from the Planning & Zoning Commission on the zoning case as described below:

28.012± acres of land situated in theD. B. Hearne Survey, Abstract No. 427, City of Allen, Collin County, Texas; located at the southeast corner of Malone Road and Shelley Drive. CURRENT ZONING: Planned Development No. 65, Tract 2, for CF Community Facilities. REQUESTED ZONING: The request is to change the zoning on Tract 2 from CF Community Facilities to R6 Residential

This is the tract of land originaly purchased by the Allen ISD for construction of a new middle school. After purchasing, the AISD decided that the additional school was not needed, and began the process of selling the property. More information is available on the City's web site.

Sewer Line Construction / Bethany Expansion Update

Posted by rbutler on Wednesday, January 12 @ 1:04pm

The City has recently updated the timeline information for the installation of the sewer line along Bethany and Malone, as well as the expansion of Bethany in front of the neighborhood:

Malone Road will be closed for approximately two months, while the pipeline is installed along Malone Road, south of Bethany. Anticipated start of construction is February 1, 2005 and is expected to start along Bethany Drive first. The segment of the project between FM2551 and the junction structure along Malone is expected to be complete by March 31, 2005. Once NTMWD finishes the installation of the pipeline along Bethany Drive, the City of Allen plans to begin the widening of Bethany from Malone to FM 2551. The widening of the roadway will be phased such that one-lane each direction will be provided throughout all phases of construction - so that East Bethany will not have to be entirely closed.

The project should be completed by Spring, 2006.

Post Office Expansion Proposal

Posted by rbutler on Wednesday, January 12 @ 12:54pm

During last nights City Council meeting, there was a presentation by representatives of the United States Postal Service announcing plans for expanding operations of in Allen. The plan calls for either expanding the existing facility on Boyd, or building a new facility elsewhere.

The actual presentation can be viewed during replays of the council meeting on COATV-15, or online through the video on demand trial.

H₂Ome Improvement Rebate Program

Posted by rbutler on Monday, January 3 @ 12:57pm

As part of the water conservation rules passed last year, the City of Allen has announced a new rebate program is designed to offset the initial investment residents may have with water conservation efforts. Rebates are available for the purchase of qualifying rain and freeze sensors, rain barrels, low-flow toilets and washing machines, and pressure reducing valves. More information is available on the City's Community Services page.

Comcast Cable Rate Increase

Posted by rbutler on Tuesday, November 9 @ 3:04pm

During tonight's City Council meeting, the Council will vote on whether to authorize Comcast to increase their basic cable rate by $0.35 per month. This is likely the last opportunity that the City will have to affect cable rates. As it stands, the City is planning to approve the request, so this will be the only opportunity for citizens to voice their opinion.

Comcast recently filed for Effective Competition with the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) for the 42 cities they provide service to within the metroplex. Effective competition means that if there is more than 15% penetration from a competitor, including satellite customers, then they can file to be removed from all rate regulations. The reported penetration rate is 59% in Allen. If Comcast is granted this request from the FCC, this would mean the City would no longer have regulatory responsibility for basic rates. The timing of the decision is not likely to take effect until 2005.

On October 29, 2004, Comcast indicated they plan to implement an operator selected rate of $13.12 to charge customers for basic cable starting December 1, 2004. This indicates a $0.35 increase in their actual rates charged to customers. The City does not regulate Comcast's operator selected rates, but rather reviews the reasonableness of Comcast’s maximum permitted rate.

We apologize for the late notice, but this was just brought to our attention today.

Internet Video-On-Demand Trial Services Begin Soon

Posted by rbutler on Friday, November 5 @ 3:36pm

The City of Allen will be offering video-on-demand for a six month trial basis beginning mid-November. The service will provide the public with the opportunity to view City Council meetings or specific agenda items, Planning and Zoning Commission meetings, Access Allen segments, and Allen City News just by clicking a web link. The video-on-demand links will be accessible from the city's home page at www.cityofallen.org or through www.allentv.org, the web page for Allen City Television, ACTV-15 government cable channel. Use of the service will be monitored during the six month trial period in order to determine the availability of the service on a long-term basis.

New City Phone Directory Available

Posted by rbutler on Tuesday, October 5 @ 1:09pm

The City has posted the new phone directory for all departments and contacts, which will be effective on October 17th. See this news article for more information.

Trash Collection Schedule Changes October 4

Posted by rbutler on Monday, September 27 @ 11:22am

Beginning October 4th, the trash and bulk collection schedule will change to provide better service given the residential growth in Allen the last few years. The new collection schedule and routes were planned by the City of Allen and Community Waste Disposal to better meet current needs and anticipate growth over the next three years.

For our neighborhood, trash pickup will change from Wednesday to Thursday. Bulk trash pickup will remain the third Monday of each month.

City of Allen TV Channel Change

Posted by rbutler on Friday, September 17 @ 3:45pm

The City's government cable channel COA-TV on Comcast cable channel 6 has changed to ACTV on channel 15. If you haven't checked out the City's television programs before, we encourage you to do so! COA-TV has won numerous awards, and produces outstanding programs about current events in and around Allen. Additionally, all City Council, Planning and Zoning, and AISD school board meetings are broadcast.

City Phone Numbers Changing Soon

Posted by rbutler on Friday, September 17 @ 3:34pm

The City of Allen will be changing all phone numbers effective Sunday, October 17. The phone number changes will align all city numbers with the same area code and prefix so that city-related numbers will be more easily recognized by the public. As the city and its facilities have grown over the past several years, phone numbers have been purchased and assigned based on availability through the phone company. With the current plan, the city is able to purchase a block of phone numbers for current and future use that will provide more continuity at the various facilities. A list of important new numbers will be released soon and included online and in the newsletter.

City Plans Homecoming for Carly Patterson

Posted by rbutler on Monday, August 23 @ 3:24pm

Homecoming plans by the City of Allen to recognize Olympic Gold Medalist Carly Patterson are taking shape. Plans will include a welcoming procession beginning at 10 a.m. on Sept. 4. The procession will begin at Allen Station Park, 1120 N. Cedar Drive, along Cedar Drive toward Rivercrest Blvd. and ending at the Allen High School gymnasium, 301 Rivercrest Blvd. Once at the Allen High School gymnasium, the public will be able to attend a celebration rally and formal recognition ceremony. Preliminary plans for the welcoming procession include a motorcade and participation by the Allen High School Escadrille. The city is also working in cooperation with the World Olympic Gymnastics Academy, Allen Independent School District, and the Allen Chamber of Commerce.

Prior to the city-wide celebration on September 4, city dignitaries will officially greet Patterson upon her arrival at the airport. Patterson and family will be transported in a stretch Hummer with motorcade escort by the Allen Police Department to Allen City Hall, 305 Century Parkway. Arrangements for celebratory signage around Allen are also underway.

Allen Site Selected for Regional Arts Center

Posted by rbutler on Friday, August 13 @ 12:38pm

The Arts of Collin County Commission selected an Allen site for the future performing arts center at a meeting conducted Thursday, Aug. 12. The Allen site is located at the SE corner of SH121 and Custer. Based on this decision, the commission approved a resolution authorizing city staff to finalize negotiations with the property owner, Briar Ridge Investments. Briar Ridge Investments is donating the land valued at $12M.

Charles Nies of Briar Ridge Investments stated, "Our donation of the land for the Arts of Collin County regional performing arts hall will be the largest donation thus far in Collin County and we hope it inspires others to join in our effort to build a quality arts environment."

More information about the Arts of Collin County is available at www.artsofcollincounty.org or by calling David Sterling, Public Outreach Committee Chair, at 214-473-8818.

D Magazine Rates the Suburbs

Posted by rbutler on Thursday, July 29 @ 9:20pm

D Magazine has their biennial rating of metroplex suburbs in the July issue (subscription required), and Allen comes in #16 out of 53, beating out several local communities including McKinney, Sachse, Richardson, and Wylie. Nearby communities of Parker and Murphy came in at #4 and #6 respectively.

Paint in Street Along Malone?

Posted by rbutler on Thursday, July 29 @ 5:23pm

In case you're curious about the paint and markings in the street along Malone, it's part of the survey for the additional sewer line construction that is due to start early next year. For more information, please see the FAQ.

Inclement Weather Notice Announced for Allen USA Celebration

Posted by rbutler on Friday, June 25 @ 10:46am

Allen Parks and Recreation recently announced an inclement weather policy related to the Allen USA Celebration set for Saturday, June 26, starting at 4 p.m. at Celebration Park. In case of inclement weather, information about delays or event cancellation will be available by calling the Special Events and Allen Arts Alliance hotlines at 972-727-7553 or 972-727-7500. Current information will be posted online at www.cityofallen.org and www.allenparks.org.

If inclement weather causes cancellation of this event, the City of Allen will proceed with a firework display at 9:30 p.m. on Sunday, June 27, at Celebration Park (weather permitting).

Zoning Change Discussion at June 8th City Council

Posted by rbutler on Thursday, June 3 @ 1:55pm

The City Council will be discussing the proposed zoning change for the area south of our neighborhood along Shelley again at next Tuesday's meeting. The previous discussion at the May 25th meeting was tabled so that the developer could come up with answers to the Council's questions and concerns.

It appears at this point that the zoning change will go forward for the retail space, however there is some question about the use of the R5 land in the southern section for townhomes.

Family Fun Packs On Sale for Allen USA

Posted by rbutler on Friday, May 28 @ 9:52am

The Allen Parks Foundation is selling Family Fun Packs for the Allen USA Celebration on June 26 at Celebration Park. The packs can be purchased for $69 and include an on-site preferred parking pass, four event T-shirts, four glow products and $20 worth of tickets to be used for activities in the Kids Fun Zone and/or purchase of food and drinks.

The retail value of all items in the pack is $82. The packs are being sold at each Summer Sounds Concert every Monday night before June 26 or can be purchased through the Joe Farmer Recreation Center, 1201 E. Bethany Dr. For more information, call (972) 727-0152.

Article in Dallas Morning News about Upcoming Retail

Posted by rbutler on Wednesday, May 19 @ 9:10am

There was an article (registration required) in yesterday's Dallas Morning News about the upcoming retail development along Shelley and FM-2551. See this news article for more information.

These changes will also be discussed at next Tuesday's City Council meeting.

Another Updated Drawing

Posted by rbutler on Wednesday, May 12 @ 3:37pm

There's another new (extremely large!) drawing available on the HOA Documents page showing more detail of the new retail, housing, and greenbelt areas that are going to be built along the south side of Shelley Dr. There's also a newer version of the aerial view drawing of the retail area.

See this news article for more information about these upcoming changes.

Allen is Money Magazine "Hot Town"

Posted by rbutler on Wednesday, May 12 @ 10:54am

In the latest issue of Money Magazine, Allen was rated as a "Hot Town" in their Best Places to Live article. Allen was ranked #11 for cities with less than 100,000 people in the western region, beating out other Metroplex cities such as Coppell (#15).

For populations greater than 100,000 people, several other area cities made great showings with Plano getting the #1 position and Richardson coming in at #12.

Sewer Line Construction Meeting

Posted by rbutler on Tuesday, April 6 @ 10:28am

This is a reminder to everyone about the meeting the city is holding this Thursday the 8th concerning the construction of the sewer line extension along Malone and Bethany. See this news article for more information.

NTWMD Water / Sewer Line Construction Updates

Posted by rbutler on Thursday, April 1 @ 4:01pm

Allen residents wanting email updates on NTWMD water and sewer line construction (see this news article for more information) can get information by subscribing to the E-Messenger mailing list on the City's website at www.cityofallen.org.

Electric Subsystem Construction

Posted by rbutler on Sunday, March 28 @ 5:13pm

Oncor Electric Delivery Company, a member of the TXU family of companies, is proposing to construct a new 138 kilovolt (kV) electric transmission line in Collin County. The proposed transmission line will be approximately 3-7 miles long, depending on the alternative route certificated by the Public Utility Commission of Texas. The proposed transmission line will connect the proposed Parker Maxwell Creek Substation (to be located west of Church Street and north of Parker Road) to an existing 138 kV transmission line which extends from the existing Oncor Allen Switching Station (located west of Central Expressway and north of Spring Creek Parkway) to a point located west of the existing Oncor Murphy Road Substation (located west of Murphy Road) in Collin County, Texas.

Oncore is committed to routing the proposed transmission line in a manner consistent with the values of the local communities, the Texas Utilities Code, the Public Utility Commision of Texas Rules and Policies, and the need to provide reliable electric service to this area of Collin County. In order to accomplish this, Oncor wants to solicit input for use in determining the preferred route for the proposed transmission line and share information about line routing alternatives. PBS&J, a consulting firm retained by Oncor for the project, has identified preliminary alternative transmission line routes for consideration which are shown as dashed lines on the map below and will be available to discuss these routes. Maps with greater detail will be exhibited at the meeting. Individuals attending this "come and go" open house meeting will have an opportunity to ask questions and make comments to the representatives and technical experts from Oncor and PBS&J regarding the routing of the proposed transmission line. These preliminary alternative routes are subject to modification based on further study and the results of this public meeting. If you have any questions concerning this meeting, please contact Robert Holt at (214) 486-7888.

The meeting will be held on Tuesday, March 30th from 4-8pm at the Plano Centre, 2000 E. Spring Creek Parkway in Plano.

Sewer Line Construction

Posted by rbutler on Sunday, March 28 @ 4:46pm

The city of Allen is planning several major construction projects in the next six months that will affect the neighborhood:

The first project, a sewer trunk line, involves "paralleling" an existing sewer line that starts at the intersection of Malone Road and Summerside Drive. The sewer line will be constructed in existing NTMWD easements and the district, as part of the project, will restore any to damage to grass, fences, roadways, etc., that occurs during the construction.

The sewer line will run north along the west side of Malone Road to Bethany Road, then continue along the north side of Bethany Road. At FM 2551, the line goes north almost to the intersection of Prescott Road and Country Brook Lane in Stacy Ridge Estates.

Construction will then continue on the east side of Angel Parkway, north of Main Street, and then run behind Woodland Park Addition and Summerfield.

The sewer line will continue along the south side of the park in Stacy Ridge Estates and then follow Country Brook Lane to the east, cutting between the the street and the homes along the south side of the road.

The Community Services Department and the North Texas Municipal Water District will conduct public meetings on April 8 & 14 to discuss water and sewer line construction scheduled to begin after the first of next year. The meetings will be at 7 p.m. in the Council Chambers, City Hall, 305 Century Parkway. More information is available in the current issue of the Municipal Messenger or by calling Community Services at (972) 727-0160.

We strongly encourage everyone in the neighborhood to attend one of these meetings in order to learn more about the project, and to voice your concerns.

Bethany Drive Expansion Getting Closer?

Posted by rbutler on Saturday, March 20 @ 8:33am

It looks like more progress is being made towards widening Bethany from Malone to 2551. There are two more items on the March 23rd City Council agenda that appear promising:

8. Authorize Execution of a Real Estate Contract with Judith and B.L. Pate in the Amount of $205,000 plus Closing Costs for the Right-of-Way for Phase II of the East Bethany Drive Widening Project.
9. Authorize Execution of a Professional Engineering Services Contract with PBS&J for an Amount not to exceed $82,500 in Connection with the Design of East Bethany Drive from Malone Road to FM 2551.

Great American Clean Up!

Posted by rbutler on Tuesday, March 9 @ 3:44pm

The city has announced their participation in the Great American Clean Up on Saturday, April 24th. They'll be accepting all manner of trash including appliances, boxes, yard waste, furniture, etc. Please see the city web site for more details.

Parks and Recreation Membership Drive

Posted by rbutler on Friday, February 27 @ 10:42am

The Parks and Recreation Department will be offering membership drive specials in March. A free adult fitness trial membership will run from March 1-14 at both the Don Rodenbaugh Natatorium, 110 E. Rivercrest, and the Joe Farmer Recreation Center, 1201 E. Bethany. The two-week trial period provides an opportunity for prospective members to learn about the facilities, workout equipment and services.

Any current member that enlists a friend to sign up for an adult fitness membership from March 15 to 31, receives a $25 gift certificate to redeem toward a class or service. Offer applies to new memberships only for individuals that have never been a member at a particular facility. For more information, call (972) 747-4150 or (972) 727-0152.

Changes along Bethany?

Posted by rbutler on Friday, February 6 @ 3:58pm

The city council has an item on its agenda that may bode well for the neighborhood:

Authorize Execution of a Real Estate Sales Contract for the Right-of-Way for the East Bethany Drive Widening, Phase II Project with Ms. Lois P. Williams for an Amount of $165,000 plus Closing Costs.

Meaning, they must be getting closer to expanding Bethany to 2551. This is expected to pass, with a council simple majority vote.

Proposed Changes to the Area

Posted by rbutler on Wednesday, February 19 @ 12:00am

Added a new drawing to the HOA documents page detailing some of the proposed changes to the field along Shelley in Phase 2, including new neighborhoods, greenbelts, a middle school, and retail space.

Sewage Lift Station Lawsuit

Posted by rbutler on Wednesday, January 15 @ 12:00am

There is currently a lawsuit in progress by homeowners in the Maxwell Creek and Bethany Ridge IV subdivisions concerning odors produced by and exposure to toxic chemicals from the sewage lift stations located at the corner of Summerside and Malone, and in the cul-de-sac on Elm Spring Court.

There will be a neighborhood meeting on Saturday, January 25th to discuss these issues. If you share concerns about the sewage lift stations and would like more information on this lawsuit, we ask you to attend the neighborhood meeting.