Pennsylvania has developed standards for building sustainable communities, and Upper Makefield Township is working to meet those high goals. In Pennsylvania’s terms, a sustainable community works well to save money, conserve resources and encourage innovation. The program focuses on municipal operations, policies and practices.

In late 2015, the Board of Supervisors authorized Township staff to pursue Pennsylvania Sustainable Community Certification. Many of Upper Makefield’s ongoing efforts made the township eligible for Gold Certification, including:

• Development of joint regional planning documents
• Communications programing
• A HARB –Historical Architectural Review Board
• Open Space preservation activities
• Emergency management planning and programming
• Coordinated programming with community organizations
• Stormwater management programs
• Wastewater management programs
• Environmental awareness programs

Upper Makefield Township is among a select group of high performing municipalities to become certified through the Sustainable Pennsylvania Community Certification program. TheTownship is recognized at the Gold level of certification for meeting the program’s rigorous performance criteria which track 131 policies and practices that define a sustainable community.

The Sustainable Pennsylvania Community Certification, managed by the Pennsylvania Municipal League in partnership with Sustainable Pittsburgh, is designed for municipalities that are working to save money, conserve resources, and serve vibrant communities. The certification is implemented statewide, recognizing boroughs, municipalities, cities, and home rule municipalities across the Commonwealth. The Pennsylvania Municipal League and Sustainable Pittsburgh applaud municipalities for their demonstrated commitment and sustainability performance.

In earning the Gold certification, Upper Makefield Township is acknowledged for its progress in such areas as community design and land use, energy efficiency, health and wellness, intergovernmental cooperation, recycling and waste reduction, fiscal controls, and internal management and operations.

Details about certification program can be found on the certification program’s website.