NEWPORT TOWNSHIP RECLAMATION NORTH

In EC’s original Land Use Plan, reclamation efforts were strategically prioritized by proximity to infrastructure, focusing first on large sites nearest to roadways and utilities. That’s why EC started with areas around the Preston, Sugar Notch, and Huber Bank, then moved west along S.R. 29, to sites like Hanover 9 and Loomis Bank. The completion of the South Valley Parkway (SVP) spurred more reclamation to the west, primarily at the Bliss and Truesdale Banks. The original vision for the SVP had it extending down into Newport Township, linking it to additional properties. However, over time, the project scope was reduced, and the SVP terminated in Nanticoke near LCCC.

Nonetheless, economic development remains a key interest in the township. The closure of the State Corrections Institution at Retreat, a major employer, has heightened the urgency for economic revitalization. A variety of proposals for development have been entertained over the past several decades; none has moved ahead. One major challenge has been the legacy mining issues that remain. Jumping off from our 2019 Newport Township Master Plan, this project starts with a more detailed analysis of the northern half of the township, including surveys, testing, and coordination with various agencies. By identifying remaining obstacles, a clear plan can be formulated to address them effectively. These findings will then guide EC’s next phases of work, with grants sought to support future reclamation.

April 2026 | Phase I Archaeological Investigation complete.

November 2025 | Required field monumentation set, except for areas relative to railroads. Survey of these areas will continue. Wetland delineation completed.

September 2025 | Base map of 3,000-acre study area completed, including property lines and PennDOT right-of-ways.

August 2025 | Bat habitat and acoustical studies completed.

July 2025 | Completion of catalog of AML features, including 50 new features to be added to PADEP AML inventory; initial comments received regarding PNDI environmental review.

May 2025 | Phase I Environmental Site Assessment completed.

March 2025 | Majority of deed research completed.

December 2024 | Consultant initiates numerous assessments, including Phase I Environmental Site Assessment, base mapping, survey, and wetlands delineation. Geotechnical investigations also start.

November 2024 | Boundary survey begins.

August 2024 | EC engages Verdantas as the project consultant.

June 2024 | EC publicly solicits for engineering services for the project.

April 2024 | US Senator Bob Casey announces EC has been awarded a $1.35 million grant from PA DEP through its Abandoned Mine Land Program. The grant will fund extensive surveying, engineering analysis, planning, and permitting for reclamation of ±3,000 acres of land, mostly in Newport Township.