The Falls Township zoning board approved a request to build a three-story apartment building at the old Levittown Lanes site.
Despite traffic, safety and privacy concerns from nearby residents and a petition with signatures to prevent construction, the zoning board, in a 4-1 vote, approved Al and Mary Episcopo’s application for building on the land.. The proposed building would be a multi-family building with 24 units, not available for Section 8 vouchers.
Architectural Rendering – Robert Cunningham
Michael Meginnis of Begley, Carlin & Mandio represented and spoke for the Episcopo family, with testimony from the project engineer, Robert Cunningham, Al Episcopo and his son Michael.
Meginnis said, that the Episcopo family has owned the land for 62 years and this is a multi-million investment for them. The land is on three parcels but will be referred as one property, since in the past, the three parcels were used for one operation.
The project engineer, Robert Cunningham, a partner with Holmes Cunningham Engineering in Doylestown testified that the land is one and half acres comprised of three parcels. The larger parcel , which was occupied by Levittown Lanes, sits on the west side of Orchard Drive and a large parking lot covering two parcels sits to the east side.
Credit: Submitted
The younger Episcopo reflected on the tragedy that occurred in March of 2022, explained the operations of the bowling lanes and the differences in the noise level, parking, and more between the business and what is proposed for the future. He also said that he saw no negatives to this venture and the family is not out to hurt anyone with the apartment project proposal.
The elder Episcopo expanded on his involvement with the property starting in 1962 and his relations to the community, He also spoke on plans to beautify the area with a beautiful building and more greenery; how it would be an asset to the community with regards to the shops and restaurants across the street.
The board heard from several concerned individuals. Most concerns were centered on the safety of pedestrians, homeowner privacy, overcrowded school district, noise levels and traffic safety. Most individuals would like to see the Episcopo family rebuild but would like it to be a commercial venture, not residential.
