Lower Pottsgrove planners unanimously approved plans for an assisted-living facility on Porter Road Monday night, but there are conditions, reported The Sanatoga Post. The building's exterior must be enhanced and entrances to the site on Medical Drive must be limited in the cul-de-sac near Diamond Credit Union and other medical offices.

The proposal now goes before the township Board of Supervisors.

The facility, which would be built by LPAL Limited Partnership, would cover eight acres and have two sections, one three stories tall and one five stories tall in a J-shape, according to The Post. It would accomodate 76 elderly patients who need daily assistance and offer apartment living for 92 seniors who are more independent.

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Limerick Township is considering an overlay zoning district for the area of Lewis Road to make development in the area 'more cohesive,' according to a post by Whatsthe422.com.

Consultants from Simone Collins gave a presentation to the Board of Supervisors at a recent meeting to highlight the features of such an overlay including restricted parking, landscaping and sidewalks.

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The Chester County Pops will be performing this Thursday night in Phoenixville at the high school. Tickets cost $10 for adults, $5 for students. Children under age 12 enter free. Tickets can be purchased at the door or by e-mailing Karin Williams at williamsk@pasd.com or calling 484-927-5244.

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Lower Pottsgrove announced in a legal notice on its Web site that it will be accepting bids for its equipment rental and labor contract until 2 p.m. this Thursday, July 23. Bids, which must be made on forms furnished by the township, can be delivered to the township building at 2199 Buchert Road. They must be accompanied with a certified check or bid bond worth 10 percent of the total bid. The equipment sought is needed for paving of roads in the township, according to the full legal notice.

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Some firefighters in Upper Providence are concerned that the township is moving away from the volunteer fire system. The cause for their concern? A $400,000 Pierce Fire Engine recently purchased by the township, according to Whatsthe422.com.

The township says the truck was purchased to reduce the problems of getting equipment from fire stations to the scene since the departments rely on volunteers.

Some volunteers suspect it is the beginning of an attempt to build a new firehouse on Black Rock Road. Such a fire station was proposed as part of a long-term assessment for the township. Construction would depend upon the receipt of funds for such a project, but which Upper Providence currently does not have.

The township does want to standardize functions of the fire companies, including response procedures, training and qualifications for promotion. Upper Providence is served by the following companies: Oaks, Mont Clare, Humane of Royersford, Friendship of Royersford, Collegeville and Trappe.