🌊 Flood Study Draft Released | 🐦‍🔥 Firebird Festival | 🎓 College Aid for Coatesville Juniors

Join 4,115 Downingtown residents and keep updated with Downingtown Local Pulse!

Check out yesterday’s issue with CORRECTED subject line!

🚨🚧 Tractor-Trailer Overturns on Bypass
🏀 Player Accused of Indecent Exposure
🚨 Multiple Gunshot Wounds in South Coatesville

In Today’s Edition of Downingtown Local Pulse…

☀️ Downingtown PA Weather

🌊 Brandywine Flood Study Draft Released for Public Comment

🐦‍🔥 Countdown Begins for Phoenixville’s Spectacular Firebird Festival

🎓 Newlin Foundation Invites High School Juniors to Apply for College Aid

♻️ Upper Uwchlan Township Sets New Waste and Recycling Fees After 16 Years

🗓️ Upcoming Local Events

🏡 Just Listed Real Estate Listings

🔎 Local Business Finder

Brandywine Flood Study Draft Released for Public Comment

DOWNINGTOWN, PA — The Brandywine Flood Study team has released draft reports examining the causes, impacts, and potential solutions to recurring flooding along the Brandywine Creek, spanning from Honey Brook, Pennsylvania, to Wilmington, Delaware. The study—spearheaded by the Brandywine Conservancy in partnership with the Chester County Water Resources Authority and the University of Delaware Water Resources Center—investigates chronic flood sites and uses hydrologic and hydraulic modeling to propose both structural and nonstructural interventions.

Public feedback on the draft reports will be accepted until March 1, 2025, via the study’s website (www.brandywine.org/flood-study). The final report is expected in early April 2025, offering targeted recommendations for mitigating flood risks and building community resilience. Once complete, the study’s partners intend to collaborate with local stakeholders and government entities to implement recommended measures, including the creation of pilot projects on Brandywine Conservancy-owned properties that could serve as examples for broader flood control efforts in the region.

Countdown Begins for Phoenixville’s Spectacular Firebird Festival

PHOENIXVILLE, PA — A beloved Chester County tradition, the Phoenixville Firebird Festival will take place on February 1, beginning at 4 p.m. and culminating with the symbolic burning of a large wooden phoenix at 8 p.m. The festival honors the spirit of Phoenixville through live music, fire performances, and an array of food and craft vendors.

Each year, volunteers devote extensive time to constructing the 20-foot phoenix, underscoring the festival’s emphasis on collaboration and community engagement. In addition to entertainment, attendees will find convenient amenities such as a free shuttle service and designated parking areas available for a fee. Because crowds are expected, organizers suggest arriving early and remind the public that pets and alcohol are not allowed. There is no cost to attend, but community donations and sponsorships provide essential support. Up-to-date festival details, including volunteer sign-ups and a live streaming link, can be found on the event website.

Source

Newlin Foundation Invites High School Juniors to Apply for College Aid

COATESVILLE, PA — High school juniors in the Coatesville area have an opportunity to apply for the Newlin Foundation’s scholarship and mentoring program, which helps promising students navigate their path to higher education. Applications must be submitted by January 31, 2025, and the foundation is hosting an information session on January 23 at 7 p.m. in Coatesville to explain program details.

Eligible candidates reside within the Coatesville Area School District and are currently in their junior year of high school. From the pool of applicants, about five new scholars are chosen annually, receiving financial assistance to help meet tuition and housing needs, as well as guidance on college admissions, financial aid, and the academic transition. The selected students and their families attend workshops and forums before college begins and throughout their enrollment, benefiting from ongoing support to bolster their chances of success. Acceptance notifications will be sent by March 15, 2025, and the newly named scholars are invited to join a summer team-building activity with existing program participants.

Source

Upper Uwchlan Township Sets New Waste and Recycling Fees After 16 Years

UPPER UWCHLAN TWP — The Township Board of Supervisors has finalized a three-year contract with A.J. Blosenski, Inc. for trash and recycling services, marking the first rise in the annual collection fee since 2008. Effective August 1, 2024, the new $425 annual rate funds expanded weekly trash and recycling services, monthly bulk pickup, and 24 yard waste collections throughout the year. Weekly dumpster collection at township facilities is also included.

To ease this transition, officials will mail 2025 bills by late January, reminding residents of several payment options. Those who pay by March 31 can take advantage of a $10 discount on the fee. A two-payment plan is available, with due dates of March 31 and September 30, while a late charge will apply after September 30. Residents are advised to mark their calendars and consult the township’s website for answers to common questions or additional help with billing matters.

Catch up on previous issues…