By Angela Koenig
Enquirer contributor

SPRINGFIELD TOWNSHIP - Township officials are closer to deciding final design elements on four major township-improvement projects.

"We're right at the point now where we can make some decisions and we're working to stay within the $12 million that we've allocated,'' said Trustee Gwen McFarlin.

The projects are: relocation and construction of a 30,000-square-foot fire headquarters from 8375 Winton Road to 9150 Winton Road, adjacent to the Springfield Township administration building; expansion and renovation of the police department at 1130 Compton Road; construction and relocation of the Springfield Township Service Department Complex from 8375 Winton to 950 Compton Road; and exterior and interior renovations to The Grove banquet hall - used for rental - which is on township property near the administration building.

The projects are being funded by a May bond issue; and two architectural firms - Michael Schuster Associates and Cole & Russell - have been contracted to draw up plans.

"We've been meeting with them rather frequently to keep things in line with the budget," said Trustee Tom Bryan.

At a work session Tuesday, trustees discussed floor plans for new administrative spaces and items such as placement of the Township Service Department's new 50-foot salt dome - to be located on the Compton Road property.

All projects will be subject to the township's zoning process and trustees' final approval.