During the September 17th meeting of Ambler’s borough council, a brief hearing was held regarding a proposed ordinance that would effectively allow SEPTA to redevelop a significant portion of its parking lot adjacent to the Ambler Train Station and other developers on nearby properties. You can read the text of the now-adopted ordinance here (starting with page 8).

This proposal originates from Montgomery County and SEPTA. As AroundAmbler.com reported in 2021, Montgomery County has been actively encouraging municipalities with transportation hubs to create density around the stations. This was followed by a 2023 decision by SEPTA to seek to redevelop its parking lots and unused parcels near stations with apartments over retail in an attempt to increase ridership. Ambler is one of a handful of communities on which SEPTA is focusing this effort through a pilot program.

During the hearing, three residents voiced concerns over the allowed building height; the wording focused on affordable housing and the impact it will have on traffic and pedestrian safety.