On the August 20th agenda for Ambler’s borough council is the consideration of whether to advertise a proposed ordinance that would amend the Transit Oriented Development Ordinance that impacts the Redevelopment Overlay District (view zoning map) to “include additional Uses, Aesthetics, Development Bonuses, and Architectural Elements that the Borough Planning Commission and County Planner have prepared.” You can read the text of the proposed amendment here (starting at page 4).

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 SEPTA is focusing this effort on through a pilot program.

A vote to advertise does not mean adoption. The advertisement will announce a hearing date. After that hearing, the borough council can decide whether to adopt or deny the proposed amendment.

The meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, August 20th at 7:00 p.m. at the borough hall.

Do you want to see more apartments in Ambler? Let us know in the comments.

Photo: SEPTA