LACKAWAXEN TWP, PA — Pike County has a road problem. Many of the roads are the responsibility of the state, and Pike County’s low population and the fact that its roads are used less than other locations have pushed the maintenance of the roads to a low spot on PennDot’s priority list with regard to both snow removal and general upkeep. This last winter with its record snowfalls was a particularly challenging one. The issue arose at the meeting of the Lackawaxen Board of Supervisors on July 17.

Lackawaxen’s roadmaster, Albie Beisel, said that the township supervisors have an agreement with PennDot to plow the Towpath, Rowland, Market and parts of Route 590 with payment of $42,000 a year, with an additional $10,000 for this past winter and its record snowfall. There is a 3% increase in this payment for the upcoming year. What attendees pointed out, with authorities in agreement, is that the equipment currently in use is not deemed a match for massive storms that accumulate a foot or more.

One resident described the equipment as being like “toy cars.” The supervisors agreed that an upgrade of the current equipment to include a large truck is necessary. Plans will be made to explore this possibility, hopefully before the upcoming winter.

Also at the meeting, representatives from Woodloch Farms Resort were present to discuss the use of its back gate on Williams Road. This gate is also used by residents of the area outside Woodloch Farms. While this gate does affect those who own homes in the development, 75% of those homeowners utilize Woodloch as their second property. Woodloch is working with the community to ensure that the gate, while locked, is accessible to all who utilize this entrance and to keep it safe. The gate is opened by either a keypad or card-swiping system.

The Fawn Lake community has been developing a walking path for its residents, but a portion of it has been reported by users as unfit and dangerous, and the supervisors agreed. The path passes over a culvert, which allows for limited room and poor path conditions. The project was suspended until township solicitor Tom Farley and the township engineer can assess the situation.

In other news, the previous administration had made tentative plans for a storage unit to be constructed and a grant of approximately $116,000 had been obtained for the project. It is currently on hold as the bids received were approximately twice this amount.

This year’s second annual Milford Readers & Writers Festival, set for September 15 through 17, was also discussed. It will feature a full weekend of events, all located within Milford Borough. Lee Child, who writes thrillers, two of which were made into movies starring Tom Cruise, is one of the highlights. Also attending will be columnist Martha Frankel and actress and biographer Patricia Bosworth. A special science fiction event will be held as well as children’s events throughout the day. Various panels on travel, women’s issues, cooking and other topics will be free to the public. Information, tickets and scheduling can be found at www.milfordreadersandwriters.com.