Though the merger has been in the works for some time, the formation of Black Rock Volunteer Fire Company was officially approved by the Upper Providence Board of Supervisors in a unanimous vote on Monday evening.

While the existing Oaks and Mont Clare buildings will remain, as of Feb. 1 the companies are responding to calls as one unit, company 99 in Montgomery County. According to Don Stiteler, director of fire and emergency services, the complete change will be done in about a year when the other companies will be officially dissolved to form the new Black Rock Volunteer Fire Company.

To see more information on the merger, read this past Phoenixville Patch article, “Oaks, Mont Clare Fire Companies to Consolidate.”

In other township news, the board approved a bid for $120,801 from RJ Sell Excavating for the installation of two tennis courts at Black Rock Park. The courts are a result of a settlement agreement with Toll Brothers, according to Vice Chairman Philip Barker, and Toll Brothers is responsible for paying for the courts.

The board also unanimously approved a preliminary land development plan for a 2.6-acre lot at Black Rock and Egypt roads. Audubon Land Development/Reitnour is proposing two commercial buildings on the site and representatives for the developer said the space has not been leased yet.

The site will be accessed from Black Rock Road through an agreement with another developer who is proposing an Uno Chicago Grill for the corner of Black Rock and Egypt roads. The developers are filing a joint application with the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation for a Highway Occupancy Permit.

A left-turn lane on Black Rock Road will likely have to be lengthened to allow for the new development. Supervisors also discussed whether or not there should be sidewalks around the site.

Brad Macy of Audubon Land Development said the developer will pay for sidewalks along Egypt Road as well as a crosswalk and pedestrian signals across Black Rock Road.

Additionally, the board asked for a sign in front of the development welcoming people to Upper Providence Township, and Audubon Land Development said that would be provided.

The next meeting of the Upper Providence Board of Supervisors is a work session scheduled for Tuesday, Feb. 21 at 7 p.m., changed from Monday due to the Presidents’ Day holiday.