Northwestern Recreation Commission has authorized Keystone Engineering to do a speed study on Northwest Road in 2014, as there is a good deal of foot traffic between the rec fields and Northwestern Lehigh School District property.

With a speed limit of 45 mph, a crosswalk or additional signs for safety could not be installed.

The rec commission received a letter from Chad Sankari of PennDOT and the speed limit will be lowered to 35 mph.

A crosswalk will be placed at the end of the rec commission driveway and better signage will be added.

In other matters, Night in the Country organizer Kathy Hermany reported there are sufficient food vendors and more activities are being added. Cherry the cow will be on hand for the cow flop bingo, always a popular event.

Jim Hughes reported a lock was broken on the refreshment stand but there was no further vandalism.

The bylaw changes are at the stage where Don Link and Justin Smith are passing them back and forth to iron out the language. Any major changes will have to be approved by the townships.

Rob Serulneck of the Northwestern Youth Athletic Association asked if anything had been included as far as opening the commission membership to include an NYAA member.

There is a question about having a non-governmentally appointed member because they spend public money.

Steve Bachman of Heidelberg Township opined NYAA should be a member.

Lynn Township representative Justin Smith said that would mean adding two members or removing one so the odd number is maintained.

Linda Gorgas of Weisenberg Township said with having too many members meetings might become more contentious at times.

Additional members would make it easier to have a quorum, but that has seldom been a problem. The matter has been discussed previously and will be on the agenda in August.

NYAA members are always welcome to attend meetings but do not have a vote.

A cost estimate and planned layout are necessary to apply for a grant for the walking trail.

Rather than seeking bids, Smith suggested obtaining three quotes.

Keystone Engineering will be asked to prepare the bid requirements and specifications.

Serulneck said the new trees are already providing shade. The remaining 30 will not be planted until the walking trail is complete.

He also reported the new batting cage is great.