It is the intention of the Canonsburg zoning hearing board to give Canonsburg Educational and Culture Institute a variance to allow 85% impervious surface area to the property located at 25 East College St. in Canonsburg. This is the old middle school field. They are planning on turning it into a 170 space paved parking lot.

Doing this will alter the essential character of the neighborhood. Property values will be negatively affected. Light and air pollution will increase causing a decline in the health of the people living in the surrounding areas. 

By turning this green space into a parking lot it will increase the heat index in the area and also make the surrounding area more susceptible to flooding.

This field is used by many members of the community and has been for decades. Sports teams practice here, parents bring their children to play, dog owners walk their dogs here, and these are just a few ways that the space is utilized. 

The wooded area around the field is also home to deer, several species of birds, possums, squirrels, rabbits, owls & other animals. If this green space is turned into a parking lot these animals lose their home.

The CCEI’s mission statement refers to nurturing and inspiring the human spirit through health and wellness resources. Natural spaces are proven through science to do just that. Why destroy what is already beneficial to the community? Don’t pave it, enhance it. Keep it green, create a community garden, outdoor yoga area, etc or just keep it as it is. 

I’m asking you to please sign the petition at your earliest convenience and share with your friend’s, family and neighbors.

Please don’t let the CCEI destroy this green space that we have in our backyards.