For more than 15 years, The Sanctuary at Haafsville has served as a volunteer-driven community resource dedicated to animal rescue, rehabilitation, and adoption efforts throughout the region, helping save more than 15,000 animals. In addition to rescue work, The Sanctuary is deeply involved in community outreach programs such as PawsAbilities, as well as educational and community service opportunities for students and adults.

We take seriously our responsibility to protect the animals recovering from abuse, neglect, and other traumatic situations. Over the years, we have worked hard to create a peaceful environment where the dogs in our care can heal, rebuild trust, and prepare for loving homes. The trees, flowers, walking trails, and stream surrounding our campus provide a calm and soothing setting not only for the animals, but also for volunteers, adopters, and visitors. This environment is now in jeopardy.

PennDOT has announced proposed reconstruction and expansion plans for the I-78 corridor in Upper Macungie Township, including a new interchange near Adams Road that appears to directly impact land surrounding The Sanctuary at Haafsville’s dog campus. Under the current proposal, a significant portion of our property would be taken, including our walking trails and front property area that is currently used for community programs and events.

The Sanctuary is deeply concerned that increased highway traffic, construction activity, noise, vibration, and environmental disruption could negatively impact the peaceful setting intentionally created to help rescued and often traumatized animals heal and prepare for adoption. These changes are likely to increase stress and anxiety for the animals in our care. In addition, there are serious concerns regarding the safety of our dogs, volunteers, staff, adopters, visitors, and community program participants.

We strongly believe the currently proposed Adams Road Interchange location should be reconsidered and relocated. Consideration must be given to the well-being of vulnerable animals and to the important role The Sanctuary at Haafsville plays within the Lehigh Valley community. If this project proceeds in its current form, The Sanctuary’s ability to rescue and care for animals in need will be significantly impacted.

We remain committed to advocating for the animals, but we need YOUR help. By signing this petition, you are urging PennDOT to relocate the proposed interchange to a location that does not threaten our mission or our ability to continue saving animals in need.