West Chester Weekly News Roundup: Aug. 1, 2025

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It’s Friday, Aug. 1, 2025:  Restaurant Inspection Reports are out for July. With just eight out of compliance, it was a relatively light month. Still, there is evidence that insects are starting to take advantage of this summer’s humid conditions. Plus, as the daycare crisis continues, two state-certified facilities would like you to know, they have openings for fall. A (really) early scoop on a new French restaurant, a middle school principal shake-up just ahead of the school year, and a big announcement. Just keep reading.  

Ok, who’s ready? Let’s catch up.   

So, some BIG news this week - Hello, West Chester has its first-ever regular contributor, and I couldn’t be more excited. Margie Swart, the investigative genius behind West Goshen Sunshine, is joining the team! Don’t know Margie? You should. I quote her work regularly; now I will be doing it officially. Not only will she help me to better cover government activity outside the Borough, her research skills are unmatched. She is, after all, the one who first uncovered an alleged $13 million COVID antibody test fraud in Chester County - and was the first to break the story on the new Target.

Each week, or as meeting schedules dictate, Margie will be bringing the sunshine through her new “Sunshine Report.” She'll track public meetings, spotlight key upcoming decisions (so you can make sure your voice is heard), and generally keep you informed and empowered. We already have our first “Sunshine Report,” and I promise you, it’s even better than you imagined. If you don’t already follow her on Facebook, you should do that now, and if you know Margie, make sure you welcome her to the team!

Childcare is hard. Two West Chester daycares want to make it easier

Provided meals. Free diapers. Affordable rates. Stable staff. Scientist-led STEM programs. Almost sounds too good to be true, doesn’t it? Yet, despite a very tight daycare landscape, two state-certified West Chester daycare centers have spots available for the fall. 

Childcare challenges

Last Wednesday, Chester County Chamber of Business and Industry CEO Laura Manion held a press conference asking state legislators to pass a budget that includes $55 million for childcare worker recruitment and retention. Laura was moved to push for greater aid after her own search for childcare led her to take her son to the office with her. 

“I was lucky,” she told the Philadelphia Inquirer. “Most parents who struggle to find childcare aren’t able to take their child to work.” 

West Chester Restaurant Inspection Reports: July 2025

West Chester Restaurant Health Inspection Reports are out for July, and there is happily little to report. Only eight institutions are out of compliance this month. That said, Slow Hand has some work to do, as does Target, if they want the all clear before their planned opening date. Oola Bowls may need help fighting the flies, and one location had no food or equipment onsite during the inspection. Exactly where are they keeping it? That’s what the inspector wanted to know. 

The Warnings.

Police activity ahead. This week, West Chester Police, along with Good Fellowship Ambulance, were onsite for an auto accident at the intersection of High and Marshall on Friday afternoon. They also responded to a reported gas leak on the 300 block of S. Church Street and helped a turtle cross to the park. 

Sunday scaries. West Chester Borough Fire Department, Goshen Fire Company, Good Fellowship Ambulance, and West Goshen Township Police Department all responded to a fire at the 900 block of Fern Hill Rd on Sunday. The cause of the fire was determined to be the bathroom vent fan. 

You may have to move. West Chester Area School District has been quietly discussing the need to redistrict with some families.“It turns out the area around Exton is growing pretty rapidly,”  West Chester Area School District Superintendent Dr. David Christopher told school board members this week.  To date, the district has met with families three times on the topic. Dr. Christopher called the latest meeting “positive” and noted the changes would not go into effect until the 2027-2028 school year. 

You may want to go around. PennDOT is reporting roadwork will continue on U.S. 322 (High St.) next week. Crews will be out Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. in the area between Miner St. and Norfolk Ave. Expect delays as a lane closure with flagging is scheduled.

Energy bills hit record highs. Scorching temps and rising energy costs are hitting home(owners), particularly in the form of higher monthly PECO bills. This week, the Pennsylvania energy company announced it was setting aside $10 million in relief funds for stressed customers. According to a PECO rep, roughly 17,000 low-and moderate-income customers could receive $500 toward their energy bills. To qualify, households must be within 151 and 300 percent of the federal poverty level, and not have a past-due PECO balance greater than $2000. If that sounds like you, or someone you know, the application period opens on Aug. 4 and will be administered on a first-come, first-served basis. Get started here. 

The Sunshine Report.

Your inside look at local government at work. Each week, key decisions are made about how to spend tax dollars, what new developments go forward, and the best way to deliver key services, like trash - and parking. The Report is here to make sure you don’t miss a single one.  

Greystone Homes nearly sold out. The massive development on what was West Goshen’s largest remaining undeveloped tract was finalized seven years ago this month, and now it’s nearly at capacity. A total of 578 out of 589 homes in the Greystone development have been sold. Just 11 lots remain, all located in The Woodlands, the community's 55+ active adult neighborhood.

New contractor facility planned for Andrew Drive in West Goshen. Demolition prep is underway at 1052 Andrew Drive to make way for a two-story, 10,000 sq. ft. contractor facility. Plans include 3,210 sq. ft. of office space on the first floor, along with a 6,000 sq. ft. shop and mechanical bay. The site will offer 25 employee parking spaces and 24 designated contractor vehicle storage spaces. Additionally, nineteen 13 ft. inventory staging bins will line the rear of the 2.27-acre property.

New hotel in the works on Carter Drive. A three-story, 200-suite hotel is working its way through the final approval process. The hotel is planned for a 5.3-acre lot at 205 Carter Drive. Final plans are scheduled to be reviewed by the West Goshen Planning Committee on August 12th.

Harley-Davidson site under renovation. Renovation activity is underway at the future home of Hannum's Harley-Davidson at the corner of Route 202 and South Matlack Street, the former site of Kelly Sports.

West Chester University prepares for possible demolition on Rosedale Avenue. West Chester University recently formalized a 2011 Conditional Use Approval that permits the demolition and replacement of the building at 114 W. Rosedale Avenue, currently home to the Office of Sustainability and the Office of Equal Opportunity and Compliance. Should the building be demolished, the university retains the right to rebuild in the same location.

Speaking of Rosedale Ave., a story I’m watching... Is there about to be a custody battle over WCU’s beloved mascot? The West Chester University Rammy statue appears to be eyeing a new home...and it just might be across the municipal line in West Goshen Township. Stay tuned. This boundary drama's just getting started.

Finally, mark your calendars, West Chester Borough is hosting an open house next week on proposed changes to the Goose Creek Pollution Reduction Plan. The Open House is scheduled for Tuesday at 5 p.m. at Borough Hall. The plans in their entirety can be found here.

That's it for this round. Stay sunny, stay curious--and keep an eye on what's happening next! - MS

Hello.

Goodbye.

The Accolades.

Urban pollinator gardens. Over the years, we’ve heard about the disappearance of bees and butterflies, fireflies and moths from parks, and yards, and backyard gardens. Their mere existence is a struggle due to dwindling natural habitat, and while large fields of wildflowers are certainly nice, they are not the only way to draw pollinators back. According to the Colorado State University Extension, pollinator habitat is “an area with a variety of flowering plants that provide food and nesting space.” It says nothing about size.  

This spring, the West Chester Green Team, in partnership with Chester County’s Department of Facilities, Keep Chester County Beautiful, and the county’s Go Green employee sustainability committee, broke ground on a new pollinator garden outside the Justice Center. Featuring over 400 perennials, trees, and shrubs, this highly visible garden is already making a big statement, but it’s not the only display of native plants downtown. There is another such garden outside the Chester County History Center, a mini-wildflower meadow that replaced a weedy patch of grass, and a third outside the Chestnut Street Garage. Planted four years ago, the garden serves not only as bird and butterfly habitat but also creates a welcoming environment for out-of-town guests.

“The Chestnut Street Garage is one of the major areas where first-time visitors park, and we want them to be blown away by West Chester the moment they exit their vehicle,” Downtown West Chester Executive Director John O’Brien has said of the project.

In addition to attracting pollinators and beautifying spaces, these gardens also:

• Contribute to community health and wellbeing

• Help improve air quality, sequester carbon, and reduce heat island effects

• Increase crop yields (of any nearby container gardens.) 

Win. Win. Win.   

Other things we are celebrating this week: 

Sequels. Last year, Caroline Cupp, Senior Associate Pastor at First Presbyterian Church of West Chester, and writing partner Jessica Slice published their first book, This Is How We Play. The joyful read features families at play, each with a family member who has a disability. The book was applauded by critics for realistically acknowledging challenges while keeping an upbeat, positive tone. Well, now they are back with book number two. This time, with a focus on communicating with disabilities. “We interviewed lots of different families who use a variety of forms of communication to connect with each other,” said Caroline. 

This Is How We Talk discusses the realities of communicating with a disability but holds these differences up as unique, positive, and in many ways the same. “We sign, write, clap! We tap, stim, scream! So many ways to talk and joke, play and learn and dream,” the empowering refrain reads. Both books are available at Bookmarks on Gay St (or will be – they are re-ordering) or you can buy now on bookshop.org or Amazon.

Birthday celebrations. Speaking of, after years without the small-town signature, an independent bookstore, West Chester now has two - and a book-themed hotel. Congratulations this week to Bookmarks. They are celebrating their first anniversary in business this Friday and Saturday. ( I remember I ambushed them on their first day open last year. They forgave me.)  Stop by this weekend, wish them well, and take advantage of author signings, mystery gifts, and a tent sale. 

Town-gown relations. For the fourth consecutive year, West Chester University was recognized as one of the Philadelphia region’s 50 most community-minded employers. The honor comes at the behest of the Chamber of Commerce of Greater Philadelphia, which recognized the university for its efforts to help address community-identified needs throughout the Southeastern Pennsylvania region.  “At West Chester University, we don’t just reside in the community — we’re part of its fabric,” said President Laurie Bernotsky. Let’s hope she means it. 

The last weeks of summer vacation. I had to laugh. This planned engagement post from the West Chester Area School District got zero comments and only one like. Too soon, folks. Too soon.

Pay it Forward.

Ways to give back this week: 

Go back-to-school shopping. Feeling nostalgic for those days of packing the cart with backpacks and spiral notebooks? Well, if so, maybe add a few items to this week’s shopping list and help a local family get back-to-school ready? 

The Friends Association, whose important work we highlighted last week, is hosting their annual Back-to-School drive. They are collecting new backpacks, water bottles, wired headphones, and gift cards to ensure every child feels ready and excited for the year ahead. You can drop off items at their 113 W. Chestnut location or save the trip and order off their Amazon Wish List and have them shipped directly. 

The Care Center Foundation, which we featured this week, is also running a backpack drive. They are accepting new and lightly used backpacks as part of a community event they are hosting later this month. If you can help, let them know at [email protected].

The Freakin’ Weekend.

What are you up to this weekend? We are packing up for our annual day at Rehobeth Beach. We used to go down for a full week when the kids were small. Now that the kids are older, there are too many other places to explore (not to mention rising rental costs) to dedicate seven days anymore, so we’ve come up with a compromise. All the things we loved crammed into one looooonng but usually fantastic day.

If you’re around this weekend, the Chester County History Center is hosting acclaimed opera tenor Richard Troxell tonight, all proceeds go to support SALT Performing Arts. It’s also First Friday in the Borough. There will be free concerts at 44 West Plaza and in front of the Historic Courthouse. Plus, extended store hours and free street parking after 5 p.m. - no need to mess with the missing parking meters. Tish is hosting a big summer tent sale. 50 percent off all summer merchandise. Starts today. Jawn Supply has a Philly vintage sports wear drop scheduled. 100 new pieces hit the racks today. And still looking for that perfect peach? Levante has you covered. 

Plus, don’t forget Saturday is reduced-price ride day at the Goshen County Fair. Just get there before 7 p.m. to take advantage. Looking ahead, Tuesday is the Night Out Against Crime. Always fun, especially if you have little ones. 

Finally, a special thanks to this week’s Community Sponsor First Presbyterian Church. Located at 130 W. Miner St., they are a family-oriented church that cares for little ones and their parents all the way through to the end stages of life. A community-oriented church, they are energized and excited by all the ways they have been able to impact West Chester. Visit their website to learn more or join them on Sundays in fellowship and worship.

View a list of all our amazing Community Sponsors here.

Business leaders: Want exclusive access to this amazing community? Of course, you do. There are only three spots an issue so each one gets a lot of attention, and from what I hear, responses. Placements are filled first come- first served. Send me an email if you are interested.

Mark Your Calendars:

July 28 – Aug. 2 – Goshen Country Fair, Goshen Fire Company, 1320 Park Ave., Fair opens 6 p.m. weekdays, 5 p.m. on Saturday. Enjoy games of chance, live music, amusement rides and delicious food.

• Aug. 1 – First Friday, Downtown West Chester, free metered parking after 5 p.m.

• Aug. 1 – Puccini to Phantom: A Night to Remember, Chester County History Center, 7 p.m.  Acclaimed Metropolitan Opera tenor Richard Troxell will headline the event, accompanied by celebrated pianist Laura Ward and a stunning lineup of SALT’s Mainstage stars. Tickets: $25/general admission, $75 event sponsor. All proceeds go to support SALT Performing Arts.

• Aug. 2 – West Chester Growers Market, corner of Church and Chestnut Streets, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.

• Aug. 2 – Special Exhibit: Over the Horizon, American Helicopter Museum, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Tickets required.

• Aug. 2 – Yoga in the Park, Marshall Square Park, 10:15 a.m. Bring a mat, water, and sunscreen. Registration encouraged, but walk-ins welcome. Class: $15. FYI if you’re registering it’s listed under “Be Rooted.”

• Aug. 3 – West Chester Railroad – Picnic Special, 230 E. Market St. 12 p.m. 90 minute train ride with a mid-trip stop at the Glen Mills station. Picnic optional. Pack a lunch. Tickets: $25/adults; $20/kids

• Aug. 4 – $5 Monday Night Movie:Beauty and the Beast, Uptown Theater, 7 p.m. Include complimentary popcorn

• Aug. 5 – Night Out Against Crime/Touch a Truck, Henderson High School, 6 – 9 p.m.

• Aug. 6 – West Chester Taps, downtown, 5 – 7 p.m. Participating locations offer a select list of $5 beers, $6 wines, and $7 cocktails, in addition to appetizer specials. 

• Aug 7 – The West Chester Mile, Henderson High School, 6 p.m. Participants are divided into heats based on their running abilities. Registration: $25/adult; $10/elementary. Open to all runners.

• Aug. 8 – Tour de Trike, Gay St., 3:30 p.m. This adult tricycle relay race will take place on Gay St.

• Aug. 9 – West Chester Growers Market, corner of Church and Chestnut Streets, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.

• Aug. 9 – Free a Tree volunteer day, Shaw’s Bridge Park (Meet at parking lot at 274 S. Creek Rd., West Chester, PA) 10 a.m. Learn basic natural land stewardship skills and become more familiar with East Bradford parks. Can be used to count towards public service hours for students.

• Aug. 9 – Yoga in the Park, Marshall Square Park, 10:15 a.m. Bring a mat, water, and sunscreen. Registration encouraged, but walk-ins welcome. Class: $15. FYI if you’re registering it’s listed under “Be Rooted.”

• Aug. 9 – WormCon @ WCU, WCU Science and Engineering Center & Commons, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.  WormCon @ WCU is a celebration of the contributions of worms to science! Will feature meet & greet with scientists, science demos & activities, and the chance to win fun worm-themed prizes! All ages are welcome, registration is free! 

• Aug. 9 – Rails & Ales, West Chester Historic Train Station (230 E. Market St.), 4 – 7 p.m. Ride the Historic West Chester Train to Glenn Mills and back, only this time with a beer in your hand. Plus, live music, food, and outdoor games. Tickets: $50

• Aug. 9 – Summer Pop-up Beer Garden: The Dave Matthews Tribute Band, Uptown Theater, 5 p.m. Jam out with the ultimate DMB experience. Beer Garden events precede the main show and are free to attend. 

• Aug. 10 – Breakfast with the Beatles, Kildare’s Pub, 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. Beatles tribute band The Newspaper Taxis will be onsite while you enjoy brunch and bottomless mimosas ($20). Reservations recommended.

• Aug. 10 – West Chester Railroad – Picnic Special, 230 E. Market St. 12 p.m. 90-minute train ride with a mid-trip stop at the Glen Mills station. Picnic optional. Pack a lunch. Tickets: $25/adults; $20/kids

• Aug 10 – Summer Concert Series – Wilson Lambert’s Blue Philly Magic, West Goshen Community Park, 6:30 p.m. Concert is free but a dry good donation for the West Chester Food Cupboard is encouraged.

Reader tip: If you have trouble with these emails going to spam or promotions, reply to this email. Nothing particular, even a random letter will do, but that should keep them coming to the inbox.

That’s it. Stay safe, stay happy, and thanks to everyone who helped make this week’s issue possible. I’ll see you next week!

Hello, West Chester Community Sponsors