East Whiteland has three locations along Route 30 that look like hell in particular. We won’t even get into all of the residential rental properties on either side of the WaWa at Planebrook Road. But one was of interest. This one place I found a live listing on and who knew it has some sort of retail bank plans going on?

Now to the 3 properties I wonder about the most. Only one has approved plans.

First is the boat sales place once known as Clews & Strawbridge. It’s really posted for sale again with a big old sign and the 18th century farmhouse? Might as well have a giant blaring neon sign that says “demolition by neglect”.

This site was once proposed for a zoning change to create residential. It was turned down and I seem to recall why do any of you?

Next up is what is known as the Importer or Hibbard Barn. It’s been a sight of great debate for a couple of decades, I think? At this point, there are already approved development plans there, apartments, of course, with maybe something else?

Among the debate in recent times for the lot was a pair of sycamore trees, and I think one gets saved?

Not sure how the barn is being used. I don’t remember because it’s been too long. Will they restore the barn and it will be part of the development? Or will they dismantle the barn because it’s too far gone and use the stone as part of the development? I seem to think that they’re trying to save the barn which is good because it’s a really cool looking barn.

Finally there is the site that was the retro car wash and laundromat (“Speedi King”). Now the laundromat is something which would still have use because there aren’t many around right? The car wash? Tons of them around. Also is this a site that requires any ground remediation because of the businesses that were once there?

This has been sitting vacant for so long and don’t the owners have any pride in ownership? There have been lots of times of seriously dumped garbage over the years hasn’t there been? What’s going on now there? It’s kind of cleaned up but one of the car wash bays looks like it’s got a mattress and stuff in it?

Now the township can’t control the property owners but wouldn’t it be nice to know what was going on? The site looks like crap.

These spots of ugliness exist all over. Not just in East Whiteland. It’s amazing how the zeal for development drives the visual landscape of our communities.

Don’t we deserve better? Shouldn’t some of these properties that contain historic structures matter more?

Ask your elected officials.