Radnor Township Seeks Location for District Court Amid Affordability Issues
Radnor Township is facing significant challenges in locating a new district court after deciding against purchasing a former veterinarian’s office. Township officials, including Commissioner Jack Larkin, have emphasized that costs remain a major barrier.
Currently, the district court operates in Newtown Square, and efforts are ongoing to find a suitable site within Radnor. Key factors hindering the search include the need for adequate parking and the county’s budget constraints, as Delaware County prefers to pay between $20 and $30 per square foot for rental spaces—a stark contrast to the prevailing rates in Radnor, which can reach $50 to $100 per square foot.
Recent discussions at a town hall highlighted community suggestions for potential properties, such as the Radnor Financial Center; however, Larkin noted that the pricing exceeds the county’s budget.
One potential site, a former veterinarian’s office on West Wayne Avenue, was considered but ultimately deemed unsuitable due to local opposition. The necessity for Radnor to have its own district court is underscored by the logistical burden on local police, who must leave the township for court proceedings, impacting their availability for patrols.
As of now, the search for a suitable location continues, with no decisions made at the recent meeting.
