The housing density debate comes to Narberth | Inquirer Lower Merion
Plus, the Main Line dads and granddads taking the internet by storm.
Hi, Lower Merion! 👋
As Narberth weighs zoning changes to up housing density, residents are divided on the pros and cons. Here’s what to know. Also this week, we get to know the local dads and granddads gaining internet fame for their a cappella stylings, a Villanova estate gets preserved, plus the iconic local sip you can find nearby.
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As housing costs continue to outpace affordability, a debate has sparked in Narberth about what, if anything, the borough should do to help combat the crisis.
Narberth has become increasingly expensive, recording the highest median housing sales price in Montgomery County in 2024.
Last year, borough council asked its planning commission to study possible zoning changes to increase affordable housing, and the commission came back with several suggestions. While nothing has been decided, and likely won’t be for months, residents have decidedly mixed feelings.
Some say increasing housing density and incentivizing developers to include affordable units would help ease the burden on those otherwise priced out. Others worry it’s a misguided effort that could exacerbate parking woes and reshape the community’s identity without really addressing the problem.
The Inquirer’s Denali Sagner spoke with residents about both the positives and negatives.
A group of mostly middle-aged Main Line fathers and grandfathers are going viral for their harmonizing.
Known as the Tonics, the a capella group has gained a global audience thanks to videos of their riffs circulating online. The group has even caught the attention of some big names, including Gigi Hadid and Michael Bublé.
Most of the group’s 19 members hail from around the Main Line, including Bryn Mawr, Haverford, and Wayne.
The Inquirer’s Dugan Arnett delves into their history and how they’ve charmed audiences worldwide.
💡 Community News
Reminder for residents: There will be no trash or recycling pickup and the township offices will be closed tomorrow for Juneteenth. See how your pickup could be impacted here.
The township is hosting a capital improvement plan workshop Wednesday at 6 p.m. The meeting will also be streamed live and is accessible via Zoom.
The 13-acre Oakwell estate in Villanova is officially preserved after two nonprofits, Natural Lands and the Wyncote Foundation, purchased it in two parcels for a combined $13 million. Situated adjacent to Stoneleigh, the property will now be incorporated into the 42-acre public garden.
The average starter home in Villanova clocks in with a value of $1 million or more, according to new data from Zillow — about five times the national average. Villanova is the only community in the state to carry the distinction of having starter home pricing that high. The Inquirer’s Michaelle Bond explains the uptick.
The community is mourning the death of Bryn Mawr resident Bennett L. Aaron, who died earlier this month at the age of 92. Aaron was a longtime lawyer, honorary trustee of the Jewish Federation of Greater Philadelphia, and former president of the Federation of Jewish Agencies of Greater Philadelphia.
Gladwyne Fire Company is hosting a free car seat safety check event Tuesday from 9 a.m. to noon at the fire house. Advanced registration is required.
🏫 Schools Briefing
The district’s school board voted to repeal its existing technology policy earlier this week, to the frustration of parents who don’t want their kids on district-issued devices. The move could mean the district is no longer required to accommodate families who don’t sign electronic device use agreements as many are pushing to limit school-related screen time for their kids.
🍽️ On our Plate
Last week, The Inquirer dropped its list of the 76 most iconic dishes in the region and there’s a local tie among them. Ranking at No. 15 is La Colombe’s draft latte, a portable version of the “frothy, stylish cold coffee,” reporter Michael Klein says. You can get it in many area stores, as well as at La Colombe’s Bryn Mawr cafe.
After much anticipation, The Buttery is opening its newest outpost in Bryn Mawr this weekend. Located at 836 Lancaster Ave. in the former Kindred Collective space, The Buttery will host a grand opening Saturday complete with giveaways and a special pastry. The new location has seating for 82 people and will be open daily from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m.
🎳 Things to Do
🎶 Bryn Mawr Twilight Concerts: There are two shows this weekend, starting with indie pop singer/songwriter Marielle Kraft and songwriter Kevin Walkman on Friday. On Saturday, Livingston Taylor, who wrote Top-40 hits for his brother James Taylor, takes the stage. ⏰ Friday, June 19, 7 p.m., and Saturday, June 20, 7 p.m. 💵 $25.88, free for kids 12 and under 📍 Bryn Mawr Gazebo
🍦 Father’s Day Ice Cream Social: Celebrate dad at Harriton House’s annual event, which includes yard games, crafts, and, of course, ice cream. ⏰ Sunday, June 21, 1-4 p.m. 💵 $6.98-$12.16, free for dads 📍 Harriton House
🍛 Coconut and Turmeric Chickpea Curry with Mrs. Mayuri: Learn to the make this dish and then sample it. Registration is required. ⏰ Wednesday, June 24, 5-6:30 p.m. 💵 Free 📍 Ardmore Library
🎵 Music in the Park: The next concert features country singer/songwriter Craig Bickhardt. ⏰ Wednesday, June 24, 7 p.m. 💵 Free 📍 Narberth Park gazebo
🏡 On the Market
Built in 1948, this home gives a nod to the past thanks to its classic stone exterior, while the interior is contemporary. It has formal living and dining rooms, the latter with a cool chandelier, a den, a family room, a bonus room, and an eat-in kitchen. There are four bedrooms upstairs and additional living space in the finished basement. Outside, there’s a patio and a basketball hoop.
See more photos of the home here.
Price: $1.199M | Size: 3,074 SF | Acreage: 0.65
🗞️ What other Lower Merion residents are reading this week:
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