Talks Resurface With Crozer on Old Pathmark Site

BROOMALL–Ever since the old Pathmark site on Lawrence Road in Broomall closed its doors to the public in October 2010, residents have been wondering what will take its place.

But wonder no more. Manager Anthony Hamaday said that the site may soon be filled.

"We think that the Pathmark is close to being sold to Crozer-Keystone Health System," said Hamaday.

The last discussion between developer Paul de Botton, of National Realty Corp., and Crozer-Keystone Health System to develop a medical center were last known to be .

"We may think that they may have broken through that and found a deal. But I haven't had official confirmation on that," said Hamaday.

In addition, according to Hamaday, if Crozer-Keystone Health were to take over the old Pathmark building they will tear down the building because "they don't believe the building is in that great of shape."

One of the main reasons for the suspension included the large space.

"Crozer found that the square footage was bigger than what they needed," previously stated former Third Ward Marple Commissioner Jim Balk in December of 2010. "I think that was the basis of breaking the deal."

According to Balk, the medical center originally had its eyes on a different location in the township but due to a 19-year-old court order, their proposal was denied.

"Originally, they wanted to have it located on Lawrence and Langford roads but they weren't allowed to by the court because there was no thoroughfare through there," explained Balk.

Balk announced at a commissioners work session meeting last November that the original price tag of the Pathmark plot was estimated around $7 million to $7.5 million, in which  the value has dropped to around $3 million in its succeeding months.

In addition, Balk had shared his desire for the township to purchase the site for a recreational facility.

In our poll, while the idea of having the site become a medical facility or hospital came in last.