Bensalem Last Week: Budgets, Bridges, and Breakthroughs
The Big Stories
Crime Plummets as Police Report Major Safety Gains
Public safety: crime stats, warrants, and a mail-theft case
- Bensalem Police Department reported a major drop in violent crime for 2025, including steep declines in robberies and burglaries, and discussed continued investment in tech and programs like “Bensalem Secure.”
- Police also released a weekly list seeking help locating 14 individuals with active warrants (and urged residents not to approach them).
- A separate report asked for help identifying suspects in mail theft at Townhomes at Gateway (3228 Bristol Rd).
On the response side, Bensalem Fire Rescue Department hired four new firefighters using the federal SAFER Grant program.
Schools: budget pressure (and a new principal)
The biggest storyline in Bensalem Township School District coverage last week was budget stress and what it could mean for taxpayers:
- The board introduced a 2026–27 budget proposal that includes a significant tax hike.
- School Tax Increase Could Cost Homeowners Up to $621 More Per Year
- A board meeting recap emphasized how severe the financial situation is and why above-index tax options were being discussed.
- A practical explainer walked residents through what a school tax increase could mean for your wallet with concrete examples.
There was also a notable personnel change: Russell C. Struble Elementary School welcomed a new principal, Borislav Ben, following Lana Judy’s retirement.
Amazon Fresh Closure Brings Retail Uncertainty to Street Road
Less than 18 months after opening with fanfare, the Amazon Fresh supermarket at 1837 Street Road (Brookwood Shopping Center) is closing as part of Amazon’s plan to shutter the Fresh brand nationwide.
The 42,000-square-foot store—which finally opened in August 2024 after sitting vacant for nearly three years—faces an uncertain future. Amazon plans to convert select Fresh locations to Whole Foods Markets, but hasn’t confirmed whether Bensalem will make the cut.
For residents, the closure raises concerns about another prolonged retail vacancy on a key commercial corridor. Mayor Joseph DiGirolamo previously called the empty space an “eyesore” during Amazon’s construction delays.
This marks Amazon’s second major pullback in Bensalem within a year, following last summer’s closure of the State Road delivery station.
Other Important News
Passport Services Under Threat at Library
Bensalem’s passport processing at the local library could end due to a federal policy shift. The U.S. State Department plans to prevent nonprofit libraries from serving as passport acceptance facilities, potentially forcing residents to go to post offices or federal buildings with longer wait times.
Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-1) introduced the “Community Passport Services Access Act” (H.R. 6997) to preserve library-based services. His office assisted over 700 families with passport issues last year, highlighting local demand.
Road Closures Starting February 17
Haunted Lane will be closed to through traffic weekdays from 9 AM to 3 PM starting February 17 for Amtrak bridge repairs. The work between Marshall Lane and Bristol Pike runs through May 14, with detours routing traffic to State Road, Street Road, and Bristol Pike. Expect added congestion during midday hours.
Zoning Board Preview
The Zoning Hearing Board is preparing for its February 5 meeting. The agenda features two continued cases and several new requests. Keeping an eye on these meetings is a great way to stay informed about how our local landscape is changing.
Scientific Discovery at Growden Mansion
In a major breakthrough for local history, a scientific dating project has finally confirmed the construction date of the historic Growden Mansion. Using dendrochronology (tree-ring dating), researchers confirmed the landmark dates back to 1742. The property, which famously hosted visitors like Benjamin Franklin, remains one of the most significant historical sites in the Neshaminy Creek area.
Renting vs. Buying: The 2026 Math
A detailed analysis published this week breaks down the financial reality for Bensalem renters considering homeownership. With the median home at $440,000 and mortgage rates near 6%, buying costs roughly $3,724/month versus $1,920/month for renting a two-bedroom apartment.
The break-even point sits around five years, assuming 2-3% annual home appreciation and the ability to cover $57,000 in upfront costs (down payment plus closing costs). The piece offers specific calculations for different home values and discusses the “hidden costs” both renters and buyers face.
Quick “don’t-miss” list (published this week)
If you want the fastest skim, these were the biggest headlines posted between Jan. 26 and Feb. 1:
- Renting vs. Buying in Bensalem: The 2026 Math
- Major drop in violent crime for 2025
- School tax increase: what it means for your wallet
- School board budget/tax hike coverage + financial crisis recap
- Amazon Fresh closing
- Passport processing uncertainty at the library
- Haunted Lane Bridge repairs starting Feb. 17
- Weekly warrants list + Gateway mail-theft suspects
