Pennsylvania as a state saw a general increase in population from 2020 to 2024, with over 75,000 new residents statewide, writes Michael Rellahan for The Daily Local News.
Though Chester County has the lowest population of the five southeastern Pennsylvania counties, it has seen the largest increase, with 26,327 new residents across the county. The total population of Chester County as of July 2024 is 560,745.
The dramatic increase in residents presents upsides and concerns, according to county commissioners.
County commissioners have offered differing opinions on the population growth. Over email, Commissioner Eric Roe shared causes for concern, noting that population growth increases traffic congestion and urban sprawl, both threats to Chester County’s ecological systems and natural spaces.
Differently, Commissioner Chairman Josh Maxwell shared that the population growth represents what residents new and old love about living here. He named low unemployment, low crime, and educational options as reasons why local policies should accommodate an increased population.
Vice Chairwoman Marian Moskowitz shared that the county can and should organize planning policies around protecting green spaces and building within urban boroughs, stating that with careful planning.
“We can manage the growth, develop our downtowns, and maintain what we love about Chester County,” she said.
Read more about Chester County’s population increase and commissioners’ responses to the county’s growth in The Daily Local News.
______
