Upper Merion Township is still actively pursuing its proposed sports and entertainment development, Township Manager Anthony Hamaday confirmed Tuesday, September 29.

Following our report on nearly $164,000 in documented payments to project consultant Neumann & Associates, Upper Merion Area Spotlight asked Hamaday whether the township was still pursuing the project following its unsuccessful $20 million state grant application.

“Mr. Luttrell, Yes,” he replied.

His response confirms continued pursuit of the proposal. It does not explain the current funding plan or next steps. Emails obtained through a Right-to-Know request show those were unresolved questions earlier this summer.

On July 13, consultant Richard Neumann wrote that it appeared the township would move ahead with EwingCole’s design work and should determine who would serve as its owner’s representative, a consultant representing the township’s interests during the project.

Hamaday responded: “I thought we were on hold with both the design and owners rep?”

He said EwingCole’s October 2025 proposal was $94,000 and that the township had not budgeted that work for 2026. He also said funding would need to be found for an owner’s representative, whose agreement would require board approval.

Hamaday wrote that Brandywine had planned to advance the design costs and be reimbursed later, but that the arrangement had been put on hold. He asked whether that had changed and who would pay EwingCole.

Neumann replied that the township would not bear the entire design bill. He said the state, Valley Forge Tourism & Convention Board, King of Prussia District, Brandywine and the Phillies had “indicated their willingness to chip in,” adding that he hoped the county would participate too.

That email does not establish contribution amounts, signed commitments or payments. The exchange also does not establish whether Brandywine’s proposed advance-and-reimbursement arrangement later went forward.

Upper Merion Area Spotlight has asked Hamaday what happens next, how the project would be funded, whether any outside contributions have been committed and when residents will receive a public update. A new Right-to-Know request seeking additional financial records has also been filed.

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Corey