Fence Erected to Keep Trespassers Away from Highland Country Club

A new fence with a large sign warning trespassers has been erected at the two main entrances leading to the abandoned clubhouse and dining room of the former Highland Country Club in Ross Township. 


The fence comes two week after former members, historical buffs, and the curious wandered through the building.

Most were there for the memories, others for what they could take. In the end, police were called to clear the building.

John Schalcosky, President of the Ross Township and West View Historical Societies, has posted hundreds of pictures of the country club in its heyday, and its current state of decline. He said it's his understanding the building could be razed later this month.

Meantime, what exactly will be built on the former country club grounds remains up for debate.

A few weeks after Ross Township Commissioners voted 5-4 to reject a preliminary plan for 167 townhouses and 134 single family homes on the grounds of the former Highland Country Club, Commissioner Chris Eyster expressed hope the developer would be willing to sit down a consider new options for the plan.

However, no talks have occurred and an appeal has been filed with Allegheny County Joseph James, who has scheduled a conference with attorneys from both sides on September 9.

Commissioners Eyster, Lana Mazur, Jerry O'Brien, Grace Stanko and commission Chairman Grant Montgomery voted against the plan primarily  because they felt the developer hadn't adequately addressed traffic issues. 

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