The potential of Lower Allen Township was obvious from the beginning.  Formed in 1850 when old Allen Township was split in half, Lower Allen is blessed with natural resources and a superb location.  It has the Yellow  Breeches Creek, a creek renowned for its trout fishing, as its southern boundary, along with an abundance of limestone and fertile land.  It is minutes away from the Susquehanna River and Downtown Harrisburg.   

In the 17th Century is was home to the Susquehannock Indians.  The first Scotish-Irish settlers began moving in about 1750, and they farmed the land until modern times.  Rustic and unspoiled, Lower Allen remained relatively undeveloped until after World War II.  Between 1940 and 1980, Lower Allen's population increased by 887 percent, and in the 2000 census the population had risen to 17,437.

Lower Allen is a first class township under Pennsylvania law.  A five-person Board of Commissioners, elected at large, oversees all policy and financial matters.  The day-to-day operation and the implementation of all policy is the responsibility of a full-time manager.

Administrative offices are in the Municipal Services Center, 2233 Gettysburg Road, Camp Hill, and include the offices of Manager, Finance, Community Development, Community and Human Resources, Police, Emergency Medical Services, and Lower Allen Fire Company No. 1.  The Township Tax Collector/Treasurer is also located here.  The Township also has Fire Station No. 2 located on Rupp Avenue and the Lisburn Fire Station located in Lisburn. 

Lower Allen Township provides Emergency Medical Services and Police coverage 24 hours a day, and is served by two township based volunteer fire companies.