WEBSITE: www.delawareriverwaterfrontcorp.com/index.php?pageID=11ℑ=13a

LOCATION: Sheetmetal Workers Union Hall
1301 South Columbus Blvd.
Philadelphia PA 19106

PIER 53 PARK: A Sustainable Ecological Approach to Park Design

The Delaware River Waterfront Corporation (DRWC) plans to develop a unique and attractive green public space that will invite people to the riverfront at Pier 53. Since 2007, the City of Philadelphia has taken active steps toward rethinking the future of the riverfront. One early action, initiated by the Center City District, is the installation of a temporary recreational trail along the riverfront. Currently, the DRWC owns Pier 53 and the adjacent one-acre parcel of land at the terminus of Washington Avenue through which the trail passes. A recent study by the Philadelphia Water Department identified the shallow wetland habitats at this site as vital fish spawning grounds. It is envisioned that a new park on the landward portion of the Pier 53 property will serve as an important demonstration project focusing on the benefits of ecological restoration, innovative practices in regenerative design, and public access to the Central Delaware riverfront.

The current Pier 53 Park concept involves replacing impervious surfaces with woodland stands, meadows of native grasses and wildflowers, and improvements to the existing trail; thereby addressing localized stormwater run-off and water quality. Other key components include enhancing views out to the pier and river; installation of interpretive signage to provide visitors with a deeper understanding of the ecological context and function of the river and its upland edges, acknowledging the historic legacy of the pier, and artistic interpretation through design elements and public art. With funding by the William Penn Foundation, PA Dept. of Conservation and Natural Resources, and Coastal Zone Management, Biohabitats, Inc. was retained to design and build the project; slated for construction by the end of the summer 2010.