Connector Bridge Alignment Determined

The design concept team (DCT*) carefully reviewed the comments and ideas from park users, stakeholders and neighbors gathered at last fall’s meeting and surveys on the three alternative alignments, and also studied several other potential alternatives that involved structures outside of Schuylkill River Park.  Upon this review, the DCT concluded that the “yellow” or “west border” alignment was the most feasible and best met the needs of the project and the community’s concerns.   

The ‘yellow” alignment runs along the western edge of the Schuylkill River Park over the CSX tracks to Schuylkill Banks in a south to north line.  This bridge, in addition to serving as an above grade crossing, will provide an additional access point between the river and Schuylkill Banks to Schuylkill River Park and the surrounding neighborhoods.  It will fulfill the original conception of Schuylkill River Park as connecting the city to the riverfront.   

Please note that the accompanying picture is only an alignment, not a final design treatment.  The engineering firm HNTB will now prepare a preliminary design taking into considerations the public’s comments in addition to the features recommended in the 2006 Master Plan developed by Friends of Schuylkill River Park.

Comments

[Charles Goodwin]

This was by far the best of the three alternatives. The "green path" would've disrupted the community garden, and the "red path" would've blocked the line of sight to the basket ball courts from the oval and created "hiding" places that would have lead to safety issues.

Now what can we do to make sure that they bridge that gets built is attractive?

[Jen the cyclist]

Hmmm, that's interesting -- where did the additional two 90-degree turns over the railroad tracks come from? They weren't in the proposal that was placed up for public comment.

[Cass]

Rally for Fairmount Park - Wednesday, April 16th at 12 noon in front of City Hall.

Mayor Nutter has proposed $3 million in increased funding for the Park this year. Come out and let Council know you support the Park and the Mayor.

Mayor Nutter is going to attend!