With the help of General Recreation experts in Newtown Square, an all-abilities playground at Whitehall Road Regional Park opened to the public July 25 after years of planning and delays.
Centre Region Parks and Recreation officially opened the 50-acre first phase of the 100-acre park, in Ferguson Township, writes Geoff Rushton for StateCollege.com.
“This park is not just a place to play—it’s a symbol of what we can achieve when we work together. We’re thrilled to welcome residents to enjoy the fields, trails, playgrounds, and natural beauty that this space offers,” said Ben Estell, Centre Region Council of Governments executive director, in a statement.
The $6.4 million first phase includes a 15,000-square-foot “We Play Together” all-abilities playground designed for inclusive play, the Mascolo Garden Reflection Area, two multipurpose rectangular fields with LED sports lighting and two medium-sized grass fields for sports and community leagues.
Features include 2 miles of walking trails, a Story Walk curated in partnership with Schlow Library, pollinator gardens, ADA-compliant restrooms and parking, as well as indoor storage and a CRPR maintenance facility.
A pavilion providing shaded gathering space and a concession area for food during tournaments and community events are expected to be constructed in 2025-26.
“Whitehall Road Regional Park has been decades in the making—and today, we proudly open its gates as a vibrant hub for play, sport, relaxation and connection,” Kristy Owens, Centre Region parks and recreation director, said in a statement.
“We extend our deepest thanks to the dedicated staff, patient community, generous donors and our municipal partners within the Centre Region Council of Governments. Your support and vision have brought this long-awaited dream to life, overlooking one of the most beautiful views in the valley.”
Discussions for the park started in 2002.
In 2008 Penn State and local governments created a subdivision plan for a portion of a 565-acre property off of Whitehall Road acquired by the university from the Mellon Family Trust.
By 2011 the university had sold 100 acres to Ferguson Township and the COG to develop the regional park.
Final funding and bids for phase one of the park were approved in December 2021.
Construction began in 2022.
“This park delivers on our community’s vision for accessible, inclusive and high-quality recreational opportunities,” said Ferguson Township Manager Centrice Martin in a statement. “Ferguson Township is proud to have been a foundational partner in bringing Whitehall Road Regional Park to fruition. We look forward to seeing it become a vibrant hub for families, athletes, and nature lovers across the region.”
Read more about the new park in StateCollege.com.
