A unique concept was created to solve several issues at a problematic intersection on a busy arterial route through the Borough. Existing vehicular traffic posed a hazard to driver and pedestrian safety due to speeding, insufficient traffic control, and incomplete pedestrian facilities. Additionally, poor drainage conditions and a high water table along Temple Boulevard caused flooding in recent years.
Through detailed analysis of the existing conditions, ERI determined that road realignment and the reduction of existing asphalt roadbed was warranted. The area of the existing asphalt will be removed as part of the roadway realignment, which allowed ERI to develop a pocket park concept with green infrastructure solutions to help mitigate the constant flooding concerns for the neighborhood. The result includes vegetative swales and a rain garden with an overflow inlet into the proposed subsurface stormwater system improvements for the site.
In addition to the green infrastructure solutions, this park will provide a gathering area with seating, landscaping, a lawn area, interpretative signage, and a custom steel sign that relates the town’s history.
Funding Source: Federal Transportation Alternatives Plan (TAP)