Open Space

Working to preserve open space is a key component of our mission. If you are a Whitpain Township resident interested in open space and you have not done so, please join WRO now.

We have formed an Open Space task force to guide us in this important project. Please help by sending an e-mail to AmyFruncillo@WhitpainResidents.org with your thoughts, ideas and goals for open space within Whitpain Township or, better, by joining the task force.

We are especially interested in your thoughts on the following:

What open space and walkability issues are most important to you?
What areas of the township would benefit from sidewalks and / or trails?
Are there any areas within Whitpain which you would like to see preserved as open space?
Do you feel there is a need for more recreational space within the township?

Our responses so far have included the following:

Putting sidewalks along major roads such as Skippack Pike and Penllyn Blue Bell Pike.
Taking an avid interest in the clean up of the West Ambler Wissahickon Park which is closed due to asbestos contamination.
Creating an area in Whitpain which promotes a "Main Street" atmosphere.
Overall support of creating safe walking neighborhoods and walking trails throughout Whitpain.
Adding designated biking trails.

At our monthly meeting held February 12, 2007, the following items were discussed as potential open space goals and direction:

Continuing on the results of the 2005 Open Space Plan Committee's recommendations. This includes creating trails within Whitpain that will connect to existing Township and Montgomery County trails such as the Blue Ribbon Trail, the Wissahickon Green Ribbon Trail, the Wentz Run Park Trail and the PECO Trail.
Supporting trails with single use (walking or biking or horse) as well as multi use (all three) that contain a definite beginning and end with parking and ease of use.
Creating and supporting a map of all proposed trails and open space and present in an ongoing manner to the Planning Commission and to the Board of Supervisors so as to not "lose focus" on already approved open space.
Take on a pro-active and vocal approach to land acquisition and easements as properties are put up for sale.

Two Township documents, available from their web site, are important in any discussion of Whitpain open space. Both are pdf documents and are relatively large (dialup users beware). Please click on the following to view the document in your browser or "right click" to save it to your computer.

Whitpain Township Open Space Preservation Plan 2005 Update (adopted October, 2006).
Comprehensive Plan Update for Whitpain Township (adopted June, 2006).

One of the most treasured aspects of suburban living is our open space. Please join us in maintaining and improving open space in Whitpain.