For the last fifteen years, neighbors cleaned and protected the remaining 6 acres of the Anderson and Woodbrook land not yet touched by development in the Wissahickon. After learning that developers were seeking to build a condominium complex of over twenty five 1,200 square foot houses, neighbors campaigned to save the land. With tremendous support from over 150 neighbors, Chestnut Hill Historical Society, Friends of Wissahickon, local elected officials, and City council, WEP set out with a mission to transfer the 6 acres of land from the developers to Fairmount Park.
After an arduous 15 years, WEP finally heard the news they were waiting for (drum roll please) On October 8, 2013, WEP received an e-mail from Mark Focht, First Deputy Comissioner Officer of Philadelphia Parks and Recreation reading “It is with great pleasure and satisfaction that I share with you that the City’s acquisition of the Wissahickon East parcel is complete. It is officially ours!”
The next step will be to create a small, environmentally-friendly walk-to-park, which can be accomplished by the help of the City, FOW, professionals and community members who volunteer their time.
Photo Credits: Wissahickon East Project
WEP has planned their first clean up day for December 7, 2013 from 10am to 1pm. Work tools will be provided and no prior experience is necessary. To volunteer your service, e-mail info@wissahickon.org with your name, address, e-mail, phone #, and number of people attending.
Congratulations to all on the acquisition of the East Wissahickon land!
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