Developers of the proposed county park in Marple Township are hoping for the best of both worlds: a park that preserves forests while giving county residents some recreational opportunities, writes Pete Bannan for the Daily Times.

That insight was revealed at the second public meeting addressing the new 213-acre county park on the former Don Guanella School property.

“It’s really clear to us on council that people in Delaware County are keenly aware of the value of open space,” said County Council Vice Chair Elaine Paul Schaefer.

Ninety percent of the property contains 170 acres of forest, wetlands, and grasslands which will be left untouched except for creating trails.

About 30 acres of the property will go toward the community park, which will have six public gateways.

There will be a 2.5-mile perimeter trail with a shared-use trail along Sproul Road. A parking lot for 20 cars is being built on Reed Road.

The community park will include a park drive loop with places for activities and a bus stop. 

A trail will connect an existing BMX park to the neighborhood, with more trails into the woods.

Other features include a dog run, bocce court, disk golf, pavilions, and bathrooms.

Read more about the county park in Marple that preserves forests in the Daily Times.