Delaware County’s newest and largest park, Delco Woods, in Marple Township will hopefully one day have paved hiking paths, mountain bike trails, a dog park, and elevated boardwalks over wetlands.
The county just needs some money, writes Madeleine Wright for CBS News Philadelphia.
“The biggest challenge is financial,” Delaware County Council Member Elaine Schaefer said. “Right now, in the area that’s disturbed, where we will be putting the park amenities, there are currently nine buildings.”
Delco Woods is a 213-acre wooded property that once housed Don Guanella School, serving adults with intellectual disabilities.
The buildings would have to come down to clear the way for a sports court, community center, an a teen pavilion.
It’s all going to cost about $50 million, hopefully paid for with grants, Schaeffer said.
“My guess is that over the next 10 to 20 years, there’ll be a few projects every year,” Schaefer said. “Little by little, this will get this developed.”
Parts of the Delco Woods master plan are being implemented now. A visitor parking lot at Reed Road and Sproul Road will be paved in early 2026 giving people more access to the park area.
Find out more about the latest plans for Delco Woods at CBS News Philadelphia.
