Publication Date

2-2023

Description

The borough of Kulpmont and Kulpmont-based organizations are actively engaged in a range of projects and initiatives that both spur community engagement and further revitalization efforts. One such example is in the continued improvements to Veterans Memorial Park. Despite such efforts, there is community interest in increasing greenspace and parks within the borough.

The need for green space is important, as such assets provide an outlet for residents to rest, increase social interactions among community members, and reduce stress. Not only do parks improve the well-being of the general community, but they also aid the landscape by incorporating plants and other types of biodiversity that enhances the environment. One way to include these spaces is through the reclamation of vacant lots.

Kulpmont has numerous abandoned lots and buildings, but a notable one lies on the 900 block of Chestnut Street. These spaces are underutilized and offer potential for revitalization. By reclaiming these lots, the borough can turn them into beneficial spaces for the entire community to enjoy. The current property owner intends to convert these two adjacent vacant lots (totaling 9,000 square feet) into a neighborhood asset, with community input. Through community outreach and engagement, it is possible to design a neighborhood park that can be a resource for recreation, community socializing, and a demonstration of ecological projects like native plants and/or community food gardens.

A survey was conducted to begin the process of understanding community preferences with amentities and design for the double vacant lot on the 900 block of Chestnut Street. The results show that there is community interest in developing this lot as a neighborhood asset, and that families with young children and household without children do have different preferences as to design and amenities. An additional interactive community feedback strategy was conducted and added to the original report.

The research for this report was funded by the Bucknell Center for Sustainability & the Environment and a Mellon Foundation Confounding Problems and the Public Humanities and the Arts grant through the Bucknell Humanities Center.

Keywords

green space, urban planning, parks, pocket parks

Rights

Ⓒ 2023. Bucknell Center for Sustainability & the Environment

Type

Print Materials

Field Station

Coal Region Field Station

Language

eng

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