Waterside Park reimagines the former water company reservoir lands into an 89-acre regional park, promoting ecological stewardship and community vitality. Situated in the heart of Pennsylvania’s fracking industry, this project aims to elevate ecological assets and civic infrastructure in one of the state’s most conservative regions.

The park enhances the local and regional vibrancy by prioritizing ecological restoration, fostering a strong sense of community, improving accessibility, and establishing a distinct identity for North Franklin Township. Restoration efforts along the Chartiers Creek corridor are complemented by the creation of vibrant public spaces that position the park as the civic and cultural nucleus of the township. New pathways and connections link neighborhoods and facilities, while the park’s design exemplifies the character of the surrounding community through its thoughtful public realm.

The park is anchored by two primary zones:

• North Anchor: Positioned as the civic hub, this area includes the reservoirs, municipal facilities, and the water filter building. It also serves as a trailhead for the park’s greenway, linking the civic heart of the township to the broader community.
• South Anchor: Serving as a "Community Classroom," the South Anchor offers outdoor learning spaces, adventure play areas, and gathering zones. It incorporates innovative ecological features like Sedimentation Ridges, which reduce downstream flooding while supporting restoration education.

Since its master plan completion in 2022, Waterside Park has successfully garnered significant funding from grants to advance its early phases, showcasing the value of this transformative initiative.