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Health & Fitness

Wilkinsburg Grows Greener: turning a vacant lot into a park

A vacant lot can be a catalyst for growth. The WCDC is leading efforts to transform several vacant parcels in the borough's business district into greener, more vibrant community spaces for neighbors an

A vacant lot can be a catalyst for growth. The Wilkinsburg Community Development Corporation (WCDC) is leading efforts to transform several vacant parcels in the borough’s business district into greener, more vibrant community spaces for neighbors and visitors alike to enjoy.

A New Parklet on Penn

At the top of the list is a plan for a public parklet in a vacant lot on Penn Avenue in the heart of the business district. Designed by Pittsburgh-based mossArchitects, after a thorough community review process, the new parklet will bring much-needed green space to the busy commercial corridor. The revitalized space will feature landscaping, walkways, benches, trellises and an informal performance stage with a backdrop provided by an existing mural on the adjacent building. Simple string lights will provide ambient night lighting as a draw for activity throughout the day. Fundraising for the Penn Avenue Parklet is a priority for the WCDC, according to Executive Director Tracey Evans.

South Avenue, Wood Street and Beyond

The space to be occupied by the new parklet is among several vacant properties that may soon be sprouting new life. In fall 2012, seven landscape architecture students from the Pennsylvania State University partnered with the WCDC to create designs for other vacant parcels in or near the borough’s business district. After visiting the community and talking with residents, the students developed creative designs for a lot at South Avenue and Wood Street, the Gazebo Park on Wood Street, the pedestrian tunnels, and the architecturally rich, long-abandoned Wilkinsburg Train Station. All of the designs can be viewed on the WCDC website.

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Neighborhood participation is a key part of the revitalization process. For example, young participants in FUSE, a local group that works to involve urban teens in the arts and other learning experiences, had the opportunity to join the Penn State students and the WCDC to contribute to the design process. “The kids and young adults were able to visualize their community in more functional, green and aesthetically pleasing ways,” says Christine Carnevali, co-founder of FUSE. “It brought them more in touch with their community and provided them with confidence.”

In the future, local residents of all ages will continue to have opportunities to review the projects and provide input at public meetings hosted by the Art and Design Committee of the WCDC. Many neighbors share the common goal of making Wilkinsburg a greener, more inviting place to live, according to Borough Manager Marla Marcinko. “There is tremendous interest and enthusiasm among the residents of our community for increased green space, community gardens and public art projects in Wilkinsburg.”

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