Ridley Park 2030 Plan

RIDLEY PARK 2030 PLAN MAY 2019

TABLE OF CONTENTS 4

Executive Summary

6

Existing Conditions

28

Issues & Opportunities

36

Goal Summary

39

Goal 1: Revitalize the Business District

48

Goal 2: Preserve Ridley Park Lake

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Objective 1.1: Reduce vacancy and turnover Objective 1.2: Increase the diversity of retail Objective 1.3: Grow awareness of shops Objective 1.4: Improve accessibility Objective 1.5: Facilitate coordination between businesses Objective 1.6: Highlight the historic charm Objective 1.7: Make it an exciting and inviting place

Objective 2.1: Preserve Ridley Park Lake through local interventions Objective 2.2: Foster regional connections to protect the lake Objective 2.3: Promote education and awareness of environmental issues Objective 2.4: Improve water quality Objective 2.5: Create an attractive and welcoming space

TABLE OF CONTENTS 55

Goal 3: Support Aging Residents

60

Goal 4: Enhance Transportation

66

Goal 5: Connect Greenspace

72

Implementation

84

Acknowledgements

57 I Objective 3.1: Ensure adequate housing options 58 I Objective 3.2: Provide ample accessibility and medical services 59 I Objective 3.3: Foster social connections amongst all ages

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Objective 4.1: Connect to surrounding communities Objective 4.2: Promote safety Objective 4.3: Upgrade Ridley Park Station Objective 4.4: Enhance connectivity within the Borough

68 I Objective 5.1: Create connectivity between greenspaces 70 I Objective 5.2: Establish parks and greenspaces as inviting community spaces 71 I Objective 5.3: Prioritize the maintenance of recreational fields

RIDLEY PARK 2030

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

Ridley Park 2030 is a comprehensive plan that details the investments to be made over the next 10 years in the Borough.

This plan was created via a partnership between the University of Pennsylvania Stuart Weitzman School of Design and the Ridley Park Borough Manager. Additionally, this plan builds on the 2014 Ridley Park Comprehensive Plan.

Ridley Park 2030 celebrates what makes Ridley Park unique and suggests recommendations that build on the Borough’s assets: its proud residents, its “crown jewel” of a lake, and its historic charm. The implementation of these recommendations are broken out into three phases over the next 10 years, offering incremental improvements that build upon each other for a more connected and engaged community. The plan doesn’t set out to change Ridley Park, only polish the diamond that it already is.

RIDLEY PARK 2030 Planning Context Why Plan?

The comprehensive planning process enables a community to take time to reflect on their vision and goals for the future, as well as the steps that need to be taken to get there. Longrange planning and observing predicted trends in a community can help residents and officials prepare for change; it can also help to retain characteristics that define a place’s identity throughout inevitable change.

This is particularly relevant to Ridley Park, a borough with a great deal of history and character.

Comprehensive planning can help keep Ridley Park the charming hometown its residents know and love, while saving the Borough money and enhancing local assets.

The Process The Ridley Park 2030 process began in January of 2019, and was completed in May. Data for analysis of the Borough was primarily taken from the 2013 - 2017 American Community Survey and the Delaware Valley Regional Planning Commission.

Local newspapers, blogs, and websites were

referenced to provide context on the Borough’s structure, culture, and resident perspective.

These resources were crucial in developing a plan that reflects the priorities of those who live and work in Ridley Park.

How To Use This Plan This plan is intended to serve as a point of reference for accomplishing the five goals described throughout. Key actions are identified within each goal chapter. The implementation section at the end acts as a more complete todo list, broken out into three phases based upon estimated time to complete the actions.

Apart from following the suggested action items, this plan provides precedents, partners, and funding opportunities that the Borough can use to accomplish these and other goals as appropriate.

Figure 1 Map

Figure 1: 2014 Ridley Park Comprehensive Plan.

This plan builds on the 2014 Ridley Park Comprehensive Plan, one of three plans the Borough has completed (the others being in 1980 and 1998). The 1998 Comprehensive Plan served as the foundation for the Borough’s zoning update in 2009. Ridley Park 2030 echoes many of the priorities established in the 2014 plan; now reflecting current data and additional research, as well as a strong focus on implementation.

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RIDLEY PARK 2030

EXISTING CONDITIONS

Existing Conditions takes stock of the physical and social conditions of the Borough, using this information to help uncover potential issues and inform opportunities for courses of action over the next 10 years. This section looks at the local context of Ridley Park, its history, residents, employment and income levels, land use and zoning, housing stock, the historic business district, local institutions, the natural environment, and transportation system.

2nd Annual Community Easter Egg Hunt. Photo credit to New Destiny Christian Center, 2019.

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EXISTING CONDITIONS Borough Identity Location The Borough of Ridley Park is located in the southeastern portion of Pennsylvania’s Delaware County and is bordered by the Ridley Township and Prospect Park.

The Borough is within the Greater Philadelphia region, five miles (or a 10-minute drive) from the Philadelphia International Airport and 13 miles (or a 25-minute drive) from Philadelphia’s Center City. It is approximately 1.1 square miles and is home to roughly 7,000 residents.

Figure 2: Ridley Park in the Region.

RIDLEY PARK 2030 Early Beginnings William Penn was granted the Province of Pennsylvania in 1681, and by 1687 the Borough was included as part of the original Ridley Township. The area was primarily agricultural throughout the 18th and early 19th centuries.³

While the Borough has been incorporated for over 130 years, its roots date much further back. The Lenni Lenape, or “Delaware Indians,” inhabited the Delaware River region. Their network of pathways and land uses greatly influenced Dutch settlers in the early 1600s.¹

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The area was claimed as “New Sweden” and became the site of one of the first permanent European settlements in Pennsylvania. New Sweden was conquered by the Dutch in 1655, though many Swedish settlers were still in the area when it fell under English control in 1674.2

Figure 3: Delaware Indians.

Figure 4: Map from the 1872 Plan of the Town of Ridley Park.

1872

The Philadelphia, Wilmington and Baltimore Railroad Company (PW&B Company) sought to build the Darby Improvement rail route through the area, connecting Philadelphia to Chester, Pennsylvania. The Borough was built around the rail’s Ridley Park Station; it was commissioned

by Isaac Hinckley, president of PW&B, and designed by Robert Morris Copeland. The picturesque enclave was intended to be an escape from the congested city in favor of a quiet residential community filled with parks and open spaces. The original master plan claimed, “If a man values his own and his family’s health, the city is a poor place to live in; for a crowded population brings bad air, bad sewerage, contagious diseases, blinding heat in the summer, want of children to play.”4

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EXISTING CONDITIONS Ridley Park formally separated from Ridley Township in 1887. The Borough grew slowly throughout the early 20th century, as its footprint was already progressively built out.5

Like many communities in southeastern Delaware County, Ridley Park gradually lost population over the later 20th century. The Borough lost over 20% of its population by 2010.8

Ridley Park Population 10,000 9,000 8,000 7,000 6,000 5,000 4,000 3,000 2,000 1,000 1880 1900 1910 1920 1930 1940 1950 1960 1970 1980 1990 2000 2010 2017

Figure 5: Ridley Park population trend.

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During the rapid suburbanization of the 1950s through the 1970s, the population grew to its peak population of 9,000 residents.6 With this growth, the Borough experienced a construction boom; as a result, 30% of present-day housing in the Borough was built at this time.7 While Ridley Park itself has limited industrial land, a number of important manufacturing Figure 6: A historic home in Ridley Park. facilities were located in its vicinity, providing jobs for many local residents.

2000 The Ridley Park Historical Society was established to preserve the history of the Borough. The Society commemorates 100-yearold homes with a “Century House� plaque and awards a Historic Preservation Award to homeowners in the Borough that have restored the exterior of their home to its original beauty.9

Figure 7: Historic Ridley Station from the Ridley Historical Society Archives.

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RIDLEY PARK 2030 Today Although the population is lower than it was in the 1970s, the Borough is no longer experiencing population decline. The Delaware Valley Regional Planning Commission (DVRPC) expects the population to grow going forward, but at a slow pace.10 While it has changed over the years, Ridley Park maintains its small town, family-friendly feel. Residents have a strong sense of pride in calling Ridley Park home.

Main Streets Organization

Figure 8: Ridley Park Farmers Market.

The Borough hosts a number of major community events throughout the year. The most prominent of these are the Ridley Park Farmers Market(Figure 8), the annual Fourth of the July celebration (Figure 9), and the Fall Festival (Figure 10), all of which are organized by the Main Streets of Ridley Park nonprofit organization. These events have been running for nearly a decade and attract not only local Borough residents, but visitors from Ridley Township and other neighboring areas.11

Figure 9: 4th of July celebration at East Lake Park.

Figure 11: Main Streets Organization logo.

Figure 10: Fall Festival held in the historic business district.

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EXISTING CONDITIONS Residents Demographics

Age Cohorts of Residents

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Figure 12: Ridley Park age cohorts compared to Delaware County.

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Married Couple Families

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Figure 13: Ridley Park household types.

Nearly half of all households in the Borough are married-couple families (Figure 13), many of which have long roots in the community as reflected in the Borough’s aging population (Figure 12). The median age of residents is 43 years old, driven both by an aging population and an increasing number of new residents over the age of 60. The community is racially homogeneous with a population that is 95% White, compared to 70% of Delaware County as a whole.12

RIDLEY PARK 2030 Commute and Travel Patterns Media

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Figure 14: Direction of travel for Ridley Park commuters.

Despite Ridley Park’s origins as a railroad suburb, travel patterns in the Borough today are overwhelmingly dominated by cars. According to DVRPC’s latest household travel survey, 80% of trips by local households were by car in 2012. The percentage is slightly higher (83%) for non-work trips, which might reflect the commuter focus of the rail service. Walking made up 9% of non-work trips and cycling just 3%.13 Most commutes are within 25 miles of Ridley Park, which includes locations such as Philadelphia (accounting for one-third of all commutes), Bryn Mawr, Media, West Chester, and Chester (Figure 14). However, there are also several large employers in or close to Ridley Park, narrowing the average commute distance to only 10 miles. For those commuting to locations other than Philadelphia, public transportation options are limited. Only 7% of residents use public transit to commute to their jobs.14

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EXISTING CONDITIONS Employment and Income While Ridley Park is primarily a commuter Borough, it does contain several major employers:

Figure 15: Main entrance of Taylor Hospital.

Figure 16: Lakeview Elementary School.

Figure 17: Boeing plant at Stewart Avenue.

Taylor Hospital, located south of the business district, employs between 500 and 1,000 people, most likely accounting for many of the residents employed in the healthcare industry.15

Ridley School District likely accounts for many of the residents working in education. While there are only two schools located in Ridley Park, the remaining seven schools in the district are located in nearby Ridley Township and Eddystone Borough. The school district employs approximately 900 people.16

Boeing has a large manufacturing facility just beyond the Borough’s southern edge, which employs close to 5,000 people from across the region. This likely includes many of the Ridley Park residents who work in either manufacturing or technical services.17

RIDLEY PARK 2030 Other key employment sectors for local residents include retail and financial services, although employment opportunities for those sectors within the Borough itself are limited (Figure 18). It is also important to note that the Borough’s unemployment rate is low at 4.7%.18 Employment of Residents

The Borough has a median household income of $75,400. This is 30% higher than the national average and nearly 10% higher than Delaware County. The average household income varies between the two sides of the rail line (Figure 19). The average household income on the northern side of the rail is $93,700. However, the average household income is $58,000 on the southern side, which is on par with the national average.19

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Figure 18: Residents are primarily employed in healthcare and education.

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Figure 19: Median household income by Census block group.

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EXISTING CONDITIONS Land Use and Zoning Because Ridley Park was initially planned as a suburban development to attract families, the Borough is majority residential and highly built-out (Figure 20). Only 5% of land is designated for commercial use.20 Ridley Park’s 468 acres of residential area is primarily single-family detached housing. Along the edges of the Borough are more twinstyle housing and along Hillside Road, row homes. Former singlefamily homes that have been converted into multi-unit buildings are found along Chester Pike and Swarthmore Avenue, while apartment buildings are mostly clustered near Chester Pike.

While commercial use accounts for a relatively small portion of the land use, it plays a vital role in the vibrancy of Ridley Park. The historic business district (adjacent to the Ridley Park rail stop) not only includes commercial space, but also mixed-use buildings as well. This area is zoned as C-1 neighborhood commercial, intended to support activities suitable for the small suburban business district. Outside of the historic business district, there are concentrations of C-2 zoned commercial uses along Chester Pike and Swarthmore Avenue.21 A highlight of Ridley Park is the connection to greenspace. Ridley Park has dedicated much of its land use to parks, recreational space, and protected open space. These spaces are a source of pride for the community. The greenspaces are used to host recreational activities, athletic events, and Ridley Park’s annual community events.

Figure 20: Current land use map.

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Similarly, Ridley Park’s zoning is also highly residential (Figure 21). The zoning ordinance was last updated in 2009, establishing 10 districts. More than half of the residential areas were zoned as R-1, with the purpose of preserving and maintaining the integrity of the unique historic low-density and single-family character of the Borough. The R-3 multi-unit zoning is mostly concentrated on the southern side of the Borough, particularly near the business district and Chester Pike.22 Despite the vast amount of singlefamily zoning, the population density of Ridley Park is relatively high. The Borough hosts 10 people per acre, compared to less than 5 people per acre for Delaware County as a whole.

Figure 21: Current zoning map, last updated in 2009.

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EXISTING CONDITIONS

Housing

Housing Market

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Figure 22: Building permits issued between 1980 and 2017

Prior to the housing crisis of the late 2000s, home values were on the rise in Ridley Park. The 3.5% rise in values seen in the decade before the market crash were mostly lost in the years following. Home values have decreased 2.1% since 2010. While real estate sales have lagged since, sales have almost caught up to levels seen in 2000.25

Rental Market A one-bedroom apartment in Ridley Park is approximately $1,000 per month.27 Nearly all rental properties are located in the southeastern section of the Borough, where incomes are 23% lower than the other side of the rail. Over half of the residents on the southeastern section of the Borough are rentburdened, meaning they spend more than 30% of their income on rent.28

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Today, the median home value in Ridley Park is nearly $200,000, however, values vary significantly between the two sides of the rail line (Figure 23). In the northwest area of the Borough, where homeownership is almost 90%, home values are nearly $220,000. Southeast of the rail, approximately half of residents are homeowners and home values are just over $193,000.26

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Like many historic neighborhoods in the northeast, Ridley Park’s streets are lined with gorgeous Queen Anne Victorian style homes with steep roofs and asymmetrical window arrangements. A third of the houses were built prior to 1939, adding to the historic charm of the Borough.23 With the rapid expansion of suburban growth in the 1950s, Ridley Park experienced a second construction boom, adding a wider variety of housing options including smaller Cape Cod and Craftsman styles. Construction has slowed since, and in recent years has decreased significantly. With a mostly built-out Borough, only 46 structures have been built in the last twenty years; very few of which were constructed after 2010 (Figure 22). Building permits for both new homes and alterations of existing structures have been issued at much lower levels than decades ago.24 Number of Building Permits

Figure 23: Median home value by Census block group.

RIDLEY PARK 2030 Commercial Historic Downtown

Business Association

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Figure 24: Businesses located in the historic business district.

The historic business district is located just south of Ridley Park Station, and is entirely located within a quarter mile walkshed of the station. While close to the station, the district mostly relies on local residents to support its three dozen businesses. This includes not only retail and food establishments, but also a significant number of medical and professional services office space (Figure 24). Dry cleaners, auto mechanics, salons, and a funeral home also operate in the area.

Although mostly intact and occupied, the business district has struggled with vacancy and turnover among occupants in recent years.29

Figure 25: Residents enjoying the summer Farmers Market.

Ridley Park previously had an active business association that helped coordinate between local businesses and Borough leadership, advanced engagement in business attraction, and organized local events. However in recent years that organization has become inactive, exacerbating the challenge of managing the business district’s vacancy and other issues.30 The Main Streets of Ridley Park nonprofit organization has taken on some of the business association’s former roles, including convening local businesses, planning events, and charitable activities that serve residents and visitors of all ages. The organization also partners with local businesses to host Ridley Park’s annual Fourth of July event, Farmers Market, and Fall Festival.

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EXISTING CONDITIONS Institutions Ridley Park is home to a variety of educational, civic, recreational, and religious institutions (Figure 26).

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SCHOols 1. Lakeview elementary 2. Ridley middle school 3. St. james Regional Catholic school

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religious 4. Ridley park presbyterian church 5. Ridley park united methodist church 6. St. madeline parish 7. Christ church ridley park 8. first baptist church 9. kingdom hall of jehovah’s witnesses

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SEPTA Regional Rail Station

Figure 26: Anchor institutions located in Ridley Park.

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arts & recreation 10. the barnstormers theatre 11. ridley park atheletic club PUBlic services 12. taylor hospital 13. ridley park public library 14. borough hall 15. ridley park fire company 16.ridley park police dept.

RIDLEY PARK 2030 Ridley School District

Public Services

Perhaps the most prominent anchor institution is the Ridley School District which encompasses the neighborhood schools in Ridley Park Borough. The School District serves the residents of Ridley Township, Ridley Park Borough, and the neighboring Eddystone Borough. In total, there are seven elementary schools in the Borough that feed into one middle school and one high school serving approximately 6,000 students altogether.31

Ridley Park’s historic Borough Hall is located on the northern side of the railroad, close to the Ridley Park Station and the historic business district. The building houses the Borough’s administrative offices and contains community meeting space, including the formal chambers of the Borough Council. In addition to its administrative functions, Borough Hall shares space with local senior citizen programming located on the first floor of the building.

Another prominent service institution in the community is Taylor Hospital. It was established in 1910 as a public institution, and later privatized under the CrozerKeystone Health System in 1997. Each year, the 105-bed hospital admits more than 7,000 patients and receives more than 28,000 Emergency Department visits. In the midst of expansion, the hospital is increasing its capacity to 34,000 patients per year by 2019.32

Figure 29: Ridley Park Fire Station.

Figure 30: Taylor Hospital.

Figure 27: Ridley Middle School.

Figure 28: Borough Hall.

Figure 31: Taylor Hospital expansion.

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EXISTING CONDITIONS Recreational The Barnstormers Theater, located on Tome Street, is the oldest continuously operating community theater in the state of Pennsylvania and the third oldest continuously operating community theater in the United States. The first official performance was presented in 1909.33 Figure 32: Outside the Barnstormers Theater.

Figure 33: Athletic Club.

Figure 34: Barnstormers Theater stage.

Figure 35: Ridley Park Presbyterian Church.

Figure 36: Athletic Club Fishing Competition.

Figure 37: Ridley Park First Baptist Church.

Ridley Park also boasts the Athletic Club, a nonprofit organization focused on improving recreational opportunities for the children of the Borough and surrounding communities. Its key focus is on promoting learning, development, and skills through team sports.34

Religious Institutions There are a variety of religious institutions located in Ridley Park, reflecting the Borough’s historic diversity.

The six major congregations are Ridley Park Presbyterian Church, Ridley Park United Methodist Church, St. Madeline Parish, Christ Church Ridley Park, First Baptist Church, and Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses.

RIDLEY PARK 2030 Environmental

Ridley Park is home to 11 municipal parks and many greenspaces, comprising over 100 acres of land and is primarily based around water features.

Additionally, the Borough is just six miles from the John Heinz Wildlife Refuge.

Parks and Open Space Ridley Park is appropriately named with a large number of municipal parks (Figure 38): East Lake Park, Recreation Park (ABC Field), Nevin Street Park, Firehouse Park (Tome Street Park), Bonnes Park, Hetzel Park, Catania Brothers Park, Spirit of America Park, and Veterans Park. Additionally, there are several open spaces in the Borough around Stony Creek, Little Crum Creek, Taylor Community Foundation, Ridley Park Swim Club, and Burk Avenue. The Borough also has recreational space at both Ridley Middle School and Lakeview Elementary.

abc field BONNES PARK

TOME STREET PARK Little Crum creek

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Figure 38: Ridley Park is home to 11 municipal parks.

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EXISTING CONDITIONS Water Features

Ridley Park Lake LITTLE CRUM CREEK

A watershed is an area of land where any rainfall and groundwater drains into the same body of water. The Borough is located entirely within the Lower Delaware Watershed, and on the border between the Crum and Darby Creek Sub-Watersheds (Figure 40).

Three creeks run through or within Ridley Park Borough: Little Crum Creek, Stony Creek, and Darby Creek (Figure 39). Ridley Park Lake is located within Eastlake Park and is considered one of Ridley Park’s most cherished assets, as it is home to a number of community events. The lake, which is actually a reservoir, was created by damming Little Crum Creek as a sediment settling zone.35

STONY CREEK

RIDley PARK lake

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Figure 39: Water features located in Ridley Park.

All three of these water bodies are considered ‘impaired’ according to the Department of Environmental Protection’s 2016 Integrated Water Body Report.36 CRUM CREEK WAtershed

DARBY CREEK watershed

Figure 40: Ridley Park is located entirely in the lower Delaware Valley watershed and is split between the Crum Creek and Darby Creek subwatersheds.

The lake and the surrounding park have become precious community assets and habitat to fish, turtles, ducks, and geese. However, changes in development and land-use in upstream communities have increased sediment loading significantly. Sediment loading refers to the influx of debris and sediment as a result of erosion, thus resulting in a shrinkage of the lake.

Little Crum Creek now experiences 183,000 pounds of sediment loading per year and another 128,000 in Stony Creek.37 As a result, regular and costly dredging is required to maintain the original contours and depth of Ridley Park Lake. However, this has not been done since 2013, leaving it at a depth of about three feet as opposed to its usual five feet. Addressing this loss of depth is of utmost importance to preserving this beloved piece of the Borough’s identity.

RIDLEY PARK 2030

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Transportation Because of its establishment as a planned railroad suburb in the late 1800s, Ridley Park maintains a densely plotted street grid centered around the historic Ridley Park Regional Rail Station. While the neighborhood is walkable in scale, there are several conditions that contribute to low levels of walking and biking in the Borough. Similarly, while the Borough is well connected by road and transit to the Philadelphia region, it faces a number of limitations whithin its transportation system.

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The Wilmington/Newark line offers convenient access to Center City Philadelphia, with half hourly frequency during the AM and PM peaks, and dropping to hourly during off-peaks. The line operates with an on-time performance of 85%. On weekdays, the service runs 56 trips a day, 40 of which enter Delaware. There are 34 trips on Saturdays and 28 on Sundays. While transit ridership in the Philadelphia region and the U.S. generally has struggled in recent years, average weekday performance on the Wilmington/Newark line has been fairly stable, falling from 9,856 to 9,654 between 2010 - 2015, before rebounding to 9,727 in 2018.39

PROSPECT PARK STATION

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Ridley Park was built around the historic Ridley Park Station, with the rail line dividing the Borough in half (Figure 41). The railroad is now owned by Amtrak as part of the Northeast Corridor, although Amtrak does not stop in Ridley Park.

The railway is utilized by SEPTA for the operation of its Wilmington/Newark line, which extends from Center City Philadelphia into Delaware. The line has two stations in Ridley Park: Ridley Park Station, which is conveniently located near the business district, and Crum Lynne Station, which is close to the southern edge of the Borough. Ridership is significantly lower at Crum Lynne Station; three quarters of all boardings in Ridley Park take place at Ridley Park Station.38 Neither station is ADA accessible, and neither offers adequate parking.

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Figure 41: There are two stations located in Ridley Park: Crum Lynne Station and Ridley Park Station. Prospect Park Station is located just outside of the Borough.

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EXISTING CONDITIONS Bus Two local bus routes run through the Borough: the 114 on Chester Pike and the 113 bus just north of the Borough on MacDade Boulevard (Figure 42). Between the two routes, there are 52 bus stops within a quarter mile of Ridley Park.40 Service frequency on the 114 resembles that of the regional rail line, with half hour service at peak hours. In contrast, the 113 offers service every 1015 minutes during peak hours. Although ridership across the two lines is fairly consistent, 29 stops have less than 10 boardings and leavings a day.41

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While bus routes are well-connected to Philadelphia, there are routes that do not connect to the nearby Ridley Township or Swarthmore Borough to the north.

Also, the bus routes do not connect to the Boeing plant just south of Ridley Park.

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Figure 43: A bus stop along Route 114.

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Figure 42: SEPTA’s Route 114 runs through Ridley Park along Chester Pike. Route 113 runs along MacDade Boulevard.

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Ridley Park currently lacks any bike infrastructure, such as painted bike lanes or bike racks. Like pedestrians, local cyclists must also navigate the limited connectivity of the Borough over the railway, as well the constrained access to the Borough’s northwest and southeast portions.

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Pedestrian and Bike Access

The physical scale of the Borough is conducive to walking—most streets in the Borough have sidewalks, blocks are relatively short, and intersection crossing distances are manageable. However, the railway poses a significant obstacle to pedestrian activity, with only four possible crossings: two along North Swarthmore and E. Sellers Avenues, another at the underpass by Crum Lynne station, and the pedestrian bridge at Rosemont Avenue (Figure 44). The railway severely limits pedestrian access across the Borough.

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Despite its rail-era origins, Ridley Park is now oriented around the car and is well connected to regional roadways. I-95 runs along the southern edge of the Borough, offering immediate access to the entire Eastern Seaboard, as well as a quick trip to Philadelphia International Airport. I-476, which routes around the Philadelphia metro-area, is just southwest of the Borough. Chester Pike is one of the Borough’s main thoroughfares, and also doubles as U.S. Route 13. Both Chester Pike and MacDade Boulevard host SEPTA bus routes. Regional congestion, while largely outside the Borough’s control, is also an impediment to drivers.

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Figure 44: There are four crossing points along the rail line.

Figure 45: Pedestrian crossing at Rosemont Avenue. Figure 46: The sidewalk at the E. Sellers Avenue bridge is barricaded as the bridge needs repairs.

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RIDLEY PARK 2030

ISSUES & OPPORTUNITIES

A thorough analysis of the existing conditions of the Borough led to uncovering significant challenges that Ridley Park is facing. However, it has highlighted the Borough’s strengths and many areas for enhancements. These issues and opportunities are centered around three themes: Social Connectivity, Spatial Connectivity, and Community Ownership.

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ISSUES & OPPORTUNITIES

Social Connectivity There is a strong sense of community in Ridley Park with deeply rooted residents and a proud history, however, it is not immune to social challenges.

The Ridley Park Business Association (RPBA) has been inactive since December 2015. The RPBA was instrumental in supporting residents who lived, worked, had a business, or conducted business in Ridley Park by engaging the community in network and civic engagement. Thus, there has been less Borough-business coordination and less efforts towards business attraction. Fortunately, the loss of RPBA has been cushioned by work of the local nonprofit organization, Main Streets. Main Streets has absorbed the planning and management of large annual community events in the Borough. The organization has taken the lead in maintaining the Fall Festival, Fourth of July celebration, as well as the seasonal Farmers Market. Although Main Streets has carried the interaction amongst businesses and residents, there are opportunities to further advance these connections and support the business district’s relationship with residents and visitors.

Figure 47: Farmers Market signage.

Figure 48: Farmers Market organized by the Main Streets organization.

RIDLEY PARK 2030 There are also inklings of political tensions amongst some residents and the administrative leadership within the Borough. Some residents appear hesitant to abrupt change as a whole, while others voice seem to concerns over the frequency of major changes within the Borough particularly as seen throughout administrative and leadership turnover.

While these tensions can present challenges when introducing new planning recommendations, they do illustrate a high level of civic engagement from residents. As a historic community with many long tenured families, residents remain committed to their community. Residents are deeply invested in the Borough’s current events and are adamant on being an active participant in all conversations and in all decisionmaking processes.

Figure 49: Residents remain engaged with the Borough. Including attending community meetings at Borough Hall.

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ISSUES & OPPORTUNITIES

Spatial Connectivity

ADE D C A

While the Borough is impressively connected regionally to Philadelphia and Wilmington with bus routes and a rail line, there are a number of barriers to connectivity within the Borough and surrounding areas.

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Figure 50: Major highways and railways act as pedestrian barriers.

Ridley Park is connected to major regional destinations by I-95 and other major local roadways, SEPTA’s Wilmington-Newark Regional rail line, as well as the 113 and 114 bus routes (Figure 50). Although these routes facilitate much of the commuter activity towards Philadelphia, there are still mobility limitations. Currently, there is no transit service connecting the Borough to destinations to its north and south, such as the employment and service centers in Ridley Township or the Boeing facility on Ridley Park’s southern edge. Additionally, connectivity to closer destinations can be difficult without a private automobile. With heavily trafficked roads along the perimeter of the Borough, accessibility for pedestrians and cyclists is limited.

Pedestrian access within the Borough is also limited, with a number of obstacles including the rail line and creeks. The Borough features a number of challenges to local interconnection, particularly by foot and bike. The dividing rail line can only be crossed at four points - an underpass along Chester Pike near Crum Lynne station, at a pedestrian bridge at Rosemont Avenue, and two road bridges at N. Swarthmore Avenue and E. Sellers Avenue near Ridley Park station. It is also important to note that the bridge at E. Sellers Avenue is in extremely poor condition, which impedes the safety of travelers. Additionally, several waterways (Ridley Park Lake, Little Crum

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RIDLEY PARK 2030

Tredyffrin Township

Malvern Borough Easttown Township

WILLINSTON TOWNSHIP

Newtown Township

Marple Township

Figure 51: E Sellers Avenue bridge.

Edgmont Township

Creek, and Stony Creek) also break up the streetscape, making it difficult to get around Ridley Park as a pedestrian.

There are also issues of sediment loading within the Ridley Park Lake due to interdependent upstream water management. Given the southern positioning of the lake when compared to northern municipalities, the lake is subject to downstream runoff (Figure 52). The water management practices conducted in upstream municipalities, can greatly impact (both positively and negatively) the health of the Ridley Park lake and other waterways within the Borough.

Upper Providence Township

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Media Borough Morton Borough Swarthmore Borough

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Figure 52: Upstream municipalities located in the watershed.

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ISSUES & OPPORTUNITIES

Community Ownership While smaller municipalities can experience difficulties with capacity, there’s an opportunity to empower the residents of Ridley Park with a sense of ownership in addressing key issues--the most prominent being the shrinking of Ridley Park Lake, the Borough’s “crown jewel.” Geese, sediment loading, and trash are also challenges that the community can help address (Figure 53).

Figure 53: Geese and sediment loading are causing significant issues in Ridley Park.

RIDLEY PARK 2030 Another challenge facing the Borough is the potential for heightened demands for services and support caused by an aging population. The Borough is home to Taylor Hospital and several nursing home facilities.

Also, the community hosts an active senior citizen organization. Even with these staples, the capacity and capability of these services might be stress-tested in future years as the elderly population grows.

Additionally, with many large historic homes in the Borough and dated infrastructure, aging in place could potentially present physical obstacles for some residents. This prioritizes the need to ensure the adequate quality and safety of sidewalks, as well as other physical infrastructure such as the train stations that will need to comply with current ADA standards.

There are also opportunities for the community to acknowledge the growing elderly population. In order to address this opportunity, the Borough should creatively implement strategic social programming and activities for all residents

Figure 54: Conner Williams Nursing Home.

Figure 55: Taylor Hospital.

Figure 56: Historic home.

Figure 57: Events in the historic business district.

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RIDLEY PARK 2030 COMPREHENSIVE PLAN

EXISTING GOALS & OBJECTIVES CONDITIONS PURPOSE OF THE PLAN Ridley Bus vellaborerum Park 2030 quiatas containsdendam five forward-looking ilictio saperessus goals ea for ipidunt the emporepudam future of Ridleyveritem Park. These ius, commo goals are es based rem siaround cus quas thevenitaqui historic te cuptam business district, et volupturibea Ridley Park non Lake, etur the acearchil Borough’s iur aging sitatum residents, erionse quatecestia sa sitsystem, transportation vent occatemquis and greenspace unt. network. Each goal Tem sumquis includes specific non nobiti objectives rem sumquassit, supported by estemodit clear and et achievable rem rendis modion restotas dolore corescieni utae esequae nectur aborror strategies. ehenien itasin nulparum consedit aut quia The following sections provide detailed context for each goal, as sit que well as recommendations volorup tatureVernatur aroundsinthe con goal’s nos specific aperibusobjectives. non rest volupisproject Maps, rat re offic renderings, tem isquidella and comparable qui tempor precedents magnatia from pratibus other dit et quatiusandi communities are sit, included sum, cumque to illustrate aped the quatur goalmos concepts et est, tem and sequasped eium voluptur si voluptaqui cuptasperum quasit es strategies. sectis volores est, omnihilit a culparum faccatqui dic temporr ovitatendi to volupta doleniam aspiet recae cum doluptae velique

Source: Friends of Ridley Park Facebook Page

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GOALS & OBJECTIVES Revitalize the Business District

Ridley Park’s vibrant historic business district is an attractive dining and retail destination supporting diverse local small businesses, serving residents of the Borough and surrounding communities.

Preserve Ridley Park Lake

Ridley Park Lake, an essential landmark of the Borough, is ecologically thriving and remains an inviting hub for community events and recreational activities.

Support Aging Residents

Ridley Park is a place where senior residents have access to the physical and social infrastructure to facilitate aging in place.

Enhance Transportation

Ridley Park is connected through a multi-modal transportation system that promotes accessibility within the Borough and surrounding areas.

Connect Greenspace

Ridley Park’s greenspace and creeks are integrated into a network that fosters lively recreation and leisure activities.

GOAL 1

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REVITALIZE THE BUSINESS DISTRICT

REVITALIZE THE BUSINESS DISTRICT

“

Ridley Park’s vibrant historic business district is an attractive dining and retail destination supporting diverse local small businesses, serving residents of the Borough and surrounding communities.

Summary

”

Downtowns are the hearts of communities. More than just shopping districts, they are the activity center for the community. Located in the center of the Borough, just two blocks from the Ridley Park Station and a half mile from East Lake Park, Ridley Park’s historic business district provides economic and social value that is critical to the Borough’s success.

Ridley Park must implement strategies to not only attract new businesses, but to also retain existing businesses. This includes incentives for entrepreneurs, a cohesive and comprehensive marketing plan, streetscape improvements, and creative place-keeping that increases awareness and excitement while highlighting the district’s historic charm.

RIDLEY PARK 2030 Objective 1.1 Reduce vacancy and turnover on E. Sellers and E. Hinckley Avenues While several new businesses have opened in the last year—The Brickhaus cafe, Holly Mack Designs, and Chill Out Chocolate Therapy—vacancies in the business district and turnover are still areas of concerns for the Borough.

These new businesses have eliminated most of the vacancy, however, any vacancies in a small district are much more noticeable. Ridley Park should focus on retention before recruitment, directing efforts on strategic initiatives aiming to fill in existing gaps in the Borough.

While the 2014 Ridley Park Comprehensive Plan recommended establishing a Business Improvement District (BID) to address these concerns, a BID could further strain the limited resources of a small business district. Instead, Ridley Park should focus on increasing the Borough’s capacity and leveraging the existing Main Streets organization to not only run the handful of annual events, but also support and promote the current businesses in the district.

Strategies & Action Items • A survey should be conducted with business owners to uncover any struggles or complaints of tenants.

• A survey should be conducted with the community to better understand shopping patterns, frequency of visits, and desires for their downtown.

• A real estate broker specializing in small-scale commercial should be identified as a partner to assist in matching business owners with property owners.

• The Borough should consider adding a dedicated staff person (or sharing one with a neighboring municipality) who understands technical assistance for small businesses and can build relationships with business owners in the area.

• The Main Streets organization should develop and distribute a guidebook for small business owners, offering simple explanations of navigating the permitting and regulation process and utility set-up for new businesses and resources for existing businesses.

Figure 58: Suffolk, VA, launched an initiative called Restored, filling vacant properties with independent businesses for a weekend.

Figure 59: River City Coffee + Goods in Evansville, IN, provides retail space for 50 merchants and makers.

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REVITALIZE THE BUSINESS DISTRICT Objective 1.2 Increase the diversity of businesses in the district with a wider selection of retail The business district currently has twice as many services as it does food and retail combined. The Borough has a dry cleaner, auto repair shop, several financial services, and multiple salons. The Borough also has several dining choices, including taverns. Providing more retail businesses could fill a gap in the district. Currently, the only retail locations are the new Holly Mack Designs and Chill Out Chocolate Therapy, and the longstanding Ridley Park Florist, Fine Wine & Good Spirits, 7-Eleven, and Jacoubs Cigar & Tobacco Outlet. There are dense blocks around the current district that are walkable and connect to Taylor Hospital.

Strategies & Action Items • In order to continue to support entrepreneurs in the area outside of the bi-weekly farmers market, Ridley Park should convert a commercial property into a pop-up shop that operates as a shared storefront that both increases retail vendors and acts as an opportunity for entrepreneurs to test a brick-and-mortar location.

• To create more opportunities for future growth of the business district, the Borough should re-zone the area bounded by N. Swarthmore and Morton Avenues and E. Hinckley and Felton Avenues as CMX-1,which is primarily intended to accommodate low-impact, small-scale, neighborhood-serving retail and service uses in storefront buildings (Figure 60).

Figure 60: The proposed area of rezone to CMX-1 and current zoning of the historic business district.

RIDLEY PARK 2030 Objective 1.3 Increase awareness of shops in the historic business district Lack of awareness and excitement around the district could be a contributor to low foot traffic. It can be difficult to find information on businesses in the Borough as many are small and locally-owned. Businesses should combine efforts and share resources to market the business district.

Strategies & Action Items • To assist in the promotion of local businesses, the online directory should be updated to include recently opened businesses, hours of operation, and an alphabetized listing with the ability to filter by business type.

• The Main Streets organization should also develop a physical directory map that could be used for wayfinding signage around the district.

• Advertising space should be added to Ridley Park Station through a community bulletin board. With only a couple of blocks separating the station from the business district, the informational bulletin board could help direct more traffic to E. Hinckley and E. Sellers Avenues. The board could also be used to share upcoming events and activities taking place in and around the community.

Figure 61: Rendering of a community bulletin board installed at Ridley Park Station.

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REVITALIZE THE BUSINESS DISTRICT Objective 1.4 Increase accessibility Connectivity challenges between the two sides of the Borough is exacerbated by the E. Sellers Avenue rail overpass that directly connects the business district to the northwestern side of the Borough. While the bridge will eventually need to undergo significant repairs, the Borough is uncertain how quickly these will be done. Along with the overpass, pedestrian access is limited by narrow sidewalks and longer than average crosswalks. While there are signs informing cars of upcoming crosswalks around the district, there are no posted speed limits surrounding the business district.

Strategies & Action Items • The Borough should prioritize repairs of the E. Sellers Avenue bridge (see Goal 4).

• The sidewalk on E. Sellers Avenue should be widened so that its narrowest sections are consistent with width of the E. Hinkley Avenue.

• To improve pedestrian accessibility in the Borough, crosswalks should be restructured to create shorter distances when crossing busy intersections (Figure 62).

• Pedestrian accessibility should also be prioritized by reducing vehicle speeds around the district.

Figure 62: Aerial view of E. Sellers Avenue and Dutton Street with new and reused crosswalks.

RIDLEY PARK 2030 Objective 1.5 Facilitate coordination between business owners Currently the businesses in the district operate with varying business hours. While it makes sense for professional services to operate on a standard 9AM to

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5PM schedule, coordinating some of the food and retail shops could benefit the businesses and contribute to the perceived vibrancy of the district. The best times for retail operations are 11AM to 1PM and 3PM to 5PM on weekends, when many of the shops are currently closed.

While it may not be feasible to stay open late for small businesses, businesses should consider staying open late in conjunction with the Ridley Park farmers market schedule to increase foot traffic.

• The Main Streets organization should work with food and retail shops to coordinate business hours.

• The Borough should include operating hours of businesses in the online business directory.

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Figure 63: Directory map of businesses in the historic business district.

18 CHILL OUT CHOCOLATE THERAPY 19 HOLLY MACK DESIGNS

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REVITALIZE THE BUSINESS DISTRICT Objective 1.6 Highlight the historic charm of the Borough Thanks to the Historical Architectural Review Board (HARB), Ridley Park has maintained its historic charm. The Board works to protect the historic character of Ridley Park Borough by considering the effects of proposed work to the exteriors of buildings within the historic district. The Borough could work with HARB on initiatives to better highlight the historic charm of the business district. Adding a dedicated staff person to manage the business district might provide the Borough the capacity to focus on upgrades around the district that can create a more cohesive look and feel.

Strategies & Action Items • Ridley Park should research government facade rebate programs and lead efforts for a facade rebate or incentive program.

• Ridley Park should implement a facade rebate or incentive program.

• The Borough should install wayfinding signage that highlights the historic charm and architecture of the area.

• The Borough should add banner signs to street lights and install other signage around the district that match the existing historic charm of the Borough.

Figure 64: Rendering of proposed historic signage and wayfinding signage.

Figure 65: Rendering of proposed historic signage and wayfinding signage along E. Hinckley Avenue.

RIDLEY PARK 2030 Objective 1.7 Make the historic business district an exciting and inviting space The Ridley Park 2014 Comprehensive Plan recommended the expansion of “Ridley Plaza” into part of the 7-Eleven parking lot. Before investing in a full civic courtyard in the space, the Borough should test the concept with tactical urbanism strategies.

Participatory public art installations (such as Candy Chang’s “Before I Die…” global art project) or seasonal storefront decoration competitions can encourage people to stop and engage in spaces. Additionally, public ownership of spaces can be useful in maintaining and beautifying spaces.

Strategies & Action Items • The Borough could implement a “lot takeover” in conjunction with the summer farmers market. Using sidewalk paint, planters, and seating, the Borough could create a bi-weekly pop-up space to learn if and how residents might want to use and design the area.

• The Borough might consider a public art installation—either tapping into an existing large-scale project or developing their own—that encourages residents to engage in the space and continue to revisit it.

• If the Borough hires a dedicated staff member to manage the business district, they could facilitate a holiday decorating competition in storefront windows that would attract residents to the district and further encourage them to walk around the community.

• The Borough could organize an “adoption” process for maintaining the cleanliness of public areas. Various scout troops, community clubs, school groups, or religious organizations could volunteer to maintain the cleanliness of the streets or replanting flowers each spring.

Figure 66: Rendering of the proposed civic courtyard space in the current 7-Eleven parking lot at the intersection of E. Sellers and E. Hinckley Avenues.

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GOAL 2

RIDLEY PARK 2030

PRESERVE RIDLEY PARK LAKE

“

Ridley Park Lake, an essential landmark of the Borough, is ecologically thriving and remains an inviting hub for community events and recreational activities.

”

Summary Ridley Park Lake, often thought of and referred to as the ‘crown jewel of the Borough’ is facing a number of environmental concerns; primarily erosion and sediment loading.

This goal is intended to protect the lake, but also to fully realize the ecological and recreational potential of the space. This goal seeks to ensure that the quality of the lake and the surrounding East Lake Park reflect the meaning they hold for Ridley Park residents.

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PRESERVE RIDLEY PARK LAKE Objective 2.1 Preserve Ridley Park Lake through local interventions Given the progression of erosion in Ridley Park Lake, the Borough should explore alternative options to dredging. The dredging is costly and addresses the symptoms rather than the causes of the problem.

Stormwater management techniques within the Borough and other strategies such as hydro-raking should be considered as a way to drastically slow the sediment loading occurring in Ridley Park Lake, prolonging the amount time needed between dredging.

Strategies & Action Items • The Borough should explore erosion control methods such as mesh buffers and strategic planting.

• In order to restore the lake to healthy depths, the Borough will need to dredge the lake or hydrorake as an alternative.

• There are a number of stormwater best management practices (BMPs) the Borough should consider (Figure 67-70).

• The Borough should explore ways to integrate stormwater interventions into routine maintenance to reduce costs.

Rain Gardens and Bioswales • Provides pervious surface areas to collect rainwater • Prevents runoff into local waterways

Figure 67: Rain Gardens and Bioswales.

Strategic Planting • Stabilizes soil and prevents erosion along water banks • Improves water quality and serves as a natural habitat Figure 68: Strategic Planting.

Rain Barrels • Enables residents to manage stormwater on their property • Collects water that can be recycled for other purposes (e.g. watering plants) Figure 69: Rain Barrels.

Hydro-Raking • Removes bottom sediment and debris • Serves as a budget-friendly alternative to traditional dredging

Figure 70: Hydro-Raking.

RIDLEY PARK 2030 Objective 2.2 Foster regional connections to protect Ridley Park Lake

Springfield Township

In addition to local interventions, other efforts throughout the Ridley Park Lake watershed are imperative to preserving the lake. Upstream erosion carries sediment down Little Crum Creek and result in a loss of the lake’s depth (Figure 71). Reducing erosion before it gets to Ridley Park would lessen the cost burden of dredging by making it a less frequent need. Water quality in the lake would also likely benefit from these interventions.

Swarthmore Borough

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Strategies & Action Items

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• The Borough should establish upstream partnerships with municipalities in the Ridley Park Lake watershed to facilitate run-off management.

• Establishing connections with regional watershed partners can help the Borough to leverage resources and opportunities for large-scale coordination.

LITTLE CRUM CREEK

Objective 2.3 Promote education and awareness around the lake and environmental issues

Ridley Park Borough

imbalances within the lake. Residents can also assume an important stewardship role, advocating for the lake and taking its well-being into their own hands.

RIDLEY PARK LAKE

SEVERELY ERODED MODERATELY ERODED

In addition to Borough-led actions to protect Ridley Park Lake, residential support is crucial. Residents must understand that actions such as the use of fertilizer on lawns or feeding geese can create unhealthy nutrient

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Figure 71: Soil erosion map of Ridley Park and nearby boroughs.

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PRESERVE RIDLEY PARK LAKE Ridley Park should encourage residential engagement to foster a sense of environmental leadership within the Borough. A successful model of this in the past can be seen in the Penn State Extension Master Watershed Stewardship Program, a rigorous education program that requires training and volunteer hours. Graduates often go on to lead watershed preservation projects in their communities.

Strategies & Action Items • The Borough should install educational signage to ward off feeding geese and curb other behaviors that contribute to negative environmental impacts. Educational signage could be produced via programming with local schools and residents.

• The Borough should partner with the nearby elementary and middle school to incorporate a lake-based curriculum in their STEM coursework, which could build awareness with the community through a citizen science approach. The Stroud Center could be a potential resource for developing curriculum. The Center also offers workshops and educational programs that the school could utilize.

• The Borough should establish a citizen science initiative with the broader community of Ridley Park, utilizing the Stroud Center’s EnviroDIY platform, as well as the existing Penn State Extension Master Watershed Stewardship Program—a pre-existing educational resource.

educational signage Teaching & planting

Figure 72: Rendering of East Lake Park with potential educational programming with schools and signage.

RIDLEY PARK 2030 Objective 2.4

Objective 2.5

Improve water quality

Create an attractive and welcoming space in East Lake Park

As previously mentioned, geese and lawn fertilizers can impact the water quality of the lake in a way that may negatively affect the species within it. Fish kills ( incidents in which large numbers of deceased fish are seen in the lake) have occurred in the past according to local news sources. This indicates potential unhealthy levels of dissolved oxygen or other nutrient imbalances. Beyond informing the residents, stormwater management and geese repelling strategies can ensure the water is safe for residents and its non-human inhabitants.

The greenspace surrounding Ridley Park Lake is in a prime location and is used for several large-scale community events. However, there are concerns from residents on the lack of maintenance of the park year-round. Ridley Park should prioritize routine cleaning efforts of the lake and surrounding lawn to show investment in the Borough’s crown jewel.

Strategies & Action Items • The Borough should install geese lighting to eliminate geese and keep them from returning.

• Water quality and sediment levels should be monitored regularly.

Strategies & Action Items • The Borough should add picnic tables around East Lake Park.

• An “Adopt-a-Bench” program could be implemented to increase seating while also acting as a fundraiser for the lake preservation.

• The Borough should increase clean-up days around the lake with corporate partners.

• The Borough should partner with local businesses to develop vendor opportunities at the lake.

• The Borough should evaluate opportunities for enhanced trail connections to the lake.

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PRESERVE RIDLEY PARK LAKE

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Figure 73: Rendering of Ridley Park Lake and surrounding greenspace with key interventions.

GOAL 3

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SUPPORT AGING RESIDENTS

SUPPORT AGING RESIDENTS

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Ridley Park is a place where senior residents have access to the physical and social infrastructure to facilitate aging in place.

”

Summary Ridley Park is characterized by strong community ties between its spirited residents. Further reinforcing Ridley Park’s welcoming community, many residents choose to call it home throughout their entire lives and families often stay for generations. This creates a need to ensure that the Borough can provide a suitable environment for neighbors of all ages and abilities. This goal focuses on creating a Ridley Park that can best serve the aging long-tenured residents that make up a large and valued portion of the population.

This population brings not only potential for volunteerism and civic engagement, but also a targeted demand for unique goods and services that can support them. Ultimately, the further bridging of the senior residents with the community fosters deeper social connections within the Borough.

RIDLEY PARK 2030 Objective 3.1 Ensure adequate housing options The Borough is home to a sizable aging population, whose housing may not be adequately meeting their changing needs. Residents should have the choice to age in place, with suitable options that meet their needs. While the Borough is home to two nursing homes, there are other opportunities for increasing housing options for senior residents. Converting large houses into multi-family units could provide an opportunity for shared assisted living facilities. Accessory Dwelling Units or “granny flats” can encourage downsizing as well as multi-generation living. Finally, offering a variety of housing options without stairs further accommodates residents who may be handicapped or have mobility challenges and need single-story living arrangements.

Figure 74: ADA-accessible upgrades to Parkwynn Apartments on Morton Avenue.

Strategies & Action Items • Provide Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) compliance education to homeowners.

• The Borough should offer subsidies for ADA-upgrades to homes. As the residents age within the community, it is important to establish and maintain a variety of adequate housing options.

• Ridley Park should consider adjusting the zoning code between West Road, Haverford Road, Hillside Road, Glenlock Road, and West Ridley Avenue to allow for the building of “granny flats” or accessory dwelling units.

• The Borough should also consider up-zoning the area between West Road, Haverford Road, Hillside Road, Glenlock Road, and West Ridley Avenue to allow for the potential conversion of larger houses into multifamily homes which would increase the housing stock of first-floor units for an aging population (Figure 75).

Figure 75: The proposed area of re-zoning to allow the building of granny flats (accessory dwelling units) or converting single-family units into multi-family units.

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SUPPORT AGING RESIDENTS Objective 3.2 Provide ample accessibility and medical services The Borough is proud to have one of the Crozer-Keystone Health System hospitals directly within its footprint.

Taylor Hospital is a leading local healthcare provider that provides quality health care for every age group and every stage of life. Taylor Hospital provides a wide range of medical services from emergency medicine, to primary care, specialty services, and home health and hospice services. Additionally, the Hospital’s devotion to health and wellness extends into the community through the Corporate Citizenship arm of the larger Crozer-Keystone Health System.

The healthcare network provides free community events to promote healthy living, and is also committed to many community engagement initiatives including free health screenings, an annual Cancer Survivors Day celebration, support and self-help groups, and a Senior Health Services Program.

Strategies & Action Items • Partner with Taylor Hospital’s community engagement team, specifically focusing on the hospital’s Senior Health Services Program.

• Borough Hall should host frequent Taylor Hospital Physician Lecture Series events, which offers older adults an opportunity to learn current and important health-related information.

• The hospital’s community engagement coordinator should work closely with the Borough Manager on providing information to residents on how to use the Hospital’s 24-hour Senior Support Hotline, receive home-delivered meals, and schedule shuttle service to and from doctor appointments.

• The Borough should consider re-zoning the business district to extend its reach to Taylor Hospital. The proposed mixed-use zoning would provide space for additional medical provider suites and an adult day center.

• The Borough should add more elderly pedestrian signage at crosswalks for community awareness and resident safety.

Figure 76: Taylor Hospital’s Senior Health Services Program fosters a comprehensive system of care for seniors through a dedicated staff, social programming, and individualized services.

Figure 77: Precedent Main Line Adult Day Center in Bryn Mawr is an example of daytime physical and cognitive support to adults in need.

RIDLEY PARK 2030 Objective 3.3 Foster social connections amongst all ages Ridley Park is a community with residents of all ages and family structures. Ensuring that these generational divides are bridged will contribute to a more connected Ridley Park. According to the Pennsylvania Department of Aging, maintaining social contact is one of ten elements that are considered the most important factors that contribute to healthy aging.42 The Borough should create opportunities for residents, especially the elderly population, to build relationships amongst each other. Partnership amongst all ages fosters social connectivity in the Borough by showing appreciation to senior citizens in the community and helps create a better understanding of the community by allowing senior citizens to share their experiences. Additionally, the Borough should intentionally leverage greenspaces, administrative buildings, and schools as gathering spaces for community wide social events and activities.

Strategies & Action Items • Leverage schools as a place where students, teachers, parents, seniors, and others gather for community coordinated events. Specifically, the Borough should implement a student and senior partnership where the elderly play active roles in schools and students form genuine relationships with senior citizens.

• Utilize greenspaces, administrative buildings, and school facilities as gathering spaces for residents of all ages to engage with one another through planned monthly events and activities.

• Leverage already established senior groups to create a formalized feedback system to address concerns with the Borough Manager.

• Create a Gold Star Program with Ridley School District. Senior Citizens will receive a “Gold Card Membership” that allows them free admission to local events and activities, discounted pricing in the business district, and reserved seating at recreational athletic games.

• Designate an annual Senior Citizen Day Celebration as part of the Borough’s historic and notable community events.

Figure 78: All residents of the Colonial School District in southeastern Pennsylvania who are 65 years of age or over are eligible for membership in a Gold Card Program.

Figure 79: The Students and Seniors Program at Hamilton School District in Milwaukee, WI, is designed to recruit, train, and place senior citizen volunteers in schools to support student learning.

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GOAL 4

RIDLEY PARK 2030

ENHANCE TRANSPORTATION

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Ridley Park is connected through a multi-modal transportation system that promotes accessibility within the Borough and surrounding areas.

”

Summary Ridley Park enjoys a convenient and walkable scale, as well as strong transportation connections to Philadelphia. The Borough’s transportation system can be enhanced to increase options and improve access to opportunities, services and recreation. Ridley Park’s transportation system should be enhanced to benefit both residents and visitors.

This goal also seeks to enhance opportunities for walking and biking throughout Ridley Park. It also enhances safety throughout the community and provides improved access to local destinations by public transit. This goal acknowledges Ridley Park’s place within a network of local communities, and identifies solutions not only within the Borough, but also in how Ridley Park connects to its neighbors.

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ENHANCE TRANSPORTATION Objective 4.1 Connect to surrounding communities

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• The Borough should work with SEPTA to develop a new north-south bus route passing through Ridley Park, providing transit access to local destinations and job centers.

• Bike lanes should be established along Swarthmore Avenue and Chester Pike to encourage bike use in the Borough (Figure 80).

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Ridley Park is a community within the broader context of Delaware County and the Philadelphia region. Multi-modal transportation connections to neighboring communities will increase available travel choices for residents and attract visitors to Ridley Park’s community assets. Ridley Park should undertake efforts to drive increased investment and opportunities for pedestrians, cyclists, and public transit users within the community. Specifically, the Borough should take steps to provide multi-modal access to employment destinations such as the Boeing facility, and throughout Ridley Township, while also encouraging visitors to reach Ridley Park’s historic business district and Ridley Park Lake.

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BOEING Figure 80: A bike lane is proposed along Chester Pike and along Swarthmore Avenue. A new SEPTA route is proposed running perpendicular to the existing bus routes.

RIDLEY PARK 2030 Objective 4.2 Promote safety around Ridley Park Safety is a paramount concern for any community, particularly an intergenerational one like Ridley Park, which is home to many children as well as a growing older population. While Ridley Park is predominantly a safe community, significant crash concentrations exist throughout the Borough, particularly on Chester Pike and Swarthmore Avenue. Sidewalk conditions and difficult intersection crossings may also be limiting for older pedestrians in particular.

Making investments to enhance the safety of local transportation for all residents is vital, making Ridley Park a safer place for everyone to walk, bike, ride, and drive. The Borough should take steps to drive a reduction in traffic risk, improve sidewalk conditions, and improve the safety experience throughout Ridley Park.

Strategies & Action Items • A vehicle and pedestrian traffic study of the Borough should be conducted to develop a comprehensive view of safety, with a focus on Chester Pike, Swarthmore Avenue, and streets around the business district.

• Based on the results of the traffic study, Ridley Park should implement targeted traffic calming on specific street segments and intersections throughout the Borough, with a particular focus on Swarthmore Avenue and Chester Pike.

• Based on the traffic study, key pedestrian intersections should be identified and targeted for intersection bump-outs, raised medians, and speed tables.

• Ridley Park should work with DVRPC’s existing Sidewalk Inventory Project to conduct an audit of sidewalk quality throughout Ridley Park to identify locations for maintenance and accessibility improvements.

• Additional lighting should be installed around Ridley Park Station to improve nighttime visibility and safety.

Figure 81: An example of raised medians.

Figure 82: An example of speed bumpouts.

Figure 83: An example of speed tables and crosswalks.

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64

ENHANCE TRANSPORTATION Objective 4.3 Upgrade Ridley Park Station Ridley Park Station is in the heart of the Borough and is in need of several enhancements and repairs. The bridge at E. Sellers Avenue is in dire need of repair, which has been delayed due to disagreements with Amtrak regarding potential impacts to the rail line. The station itself is not currently ADA-accessible, which is a problem particularly in light of Ridley Park’s aging population. Private vehicle access to the station, which does not include a park-and-ride facility, is in need of careful monitoring to balance access with impacts on the business district and surrounding residential areas.

Strategies & Action Items • Working with PennDOT, Amtrak and SEPTA, the Borough should secure an agreement to allow the repair the E. Sellers Avenue bridge, and ensure the repair is completed.

• The Borough should engage with SEPTA to upgrade Ridley Park Station to ADA standards, including approach ramps and elevated platforms.

• A parking study should be conducted of the vicinity of Ridley Park Station to analyze parking supply and demand in the area.

DIRECTORY

sTREET LIGHTS

RAMPS

HANDICAP SIGN

Figure 84: A rendering of the proposed rennovation of Ridley Park Station with an elevated platform, more lighting, and improved accessibility.

RIDLEY PARK 2030 Objective 4.4 Enhance connectivity within the Borough Ridley Park’s railroads and waterways are tremendous community assets and have been throughout the community’s history.

However, they also form barriers to connectivity within the Borough, dividing areas of the Borough from one another with a limited number of connection points (Figure 85). The Borough should provide additional pedestrian access over these obstacles, as they are particularly limiting for pedestrians.

These same issues impact drivers and can make it difficult for the older population to access services and amenities. Ridley Park should expand the provision of services to cover these gaps in connectivity, particularly through the provision of dedicated transportation services for those in need.

Strategies & Action Items • Ridley Park should evaluate optimal locations to add another crossing over the Wilmington-Newark rail line, focusing on the area east of the business district.

• The Borough should also evaluate adding a new pedestrian crossing over Stony Creek.

• Enhanced paratransit service should be implemented in the Borough, based on discussions with SEPTA and community input.

Figure 85: Existing barriers of mobility in Ridley Park.

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GOAL 5

RIDLEY PARK 2030

CONNECT GREENSPACE

“

Ridley Park’s greenspace and creeks are integrated into a network that fosters lively recreation and leisure activities.

”

Summary Ridley Park is home to 11 municipal parks and an array of open spaces that are scattered throughout the Borough. These greenspaces serve as the setting for student athletic events, dog walks, and other community recreational activities. Ridley Park should fully embrace this large quantity of spaces by working to incorporate them into a connected system of parks. Integrating the greenspaces into a comprehensive network would allow easier community access, further promote recreation and physical activity, and provide more spaces for social connections. Connecting these greenspaces to trails and parks outside of the Borough would further tap into these benefits, ensuring that Ridley Park residents can safely and easily enjoy the abundant outdoor resources the Borough has to offer.

67

68

CONNECT GREENSPACE Objective 5.1 Create connectivity between greenspaces While the Borough enjoys a convenient and walkable scale, it is impacted by several physical barriers that make pedestrian access challenging. Major roads, including I-95 produce heavy vehicle traffic that can produce inconvenient crossing points and risky intersections for the average commuter. Pedestrians looking for clear walking and running paths are also hindered by the two rail lines and creeks that pass through it, particularly as noted within eastern parts of the Borough. To overcome these obstacles, the Borough should create a network of walking paths for residents as well as strategically consider connecting its many greenspaces into a more unified park system (Figure 86).

Figure 86: Proposed interventions in the Borough, including pedestrian bridges, sidewalk improvements, park trails, and connecting trails to the East Coast Greenway.

69

RIDLEY PARK 2030 2019/4/30

253 Chester Pike - Google地图

253 Chester Pike Sidewalk Improve

Strategies & Action Items • Develop and create a cohesive network of walking trails.

• The Borough should aim to integrate its greenspaces with the East Coast Greenway, specifically targeting the unused underpass at the border of Catania Park under I-95 as a potential connection point.

• Revitalize the conditions of existing crossing points and redesign any that do not currently include pedestrian access.

• Install an informational park directory, highlighting key landmarks, as well as install smartly placed wayfinding signage.

• Create a routinely updated and accessible calendar of all athletic and recreation events taking place within the parks.

Figure 87: Existing sidewalk at the E. Sellers Avenue Figure 88: Existing sidewalk on Chester Pike. 图片拍摄日期： bridge 宾夕法尼亚州

月 2018

10

© 2019 Google

Ridley Park,

Google

街景 - 10月 2018 https://www.google.com/maps/@39.8726392,-75.3284895,3a,75y,184.45h,77.26t/data=!3m6!1e1!3m4!1sY9oK_3aFRTVof0STSKE4bQ!2e0!7i16384!8i8192

wayfinding signage

Figure 89: Rendering of an informational park directory at the Rosemont Avenue foot bridge.

1/2

70

CONNECT GREENSPACE Objective 5.2 Establish parks and greenspaces as inviting community spaces Ridley Park is home to 11 municipal parks, several recreational fields, and a decent share of open greenspaces. These areas are used as natural observatories, places for play, gathering spaces for picnics, and hubs for many school athletic activities. Integrating these spaces into a network would increase everyday interaction between people and greenspaces. Families could venture to the parks for evening play time, high schoolers would gather at the parks after school, and residents could enjoy daily strolls to relax from the workday. Creative placemaking initiatives and additional seating would enhance these spaces, while designated fenced dog-friendly zones could bring pet-owners and furry friends together.

dog park LIGHTING Pet waste station

park rules

walking trail

Figure 90: Rendering of ABC Field (Recreation Park) with upgrades to make it an inviting community space.

RIDLEY PARK 2030 Objective 5.3 Strategies & Action Items • Implement creative placemaking initiatives as well as adding seating, tables, and trash receptacles.

• Consider either the conversion of one of the Borough’s smaller greenspaces (such as Nevin Street Park) into a formal dog park or designate fenced dogfriendly zones in larger spaces (such as ABC Field or Catania Park) to attract pet-owners to parks.

• Invest in pedestrian safety through the installation of smart lighting around these parks, especially in areas with high car traffic volumes.

• Add sidewalks to various parks to bridge pedestrian walkways surrounding greenspaces.

• Install playground structures to one or more of the greenspaces to attract families with children.

Prioritize the maintenance of recreational fields The fields and greenspaces in the Borough are natural landscapes that require a caring level of routine maintenance to preserve their beauty and health.

The Borough should ensure that all open fields and greenspaces receive routine groundskeeping maintenance in accordance with standard facilities management recommendations and local ordinances.

Maintenance should include routine trash-pickup, grass and sod treatment, landscaping upkeep, and playground equipment safety inspections. Additionally, each space should be equipped with ample trash and recycling receptacles, as well as smartly placed specific items such as pet waste stations in dog walking areas and public restrooms in community picnic areas.

Strategies & Action Items

Figure 92: Litter in the park.

• Inventory trash receptacles and replace damaged or worn receptacles, as well as add additional receptacles as needed.

• Install pet-waste stations along common dog walking areas and routes.

• Establish a routine groundskeeping facilities maintenance schedule.

• Revisit facilities management contracts, and negotiate fair and accurate pricing and scope of work terms with vendors.

Figure 91: Pavement requiring maintenance.

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RIDLEY PARK 2030

IMPLEMENTATION

Ridley Park 2030 is intended to set the stage for implementation and allow the Borough to organize around and work toward accomplishing practical priorities. Although this plan addresses long-terms challenges, there are certain actions that must be tackled in the near-term to achieve all goals.

Source: Friends of Ridley Park Facebook Page

74

IMPLEMENTATION Introduction to Implementation Implementation has been organized by the five goals and actions needed to achieve them, as well as the timing, costs, owner, and potential partners. Recommendations are defined according to the following framework: • Years 1-3: The first phase focuses on initiating crucial conversations amongst the Borough Manager, the residents, essential partners, and others stakeholders.

Additionally, the first phase prioritizes building capacity with the Borough’s administration.

• Years 4-6: The second phase concentrates on social programming, as well as developing and nurturing partnerships.

• Year 7-10: The third phase targets the completion of longer-termed and heavier-lift projects, particularly emphasizing infrastructure and network enhancements.

The table assigns a cost component to each strategy and action item. The cost allocations are meant to serve as guiding budget parameters and are categorized as follows: • $ = $0-25,000 • $$ = $25,000 – 100,000 • $$$ = $100,000 – 1M • $$$$ = $1M+ Lastly, implementing this plan requires the collective action and resources of various stakeholders. Partnerships span local and national organizations, the Borough’s administration, city and state governmental agencies, public authorities, and the private and nonprofit sectors. The table highlights leading partners; however, it is important to note that this is not an exhaustive list of all potential partners.

RIDLEY PARK 2030 Strategy/Action Conduct surveys to uncover gaps or discover opportunities

Supporting Actions

Cost

1.1

Main Streets

$

1.1

Main Streets

$

Local real estate agents: Berkshire Hathaway, Long & Foster, Cannon Properties

Establish funding sources (full-time or share with nearby Borough)

1.1

Borough

$

Swarthmore Borough, Ridley Township, Prospect Park

Hire person

1.1

Borough

$$

Local businesses

1.1

Borough

$

Smart Growth America, DCED, Pennsylvania Main Street Program

Main Streets

$

Main Streets organization, Swarthmore Farmers Market, Reading Terminal Market, Media Farmers Market

Borough

$

DCED, Pennsylvania SBDC, Boeing, Target Building Construction, Partnership for Economic Performance

Borough

$$$

Local governmental agency

Borough

$

Main Streets organization, local businesses

Borough

$

Local businesses

Website Vendor

$

Main Streets organization, local businesses

Borough

$

Borough

$$$

Borough

$

Borough

$

Survey residents in the community

Identify a real estate broker specializing in small-scale commercial real estate

Goal 1: Revitalize the Business District

Add staff member to Borough to manage business district

Develop guidebook for small businesses

Locate businesses Create a pop-up shop

Re-zone the Borough

Add advertising space at Ridley Park Station

1.2, 3.1 Update with new businesses and operating hours

1.3

Rebuild webpage Routinely update printed advertisements and notifications

1.3, 4.3

Shorten crosswalks and ladder stripe Streetscape improvements

Widen sidewalk at E. Sellers Avenue

1.4, 3.2. 4.2, 5.1

Post vehicle speed/elderly crossing/ children crossing signs Coordinate business hours of operation

Year 1-3

Year 4-6

Year 7-10

Partners Local businesses Borough residents

1.2 Build out a dedicated space

Maintain up-to-date directory of businesses

Timeline

Owner

Survey business owners

Objectives

1.5

PennDOT, DCED, NACTO Urban Street Guide

Local businesses

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76

IMPLEMENTATION

Goal 1: Revitalize the Business District (continued)

Strategy/Action

Supporting Actions

Objectives

Timeline Year 1-3

Year 4-6

Year 7-10

Owner

Research and apply for grant opportunities Facade upgrades

1.6

$$$

“Made on Main Street” (OneMain Financial & Main Street America partnership), Pennsylvania Historical Museum Commission, local businesses

$$

Wayfinding signage

Borough

$$

Summer “lot takeover”

Borough

$

Borough

$

Borough

$$$

Borough

$

1.6

Public art installation

1.7

Full conversion of 7-Eleven lot to civic courtyard “Adoption” process for business district

$

“Made on Main Street” (OneMain Financial & Main Street America partnership), Pennsylvania Historical Museum Commission

Borough

Install signage

Create a civic courtyard

Partners

Main Streets

Make upgrades

Light post banners

Cost

1.7

“Made on Main Street” (OneMain Financial & Main Street America partnership), Pennsylvania Historical Museum Commission

Citizens of the Arts in Pennsylvania, Pennsylvania Council on the Arts, Main Streets Organization, DCED

Local volunteer organizations, scout troops, school sports teams, religious organizations

RIDLEY PARK 2030 Strategy/Action

Supporting Actions

Apply erosion control methods and stormwater BMPs both locally and upstream

Timeline

Cost

Partners

$

Local vendors: Godshall’s Landscaping & Hydroseeding, Jobsite Products Inc, Scott’s All Season Landscaping Inc., ACF Environmental

$

Delaware County Conservation District, DVRPC

$

Upstream municipalities: Ridley Township, Swarthmore Borough, Springfield Township, Rutledge Borough CRC Watersheds Association

Participate in large scale planning at the regional level

$$

Upstream municipalities: Ridley Township, Swarthmore Borough, Springfield Township, DVRPC, Delaware County Conservation District, CRC Watersheds Association

Explore cost/benefit of hydroraking and dredging

$

Explore BMPs (ex. organic mulch, erosion control blankets, infiltration trenches, rain gardens) and how they can be implemented throughout routine maintenance

Objectives

Year 1-3

Year 4-6

Year 7-10

Owner

2.1, 2.2

Research grants for lake preservation Borough

Goal 2: Preserve the Lake

Contact upstream municipalities 2.2

Restore lake to healthy depth levels

Implement the best alternative

2.1

Borough

Research grants for lake preservation efforts

Deter geese from East Lake Park

Install educational signage Install lights

2.3

Establish Citizen Science Program

$

Delaware County Conservation District, DVRPC

$

Penn State Extension, Stroud, Ridley Park School District

$

Away With Geese

Ridley School District

$

Ridley School District, Stroud Research Center

Borough

$

Penn State Extension

Borough

2.4, 2.5

Identify and develop programming for local schools

$$

Local dredging companies: Mobile Dredging & Pumping Co., Dissen & Juhn Company; Local hydro-raking companies: Swampthing American Dredging Co., SOLitutde Lake Management

2.4 Encourage resident attendance of Master Watershed Stewardship program with Penn State Extension

77

78 Goal 2: Preserve the Lake (continued)

IMPLEMENTATION Strategy/Action Evaluate opportunities for new trail connections to the lake

Supporting Actions Issue RFP for a trail connection to Ridley Park Lake

Objectives

2.5, 4.4, 5.1

Timeline Year 1-3

Year 4-6

Year 7-10

Owner

Borough

Build new trail connection(s)

Install benches, tables, trash receptacles

Establish “Adopt-a-Bench” program for residents

Increase clean-up days around the lake Develop vendor opportunities at the lake

Cost $$

Partners

East Coast Greenway Alliance

$$$ 2.5, 5.2

Borough

$

Main Streets organization

Reach out to local businesses and organizations for clean-up day support

2.4, 2.5, 5.2, 5.3

Borough

$

Main Streets organization

Coordinate with local businesses

2.5, 5.2

Borough

$

Main Streets organization

RIDLEY PARK 2030 Strategy/Action

Goal 3: Support Aging Residents

Upgrade housing to ADA-compliant standards where needed

Partner with Taylor Hospital’s community engagement team (Senior Health Service’s Program)

Schools and Seniors Partnership

Supporting Actions

Objectives

Timeline Year 1-3

Year 4-6

Year 7-10

Owner

Provide education to homeowners

Cost

$ 3.1

Borough

Implement upgrade subsidy program for residents

$$

Begin conversation with Taylor Hospital

$ 3.1

$

Identify and develop programming for schools

$

Rezone the Borough

3.3

Residents, PA Department of Health, PA Department of Community and Economic Development, local contractors

Taylor Hospital, Crozer-Keystone Health System

Borough

Host frequent education events at Borough Hall

Build connections between school district leadership and Senior groups

Partners

Borough

Ridley School District $

1.2, 3.1

Borough

$$$

Delaware County

1.4, 3.2, 4.2, 5.1

Borough

$$

Borough, Delaware County

Streetscape improvements

Post vehicle speed signs

Formalized feedback system for residents

Consult with current senior citizen groups on proposed formalized feedback system

3.3

Borough

$

Residents

Launch senior programming

Gold Star, Senior Citizen Day

3.3

Borough

$

Main Street organization, local businesses, Ridley School District, Delaware County

79

80

IMPLEMENTATION Strategy/Action

Increase SEPTA options

Goal 4: Enhance Transportation

Fix bridge at E. Sellers Avenue

Supporting Actions

Objectives

Year 1-3

Year 4-6

Year 7-10

Owner

Cost

Partners

Pitch new route lines to SEPTA

4.1

Borough

$

SEPTA

Implement new bus route

4.1

SEPTA

$$$

SEPTA, Surrounding communities, Delaware County (potential county subsidy)

Add enhanced paratransit service

4.4

SEPTA

$$$

SEPTA, Delaware County Community Transit, Senior Community Services

Borough

$

PennDOT, SEPTA, Amtrak, Delaware County, DVRPC

PennDOT

$$$$

PennDOT, Amtrak, DVRPC

Borough

$

Delaware County

Consultant

$$

PennDOT, DVRPC, Surrounding communities (particularly Ridley Township & Prospect Park)

DVRPC

$

DVRPC

Reach agreement on construction plans

4.3

Construction Issue RFP for vehicle and pedestrian traffic study Conduct traffic study

4.2, 5.1 Conduct traffic study

Conduct sidewalk audit

Timeline

Engage with DVRPC’s Sidewalk Inventory Program

4.2, 5.1

Implement traffic calming Traffic calming and streetscape improvements

Ridley Park Station upgrade

Add pedestrian safety features to intersections (crosswalks, bumpouts)

$$$ $$$

PennDOT/DCED (Multimodal Transportation Fund), NACTO Urban Street Guide

SEPTA

$$$

SEPTA, DVRPC

4.2, 4.3

Borough

$$

PennDOT/DCED (Possibly Multimodal Transportation Fund), SEPTA

4.3, 1.4

Consultant

$$

DVRPC

4.2, 4.3, 1.4

Borough

Reconstruct Ridley Park Station to ADA standards

4.3, 3.2

Add lighting to station Conduct parking study of station area

RIDLEY PARK 2030

Goal 4: Enhance Transportation (continued)

Strategy/Action

Supporting Actions

Objectives

Timeline Year 1-3

Year 4-6

Year 7-10

Owner

Implement bike lane pilot projects Add bike lanes to Chester Pike and Swarthmore Avenue

Add additional rail and creek crossings

$$ 4.1

Borough

Implement final bike lanes based on pilot results Study locations to add an additional crossing over the WilmingtonNewark line

Cost

$$$

Partners PennDOT/DCED (Multimodal Transportation Fund), NACTO Urban Street Guide, Bicycle Coalition of Greater Philadelphia, PeopleForBikes, surrounding communities (Ridley Township and Prospect Park)

Consultant

$$

SEPTA, Amtrak

Construction of crossing over Wilmington-Newark line

Contractor

$$$

Pennsylvania Infrastructure Bank (low cost loans)

Study locations to add a pedestrian crossing over Stony Creek

Consultant

$$

SEPTA, Amtrak

Contractor

$$$

Pennsylvania Infrastructure Bank (low cost loans)

Construction of crossing over Stony Creek

4.4

4.4, 5.1

81

82

IMPLEMENTATION Strategy/Action

Supporting Actions

Objectives

Goal 5: Connect Greenspaces

Year 7-10

Owner

Cost

Partners

Borough

$

Delaware County, East Coast Greenway Alliance, DVRPC

Build connection into network

5.1

East Coast Greenway Alliance

$$$$

Delaware County, East Coast Greenway Alliance, DVRPC

Pilot dog park utilization of an existing greenspace

5.2

Borough

$

Delaware County

Implement full conversion of an existing greenspace as a dog park and/or designate dog friendly zones

5.2

Contractor

$$$

Delaware County

Add pet waste stations

5.2

Borough

$

Delaware County, Doody Calls, Clevens K-9 Scoop

5.1, 4.1, 4.4

Borough

$$$

PennDOT, DCED, DVRPC

5.2

Borough

$$

National Program for Playground Safety, National Recreation and Parks Association

2.5, 5.2

Borough

$$

DVRPC, Local vendors, PA DCED

5.3

Borough

$$

Delaware County, Local Vendors

2.5, 5.2

Borough

$

Local vendors, PA DCED

Construct new walking trails between green spaces within and near the Borough

Add new playground structures

Inspect and repair existing playground structures

Install smart lighting

Add seating, tables, benches

Year 4-6

5.1

Add walking trails

Coordinate groundskeeping

Year 1-3

Begin conversations with East Coast Greenway Alliance Connect to East Coast Greenway

Build a dog park

Timeline

Revisit facilities management contracts

RIDLEY PARK 2030

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

The authors of Ridley Park 2030 would like to thank Joanna Winchester for her guidance throughout the planning process, Richard W. Tutak Jr. for his leadership as Ridley Park’s Borough Manager, and the faculty and staff of the Stuart Weitzman School of Design for their support.

RIDLEY PARK 2030 Figures Cited 1:Ridley Park Borough

30: Deno Wade

59: rivercityevv.com

88: Google Street View

2: Zixuan Zhou

31: Prospect Medical Holdings Inc.

60: Cheng Kai

89: Zixuan Zhou

3: thehistoryjunkie.com

32: Deno Wade

61: Zixuan Zhou

90: Zixuan Zhou

4: delawarecountyhistory.com

33: Deno Wade

62:Cheng Kai

91: Deno Wade

5: realtor.com

34: KB VanHorn

63: Cheng Kai

92: Deno Wade

6: U.S. Census Bureau

35: Deno Wade

64: Cheng Kai

7: Ridley Park Historical Society

36: Ridley Park Athletic Club

65: Cheng Kai

8: ridleyparkborough.org

37: Deno Wade

66: Cheng Kai

9: Flickr

38: Katie Lample

67: PWD

10: Ridley Park Facebook

39: Katie Lample

68: blacklagoon.us

11: Main Streets of Ridley Park

40: Katie Lample

69: RainCheck, PWD

12: ACS 2017 5-Year Census

41: Katie Lample

70: NJ.com

13: ACS 2017 5-Year Census

42: Deno Wade

71: Katie Lample

14: Census OnTheMap

43: Katie Lample

72: Yijia Liu

15: Yelp.com

44: Yijia Liu

73: Yijia Liu

16: Ridley School District

45: Google Street View

74: Cheng Kai

17: Flickr

46: Deno Wade

75: Cheng Kai

18: ACS 2017 5-Year Census

47: Trulia

76: www.crozerkeystone.org

19: ACS 2017 5-Year Census

48: Main Streets of Ridley Park

77: www.mainlineadultdaycenter.org

20: DVRPC

49: Deno Wade

78: www.hamilton.k12.wi.us

21: Ridley Park 2009 Zoning Ordinance

50: Yijia Liu

79: www.colonialsd.org

22: U.S. Census Bureau

51: Deno Wade

80: Yijia Liu

23: ACS 2017 5-Year Census

52: Katie Lample

81: SFBetterStreets

24: Yijia Liu

53: Katie Lample

82: City of Coral Gables

25: ridleyparkborough.org

54: Deno Wade

83: NACTO

26: Katie Lample

55: Yelp.com

84: Yijia Liu

27: Deno Wade

56: Trulia

85: Yijia Liu, Google Street View

28: Deno Wade

57: Flickr

86: Zixuan Zhou

29: Deno Wade

58: The Washington Pilot

87: Deno Wade

85

86

86

CITATIONS Sources Cited 1. 2014 Ridley Park Comprehensive Plan.

20. DVRPC, 2015 Land Use. http://arcgis.dvrpc.org

2. 2014 Ridley Park Comprehensive Plan.

21. Borough of Ridley Park, PA, Chapter 213 Zoning. 2009.

3. 2014 Ridley Park Comprehensive Plan

https://ecode360.com/11598146

4. 2014 Ridley Park Comprehensive Plan

22. Borough of Ridley Park, PA, Chapter 213 Zoning. 2009.

5. 2014 Ridley Park Comprehensive Plan

https://ecode360.com/11598146

6. U.S. Census Bureau, Census of Population and Housing.

23. U.S. Census, 2017 5-year ACS.

Archived May 2015.

24. U.S. Census, 2017 5-year ACS.

7. U.S. Census, 2017 5-year ACS.

25. U.S. Census, 2017 5-year ACS.

8. U.S. Census Bureau, Census of Population and Housing.

26. U.S. Census, 2017 5-year ACS.

Archived May 2015.

27. Trulia. https://trulia.com

9. Ridley Park Historical Society. http://ridleyparkhistorical.org

28. U.S. Census, 2017 5-year ACS.

10. DVRPC, Analytical Data Report: Regional, County, and

29. Meeting with Rich Tutak, Borough Manager. January 2019.

Municipal Population. April 2012. https://dvrpc.org/Reports/

30. Meeting with Rich Tutak, Borough Manager. January 2019.

ADR018.pdf

31. Ridley School District. https://ridleysd.org

11.Main Streets of Ridley Park.https://mainstreetsofridleypark.

32. Crozer Keystone. https://crozerkeystone.org

com

33. Barnstormers Theater. http://barnstormerstheater.com

12. U.S. Census, 2017 5-year ACS.

34. Ridley Park Athletic Club. http://ridleyparkac.com

13. DVRPC, 2012-2013 Household Travel Survey for the

35. Catania Engineering Associates Pollution Reduction Plan

Delaware Valley Region. https://dvrpc.org/Reports/14033.pdf

36. Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection.

14. U.S. Census, 2017 5-year ACS.

Integrated Water Quality Report – 2016.

15. Pennsylvania Dept of Health.

37. Catania Engineering Associates Pollution Reduction Plan

16. Fox & Roach, Realtors. About Ridley School District.

38. SEPTA Ridership. OpenDataPhilly.

https://foxroach.com/ridley-school-district

39. SEPTA Ridership. OpenDataPhilly.

17. The Inquirer. http://philly.com/philly/blogs/inq-phillydeals/

40. SEPTA Ridership. OpenDataPhilly.

boeing-upgrades-chinooks-ridley-plant-100-years-

41. SEPTA Ridership. OpenDataPhilly.

helicopters-joseph-n-distefano-20180627.html

42. Pennsylvania Department of Aging

18. U.S. Census, 2017 5-year ACS. 19. U.S. Census, 2017 5-year ACS.

“Ridley Park is a great town to live in and work in.

We have our scars like every other town, but most of ours are only small imperfections in the diamond. None of us are perfect. Ridley Park is perfect for us.�

-Ridley Park Resident

Cheng Kai Tiffany Hudson Yijia Liu Deno Wade Zixuan Zhou Luke Hassall Katie Lample