Embreeville Park, a 200-acre property in Chester County, Pennsylvania, holds deep historical and cultural value. Originally established as a county almshouse in the 1790s, the site later operated as a state psychiatric hospital until its closure. Over time, the campus deteriorated, and vandalism accelerated, leaving multiple structures damaged and heightening concern about environmental risks posed by legacy materials and operational residues across the site.
In 2019, West Bradford Township residents came together at a public meeting to decide the land’s future. The community aligned around preserving open space, effectively halting a proposed development of 1,100 homes. The Township purchased the site for $22.5 million, and set a new course for the property, focused on restoration, preservation, and public access.
Funding the revitalization effort
Turning vision into reality required a strong financial strategy. Onterris grant specialists helped secure key funding, including a $1.5 million grant from the National Park Service’s Land and Water Conservation Fund. Additional state and local resources supported environmental cleanup and early redevelopment efforts.
Navigating complex environmental challenges
Onterris led a comprehensive, multi-pronged restoration effort, addressing both environmental hazards and historic preservation:
Environmental Site Assessments: Phase I and Phase II assessments identified contamination hotspots, ensuring regulatory compliance
Hazardous Waste Removal: All hazardous and universal waste was safely identified and removed
Remediation and Act 2 Closure: The team secured a Release of Liability under Pennsylvania’s Act 2 Land Recycling Program
Geotechnical Restoration: Demolition debris was reused to stabilize the land for future recreational use
Cultural Heritage Preservation: Archaeological studies protected Native American settlements and burial sites
This site required more than just demolition or sampling. We coordinated funding, fieldwork and alignment with state agency expectations, which is allowing the Township to create a dynamic, multi-use space for local residents without losing sight of safety, heritage and long-term public access.
From contaminated site to community asset
In late 2024, West Bradford Township finalized its acquisition of the land, preserving 185 acres as open space. By reusing demolition materials to stabilize the terrain, the project cut costs and reduced environmental impact, while collaboration with archaeologists and state agencies ensured historic sites were respectfully protected. With ongoing plans to create walking trails, picnic areas, athletic fields, and interpretive signage, the park is being designed as a community hub and where history, nature, and public life come together and thrive.
A replicable model for sustainable revitalization
This transformation is more than a win for West Bradford; it serves as a model for communities across the country facing similar challenges. Onterris employed an integrated approach, combining funding strategy, technical expertise, and a commitment to environmental stewardship to help turn a once-neglected property into a lasting public asset rooted in community participation and trust.