A late June day on the Jenkintown Creek gave community leaders the chance to explore and learn more about TTF’s up-and-down-the-creek series of restoration and green stormwater infrastructure (GSI) projects. TFF and many local partners have been working on the creek and its tributaries for many years to reduce polluted runoff, enhance community green spaces, and improve the health of this beloved urban stream system.
The group, led by Susan Harris of Cerulean, LLC, Julie Slavet, TTF Executive Director, and Ryan Neuman, TTF Upstream Conservation Leader, included Jenkintown Borough Councilmember Alexandra Khalil, a member of the Cheltenham EAC, a number of Streamkeepers, and representatives of potential partner organizations.
Attendees visited rain gardens, a riparian buffer, sub-surface storage features, multiple buffers/creekside plantings, stream bank restoration, and restored wetland features. Sites included the Conklin Pool, The Sisters of St. Basil the Great & Manor College, Reform Congregation Keneseth Israel, and Alverthorpe Park. Highlighting the breadth of GSI solutions, the sites featured restored streambanks, enhanced wetlands, and native tree plantings.
TTF and friends encourage community and elected leaders to get out into the field and be inspired by the beauty and functionality of GSI – drop them a line if you’d like to learn more!