Northeast Woods Restoration Project
A Woodland Oasis in the Heart of Chestnut Hill
Friends of Pastorius Park is excited to announce The Paul W. Meyer Northeast Woods Restoration Project: A multi-year restoration project to reduce soil erosion, restore natural habitat, and improve pedestrian circulation in the northeast section of Pastorius Park. The project will align with the original historic design of Frederick Peck and the ecological vision of long-standing FoPP supporter and retired F. Otto Haas Director of Morris Arboretum & Gardens, Paul W. Meyer. This project will also fulfill an important stage of a 100-Year Restoration Plan of the park outlined for FoPP and started by Meyer in 2019.
FoPP has contracted accredited landscape designer, Bob Gray, landscape architect and sustainability advocate, Rob Fleming, along with Philadelphia Parks & Recreation and community officials to ensure the success of this restoration project. The outcomes of this project will be functional, attractive, sustainable, and within the maintenance capabilities of the FoPP and the City of Philadelphia.
The Design
location
This project will target an unimproved area of the Park generally defined by the northeastern boundary on Shawnee Street and W. Hartwell Lane, and then extending down-gradient to the pond. View Map
Timeline
FoPP aims to complete this project in 2026.
The Northeast Woods is a large area of unimproved land at Pastorius Park facing several ecological challenges.
Current Issues:
- Stormwater and erosion management
- Pedestrian contribution to erosion
- Invasive species management
- Deterioration of native species
- Bird and wildlife habitat deterioration
- Neglected area of the historic landscape
Ecological Benefits
The Northeast Woods Project will enable a substantial ecological upgrade consistent with the long-term vision for the park by minimizing soil erosion and sediment deposition down gradient, improving pedestrian circulation through the woodlands and tended areas of the park, and delivering meaningful habitat enhancement to support a wider variety of animal, bird and pollinator species. The design will include a robust native plant community that, in combination with maintenance protocols, will ultimately be capable of resisting deer pressure and invasive species, as well as aid in long-term erosion mitigation.
The design of improvements will be consistent with principles included within the City of Philadelphia Stormwater Guidance Manual, PA DEP’s BMP Manual and successful practices employed by prominent land conservation organizations in the region.
proposed solutions:
- Stabilization and replanting of erosion areas
- Route pedestrian paths to respect site topography
- Remove invasive species
- Restore and expand native plant communities in support of native wildlife and pollinators.
Woodland Overlook
At the heart of the newly restored Northeast Woods will be a spot for quiet reflection and to observe the surrounding woodland. Signage will encourage visitors to learn about the diverse native species growing in this area and the benefits to wildlife and pollinators.
At the heart of the newly restored Northeast Woods will be a spot for quiet reflection and to observe the surrounding woodland. The circular design is inspired by Jen Jensen, a Danish-born landscape architect of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Jensen’s “council circles” featured stone seating arranged in a semi-circle around a central focal point, echoing the traditional gathering places of Native American tribes. Jensen’s adaptation aimed to create communal meeting spaces within the natural landscape, fostering open dialogue, moments of reflection, and connection with nature.
Design Inspiration
The outcomes of this project will provide native wildlife and insects with an abundant, healthy ecosystem in which to thrive. While initial site preparation will temporarily disturb some habitat areas, the final project outcome will greatly benefit existing wildlife and promote a healthy native habitat for years to come.
No, the existing trail will be closed off for the duration of the project while erosion mitigation strategies are put in place and replanting is being done. A newly established pathway will be available Fall 2025.
For the most part, this project will not prohibit park visitors from enjoying the vast majority of the park space. Areas that will not be accessible will be marked on site with clear signage.
We’re grateful for your support! A donation can be made below or contact us about sponsorship opportunities.
Donate Now to Support this Project!
Mail-In Donation
Complete the donation form and send with your payment to:
Friends of Pastorius Park
P.O. Box 27158
Market Square Station
Philadelphia, PA 19118
Friends of Pastorius Park is a non-profit 501(c)3 organization and your gift is fully tax deductible. We will never sell or share your personal information. Read our Privacy Policy for complete information.
Sponsorship Opportunities
Donors who wish to to wish to sponsor this project have opportunity for on-site recognition.
For more information about becoming a project sponsor, please contact: info@friendsofpastorius.org
Thank You to Our Community Partners
