Restoring Brownfields and Protecting Heritage in Embreeville Park

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, it fell into disrepair, with 16 vandalized buildings and significant environmental risks stemming from decades of operational use.

In 2019, West Bradford Township residents came together at a public meeting to decide the land’s future. Instead of high-density housing, the community chose to preserve it as open space. The Township purchased the site for $22.5 million, halting a proposed development of 1,100 homes and setting a new course—one focused on restoration, preservation, and public use.

Funding the Revitalization Effort

Turning vision into reality required a strong financial strategy. Montrose’s 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

Montrose led a comprehensive 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.

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 future work planned to create walking trails, picnic areas, athletic fields, and interpretive signage, the park is being designed as both a community hub and a space where history, nature, and public life come together.

A Commitment to Sustainable Revitalization

This transformation is more than a win for West Bradford—it’s a model for communities across the country facing similar challenges. Montrose’s integrated approach—combining funding strategy, technical expertise, and a commitment to environmental stewardship—helped turn a once-neglected property into a lasting public asset rooted in community trust.

Features

11 Buildings Demolished: Decades-old hospital structures were safely removed to eliminate environmental risks and restore natural landscapes.
$1.5 Million Federal Grant Secured from Montrose Expertise: Obtained through the National Park Service’s Land and Water Conservation Fund with Montrose’s guidance, supporting park development and long-term public access.
185 Acres Preserved: Reclaimed as public parkland for recreation, conservation, and historical education—protecting green space for future generations.