Tarentum residents have made their voices heard, and the most requested upgrade to Riverview Memorial Park is an overlook on the Allegheny River.
That was the top answer in a borough survey, focused on the park, that drew more than 130 responses. That suggestion was followed by adding a fishing dock, more walking trails, public boat access and a picnic pavilion.
“The possibilities and opportunities are endless,” Council President Scott Dadowski said.
“It has the potential that all residents of the borough, both young and old, will be able to spend time in the park area.”
Pittsburgh-based architecture firm, Pashek MTR, compiled the results for council to use in the borough’s long-term comprehensive plan.
Consultants are expected to give a public presentation in coming weeks.
“It’s the input that will fuel the success,” Pashek designer Keely McDonald said.
The aim is to collect more detailed feedback on the survey results and explore what the features might look like. That will enable McDonald to develop several conceptual plans, incorporating the public’s desires for the park.
“We already have the stage and amphitheater, the Snack Shack, spray park and picnic pavilion,” Dadowski said. “New areas will only enhance recreation opportunities for all residents.”
Borough Manager Dwight Boddorf said council is hoping to schedule a public input session in May or June. Following that, preliminary plans will be developed and grants sought.
Results of the survey show that bird watching, fishing and boating are among the most popular activities at the park, which spans nearly the entire length of town.
About 20% of respondents said they visit the park along First Avenue every week; a similar number said they use the space monthly.
Among the most-used current amenities are the walking trail, amphitheater, spray park, playground and memorials.
Looking to the future, nearly 65% of those who answered the survey said they hope for an overlook, and about one-half of the respondents said they’d like a fishing pier.
Tarentum Council made the move in late 2023 to eliminate the borough’s 24 boat docks while officials upgrade the borough’s electrical code and finalize a riverfront development plan.
The plan drew ire from longtime boaters who had made the riverfront a second home each summer, complete with decks, picnic tables, bars and sheds.
Council urged patience, saying upgrades are meant to benefit all residents and could include boating access once complete.
At the same time, the borough is working with Friends of the Riverfront on an $8.7 million, 4-mile path through Tarentum and East Deer.
In Tarentum, the trail will be off-road through the park and Dreshar Stadium, along with on-road portions.
“This park project has a wonderful riverfront that provides opportunities,” McDonald said.
She hopes to deliver the upcoming public presentation at the borough’s history museum along East Seventh Avenue.
“We are in very early stages of planning,” Councilwoman Maggie Smith said. “We will be having public meetings in the future to be able to listen to what the community would like. It’s a huge decision and is for the community to decide.
“We have a chance to do some good things to allow everyone to be able to enjoy our riverfront.”