Countryside Park Master Plan and Restoration

The 26-acre Countryside Park and adjoining Washington Township RecPlex provide recreational services to approximately 57,000 residents. The park features ponds, playing fields, playgrounds, and historic structures, and creates an important link between the natural and built environments with the core of the downtown area.

Environmental Design Group provided master planning, community engagement, renderings, and final reports to communicate short and long-term goals. The plan recommended creating a unified campus with authentic destinations to support and enhance community programs and provide urban green space for residents of all ages and abilities to enjoy.

Central to the project is a new roundabout and consolidation of entrances to the Gateway Plaza to improve safety and access. Additionally, it was recommended to replace an existing building with a central shelter and great lawn to provide an accessible, year-round gathering space with expanded recreational fields.

Phase 1 of the project involved restoration of area ponds and streams with enhanced shoreline amenities to help activate the park, attract visitors, and recreate “postcard” views. This required the removal of extensive siltation, installation of sediment controls, stabilization of banks, and a new accessible fishing pier. Phase 2 includes Hillside Shelter, Loop Drive, and parking areas.

Project Photos