Copyright Joliet, IL Patch
The heavily contaminated brownfield site was once a danger to public health. Now it's a community gathering point. POTTSTOWN, PA — A historic industrial area in Pottstown that had sat as a polluted brownfield site for years has been transformed into a green space and a public park. Cross Street Park is located on the 0.86 acre lot of the former Pollock Scrap Yard, where heavy metals leached into the ground soil after decades of environmentally catastrophic activities. The scrap yard closed in the 70s and eventually became a designated brownfield site. The spread of contaminants eventually led to the temporary closure of nearby Pollock Park in 2023. Chemical company BASF led the cleanup effort, with oversight from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. “This park is a testament to what’s possible when public and private partners come together with a shared vision to revitalize our community,” Peter Dulik, the director of environment, health, safety, and quality at BASF Corporation said in a statement. “We’re proud to contribute to a space that will serve the Pottstown people for generations to come.” The park features two basketball courts, accessible parking, green stormwater infrastructure, trees, and additional open green space for the general community. Pottstown borough Parks and Recreation worked with environmental and engineering consultants Cascade Environmental and Haley and Aldrich on the project. "Thanks to our awesome Parks and Rec team and BASF Corp for turning brownfield into a basketball park for the community," Pottstown Mayor Stephanie Henrick added. A special ribbon cutting ceremony celebrating the opening of the park was held this week.
