Heidelberg's "brown field" is turning green.
Hydraseeding --a process in which seeds are mixed with water and sprayed from a high pressure hose --was completed last week at the new Heidelberg Borough Park. And results were evident within 24 hours.
It's another tangible sign many projects in the borough that are coming to fruition.
Joe Kauer, manager, said construction work at the park, which is located in a six-acre former scrap yard at the end of Industry Way near the intersection with Jackson Street, is now more than 50 percent complete.
Fences have been installed, foundations laid for concrete work and playground equipment delivered. Work is scheduled to be finished by the end of June.
"It's moving really fast," he said.
Plans developed by Gateway Engineers show a two-acre multipurpose athletic field on the property and amenities such as a horseshoe pitch, bocce court and asphalt walking paths.
Site improvements include bleachers, trash receptacles, soccer goals, a field goal post and a 10-foot high fence surrounding a 39-space parking lot.
Earlier this year, borough council awarded a construction contract worth $211,800 to A. Liberoni Inc. for Phase I of the project.
Of the total cost, $100,000 will be paid through grant funds received from the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) and the remaining amount will come from the borough's park fund.
The park is expected to open to the public in spring 2009, to allow two growing seasons for grass.
Route 50 revitalization
The recently installed town clock at Third Street and East Railroad Street is also a sign of a bright future in Heidelberg.
Kauer said the project represents the kickoff to the borough's campaign to beautify and revitalize the major traffic artery. The clock was paid for through a $4,700 grant received through state Rep. Nick Kotik (D-45).
Lamar Advertising donated electricity and land, Lynch Bros. Construction provided concrete, and Ferris Electric completed electrical work.
The revitalization of the roadway, which runs through Heidelberg, Scott and Carnegie, will be enabled by $2.4 million in federal funding.
Rep. Tim Murphy (PA-18) has spearheaded the initiative, which was approved by the U.S. Congress on April 30.
The legislation next must be signed by President George W. Bush.
Kauer said the money will enable Heidelberg to retain and sustain businesses for years to come and make the borough an even more livable place for its residents.
The three communities would each offer their own plan for the money, depending on how much they are allotted. The borough's allocation is estimated at $591,000.
Proposed plans include rerouting utilities on Route 50 from Glendale to Greentree Road.
With no telephone poles and wires obstructing the view of the borough's downtown area, lanterns would be added, along with street furniture and planters.