Montgomery Township to advertise bids for $1.9M Whistle Stop Park overhaul, adding six pickleball courts

Montgomery Township officials on March 9 authorized staff to advertise a bid for the Whistle Stop Park improvement project, a $1.9 million plan that would replace outdated play equipment with an accessible, inclusive playground, add six pickleball courts and expand ADA access.

Township manager Carolyn McCreery told the board the project includes a poured‑in‑place safety surface, shade structures, perimeter fencing, a rehabilitated rain garden and a loop trail with ADA access. "When completed, this project will enable children and others of all abilities to play and recreate in a safe and inclusive place," McCreery said.

The township has budgeted $1.5 million in the 2026 capital reserve fund. Grants awarded so far include $250,000 from the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources and $125,000 from the Department of Community and Economic Development; staff also submitted a $350,000 Montco 2040 implementation grant application as a multi‑municipal project with Hatfield Township providing a supporting resolution.

Board members discussed potential community concerns about converting some existing athletic areas and McCreery said the tennis courts will remain available and the plan repurposes an underused softball/ball field for the new pickleball courts. After discussion, the board voted to authorize advertisement of the project on the PennBid website so the township can solicit contractor bids once DCNR completes its plan review.

Next steps: DCNR review of construction plans, then public bidding and, if awarded, project scheduling and construction.