Residents urge stronger fencing and safer connectivity at Beckett Park splash pad

Two residents urged West Chester trustees on June 24 to strengthen safety measures at Beckett Park's new splash pad and to improve pedestrian connectivity to reduce risks for children.

Brandy Mahaney, who identified herself as a resident at 5766 Ferdinand Drive, told the board she is "a mom of 2 developmentally delayed children" and is concerned the splash pad's fencing — as shown in renderings — is too open and may not prevent children from wandering toward nearby retention ponds. She asked the township to consider a sturdier barrier with fewer open slats and suggested Empath for Autism might help co-sponsor necessary investments.

Alyssa Louigi of 7844 Montreal Court described similar concerns and urged quicker action. Louigi told trustees: "We've had now 2 young children drown in the last 6 months in the township," and said the splash pad slide's short mat currently lets older children slide onto rough concrete. She also flagged the lack of sidewalks and safe pedestrian crossings across Beckett Road, noting the 45 mph speed limit and the absence of controlled crosswalks linking the playground and splash pad.

Lisa Brown, speaking for township staff, said the fencing shown in project images is illustrative and that staff have been discussing alternatives; "It's probably gonna be more like a 3 slot thing with maybe some landscaping behind it," she said. Brown also said a longer mat for the slide has been ordered after residents raised concerns. Trustees and staff discussed potential pedestrian connections and whether a crosswalk or phased work to install sidewalks should be considered. One trustee noted staff would seek design changes before the site is finalized and invited further resident feedback.

The board did not take a vote on park design changes at the meeting; staff committed to continuing design discussions and to report back with project updates and any required budget adjustments.