Residents praise Heritage Day; parks survey shows broad support for events and grants

Residents and committee members told the Tinicum supervisors on June 2 that community events and parks improvements are priorities for many township households.

Kathy Auerbach, a resident, said the Upper Bucks Heritage Day 250 on May 16 drew approximately 800 visitors and 100 participants; the Historic Commission had a major exhibit and volunteers highlighted a Revolutionary‑era map project. Matt White, a Washington Crossing Park representative, said he’s researching participants from the 1776 crossing and will present at the Washington’s Crossing Museum in November.

Robin Lochner, vice chair of the Parks & Recreation Committee, previewed results from a May community survey with roughly 320 total responses (119 paper, 101 electronic and additional distribution counts that produced the 320 total). Preliminary multiple‑choice responses show most respondents use at least part of the Township’s parks, favor holding events there, support pursuing grants to expand the parks budget, and are divided on a possible renaming (suggestions included Cooper Park and Ottsville Park). Free‑form comments requested benches, picnic tables, meadow areas, better signage, walking trails, more trees, restroom facilities and additional children’s equipment. The Committee plans a more complete presentation to the Board in July after reviewing full results.

Supervisor Breslin praised the survey’s strong in‑person response rate and said some low‑maintenance improvements could be made quickly while others should be budgeted for 2027.