Park & Recreation board recommends Simone Collins to lead Heuser Park Phase II master plan

The Upper Merion Township Board of Supervisors on June 4 heard a recommendation from the Park & Recreation Board to retain Simone Collins Landscape Architect to prepare a Phase II master site development plan for Heuser Park.

Dan Russell, Park & Recreation Director, told the Board that the Park & Recreation Board and township staff favor Simone Collins after interviews with multiple firms. Peter Simone of Simone Collins outlined four primary priorities for the project: setting the proper balance between active and passive recreation; efficiently addressing existing site materials; building sustainability and stewardship into the plan; and conducting “thorough public participation” including focus groups, web-based surveys and public meetings. Mr. Simone said the firm proposes a 13-month schedule and would coordinate directly with Russell.

Mr. Simone said the Phase II parcel contains historic dredge fill and decades-old construction debris; rather than full excavation, he recommended repositioning and covering much of that material and asked that Public Works perform small test digs to confirm whether contaminants are present. He also asked the Board to consider incorporating a performance venue to serve the township's summer concert series. Supervisor Greg Waks asked that any community survey not be anonymous so only township residents respond; Chairperson Tina Garzillo said the Board will consider the appointment at its June 11 business meeting.

Next steps: the Board will vote on June 11, 2026, on whether to retain Simone Collins; if approved, the firm anticipates a roughly 13-month planning process that includes resident input and coordination with township staff.