In a major transfer of land from the
Allegheny Land Trust to the City of Pittsburgh last week, Emerald View Park in Mt. Washington gained 11 additional acres bringing the total size to 243 acres .
The land, which runs along Greenleaf Street, was acquired by the
Allegheny Land Trust in 2008. Last Tuesday, the City and the
Mt. Washington Community Development Corporation
signed a joint lease agreement, allowing them to maintain the land.
Funding for the land transfer was provided by
Colcom.
"Not only does the acreage protect some beautiful land and wooded areas that prevent soil erosion and help with stormwater management, but we'll be able to incorporate this property into our park by adding trails," says Ilyssa Manspeizer, director of park development and conservation for the MWCDC, who co-manage the park with the City.
The newly acquired parcels also contain parking and trailhead space, which is wonderful given the neighborhood's limited parking resources. In addition, the area boasts stunning views of the West End and Saw Mill Run valley. The ALT is currently looking to acquire another 14 acres, which would then be transferred to the City and MWCDC to better connect the park's main 9-mile walking loop.
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Writer:
John FarleySource: Ilyssa Manspeizer, MWCDC
Photograph copyright Ilyssa Manspeizer