Ann Yost of YSM Landscape Architects reported to South Whitehall representatives on her survey of public attitudes toward Covered Bridge Park.

"Everybody loves the park," Yost said.

Although she gathered suggestions for improvements and additional facilities, the overriding message was, "Tweek – don't change it," Yost said.

At a Sept. 9 meeting of the South Whitehall Parks and Recreation Board, Yost described the work begun this summer on the site master plan of Covered Bridge Park and a feasibility study for connecting the park to the Jordan Creek Greenway.

Approved by commissioners in June, YSM Landscape Architects of York, was selected at a cost of $55,965 based on the firm's skills, experience, vision and desire to stress the art of park design.

Funding is derived form the state Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, Lehigh County, and the township.

Covered Bridge Park encompasses 113 acres, including 36.6 acres of agricultural fields presently undeveloped.

Rock formations and wooded areas provide a scenic backdrop for the open sections of the park.

An underground gas line runs through the area and overhead power lines rise above.

Most of the park is in a 100-year flood plain subject to periodic flooding.

Yost said the park was built well with few drainage issues.

Through her interviews with residents and representatives of youth sports groups, Yost learned people would like more parking, additional restrooms and concessions.

Location of these facilities is limited by the flood plain, Yost said.

Although the existing restrooms are positioned out of the flood plain, the distance from athletic fields is a bit far to walk.

A new comfort facility could be elevated above the flood plain, but the necessity for a septic field complicates the issue.

Parks and recreation board member Mark Ackerman suggested incorporating a dog park on the north side.

"We need to open the upper end of the park," Ackerman said. "We can use rental money from the corn field to pay for the dog park." Ackerman said

South Whitehall Commissioner David Bond conveyed some ideas given to him by residents.

These include volleyball courts (sand and other), a bike trail, a pavilion along Lapp Road and pavilion access to field three.

The park is 1.3 miles from one end to the other, which could yield a looped pathway of 2.6 miles.

Yost received a wish for a playground near the Little League fields so younger brothers and sisters can play while the games are going on.

Yost was asked whether Parkland High School will be a part of any trails.

"The school is such a destination," Yost said. "It needs to connect somehow, even if it is not part of the Greenway."

Yost explained the firm is ready to begin the design process while also continue doing more outreach and obtaining comments from the public.

She will meet with a committee consisting of Bob Ibach, public works manager; Katrina Idelman, parks and rec board; and Dennis Barr, who has experience in park development.

A meeting will be scheduled for November to report on the direction of the design for the master plan based on input of the public and the committee.