Embreeville Redevelopment: Progress and What’s Ahead
Dear Residents,
The revitalization of the former Embreeville State Hospital property represents the next exciting step in a process that began more than two years ago. This effort builds on a comprehensive master planning process led by Township staff, professional consultants, and a resident-based advisory committee, whose thoughtful input and vision have shaped the long-term goals for this 196-acre site.
Following the acquisition of the property, West Bradford Township has continued to make steady progress toward transforming Embreeville into a safe, accessible, and vibrant community space for generations to come. While much of the recent work has focused on the less visible but critically important tasks of cleanup, infrastructure stabilization, and site preparation, each milestone brings us closer to realizing the community’s shared vision for this property. This project is a tremendous opportunity for our Township, and we remain committed to ensuring the vision and final product reflects the needs and values of our residents.
I’d like to take a moment to share an overview of what’s been accomplished, what’s happening now, and what lies ahead over the next few years.
Cleanup and Site Stabilization
Since taking ownership, the Township has focused on preparing the property for safe and responsible renewal. A large number of dead and diseased trees have been removed, with more to come as part of ongoing safety and maintenance efforts. Over one mile of the main traffic loop through the property has been milled and base repaired, improving site access and laying the groundwork for future paving.
Crews have cleaned and repaired stormwater inlets, graded roadway banks for proper drainage, and addressed several major existing erosion issues. To protect the property, split rail fencing has been installed along Strasburg Road, with four gated access points for controlled entry. Rock debris left over from the demolition phase has also been removed.
Planning and Design Work
Alongside physical improvements, the Township is advancing the design and planning phases for the next major components of the project. We have submitted a $250,000 grant application to the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED) to help fund the construction of multipurpose grass athletic fields.
Engineering plans and bid specifications are also underway for:
- Installation of multipurpose grass athletic fields (pending grant approval)
- Comprehensive stormwater management upgrades, including new retention basins and improved drainage systems
- Milling, grading, and repaving of key parking areas, including a new lot at the Strasburg Road entrance
These infrastructure investments will not only improve drainage and protect local waterways, but they’ll also ensure the site is ready for long-term recreational and community use.
What’s Next
Moving forward, West Bradford Township’s Public Works Department will continue to perform maintenance and cleanup as time allows. It’s important to note that our Public Works team manages more than 160 lane miles of township roads and associated infrastructure, an ongoing effort that includes stormwater maintenance, paving, plowing, and roadside work. In addition, the crews maintain several parks and trails.
In early 2026, the Township plans to award contracts for major stormwater infrastructure projects, followed by the installation of the multipurpose grass athletic fields. At the same time, design work will begin for Ryan Boulevard, the road that connects the north and south portions of the site. Ryan Boulevard has been heavily impacted by previous construction but will serve as a critical access route for heavy equipment during ongoing work. As we progress southward through the site, the road will be repaired and paved.
Following these improvements, attention will shift to the baseball field area on the southern portion of the property, which will include tree removal, roadway improvements, parking installation, and traffic flow upgrades. A new access road connecting to Route 162 is scheduled for completion by June 2027, improving safe access to the southern portion of the property.
Scouting Partnership
In conjunction with the ongoing work at the Embreeville site, West Bradford Township is also partnering with Scout Troops 52 and 19, and Cub Scout Pack 152, to develop a dedicated Scout Camp on an adjacent property. This new space will provide the Scouts with a permanent home base featuring traditional elements such as a fire pit and flagpole, along with Adirondack-style cabins and a pavilion to support overnight camping and outdoor programs.
The camp will have access to park amenities within the Embreeville complex, encouraging hands-on learning and outdoor stewardship. In exchange for the use of the site, the Scouts have committed to assisting the Township with trail maintenance and care for outdoor areas within the Embreeville property. This partnership not only strengthens the connection between youth and the community’s natural spaces but also reinforces the Township’s commitment to civic engagement and environmental education.
Looking Toward the Future
By mid-2027, much of the foundational structure of the future park will be in place. Walking trails and multipurpose athletic fields will begin to take shape, and the Township expects to introduce new features such as pollinator gardens, picnic pavilions, and other gathering areas that enhance the site’s natural beauty and community use. It is at that time when the site should be fully accessible to the public.
The transformation of the Embreeville property represents a long-term investment in West Bradford’s future, one that balances recreation, environmental stewardship, and responsible preservation. While there is still considerable work ahead, the progress made so far reflects the Township’s ongoing commitment to revitalizing this historic property into a place our community can be proud of. We hope to coordinate a "walk with the Supervisors" in late Spring or early Summer for a tour of the site, followed by light snacks and refreshments.
As we continue this ambitious and exciting journey, I want to personally thank our residents for their patience, encouragement, and steadfast support. This project is truly a shared effort, and your trust and engagement inspire our team every day. Together, we are building something meaningful for future generations, and I look forward to celebrating each milestone with you.
Many thanks,
Justin Yaich, Township Manager
