The Allentown Department of Parks and Recreation is shoring-up Cedar Creek streambanks behind Cedar Beach Pool as part of the work to mitigate flooding in the area.

With approval of the PA Department of Environmental Protection, the project consists of several phases. Phase 1 is comprised of two segments.

The first segment, addressing the force of creek waters, consisted of removal of a concrete bridge, bridge abutments and related activities and was completed earlier this summer.

The second segment, currently in process, includes streambank restoration which incorporates streambank grading, removal of legacy sediment, installation of coir rolls for streambank stabilization and planting of native plants and trees.

All aspects of Phase 1 should be completed this fall.  Phase 2 consists of work to address asphalt areas in the same location and has not yet been scheduled.

“The flooding issue in this area has been a primary concern for many years. I am pleased that working with DEP we have thus far been successful in ensuring not only that creek waters do not flood the newly renovated Cedar Pool, but that we address this issue in an environmentally appropriate manner,” said Parks and Recreation Director Karen El-Chaar. “Completion of this project will have a huge impact not only with flood mitigation, but in restoring natural flow of the creek and restoring native habitat areas.”

A newly constructed Cedar Beach Pool was completed in the fall of 2017.  It was closed on two occasions in 2018 due to flooding.

 

The mission of the Allentown Department of Parks and Recreation is to enhance the quality of life in our City by providing and maintaining quality parks, trails and green spaces, and, by offering enriching recreational activities and facilities for people of all ages and abilities.

Information provided to TVL by:
Mike Moore
Communications Manager
Mayor’s Office
435 Hamilton Street
Allentown, PA 18101
Mike.Moore@allentownpa.gov
http://www.AllentownPA.gov

 

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