Parking, Dogs and Picnic Tables in Gilfillan Park Debated

Nearly 30 Upper St. Clair residents attended the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board's special meeting on Wednesday night to brainstorm ideas for .

The residents had many different suggestions, but all agreed the park is unique and natural, and should stay that way.

"It is one of my favorite places in all of St. Clair," resident Sally Spencer said. "Leaving it alone is the best thing. Or plant some fruit trees or some nut trees. Anything to enhance animal life."

The 60-acre park lies between Orr, Washington and Fieldgate roads and surrounds the Gilfillan Farm which was bequeathed to the Historical Society of upper St. Clair in the will of Margaret Gilfillan.

There is a trust fund of more than one million dollars which can be used to enhance the park, as long as the expense has historical, cultural, recreational or educational value. According to the original deed, no pool or skate park would be allowed.

Some popular suggestions from the night included maintaining and taking care of the huge, old trees; preservation of the native plants; educational signage; and extending the wood chip trail.

The crowd seemed to react positive to Parks and Recreation Board member Thomas Browand's suggestion of planting seasonal or butterfly gardens to compliment the farm.

However, the crowd was split on a variety of topics, including dogs, picnic tables and parking.

Some residents felt as though there aren't enough places to walk dogs in Upper St. Clair, especially since the township does not have sidewalks. Others were worried animal feces would ruin Gilfillan Park and pose a safety risk for nearby residents and children.

A handful of residents at the meeting asked for picnic tables and more places to sit. Other attendees argued more picnic tables would encourage more trash and littering.

One of the goals of the board, is to make Gilfillan a community park, not a township park. Some board members said parking must be added to create the welcoming feel. Most park patrons use the parking lot when they use the trail.

"We need to address the parking," said Jennifer Schuler, vice chairman of the Parks and Recreation Board.

"I think it's dangerous to cross at the church," member Diane Morris said.

Many residents didn't like the idea of adding asphalt or a parking lot close to their homes. Some, including some members of the church, said parking in the Westminster lot is fine.

The board members will digest what the public had to say and determine what to do next at their meeting on Tuesday, May 24 at 7:30 p.m. at the .