FERGUSON TOWNSHIP — A dream became reality on Friday, July 25, with the soft opening of Whitehall Road Regional Park, a sprawling 100-acre public space designed to serve athletes, families and nature lovers alike.
Located in the scenic Musser Gap area off Whitehall Road, the park marks the culmination of more than a decade of planning and collaboration between the Centre Region Council of Governments (COG), Ferguson Township and Centre Region Parks and Recreation (CRPR).
“Whitehall Road Regional Park has been decades in the making — and today, we proudly open its gates as a vibrant hub for play, sport, relaxation and connection,” Kristy Owens, Director of Parks and Recreation, said. “Your support and vision have brought this long-awaited dream to life, overlooking one of the most beautiful views in the Valley.”
The first phase of the park covers 50 acres and includes two LED-lit multipurpose tournament fields, two medium-sized grass fields, an accessible all-abilities playground, a reflection garden, restrooms, walking trails and even a Story Walk curated in partnership with Schlow Library. The grounds also feature pollinator gardens, a new maintenance facility and parking.
Visitors can explore trails that connect to the Musser Gap Greenway, linking the park to Rothrock State Forest.
While the park is officially open, a larger grand opening celebration will be announced soon.
The park’s development wasn’t without challenges. The groundbreaking took place in April 2022, but construction faced a variety of delays, including utility coordination issues, seasonal weather setbacks and stormwater compliance hurdles.
Ferguson Township Manager Centrice Martin and CRCOG Executive Director Ben Estell worked together to get the project over the finish line. Since early 2025, both leaders and their teams met regularly to ensure the park met all requirements under Ferguson Township’s Stormwater Management Ordinance.
“This park delivers on our community’s vision for accessible, inclusive and high-quality recreational opportunities,” Martin said. “Ferguson Township is proud to have been a foundational partner in bringing Whitehall Road Regional Park to fruition. We look forward to seeing it become a vibrant hub for families, athletes and nature lovers across the region.”
Estell emphasized the broader significance of the project.
“Whitehall Road Regional Park represents the power of regional cooperation and the dedication of so many local leaders and community members,” Estell said. “This park is not just a place to play — it’s a symbol of what we can achieve when we work together. We’re thrilled to welcome residents to enjoy the fields, trails, playgrounds, and natural beauty that this space offers.”
Looking ahead, CRPR has secured funding for a pavilion and concession stand, expected to be built in 2025–26. The additions will provide shaded gathering space and food options during tournaments and events.
The park is open daily from dawn to dusk and is located at 1954 Blue Course Drive Extension. For more information visit crpr.org/whitehall-road-regional-park.
