Free the Park

by Liz Harris

The numerous buildings of Independence National Historical Park in Old City sparkle with the patriotism and pride of Philadelphia and are closely monitored by preservationists and caretakers. But just down the road at Fifth and Walnut, the green space around Independence Square had, until recently, fallen into disrepair because of the weather, dogs and picnickers. That's about to change.

A $5 million refurbishment project at Independence National Historical Park recently began. The goal is to restore the park to its intended auspicious beauty. "It's an important project because Independence Square is a very important part of the American scene," says park spokesman Phil Sheridan. "We take pretty good care of Independence Hall, so we should take good care of the block it sits on."

The current design of the park dates back to the early 20th century — not 1776 — and little has been done to the grass, shrubbery and stones since. The current construction is all in the name of restoration. In the absence of any architectural changes, it has received no real opposition from neighbors concerned about aesthetics or history.

Society Hill Civic Association administrator Matt DeJulio said that park superintendent Mary Bomar came to the group's May 26 general membership meeting and explained the reasons and the plans for restoration. According to DeJulio, Bomar's presentation satisfied residents.

Sheridan also suggests that the successful recent restoration of Washington Square Park, which was handled by the Fairmount Park Commission, serves as a heartening taste of what Independence Square will become.

The construction at Independence Square will address re-laying the bluestone — a more difficult project than it may seem as some of the pieces are 8- to 10-inches thick — and replacing the stones where necessary. Several have shattered over the course of a century. The park's drainage system is also badly in need of attention as some of the drains installed almost 100 years ago have caved. The brick wall on Walnut Street will be re-pointed (a process of replacing deteriorated mortar), and a new sprinkler system and better lighting will be installed.

Funding for this project comes from National Park Service construction money, for which parks across the country compete. Sheridan says that the stretch of fence that contains the construction is projected to circulate piece by piece through Independence Square during the rest of the year so the entire area won't be shut down.

"Perhaps in another 80 or 100 years we'll be ready to do it again!" Sheridan says.