Model Neighborhoods
TTF’s Model Neighborhood project is a neighborhood beautification program that focuses on stormwater management and clean water issues. By collecting residents’ suggestions for neighborhood improvement and combining them with projects to manage stormwater, TTF is able to raise awareness of watershed issues, help beautify neighborhoods, and lay the foundation for ongoing local watershed education and stewardship. We are piloting this project in two different neighborhoods.
Awbury/Cliveden Model Neighborhood
The Germantown/East Mt. Airy section of Philadelphia is a neighborhood with little connection to its creek or the stormwater problems it faces. Over the last 10 years, numerous stormwater management demonstration projects have been created in this neighborhood, but local residents are largely unaware of their benefits or the stormwater issues they address. Rain gardens, a bioswale, and even a porous pavement sidewalk anonymously contribute to a healthier watershed in this neighborhood. To raise watershed awareness and appreciation, TTF coordinates neighborhood beautification projects and community events including volunteer clean-up days, neighborhood tours, rain barrel workshops and planting events.
Wyncote/Glenside Model Neighborhood
The Wyncote/Glenside area of Cheltenham Township is a suburban neighborhood with fairly high awareness of environmental issues. Cedarbrook Middle School contributes to this awareness through their exceptional science program, including a rigorous 7th grade environmental education curriculum focused on watersheds. Cedarbrook partners with Delaware Valley Earth Force, and the Tookany/Tacony-Frankford Watershed Partnership to facilitate students as active participants in improving their community and the environment. As part of the Model Neighborhood project here, we are forging partnerships with neighboring Cheltenham High School, Glenside Elementary School and Arcadia University to increase students’ collaborative resources and widen the scope of this school-based model neighborhood.
