PROJECT: DISCOVERY PARK
LOCATION: POTTSVILLE, PA
TYPE: INTERACTIVE PARK FOR CHILDREN

PROJECT DESCRIPTION:
Discovery Park is a new interactive public space planned for a vacant parcel at 301 West Market Street in downtown Pottsville, across from the City Library. Conceived as a place for residents, children, and families to read, learn, play, relax, and gather, the park is designed to encourage curiosity, community involvement, and everyday discovery.

The project also honors the legacy of Terrence P. Reiley, one of Pottsville’s most impactful civic leaders and the city’s youngest elected mayor. A graduate of Pottsville Area High School, Villanova University, and Widener University, Reiley was known for his effective management of the City and lasting commitment to civic improvement. Before his passing in 1997 after a battle with leukemia, Discovery Park remained one of his unrealized goals for the community he loved.

The park includes a story area, whispering dish, kugel sculpture honoring departed firefighters, sundial, compass, music component and a mural recognizing local firefighters and promoting volunteerism. An interactive sustainability demonstration area will connect to an on-site wind turbine and solar panels, illustrating energy generation and consumption through everyday appliances.

Together, these elements create a downtown destination where children, families, and community members can gather around shared interests in play, learning, low-tech communication, sustainability, and civic memory.