The Briant Park Olmsted Conservancy (BPOC) is dedicated to the restoration and beautification of the 51 acres of Briant Park bordering Summit and Springfield, by returning it to a state as close as possible to its original design as planned in 1930 by the Olmsted brothers’ landscape architecture firm. The restored park is eligible for listing on the State and National Registers of Historic Places.
Working with the county and professional landscape architects and volunteers, BPOC will help beautify the park and restore it to its original condition by assisting in the planting and restoration efforts wherever possible. The additional goal of a more attractive and user-friendly park will encourage greater use of the facility by the residents of Summit, Springfield, and many surrounding towns.
Recently, the Briant Park Olmsted Conservancy completed its Master Plan for the Park with the assistance of the landscape architecture firm Rhodeside and Harwell . This blueprint for the future is broken out into various components which the Conservancy and Union County will be able to implement on a project-by-project basis for years to come.
The Master Plan for Briant Park includes:
- Protection of the remains of the design components that were built for Union County by the Olmsted firm;
- Respect for and understanding of the planning that has been done to date over various periods, including various spot repairs and added uses, such as the fitness trail;
- Reflection of the enthusiasm shown by members of the Board of Chosen Freeholders and the community’s vision for what the park should be.
Ecosystem Services Provided:
Climate Stabilization and Air Pollution Mitigation: Carbon sequestration- aforestation, reforestation
Biological Diversity: Habitat- extension of habitat corridors
Outreach, Recreation & Aesthetics: Public access- hiking trails
Total Project Cost: $42,240
Status: BPOC has the original 1930 design from Olmsted Brothers Landscape Architecture firm, and has recently completed the Master Plan.
If you would like further information about this project, please contact Conservation Resources Inc.
