West Chester University Gets Historic, 52 Acre Open Space Donation

WEST CHESTER, PA — West Chester University has received a historic donation of 52 acres of open space which will be a "living laboratory" both for the university community and general public.

As part of the land donation and an agreement to share the land publicly as protected space with East Whiteland Township, the university received $4.7 million, the largest single sum in school history.

"Our commitment to sustain this land is part of the fabric of who we are as good stewards of our community," West Chester University President Laurie Bernotsky said in a statement. "As a public institution, we have an obligation to contribute to the public good."

The open space, known as Ridley Springs, was officially transferred to the university and East Whiteland on June 17. Work is now underway to transform it into an accessible nature reserve and public park.

It's located on 1469 Morestein Road, just off of 202.

The university says that students with interests in sustainability, art and design, biological sciences, geographic information systems, and more will have an active role in working with East Whiteland officials in developing the park.

The donation was made anonymously on the condition of long term conservation.

“Plans are underway to transform the land into a nature preserve and public park, preserving its natural beauty and preventing future commercial, residential, or industrial development - honoring the original intent of the donor," East Whiteland Township Manager Steve Brown said.

The property features a "distinctive valley" with various streams, including Valley Creek and Little Valley Creek. There are also numerous rolling hills, acres of woodlands, and habitat for many important native species.