Photo Credit: Environmental Planning & Design, LLC
Oakmont, located 14 miles northeast of the city of Pittsburgh, Penn., is a community of 6,000 residents over 1.5 square miles. Founded in 1889 as a railroad town and the namesake to the world-famous Oakmont Country Club, the community is distinguished by an eclectic collection of shops, boutiques, and eateries in its business district, and residential neighborhoods primarily consisting of single-family homes.
Oakmont’s historic Riverside Park is nestled along the Allegheny River, neighboring the Hulton Bridge and immediately adjacent to the local middle- and high-school buildings. Much of Riverside Park is enveloped in a canopy of mature oak and maple trees. It was built in the 1930s when a former railroad neighborhood was razed to make way for the 13-acre site. The riverfront setting is defined by significant elevation changes. Two pavilions, a field house, benches, and picnic tables are elevated a short distance from the steep river bank on the lower plateau closer to the river. On the same level, a track encircles two basketball courts, four tennis courts, and a playground. On the higher plateau, farther from the river, the park's football, baseball, softball, and tee-ball fields are home to a busy schedule of sporting events, including the Riverview School District’s football games.
Sharing The Wealth And The Responsibility
Riverside Park serves as the community’s key recreation space, and is a vital part of Oakmont Borough’s overall atmosphere. The property is owned by the borough, and Riverview School District leases a portion of the facilities. Maintenance is completed predominately by the borough with the school district serving in a supporting role.