Riverbend Environmental Education Center Celebrates Community Pavilion Unveiling Tuesday, May 17

Riverbend Environmental Education Center celebrates the unveiling of a substantial new pavilion on Tuesday, May 17th at 5:30 PM. Set near the top of Riverbend’s 30-acre preserve, the 400-square-foot pavilion, designed by architect Roderick Wolfson, features scenic views and eco-friendly elements including a solar panel, composting toilet and surrounding native plant garden. The pavilion unveiling kicks-off with brief remarks from Riverbend leadership, a ceremonial ribbon cutting to mark the pavilion’s official opening, and a celebratory toast to shared accomplishments. Those arriving early at 5:00 PM are invited to a guided tour of Riverbend’s aquaponics greenhouse.

The newly constructed pavilion is a project that was made possible through a $300,000 Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program (RACP) and thanks to State Senator Daylin Leach who recommended Riverbend for the State grant. Construction was completed this spring -- just in time for Riverbend’s busy season of school field trips, summer campers, and for the local community to enjoy. “I was more than happy to help bring this beautiful new pavilion to Riverbend," Leach said. "Teaching our children how to be good stewards of the environment is a vital part of building a thriving society and a fun learning opportunity for the kids."

The pavilion features a covered space, providing shelter for educational programs and community use. The adjoining composting toilet provides an eco-friendly facility for guests of the preserve to utilize. “Riverbend is thrilled to improve the learning opportunities for program participants and to enhance our visitors’ experiences,” said Laurie Bachman, Executive Director. “Our preserve is available for the community to enjoy every day, all year long. Now there is a covered picnic area with bathroom facilities that will serve visitors when the Snider Barn is closed.”

In addition to the grant funds, the pavilion was made possible thanks to the in-kind professional services provided by Avison Young, Wolfson Architect, Kaplin Stewart, Yohn Engineering, LLC, Site Engineering Concepts, LLC, and a generous gift from Michelle & Leonard Keating.

The pavilion presents a naming opportunity from a generous donor who would like to contribute to Riverbend’s long-term sustainability with a sizeable gift.

ABOUT RIVERBEND ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION CENTER -- Riverbend Environmental Education Center is a 501(c) (3) non-profit organization located in 1950 Spring Mill Road Gladwyne, PA. Our preserve is located on 30 acres, open 7 days a week for visitors. Riverbend offers a full menu of environmental education programs including school curriculum, teacher training, school field trips, exploration camp, public programs, weekly nature classes and special events.