Union Canal Restoration and Park

This project, undertaken by the Lebanon County Historical Society, involved the complete restoration of the existing tunnel portal and restoration of the section of the existing canal immediately downstream of the tunnel. The ultimate project objective was to create a small recreational park for this area.

Working with the architect, Friends of the Union Canal Tunnel Park, and appropriate agencies, a plan was developed to reconstruct the walls of the canal and transform the area into a Day Use Facility for visitor use, enjoyment, and education. Agency collaboration and cooperation was critical as we worked with DEP, the Army Corps of Engineers, PA Fish & Wildlife Commission, Lebanon County Conservation District, and the Lebanon County Planning Department.

The dam/bridge combination structure is what holds the water in the canal to a depth suitable for canal boat rides that the park offers to the public each weekend. Our scope for the project included canal and tunnel restoration work, park design, phased construction, state permits, site development, storm water and circulation design, construction documentation, and construction observation.