The design strategy
Our team had two goals: restore the site to its preindustrial state using natural design elements and transform the neglected landfill into a vibrant outdoor destination for the community.
Practices
Markets
Developing the Cramer Hill Waterfront Park
Camden Harrison Avenue Landfill operated from 1952 to 1971, with unauthorized waste disposal continuing for years. Though abandoned, the site was recognized as an opportunity for revitalization. With support from the Hazardous Discharge Site Remediation Fund (HDSRF), NJDEP began remedial investigations. We joined the team to perform pre-design investigations, paving the way for its transformation.
Restoring natural resources
Cramer Hill Waterfront Park now features 7 acres of wetlands, a fishing pond, 20 acres of reforested areas, paved trials and pollinator meadows.
Protecting the shoreline
Our engineers stabilized 3,000 feet of shoreline with bioengineered slopes and living shorelines, while preserving eagle habitats through conservation islands in the wetland design.
Capping the landfill
Over 300,000 cubic yards of solid waste and soil were redistributed. We added a clean fill cap with plants and installed a gas venting system to provide park safety.
The completed waterfront park includes an amphitheater, entry plaza, universal playground and exercise stations, along with a panoramic view of the Philadelphia skyline and Delaware River Waterfront. “I grew up in Cramer Hill and I could never have imagined the transformation of this former landfill into such a beautiful community asset,” said Camden Mayor Victor Carstarphen. “The park is not only a $48 million investment in our neighborhoods, it’s an investment in the quality of life for all of our residents and a symbol of revitalization for the community.”
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