Fox Chapel officials hosted a private opening ceremony Oct. 17 to usher in its newest amenity, Hardie Valley Park.

The 17-acre parcel off Old Mill Road is now open to the public, largely for passive recreation such as walking or bird watching.

The park opening included members of the land’s previous longtime owners, the Hardie family, as well as borough officials and project donors.

Hiller Hardie spoke to the socially distant crowd during the event, as did borough Mayor Alex Scott. Participants were invited to view the park’s Master Plan, which includes a six-year, $3.3 million development with wetland restoration and trail relocation.

A three-phased plan includes removing the house and barn, rerouting a trail, renovating a parking lot and building an interpretive plaza with benches and signs.

The plaza will be dedicated to Fred Rogers, who built the original house and used it as his weekend home.

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