Riverbend Environmental Education Center

Self-described as “stewards in a long line of stewards,” the Riverbend Environmental Education Center provides environmental education to a diverse constituency made primarily of Lower Merion families and students at regional schools from their site above the Schuylkill River in Gladwyne, PA. As Riverbend celebrated their 50th anniversary and their main building celebrated its 100th birthday, Re:Vision was commissioned for a forward-looking masterplan for the facility that explores Riverbend’s long stewardship practices. Just as previous generations have taken care of the land, buildings, and children who are inspired by the center, the masterplan seeks to set up the next 50 years for success. Critical components of the masterplan include the upgrade of aged oil based HVAC equipment to energy efficient all-electric systems, solar panels, energy efficient lighting upgrades, new program and exhibit spaces, and ADA upgrades.