Somerset, Pennsylvania

Somerset lacked high-quality public spaces to serve residents, workers, and host community events. SGA helped facilitate the acquisition of a key property in the Uptown central business district and led the design and construction of Trinity Park—a compact, multi-functional green space that now anchors the heart of downtown.

Inspired by regional geologic outcroppings, the park evokes a nestled piece of native landscape while functioning as a vibrant urban space. Locally sourced materials were prioritized, including reclaimed brick pavers estimated to be over 100 years old, salvaged from a nearby Connellsville street reconstruction. These historic bricks are paired with solar light pavers to enhance nighttime use and seasonal programming.

A signature feature is a trio of sculptural seating elements crafted from regional white oak timbers, offering both visual interest and flexible gathering spots. The park also includes informal seating and an open plaza designed to support concerts, markets, and community dinners. It has quickly become a venue for beloved local events such as Fire and Ice and the Annual Antiques Fair.

Trinity Park is home to Somerset’s first large-scale rain garden, densely planted with layered native species that support pollinators and reflect the region’s ecological character. This sustainable landscape links the town’s past with modern environmental values, creating a space that is both rooted and forward-looking.

More than a park, Trinity is a model for small-town resilience and placemaking. It demonstrates how thoughtful design can transform underutilized urban land into a lush, inclusive, and adaptable public realm—serving as a catalyst for community pride and environmental stewardship.