Boardman, Ohio

FOREST LAWN STORMWATER PARK OFFICIALLY OPENS FOR RESIDENTS TO USE

Boardman residents and officials from the Township, Mahoning County and ABC Water and Stormwater District celebrated the opening of Phase One of the Forest Lawn Stormwater Park with a ribbon cutting ceremony October 29, 2025.

Situated on the grounds of the former Market St. Elementary School, Forest Lawn Stormwater Park is an innovative concept — an inviting public recreational space with a powerful, protective purpose. This park is the result of years of planning and the vision of a community determined to solve its most persistent problem.

Its a park that works. From opening old pathways to major infrastructure improvements and the creation of this central retention pond, Forest Lawn is designed to alleviate neighborhood flooding and protect our local environment.

Forest Lawn is a peaceful sanctuary designed for everyone. You can take a relaxing stroll along the new trail ways, walk with your friend across open green spaces, or gather with friends for a relaxing afternoon.

Phase One is now open. Phase Two will commence shortly, bringing even more extensive structures and features to the park

PHASE TWO: Proposed Forest Lawn Educational Pavilion

Located as a focal point at the entry to the park, this new structure will serve as an educational center fostering responsible water and habitat stewardship.

Forest Lawn Educational Pavilion will promote awareness of watershed issues and teach park users about the watershed area. Visitors will learn how to help eliminate pollution and runoff that eventually goes to the local rivers system.

A series of visible landscape features that capture, clean, and reuse stormwater runoff will be incorporated into the design. Green infrastructure elements, including rain barrels, permeable paving, and rain gardens will be featured, as well as native plantings, pollinator gardens, and meadows.

The facility will contain exhibits and displays that highlight the site’s role Forest Lawn Stormwater Park plays in stormwater management. It will also highlight the importance and ability of natural ecosystems to fit into the urban context.

In addition, the pavilion can be used by groups for classes, community engagement events, workshops, and as a public meeting space.

ADDITION DETAILS

Project Funding – ABC Funding, State Capital Budget, Natural Resource Assistance Council (tentative), American Rescue Plan Act (tentative), Land Water Conservation Fund (tentative).

Flood Control – Converting the storm system from a closed system to an open stream system and creating floodplain stormwater management areas that slow the flow and allow areas of controlled flooding.

Water Quality– Slowing the water flow through created floodplain that will allow sediment to settle and decrease erosion.

Habitat – Through stream habitat creation, wetland creation, reforesting areas, pollinator and meadow areas.

Sustainable Design – Reduction of hardscape, increase pervious areas, natural stormwater detention areas