Two municipalities in the 32nd Senatorial district have been awarded a total of $304,900 in state funding for projects to enhance recreational opportunities for area residents, according to Senator Pat Stefano (R-32) and Representative Matt Dowling (R-51).
The grants were awarded by the Commonwealth Financing Authority (CFA) under its Trails and Recreation Program.
“These projects are crucial to showcasing our natural resources and providing area residents with opportunities to enjoy the outdoors,” Stefano said. “I’m pleased that this funding will help to improve the quality of life for area residents.”
“It’s exciting to see two worthy municipalities at opposite ends of the county receive this funding to stimulate recreation. These local parks are so meaningful to our communities here in Fayette County. Comfort in recreation leads to a better sense of overall wellness and well-being; an investment in recreation is an investment in better health. I’m proud to see that this funding will come to benefit both German and Wharton Townships.”
German Township received a $225,000 grant to construct Phase 1 of a municipal park at 208 Edenborn Road, several miles from the Browns Run Trail along the Monongahela River.
The construction will include site preparation, construction of sidewalks, installation of picnic tables and playground equipment, and fencing for the neighborhood park, which will be particularly targeted to toddlers and younger children.
“Combined with the Brown’s Run Trail, the County’s German Masontown Park, and the proposed neighborhood park, this region will be greatly served by an abundant amount of recreational opportunities,” Stefano said.
Wharton Township in Philipsburg received $79,900 to construct additional restroom facilities at the Municipal Park located on Elliotsville Road just behind the Municipal Complex Building.
Regarding the awards, Stefano & Dowling noted that the Park currently has one compost restroom facility, but with the high demand of users and organized sporting activities and events at the Park, another permanent facility is needed to accommodate demand.
The grants were awarded by the Commonwealth Financing Authority (CFA) under its Watershed and Restoration Program and Greenways, Trails and Recreation Program. The program is funded with money assessed by the Commonwealth through the state’s Impact Fee, which is paid by the state’s unconventional natural gas producers.