McNeill: $153K to fund projects in Whitehall Township

State Rep. Jeanne McNeill, D-Lehigh, today announced two Greenways, Trails and Recreation Program grants totaling $153,207 have been awarded to Whitehall Township.

“Investments in projects like these provide opportunities for all of our friends and neighbors to gather safely and enjoy the green spaces and natural resources in our local communities,” McNeill said. “Our parks, pavilions and trails are what add value to our quality of life. I’m pleased to see Whitehall Township awarded this funding so that as our communities continue to grow, families will have safe and modern facilities to utilize.”

Awards have been granted as follows:

  • $76,500 to the Hokendauqua Park and Playground Association for a new pedestrian bridge.

  • $76,707 to Whitehall Township for a Whitehall Parkway pavilion.

According to McNeill, the grants are funded by a portion of the impact fees paid through the development of unconventional gas wells across Pennsylvania.

The GTRP provides grants for up to $250,000, and supports projects that involve development, rehabilitation and improvements to public parks, recreation areas, greenways, trails and river conservation.

McNeill explained that funding for GTRP is provided by Act 13 of 2012, which established the Marcellus Legacy Fund and allocates funds to the Commonwealth Financing.