Friel announces more than $300K in state grant funding
Projects will enhance regional trail network, improve playground accessibility, help develop sewage plan
Rep. Paul Friel January 16, 2024 | 3:50 PM
POTTSTOWN, Jan. 16 – Following advocacy from state Rep. Paul Friel, D-Chester, two projects in Chester County will receive state grants totaling $307,250 to help develop and rehabilitate outdoor spaces, he announced Tuesday.
The Commonwealth Financing Authority (CFA) will award the grants through the Greenways, Trails, and Recreation Program, which helps organizations and municipalities fund projects that improve public parks, recreation areas, greenways, trails, and river conservation:
- East Pikeland Township - $197,500
- Hidden River Park and Preserve Phase 1: The township acquired the 115-acre park off Spring City Road in 2019. Funding will go toward creating an ADA-approved walking trail, nature play area, outdoor education and performance space, pavilions, disc golf course, restoration of meadowland, and more.
- Spring City Borough - $109,750
- Brown Street Park Accessibility & Safety Improvements Project: Funding will be used to complete updates that meet ADA accessibility standards, including a path from new ADA parking spaces to the picnic pavilion and playground, replacement of the mulch playground surface with a safe play surface, modifications to benches, and the addition of all-inclusive play equipment.
“Our parks are for everyone, and these projects will make that truer than ever,” Friel said. “I applaud East Pikeland and Spring City officials for their work to make sure people of all ages and abilities are able to enjoy their outdoor community spaces, and that they offer a wide range of recreational activities.”
Friel said the CFA will award another local project a grant under the Sewage Facilities Program:
- Phoenixville Borough - $22,500
- PA Sewage Facilities Act (Act 537) Plan Update: Act 537 was implemented to help address existing sewage disposal needs and to help prevent future problems through proper planning, permitting, and design. It requires all municipalities to develop and implement a comprehensive sewage facilities plan to address their present and future needs. The funding will help the borough update its sewage plan in accordance with this requirement.
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