A total of $322,000 in grants was awarded today (September 17) for recreational development projects in Erie County, according to Senator Dan Laughlin.
The City of Erie was awarded $190,000 and the Western Pennsylvania Conservancy was awarded two grants totaling $132,000 by the Commonwealth Financing Authority (CFA) at its meeting today.
“These grants represent an investment by the state in the development and protection of recreational areas throughout Erie County,” Senator Laughlin said. “These grants will expand recreational areas, improve trails and promote efforts to control invasive species in our parks.”
The City of Erie will use its $190,000 Greenways, Trails and Recreation Program grant for McClelland Park trail improvements. The project includes construct of a bridge over a small stream, installation of a 240-foot boardwalk, two gazebos and two pavilions.
The Western Pennsylvania Conservancy was awarded a $90,000 Greenways, Trails and Recreation Program grant for expansion of the West Branch of French Creek Conservation Area. The project will acquire 147 acres to add to the 603-acre conservation area. The property will be permanently protected and open to the public for hiking, fishing, wildlife watching and science and nature study.
The Western Pennsylvania Conservancy was also awarded a $42,000 Greenways, Trails and Recreation Program grant for controlling invasive species in Shades Beach Park, Highmeyer Park and Sixmile Creek Park in Harbor Creek Township and Girard Borough Park.
The CFA was established as an independent agency of the Commonwealth to administer Pennsylvania’s economic stimulus packages. The CFA holds fiduciary responsibility over the funding of programs and investments in Pennsylvania’s economic growth.
