Shapiro announces $52.5 million for recreation and conservation projects

In a joint announcement with the state Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DNCR), Governor Josh Shapiro recently unveiled plans to invest $52.5 million in more than 225 recreation and conservation projects throughout Pennsylvania.

“Our Commonwealth has incredible outdoor spaces — and for me, there’s no better place to be than on a Pennsylvania trail. So today, I’m proud to announce that the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, led by Secretary Cindy Dunn, has awarded more than $52 million to over 225 local projects across the Commonwealth that will help communities like Bethlehem connect more trails, improve more parks, and help more Pennsylvanians just enjoy their time outside,” said Shapiro. “Our local parks and natural spaces are hometown treasures in our neighborhoods — in urban cities and rural towns alike. Communities across Pennsylvania should know that my administration is ready to work with you to protect and invest in your local treasures.”

For Pike County, $100,000 will go to the borough of Matamoras for the development of Airport Park. The work will include the construction of pedestrian walkways, installation of play equipment with required safety surfacing, ADA access, landscaping, project signs, and other related site improvements.

The bulk of the money is being allocated to other areas of the state, including for 23 trail projects, the protection of nearly 6,835 acres of open space, 13 projects involving river conservation, 13 community and watershed forestry projects, and 99 projects to develop or rehabilitate recreation/conservation areas and facilities.

“These projects will fund critical improvements to local parks, river access and trails across the Commonwealth, which will bring outdoor recreation amenities closer to home and improve access in our communities,” DCNR Secretary Cindy Adams Dunn said. “Trails boost quality of life, and the role trails play as connectors is key in increasing Pennsylvania’s economic competitiveness.”

The DCNR’s Bureau of Recreation and Conservation and Community Conservation Partnerships Program (C2P2) administers the grants. And funds come from the Keystone Fund, which is generated from a portion of the realty transfer tax; the Environmental Stewardship Fund; the ATV/Snowmobile Fund generated through fees for licenses; and federal monies.

Shapiro’s announcement noted that the 124 state parks in Pennsylvania attract 40 million visitors every year, contributing to the $14 billion added annually to Pennsylvania’s economy and supporting 150,000 jobs.

For a complete breakdown of how the $52.5 million will be allocated, view the full list at the following link: bit.ly/3F6YSoc.