Lycoming News

State grants totaling over $250,000 have been awarded to two projects in Schuylkill County to enhance outdoor recreation spaces. The grants were announced by Rep. Jamie Barton and Sen. Dave Argall, both Republicans.

One of the projects receiving funding is the Deer Lake Dam, which will undergo major updates and repairs to the spillway and sluiceway. The dam is the foundation of Deer Lake Park and the grant of $200,000 will also be used to update the playground and recreational facilities. David B. Crouse, the President of Deer Lake Borough Council, expressed his excitement about the grant, stating, "We've been working on this for years. It's going to seal the deal on keeping our community recreational facility open for everyone to enjoy."

The significance of the funding for Deer Lake was emphasized by Barton, who stated, "This money is going toward crucial repairs to the dam's spillway, which will keep the area safe. Some funding will also be used to improve the playground and its accessibility."

The second project to receive funding is the renovation of the tennis courts at East Brunswick Township Park in McKeansburg. The grant of $65,136 will also be used to install a new pickleball court. Barton highlighted the importance of providing recreational spaces for the hardworking people in the area, stating, "The harder we work, the more important it is to have places to go to unwind. This money will be used to make major improvements to East Brunswick Park, giving people of all ages the chance to get outdoors and have some fun."

The grants were awarded by the Commonwealth Financing Authority through the Greenways, Trails, and Recreation Program. This program aims to develop, rehabilitate, and improve public parks, recreation areas, greenways, trails, and rivers. The funding for the program is sourced from unconventional gas well impact fees.

These grants will significantly enhance the outdoor recreational facilities in Schuylkill County, providing safe and enjoyable spaces for the community to come together and engage in various activities. The improvements to the Deer Lake Dam and East Brunswick Township Park will ensure that residents of all ages have access to quality outdoor spaces.