A wave of state funding will soon help communities with outdoor spaces in Schuylkill and surrounding counties, thanks to over $1.5 million awarded through Pennsylvania’s Community Conservation Partnerships Program (C2P2).
This investment, announced by local leaders, will support various recreation and conservation projects, enhancing access to outdoor activities and promoting environmental stewardship.
In the latest round of funding, Sen. Dave Argall (R-29) and Rep. Tim Twardzik (R-123) announced more than $600,000 for Schuylkill County park improvements. This includes:
Cass Township: $65,000 to develop Forestville Playground with a new pickleball court, walkways, and updated playground equipment.
Schuylkill River Greenway Association: $500,000 to extend the Schuylkill River Trail through Blythe and New Castle Townships and Saint Clair Borough, adding 4.6 miles to the scenic trail.
West Mahanoy Township: $67,500 to upgrade Altamont Park, including new playground equipment and other enhancements.
In addition, Rep. Dane Watro (R-Luzerne/Schuylkill) and Argall announced $91,000 for North Union Township to develop Nuremberg Community Park with new walkways, ADA access, playground equipment, landscaping, and more.
Rep. Jamie Barton (R-Berks/Schuylkill) joined the effort, securing nearly $888,000 for additional projects within the 124th Legislative District. This funding includes:
Appalachian Trail Conservancy: $40,000 to study a trail crossing connecting PA State Game Lands 110 in Tilden Township to Port Clinton.
Hawk Mountain Sanctuary Association: $184,000 for sanctuary upgrades and $92,900 for raptor migration monitoring with Kittatinny Hawk Watch.
The Rodale Institute: $50,000 to install a 2.5-acre riparian forest buffer in the Lower Delaware River Watershed.
Schuylkill River Greenway Association: An additional $435,000 to advance the design and development of the Schuylkill River Trail through Berks and Schuylkill counties.
West Penn Township: $86,000 to improve J.E. Morgan Memorial Park.
“Berks and Schuylkill counties are home to some of the most beautiful parts of our Commonwealth,” Barton said. “This funding will help more people get out and enjoy the outdoors in the short term, while laying the groundwork to ensure our area stays beautiful for generations to come.”
Reflecting on the importance of these investments, Argall said, “I’m very grateful that these highly competitive funds will improve opportunities for my constituents to enjoy the natural beauty of our area.” Twardzik added, “By expanding and enhancing public spaces, we’re fostering safe, welcoming areas where residents of all ages can come together, stay active, and enjoy the outdoors.”