$548,000 coming to Berks to improve recreation, conserve natural resources
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Sep. 6—Five plans to create new recreational opportunities and conserve natural resources in Berks County have been awarded state grants totaling nearly $548,000 in an effort to help revitalize local communities.
Gov. Tom Wolf announced Tuesday that projects proposed by three municipalities and two organizations in Berks were among 330 projects that will receive grants totaling more than $90 million.
The $90 million in grants is the largest single investment in Pennsylvania recreation and conservation in agency history, surpassing the previous record of $70 million in 2021. Under the administration of Wolf, the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources has awarded more than $430 million in grants to more than 2,300 projects across the commonwealth.
"Pennsylvania encompasses some of the most beautiful natural areas in the nation," the governor said in a press release. "By investing in the upkeep and expansion of our recreational areas, we are not only improving the quality of life for citizens. We are making Pennsylvania an even better destination for visitors who will contribute to the economic health of communities all across the commonwealth."
These are the Berks projects that received funding:
—Muhlenberg Township will receive $140,000 for the development of the Schuylkill River Trail. The project will include construction of the trail from Kelly's Lock Park to Laurel Run Park and a trailhead as well as landscaping, signage and other related site improvements.
—Fleetwood will get $133,400 for the restoration of 800 feet of Willow Creek in Fleetwood Park. The work will include stream restoration, streambank stabilization, landscaping, signage and other related site improvements.
—Berks Nature will receive $128,100 to help cover the cost of acquiring about 17 acres in Exeter Township for an addition to the Neversink Mountain Preserve.
—Natural Lands Trust will get $106,000 to help cover the cost of acquiring about 28 acres in Robeson and Cumru townships for an addition to the William Penn State Forest.
—South Heidelberg Township will receive $40,000 to prepare a comprehensive recreation, park and open space plan for the township.
