WEST CHESTER, PA — Plans to improve opportunities for outdoor recreation in Malvern and West Grove will receive more than $197,000 in total state funding, state Senator Carolyn Comitta announced.
The funds, approved this week by the Commonwealth Financing Authority, are as follows:
- $158,249 for Malvern Borough for the Randolph Woods Preserve Phase 1 Improvements.
- $39,082 for West Grove Borough for the West Grove Borough Park Master Plan.
“Enhancing our community parks and improving access to our open space preserves are important investments in the strong quality of life that continues to define Chester County,” said Comitta, who serves as minority chair of the Senate Environmental Resources and Energy Committee. “More opportunities for outdoor recreation contribute to public health, environmental health, and the overall economic health of our region.”
“Randolph Woods is a personal favorite of my staff and mine, and I’m very pleased to see Malvern Borough receive this funding,” said state Rep. Kristine Howard. “These planned updates include several ADA-compliant improvement projects, which will allow even more people to access and enjoy this beautiful park.”
“We in Malvern Borough are grateful for DCED’s support in bringing the Randolph Woods Nature Preserve improvements to fruition. Phase 1 of the Master Site Plan focuses on ADA-accessible amenities that will make this ‘hidden gem’ a refuge for people across southeastern Pennsylvania, bringing them in direct contact with the natural resources surrounding this headwaters of the Crum Creek,” said Dr. Amy Finkbiner, Malvern Borough Council President.
“West Grove Borough is pleased to accept the Greenways, Trails and Recreation Program Grant on behalf of the residents and visitors of the Borough. This funding supporting the development of a Park Master Plan will provide the framework for future improvements and amenities for the Borough park and trail systems to serve the community for years to come,” said West Grove Borough Manager Greg McCummings. “West Grove Borough is grateful for the support from the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development and the elected officials who supported our application.”
The projects were funded by Act 13 of 2012 (the Marcellus Legacy Fund), which allocates funding for planning, acquisition, development, rehabilitation and repair of greenways, recreational trails, open space, parks, and beautification projects using the Greenways, Trails and Recreation Program.
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