LOWER MERION, PA — The Commonwealth Financing Authority (CFA) has awarded $625,000 to Senate District 17, which spans parts of Montgomery and Delaware Counties, for two significant local projects. The funding, sourced from the Marcellus Legacy Fund established by Act 13 of 2012, will be used to enhance outdoor recreational spaces and mitigate flooding issues.
In West Conshohocken, Phase II of the Mackenzie Park Project was granted $250,000 through the Act 13 program. This phase includes plans for a new basketball court, a dog park, and restroom facilities at Mackenzie Park. The project represents an investment in community recreation and outdoor spaces, a need that has become increasingly apparent amid the pandemic’s push for outdoor activities.
Representative Tim Briggs (D-Montgomery) underscored the importance of this grant, saying, “Phase two of the Mackenzie Park project in West Conshohocken will offer our community more outdoor recreation spaces to utilize with their friends and families, which is something we can all use more of these days. I’m proud to support this investment that will boost our quality of life for the whole region.”
The remaining funds, amounting to $375,000, were allocated to a Flood Mitigation project in the Municipality of Norristown. This funding will support phase III of the Sawmill Run Creek Culvert Repair Project, a crucial initiative aimed at strengthening local infrastructure against extreme weather conditions.
Senator Amanda M. Cappelletti (D- Montgomery/ Delaware) applauded the awards, emphasizing their significance in addressing both environmental and community needs. “These awards tackle two vital environmental needs in the Southeast: flood mitigation and protecting outdoor spaces for the community,” said Senator Cappelletti. “As we see the effects of climate change take hold, we need to be investing in our infrastructure so that it will stand strong when we need it most.”
The implications of these projects extend beyond the immediate benefits of enhanced recreational spaces and flood mitigation. Investment in green spaces can have a positive impact on community health and well-being, providing residents with safe, accessible areas for exercise, relaxation, and social interaction.
Concurrently, proactively addressing flood mitigation is an essential step in adapting to the challenges posed by climate change. By improving local infrastructure, communities can better withstand extreme weather events and minimize potential damage to roads, bridges, and properties.
The CFA’s funding decision represents a timely investment in community resilience and quality of life. As these projects move forward, they will contribute to making Senate District 17 a safer, more vibrant, and welcoming place to live, work, and visit.
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