ROYERSFORD, PA — A wave of new state investment is set to reshape parks, trails, and waterways across Chester and Montgomery counties after more than $3.6 million in grants was awarded to 15 projects spanning Senate District 44.
State Sen. Katie Muth announced the funding through the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources Community Conservation Partnerships Program, part of an $82 million statewide package backing more than 295 recreation and conservation projects.
The grants target long-planned upgrades and acquisitions aimed at expanding outdoor access, conserving open space, and restoring waterways. Projects range from new trail connections and river access points to playground renovations, pickleball courts, and land preservation for passive recreation.
“This $3.6 million allocation for SD44 projects will provide resources for our communities to make long-overdue improvements to parks and trails, expand access to outdoor recreation, and create safe, welcoming spaces for people of all ages to enjoy,” Muth said, calling continued investment essential to protecting natural resources for future generations.
In Chester County, Caln Township received $472,500 to develop a quarter-mile segment of the Beaver Creek Trail linking Lloyd Park to Mary Street Field, including stormwater controls and a pedestrian bridge. Schuylkill Township secured $500,000 to acquire roughly 54 acres for passive recreation, while East Brandywine Township was awarded $338,400 for the acquisition of nearly 15 acres with water access.
Along the Schuylkill River, East Coventry Township will use $330,000 to rehabilitate and expand Towpath Park, adding a boat ramp, kayak launch, parking, and walkways. Several communities will see park upgrades, including new pickleball courts, dog parks, play equipment, trails, and pavilions in West Caln, West Nantmeal, West Pikeland, East Pikeland, West Brandywine, and North Coventry townships.
Environmental restoration is also part of the package. The French & Pickering Creeks Conservation Trust received $100,000 to install about 18 acres of riparian forest buffers, while Chester County will use $65,000 to prepare a tree canopy plan. Uwchlan Township received $57,500 to develop a comprehensive recreation, park, and open space plan.
In Montgomery County, Upper Providence Township was awarded $250,000 to rehabilitate MacFarlan Park, and Lower Providence Township received $248,800 for improvements at Redtail Park, including walkways, play equipment, and fencing.
Together, the projects mark a broad push to enhance quality of life through outdoor investment, channeling state dollars into neighborhood-scale improvements that officials say will be felt for decades.
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