HARRISBURG – State Senator Gene Yaw (R-23) and Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) Secretary Cindy Adams Dunn today joined Lycoming County and Limestone Township officials in celebration of a recent investment to support rehabilitation and further development of Nippenose Valley Park.
Announced in December 2017, a $50,000 Keystone Fund grant will support development of playground equipment, with required safety surfacing, ADA access, landscaping, project signage and other related site improvements.
“Well-maintained, accessible parks add value to our communities,” Sen. Yaw said. “DCNR’s decision to fund the Nippenose Valley Park project through the Community Conservation Partnerships Program will allow the township to restore this space, while improving recreation and providing enhanced outdoor opportunities for area visitors. I commend the state and Limestone Township officials on this exciting partnership.”
“This grant represents the Wolf Administration’s continuing support of DCNR’s commitment to local parks and playgrounds offering outdoor exercise and recreation to all ages,” Dunn said. “Not only is this project unique in its location — adjoining a former school converted to an assisted living facility — but it offers numerous opportunities for multi-generational recreation, while showing what happens when state, county, and township governments work together.”
The former Nippenose Valley Elementary School closed in 2013. The building and grounds were purchased and refurbished as a personal care home. The playground area was leased to Limestone Township and future plans could include development of trails and walking paths around the building and grounds.
“We are excited to join in this public and private partnership with DCNR, Limestone Township and Lycoming County,” said Limestone Township Supervisor Chris Lorson. “Projects like this provide recreation opportunities and employment opportunities. We are honored to have the support of Secretary Dunn, Governor Wolf, and Sen. Yaw for this very important project.”
The Nippenose Valley Park grant is among DCNR’s 2017 grants announced late last year. A total investment of $44 million for 266 projects across Pennsylvania is designed to create new recreational opportunities, conserve natural resources and help revitalize local communities.
Grants are administered by DCNR through its Community Conservation Partnerships Program. Funding comes from the Keystone Fund, which is generated from a portion of the realty transfer tax; the Environmental Stewardship Fund; and the ATV/Snowmobile Fund, generated through fees for licenses; and federal monies.
CONTACT:
Adam Pankake, (Sen. Yaw) 717-787-3280
Christina Novak, (Sec. Dunn) 717-772-9101