HARRISBURG – Sen. Michele Brooks (R-50) and Rep. Marla Brown (R-9) announced the approval of two state grants through the Commonwealth Financing Authority (CFA) Greenways, Trails and Recreation Program, totaling $300,000 to benefit Lawrence County.
Hope Park in New Castle will receive $200,000 grant to support the creation of a community park designed to improve physical and mental health. Hope Park will be located on vacant property near the Human Services Center’s Fairweather Lodges, just one block from downtown New Castle. It will feature a small amphitheater, a community garden, a walking trail with fitness equipment and a therapeutic garden, creating a calming environment for residents and visitors. The park will not only serve the Human Services Center’s residential clients but will also be open to the entire community, promoting wellness, community and connection to nature.
The park will be easily accessible from public transit and will offer a space for downtown workers to enjoy breaks outdoors, boosting both physical activity and community morale. As part of the ongoing revitalization efforts in the area, the project is expected to stimulate local investment and contribute to the broader efforts to transform blighted areas into vibrant community spaces. The construction of Hope Park is set to begin in May and is expected to be completed by October.
Neshannock Township has been awarded $100,000 to support Phase II of the Hutchison Community Center Improvements Project. The Hutchison Community Center has served Lawrence County families for more than 60 years, hosting celebrations, fundraising events and other community activities. The grant funds will support the center’s full renovation, including the addition of approximately 3,330 square feet of covered outdoor space, seating for 180 people, and a masonry wood-burning fireplace. The improvements will ensure the center remains a vital gathering space for the community while supporting the operations of Pearson Park.
“I am proud to support initiatives like Hope Park that address both the physical and mental health needs within our communities,” said Brooks. “In addition, the upgrades to the community center in Neshannock will only enhance this valuable resource for local families and businesses, as well as allow for larger events to take place.”
“These two projects represent significant investments in the well-being of our community,” said Brown. “From a new park in New Castle to expanded recreational space in Neshannock, these upgrades will provide much-needed places for residents to connect, relax and enjoy the outdoors, while also supporting local economic growth.”
The CFA was established in 2004 as an independent agency of the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development to administer the commonwealth’s economic stimulus packages.
CONTACTS:
Adam Gingrich (Brooks)
Rick Leiner (Brown)