Funding secured for Kish Park improvements
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HARRISBURG -- Senator Judy Ward has announced $559,394 in funding from the PA Department of Community and Economic Development Commonwealth Finance Authority to fund planned improvements in Kish Park, Derry Township. These funds were provided through the Local Share Account Program to eligible local governments across the state. From a total of over 1800 applicants, 843 applications were awarded totaling $263 million.
"Kish Park has long been a recreational asset that honors the history of Mifflin County," Ward said. "This state investment will support improvements to the Park so that this beautiful facility can remain a place where families can gather and enjoy the outdoors for many years to come."
The Keystone Communities economic development partnership between Downtown Lewistown, Inc. and the boroughs of Lewistown and Burnham and townships of Derry and Granville played a major role in the successful application and award.
Derry Township plans to utilize the funding for Park improvements which may include the below ground infrastructure that would allow for the installation of a restroom/changing area and plumbing for the planned construction of a splash pad facility.
"In 2022, the supervisors put together a committee that included input from various community partners and the YSM Landscape Architecture firm to develop a master plan to rehabilitate Kish Park," Derry Township Supervisor Chairman, Ron Napikoski, Jr., said. "Securing a LSA Grant to begin funding the first phase of park improvements will be a big boost to our efforts. We are excited to work with PA DCED, PA DCNR and local community supporters on this and future projects at our community park."
"This award combined with other funds received through the PA Department of Conservation and Natural Resources and continued involvement by the Township Supervisors and Committee will allow for important investments in a beloved community park and demonstrates the power of the economic development partnership in delivering results for the entire area," DLI Executive Director, Jim Zubler said. "We are happy to assist local governments in making applications to state departments with the backing of our local supporters and contributors and thank the state for its support of the partnership."
"We are happy to assist local governments and DLI with pursuing important economic and community development projects throughout Mifflin County," added MCIDC President/CEO Nick Felice.
"On behalf of the Mifflin County Commissioners, Commissioner Rob Postal congratulates all those having a part in this project. It is a very competitive grant program, and the team has done a great job to secure the funds for the Park improvements. Recreation and outdoor projects make Mifflin County a better place to live, work and play."
"DLI, working hand in hand with our partners over the past two decades, has strived to improve the quality of life and economic potential in the Greater Lewistown Area and Mifflin County," DLI President Jon Zimmerman, said. "Becoming a designated Keystone Community was crucial to continue strong economic progress in our area. We have received tremendous support from our municipalities, businesses, County, MCIDC, Greater Lewistown Corporation, and many individuals to fund and sustain DLI's existence. These funds available through the partnership are the reward for this support and the belief that together we can make Mifflin County better. We are fortunate to have outstanding leadership in key positions throughout our county that can make this happen. Thank you to all that have supported DLI and
continue to do so."
He also acknowledged the support from State Representatives Kerry Benninghoff and David Rowe along with that of former State Senator Jake Corman and former State Representative John Hershey in securing these competitive dollars. Mr. Zimmerman thanked the Shapiro Administration, PA Department of Community and Economic Development, and PA Downtown Center for their assistance in securing these funds to improve this great community asset.
The local Keystone designation is a collaborative area initiative between the boroughs of Lewistown and Burnham and townships of Derry and Granville and Mifflin County. The designation is also supported through contributions from over 50 additional businesses, industries, organizations and individuals who with their contributions make these types of programs and investments possible.