10K Friends Launches Second Year in New Castle

NEW CASTLE, Pa. – The second year of 10,000 Friends of Pennsylvania’s revitalization program in New Castle kicks off Monday at 11 a.m. at the Gussie Walker Community Center, 1207 Moravia Street.

10,000 Friends has committed $1.35 million over six years to the city’s south side. Partnering with the organization are the city of New Castle, Lawrence County Community Action Program, Lawrence County Land Bank, UPMC Jameson Hospital and the South Side Business Association.

On the slate for completion this year are a new side lot program to sell vacant spaces to neighbors, completing a market study of New Castle’s long-term planning efforts and expanding the summer youth program at the Walker Community Center.

Last year, the collaboration eliminated blight, addressed lead problems, rehabilitated houses, expanded the programs available at the Walker Community Center, installed community gardens and the opened the Earl A. “Muff” Sallie Field Playground.

“We’re encouraged by the progress of our collective efforts in the first year, and excited for new partnerships and plans for growth in the neighborhood this year,” states 10,000 Friends CEO, Stacie Reidenbaugh, in a release. “The side yard program is a great opportunity for neighbors to expand their property, and the market study will create an important foundation for the city and the neighborhood’s growth for years to come.”

Founded in 1998, 10,000 Friends of Pennsylvania works to develop healthy communities across the Keystone State through policies and investments. For more information on the organization, visit 10000Friends.org.

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