New Wilmington Parks Get $153K in State Grants

NEW WILMINGTON, Pa. – New Wilmington and Wilmington Township have been awarded $153,100 as part of the state’s Community Conservation Partnerships Program.

The borough received $50,000 to make improvements to its community swimming pool, including renovating the pool itself, adding ADA access and landscaping.

Wilmington Township received $103,100 for the rehabilitation of Marti Park, including the addition of play equipment, ADA-compliant access, fencing and other site improvements.

“With this playground, special needs children and adults of all ages and differing abilities, can now enjoy the outdoors in a way that some of them have never been able to do before,” said Debbie Kennedy, grant writer for Marti Park, in a statement. “When talking with parents of special needs children about this project, their eyes welled up with tears because someone was finally going to do something for their children. This project will also bring to a close a four-year rehabilitation of the play areas within the park allowing it to be enjoyed for future generations to come.”

Funding for the grants comes the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources and the Community Parks and Partnership Program. 

“I am excited to once again see this funding coming home to improve recreational opportunities for the people of New Wilmington Borough and Wilmington Township,” said state Sen. Elder Vogel, R-47. “Qualifying for these grants is a strong testament to the tremendous dedication and devotion that our community leaders have for the citizens they serve.” 

Added state Rep. Park Wentling, R-17: “With many people staying closer to home due to COVID-19, it’s essential for our physical and mental health to have places to go that allow residents of all ages and walks of life to gather and release some stress and anxiety during these uncertain times.”

Pictured: Downtown New Wilmington, Pa.

Published by The Business Journal, Youngstown, Ohio.