PHILADELPHIA, PA — Governor Josh Shapiro’s administration has allocated $79.4 million in grants to support 307 projects statewide. These initiatives aim to expand recreational opportunities, conserve natural spaces, and revitalize communities, thereby enhancing the quality of life for residents while promoting economic growth.
Governor Josh Shapiro emphasized the transformative potential of these investments: “Every day, my Administration is focused on getting stuff done for the good people of Pennsylvania — and we’re proud to support hundreds of projects across the Commonwealth that not only enhance the quality of life for Pennsylvanians but also serve as a catalyst for economic growth. Investing in these projects – from improving our parks and trails to planting trees in our neighborhoods to increasing access to our rivers – attracts visitors to Pennsylvania, boosts local businesses, and strengthens our communities.”
Philadelphia stands out as a focal point of these efforts, with numerous significant projects slated for development. Secretary of the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR), Cindy Adams Dunn, highlighted these initiatives during a recent visit to James Logan Elementary School, marking the allocation of a $500,000 grant to the School District of Philadelphia. This grant will facilitate the planting of approximately 600 trees across 30 school campuses, particularly in environmental justice areas, in partnership with the Pennsylvania Horticultural Society Tree Tenders Program. “Trees help combat urban heat and flooding, and their planting fosters a connection to nature,” said Secretary Dunn. “In Philadelphia alone, over $5 million in grants will support urban tree planting, park and playground improvements, trail development, and water access.”
Oz Hill, Deputy Chief Operating Officer for the School District of Philadelphia, acknowledged the importance of these projects for community health and education. “Schools are an integral part of our Philadelphia communities and serve as areas where students, parents, and community members can gather and connect,” Hill noted. “As one of the largest landowners in Philadelphia, increasing the tree canopy around schools will positively impact the health and well-being of our students. Thanks to a grant from DCNR, we are thrilled to expand our tree canopy.”
In addition to the tree planting initiative, Philadelphia will benefit from several other key projects, including:
- Awbury Arboretum Association receiving $299,000 to expand the Prescribe Outside program and $182,000 for community tree planting and stewardship.
- Neighborhood Gardens Trust acquiring land for a community forest with a $234,000 grant.
- Philadelphia Parks and Recreation embarking on multiple projects, including playground rehabilitations, trail lighting upgrades, and riverbank restorations totaling over $2 million.
- Pennsylvania Horticultural Society receiving $1 million for urban forestry coordination in Philadelphia and southeastern Pennsylvania.
Statewide, this round of funding will enable the development of 25 new parks, the rehabilitation of 85 existing parks, and the protection of over 6,800 acres for recreation and habitat preservation. The grants, funded by the Keystone Fund, Environmental Stewardship Fund, and federal sources, will also dedicate $10 million to crucial trail development projects.
These investments reflect a comprehensive strategy to enhance Pennsylvania’s environmental landscape and promote sustainability. By fostering community engagement and ecological stewardship, they are expected to yield long-term benefits for both residents and the natural environment across the Commonwealth.
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