HARRISBURG, PA — The National Park Service (NPS) has announced a $2.6 million investment in two pivotal projects in Pennsylvania. Through the Outdoor Recreation Legacy Partnership (ORLP) program, this funding aims to transform the Hillside Pool in Berks County and Weston Field in Lackawanna County into modern recreational havens.
The ORLP program, marking its largest-ever financial commitment with a total of $254.68 million awarded to 54 communities across 24 states, seeks to enhance local parks through community-led projects. This initiative is part of a broader effort to ensure every American lives within a 10-minute walk of a park, addressing a critical need for accessible green spaces nationwide.
DCNR Secretary Cindy Adams Dunn underscored the multifaceted benefits of such investments, stating, “These projects address a variety of needs in Reading and Scranton. Not only do they provide outdoor recreation opportunities, but they prioritize accessibility, sustainability, green infrastructure, and community safety.”
The City of Reading will utilize nearly $2 million to rejuvenate the outdated Hillside Pool. Plans include replacing the pool with a modern splash pad, adding shaded cabanas, and enhancing the site with new facilities such as restrooms, concessions, and ADA-accessible parking. This transformation is aimed at creating a welcoming, family-friendly environment for community members.
In Scranton, the $672,000 grant will fund enhancements at Weston Field, including improved basketball courts, a new parking area, wellness loop, and the installation of a playground, skate park, and splash pad. This project is designed to foster an inclusive, intergenerational recreational space.
Owen Franklin, Vice President of the Great Lakes Region for Trust for Public Land, highlighted the collaborative effort behind these projects: “TPL worked closely with DCNR to identify and support communities well-positioned for expanding outdoor recreation opportunities across the Commonwealth, and we’re thrilled that this partnership led to successful ORLP funding applications in Reading and Scranton this year.”
Local leaders have expressed strong support for these initiatives. Reading Mayor Eddie Morán emphasized the projects’ potential to enhance community life and reduce youth violence, stating, “Investing in parks and recreation has been a key priority for me and my administration, as these spaces are vital to reducing youth violence and building a stronger community.”
Similarly, Scranton Mayor Paige G. Cognetti remarked on the impact of the ORLP grant, “The improvements planned at Weston Field made possible through this ORLP grant and matching Community Development Block Grant funds will help us build an intergenerational and more accessible park.”
These strategic investments underscore a commitment to improving quality of life through enhanced outdoor spaces, reinforcing the importance of parks in fostering healthy, vibrant communities across Pennsylvania.
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