State grant funding has been awarded for two recreational projects in Carbon County, according to Rep. Doyle Heffley, R-Carbon, and Sen. John Yudichak, I-14. The two legislators played a key role in securing the funding through the Community Conservation Partnerships Program, which is administered by the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources.

The Lehigh Canal Recreation Commission was awarded $194,500 for development of the D&L Trail in Franklin Township. The project includes the rehabilitation of approximately 1 mile of trail from the Franklin Township/Weissport Borough line to Long Run and three culverts, ADA access, landscaping, project sign and other related site improvements.

“The D&L Trail is used now more than ever and has become one of the region’s top economic drivers,” Heffley said. “I am happy to see this state funding return to Carbon County to help develop and maintain the trail, which benefits local residents and tourists alike.”

“I want to thank DCNR Secretary Cindy Adams Dunn for her continued support of our outdoor recreational areas and amenities in beautiful Carbon County,” said Yudichak. “The state’s continued investment in the scenic D&L Trail has been important to the surging economic development and tourism industry in the Carbon County region. It’s essential that we continue to support these important projects that drive dollars into our communities and enhance our outdoor recreational hubs and parks.”

Jim Thorpe Borough was awarded $79,000 for rehabilitation and further development of Jim Thorpe Borough Memorial Park. The project includes construction of a pedestrian walkway and stormwater management measures, installation of play equipment and fitness equipment with required safety surfacing, ADA access, landscaping, project sign and other related site improvements.

“The project will separate the park equipment by age group for the safety and accessibility of those who use it,” said Heffley. “Enhancing a community’s recreational opportunities is always a positive thing and I look forward to this project’s completion.”

C2P2 grants were created to promote conservation and recreation-focused projects and programs. They are awarded to municipalities and authorized nonprofit organizations for recreation, park and conservation projects. Funding is generated from a portion of the realty transfer tax, the Environmental Stewardship Fund, fees for ATV/Snowmobile licenses and federal monies.

The Carbon County investment was among 317 grants awarded by DCNR statewide, totaling $70 million, that will revitalize communities, create new recreational opportunities and conserve natural spaces.