State Rep. Doyle Heffley, R-122, and state Sen. David Argall, R-29, announced that nearly $395,000 in state funding has been approved for outdoor recreation projects in Carbon County.

The funding was awarded by the state Department of Conservation and Natural Resources through the Community Conservation Partnership Program.

“These grants are an investment in preserving what is important in Carbon County,” Heffley said. “The funding for Jim Thorpe Memorial Park will improve accessibility for residents, while the money for the Carbon County Open Space Program will help protect our environment for future generations. I’m pleased to support these investments that will benefit our communities.”

“I’m pleased this highly competitive funding will improve outdoor recreation opportunities and protect our natural resources in Carbon County for residents and visitors alike,” Argall said.

Jim Thorpe received $299,700 for new walkways, a parking area, a comfort area, ADA access and landscaping at Jim Thorpe Memorial Park.

Wildlands Conservancy Inc. received $95,000 to support the Carbon County Open Space Program to facilitate the permanent protection of natural lands.