Critz announces $218,000 grant for West Newton park
WEST NEWTON — U.S. Rep. Mark S. Critz (D-Johnstown) joined Wednesday with members of Downtown West Newton, Inc and local officials to announce a $218,000 federal grant for the development of Simeral Square in downtown West Newton.
The grant is being provided by the U.S. Appalachian Regional Commission. This project will take a former brownfield site and redevelop it into a community park that will host a number of outdoor activities.
The new park is located on the Youghiogheny River and will provide visitors with views of the river and the Great Allegheny Passage Trailhead.
?”The development of Simeral Square Park, along with the recent improvements made to the Great Allegheny Passage Trailhead, will draw hikers and visitors into downtown West Newton — boosting the economy of local restaurants and businesses,” Critz stated.
“This park will be a wonderful addition to the community, and I applaud the West Newton Borough officials, the volunteers of the nonprofit Downtown West Newton Inc, and the local community for turning this dream into a reality.”
George Sam, volunteer project coordinator Downtown West Newton Inc, adds, “Simeral Square is an opportunity for local residents to make a real difference in the community, to share with visitors our small town hospitality and to leave a legacy that anything is possible with perseverance and a helping hand.”
In addition to the $218,000 in ARC funds, state sources will provide $310,000 and local sources will provide $189,100, bringing the total funding for this phase of the project to $717,100.
The Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC) was established by Congress in 1965 to serve as a regional economic development agency that represents a partnership of federal, state, and local government.
ARC works with communities throughout Appalachia to create opportunities for economic development and improved quality of life.