Trying to complete multiple upgrades to a park all at once can be overwhelming and costly, especially for small communities with limited capacity. DCNR’s Small Communities Program can help. It caters to municipalities with populations of 5,000 or less and is a unique grant type with smaller match requirements.
The Small Communities Program prioritizes park rehabilitation but development of new outdoor recreation and park facilities is also eligible. Communities are encouraged to break larger projects into phases to make the work more feasible and meet funding requirements.
Smithton Borough in Westmoreland County is a good example of this program in action. The borough didn’t have a park or playground within a 10-minute walk for their residents. After working to secure a donated property, the borough applied through the Small Communities Program to help fund improvements to their new park.
Using local funds as match, the borough received a grant for Phase One of their playground, titled Play Smithton. This phase included accessible parking, walkways, an internal loop trail, and a play structure with safety surfacing.
The following year, the borough capitalized on a one-time funding opportunity and received a second DCNR grant funded through the American Rescue Plan Act. This new grant will fund more amenities to further promote accessibility.
“The first summer with the playground being completed is approaching,” Mayor Christine Tutena said. “I could not be more appreciative or proud. A smile comes to my face when I see families and children enjoying themselves. I am hopeful it will be enjoyed by the residents of Smithton and surrounding areas for many years to come.”
The maximum grant request recently increased to allow the Small Communities Program to support even larger projects. Applicants can now request up to $100,000 in funding from DCNR, with a match requirement of $70,000. Both cash and non-cash match are accepted.
