Yudichak: Over $600,000 in DCNR funding for 2 projects in Luzerne County

WILKES-BARRE — State Sen. John Yudichak Thursday announced $608,300 in Community Conservation Partnerships Program Grants, which is administered by the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, for two projects in the 14th Senatorial District in Luzerne County.

• Natural Lands Trust, Inc. will receive $358,300 in funding toward the acquisition of approximately 155 acres in Bear Creek Township for an addition to State Game Lands 91.

• Hazleton City will receive $250,000 for further development of CAN DO Community Park in Hazleton City. Work includes the construction of a plaza, pedestrian walkway and stormwater management measures; installation of lighting and utilities; ADA access, landscaping, project sign and other related site improvements.

“I would like to commend and thank DCNR Secretary Cindy Adams Dunn for her continued support for these important recreational projects in Luzerne County,” said Yudichak, I-Swoyersville. “Adding significant acreage of land to State Game Lands in Bear Creek Township and the further development of CAN DO Community Park in Hazleton, which will serve as a recreational hub, that will feature many outdoor amenities for the people of the Greater Hazleton area are great examples of just how important the C2P2 funding is for our communities.”

Community Conservation Partnerships Program grants can fund:

• Planning, acquisition, and development of public parks.

• Recreation areas.

• Motorized and non-motorized trails.

• River conservation and access.

• Conservation of open space.

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. C2P2 grants also support regional and statewide partnerships that build capacity to better develop and manage resources.