Otten announces more than $1 million in new DCNR grants
Rep. Danielle Friel Otten January 13, 2026 | 1:48 PM
EXTON, Jan. 13 – State Rep. Danielle Friel Otten, D-Chester, today announced that $1,068,400 in state funding has been awarded to benefit community conservation efforts in her central Chester County legislative district.
Funding was administered by the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources’ Bureau of Recreation and Conservation’s Community Conservation Partnerships Program (C2P2), which helps communities improve parks and playgrounds, build and repair trails, conserve open space, restore rivers and watersheds, and grow local economies through outdoor recreation.
“These grants reflect our shared commitment to preserving open space and expanding access to outdoor recreation opportunities for every resident,” Otten said. “By improving parks, strengthening trail connections, and protecting natural spaces, we’re investing in both our quality of life today and the long-term environmental stewardship that will benefit Chester County for generations.”
DCNR approved funding for the following projects in Otten’s central Chester County district:
- Caln Township, $472,500, for the construction of approximately 0.25 miles of the Beaver Creek Trail from Lloyd Park to Mary Street Field, including stormwater management measures, a pedestrian bridge, ADA access, landscaping, and other related site improvements.
- East Brandywine Township, $338,400 toward the acquisition of approximately 14.9 acres for passive recreation and water access.
- Uwchlan Township, $57,500 to prepare a comprehensive Recreation, Park and Open Space Plan for the township.
- West Brandywine Township, $200,000 for the rehabilitation and further improvement of Cross Creek Park, including renovation of the parking area; construction of internal loop trail, pavilion and pedestrian walkways; installation of play equipment with required safety surfacing; ADA access, landscaping, and other related site improvements.
Funding for this round of C2P2 grants comes from the Keystone Fund, Environmental Stewardship Fund and other funding sources.
More information about C2P2 grants is available here.