Harkins, Merski: More than $800,000 in state grants awarded to further develop and expand recreation areas in the region

Rep. Robert Merski October 8, 2026 | 11:09 AM

HARRISBURG, Oct. 8 – A total of $828,400 in funding from the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources will enhance Erie County’s recreational space, state Reps. Pat Harkins and Bob Merski, both D-Erie, announced today.

This investment builds connections between Pennsylvanians and the outdoors by supporting recreational improvements and conservation.

“This investment is a downpayment to ensuring that area residents have access to green space, where they can recharge. And, adding trees to the environment helps fight climate change by cooling our neighborhoods, cleaning the air and preventing soil erosion and reducing water runoff,” Harkins said.

“Studies have shown that people prefer to live in communities with parks, greenways and open spaces,” Merski said. “Not only does it have a positive effect on residential property values, it also provides public health benefits, increases social connection and enhances community well-being.”

The funding includes:

$74,500 to the Housing Authority of Erie for a comprehensive recreation, park and open space plan for the authority.
$221,400 to Lake Erie Arboretum at Frontier to engage communities in planting trees and building tree stewardship.
$250,000 to Western Pennsylvania Conservancy to help pay for 74 acres in Venango Township to add to the West Branch French Creek Natural Area.
$213,100 to Summit Township to rehabilitate and continue development of Summit Community Park, including renovating the sports courts, building a loop trail, boardwalk, pavilions, pickleball courts and parking area, as well as other site-related improvements.
$9,400 to Wales Sno-Drifters Inc. for the purchase of equipment to maintain and build 50 miles of snowmobile trails in the county.
$60,000 to Wesleyville Borough for the continuing development of Hinkler Park in the borough, including a multi-use court and pedestrian walkway, fencing, landscaping and other improvements.