On Jan. 14, state Sen. Nick Miller, D-14th, announced a $3.96 million investment in Lehigh and Northampton counties through the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources. Miller championed these investments in the 14th District during this grant round, which builds on the 2025-26 budget signed by Gov. Josh Shapiro that includes a $13 million increase for DCNR.

These investments were distributed across 58 counties to improve parks and playgrounds, build and repair trails, conserve open space, restore rivers and watersheds and boost local economies through outdoor recreation. These grants are part of DCNR’s Community Conservation Partnerships Program.

Whitehall Township will receive $292,300 for the rehabilitation of 5.9 miles of the Ironton Rail Trail, including Americans with Disabilities Act access, landscaping and site improvements.

Other key investments include $3,000,000 for Salisbury Township for a major development of Laubach Park, including new courts, ball fields, pavilion, concession stand, splash pad, pedestrian walkways and ADA access; $125,000 for Wildlands Conservancy Inc. to install 12 acres of riparian buffers and 5 acres of meadows in the Lehigh River Watershed, including landowner outreach, plantings, maintenance, signage and related improvements; $55,000 for South Whitehall Township to update the master site development plan for the 112-acre Covered Bridge Park; $250,000 for North Whitehall Township for the rehabilitation and development of Municipal Park, including a comfort station, dugouts, walkways and ADA access; $75,000 for Lehigh Valley Planning Commission to update the livable landscapes plan for Lehigh County; and $160,000 for Wildlands Conservancy to restore 2,000 feet of three Lehigh River tributaries, including dam removal, stream bank stabilization and riparian buffer improvements.

Funding for this round of Community Conservation Partnerships Program comes from the Keystone Fund, Environmental Stewardship Fund and other funding sources.

“Governor Shapiro and DCNR’s investment in Pennsylvania’s recreation and conservation projects is laying a strong foundation for the year ahead by improving outdoor access, preserving natural resources and fostering healthier communities,” Miller said. “One of my top priorities has been advocating for vibrant public spaces, and I’m proud to have helped secure a $3 million upgrade for Laubach Park in Salisbury Township that will give residents and families a revitalized place to enjoy, along with other key investments in the 14th District. These investments are driving our communities forward and setting a strong tone for the year ahead.”