Fayette County commissioners voted on Tuesday to pursue state funding for a major upgrade to Dunlap Creek Park in Menallen Township. The board will apply for a $75,710 grant from the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission to construct a new boat dock that meets Americans with Disabilities Act requirements.
Matching funds and additional grant
Because the dock project costs an estimated $151,420, the county must provide a 50% match. To meet that obligation, commissioners also plan to request a $37,855 grant from the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources. Together, the two grants would cover the county’s share of the project.
Local officials praise the improvement
“This is another major upgrade we’re trying to get accomplished at Dunlap Creek Park to help improve things out there,” said Commissioner Vince Vicites. “It’s in our master plan, and we hope these grants will make it happen.” Menallen Township Supervisor Steve Myers echoed the sentiment, noting that many anglers with disabilities rely on the park’s facilities. “The dock was in bad shape, and a new, accessible dock will be a huge help,” he said.
Recent park enhancements
Earlier this year, the county celebrated the ribbon‑cutting of a 1.9‑mile walking trail that circles the park’s 50‑acre lake. The township is also pursuing Local Share Account funding for solar lighting along the trail, clearing vegetation from an old basketball court to create two pickleball courts, and widening the main entrance road by two feet to improve safety for fishing boats.
Future plans
With the trail completed, township officials are looking ahead to additional amenities, including a dog park and tot lots. “It’s benefiting residents here and beyond; the number of daily walkers surprised us,” Myers said.
The dock project, outlined in Fayette County’s 2022 Parks Master Site Development Plan, remains a top priority for local leaders who see it as a way to enhance recreation, promote accessibility, and support the community’s outdoor heritage.
Original reporting: Herald-Standard – latest news for Uniontown, Pennsylvania — read the source article.
