CARROLL VALLEY – Carroll Valley Borough was recently awarded a $276,000 Statewide Local Share Account grant to increase handicapped accessibility and security and construct new recreational assets at Carroll Commons Park. Two pickleball courts — a favorite amenity among young and old patrons — and a new butterfly garden will be included in the park improvements project.
The project was championed by local officials, including Sen. Doug Mastriano and Rep. Dan Moul. “We are very appreciative of the continued support from our state elected officials,” Carroll Valley Borough Manager Dave Hazlett said. “We value Sen. Mastriano and Rep. Moul’s commitment to ensuring we can provide various recreational opportunities to our residents.”
The municipally owned park’s southern end lacks ADA-accessible restrooms and security camera coverage. However, it is one of the Borough’s most visited outdoor spaces, and many community events are held at the two pavilions. Residents and Borough officials have communicated closely in recent years regarding their desire to see more amenities at the park.
“This is a great project that will directly support the expansion of the existing park in the borough,” Rep. Dan Moul (R-Hanover)I said. “I was excited to advocate for this park project, which will provide the borough the ability to improve the park’s safety while providing additional recreational and environmental opportunities in a manner consistent with the wishes of its residents for all to enjoy.”
The construction of these park improvements will expand the park’s offerings and make it accessible to all individuals. Additionally, security cameras installed throughout the park will increase visitors’ safety. “I am happy to support this project, which is a priority of Carroll Valley Borough as they seek to provide additional recreational offerings and safety for their community,” Sen. Doug Mastriano (R-33) said. “These improvements directly respond to residents’ desires and will establish Carroll Commons Park as a core community gathering place for the region.”
The statewide funding comes through the Pennsylvania Racehorse Development and Gaming Act. The Commonwealth Financing Authority oversees the distribution of gaming revenues to support projects of public interest within the Commonwealth. The program is highly competitive, and 2,748 applications were submitted this round, totaling approximately $1.3 billion. Of those awards, 1,169 were awarded, totaling approximately $346 million.
