State grant aids Scout reservation development

MARLBOROUGH >> The 1,400-acre Musser Boy Scout Reservation will be able to host expanded programming thanks to a $2 million state grant.

The grant from the Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program was jointly announced Thursday by state Sen. Bob Mensch, R-24th Dist., and state Rep. Marcy Toepel, R-147th Dist.

Musser Scout Reservation is operated by the Cradle of Liberty Council and hosts more than 2,700 youth and their families each year. Their programs are geared to develop character, cultivate leadership and wilderness skills, foster a commitment to service, and provide outdoor experiential learning opportunities.

The funds will help Musser Scout Reservation develop Cub Scout programming and year-round activities and Camp Garrison.

The project will transform 350 acres and 27,000 square feet into centers for biking, boating, climbing, aquatics, and shooting. The project will also create a dining hall, welcome center, and expand capacity with 12 campsites and 4 comfort stations, according to the release.

“This is a tremendous project that will enable our youth and their families to enjoy these resources for years to come,” Mensch said in the release. “I look forward to this project and the opportunity for Musser Scout Reservation to teach our future generations how to appreciate and enjoy the outdoors while also learning core essential life values.”

“This project has been a priority for me,” said Toepel. “The BSA contributes an incredible amount to area communities and this camp is a necessary resource for the organization to continue its quality work with our youth. I look forward to seeing the completed project.”

The RACP program is dedicated to the acquisition and construction of regional economic, cultural, civic, recreational, and historical improvement projects. RACP projects are authorized by the Legislature in the Redevelopment Assistance section of a Capital Budget Itemization Act. Projects must have a regional or multijurisdictional impact and generate substantial increases or maintain current levels of employment, tax revenues, or other measures of economic activity.