Maloney announces $30,000 Trails and Recreation Grant

HARRISBURG >> David Maloney (R-Berks) announced that the Commonwealth Financing Authority has approved a $30,000 grant to help fund Exeter Township’s Comprehensive Parks, Recreation and Open Space Plan.

“Concerned about the losses of farmland and open space within the township, residents and public officials are seeking the creation of new recreational facilities, trails and linkages between existing open space resources,” Maloney said in a statement. “This is a worthy effort that is able to move forward due to revenues from the Marcellus Shale industry under Act 13 which requires drilling companies to pay money to the state for extracting natural gas in Pennsylvania.”

The preparation of a Comprehensive Parks, Recreation and Open Space Plan for Exeter Township will address recreational issues and concerns for future growth and can be used as a tool to assist Exeter in planning new recreational amenities and expanding opportunities at existing facil- ities, including the creation of connections to neighborhoods and employment and commercial centers.

“Helping Exeter retain its rural character while ensuring that a sustainable mix of recreation and open space needs are provided for residents as the town- ship continues to grow is key to retaining the quality of life that Berks County residents have enjoyed for many, many years,” Maloney said. “This effort also dovetails to fulfill the recommendations of the Statewide Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan.”