Kennett Square Borough – On September 20, 2022, the Commonwealth Financing Authority (CFA) notified Kennett Square Borough, Chester County, of a $125,000 grant award from the Greenways, Trails, and Recreation Program (GTRP).

The grant funding will be used for costs associated with transforming a 33,000-square-foot leftover, forgotten, “backyard” space into a valuable recreational amenity. Local commonwealth legislators Representative Christina Sappey and Senator John Kane expressed support for the project, alongside area residents and community organizations.

Douglas Doefler, president of the Kennett Square Borough Council stated, “The Borough is incredibly excited to advance this transformational park project. We are most grateful to our elected officials for their support this project and our efforts to provide additional recreational amenities to our residents that will lead to improved health and an enhanced quality of life.”

The proposed Red Clay Park and Creek Restoration project also includes environmental restoration efforts, including the removal of invasive species, streambank stabilization, and reforestation to stabilize eroding banks. In addition, the construction of creek access and new portions of trailways and associated recreational amenities will be included.

“I was happy to support Kennett Square Borough’s application for these funds,” said Representative Sappey. “The Red Clay Park and Creek Restoration Project will provide environmental and recreational benefits in an optimal location, creating key pedestrian connections to Kennett High School, the YMCA, the new library, Anson B. Nixon Park, local businesses and more.”

The project is part of a continued effort to advance the development of the Kennett Greenway, a multi-municipal 14-mile pedestrian and bicycle loop. The goal of the Kennett Greenway is to connect the greater Kennett community to everyday destinations, the area’s natural beauty, employment centers, services and amenities, and various other points of interest via a 14-mile pedestrian and bicycle loop. This funding will advance the creation of a new amenity on the overall Greenway, as well as revitalize a portion of the park into a key community green space within Kennett Square.

 “This is an amazing opportunity for the community to create a vibrant, inclusive, and inspiring place that provides residents and visitors the opportunity to connect with nature and each other,” said Christina Norland, Executive Director of the Kennett Trails Alliance. “What is even more special about this project is that Borough residents will be able to enjoy this reclaimed public space right in their own backyard.”

For questions or comments, please contact Kyle Coleman, Borough Manager at kcoleman@kennettsq.org.