CLARION, Pa. (EYT) — Park renovations and improvements are in store for Paul A. Weaver Park in Clarion thanks to the Clarion Borough application from the 2016 Community Development Block Grant (CDBG).

“We have a number of things in mind, but it is going to depend on the pricing of the things we want,” said Mark Hall, borough secretary. “It could include a new pavilion, picnic tables, heavy duty park grills, and fire rings to make a family cook out area.”
           
Other ideas include installation of new park or playground equipment, a sand volleyball court, and a basketball court. 

Most of the improvements would be located on an undeveloped area of the lower park past the softball field.

“Those are our ideas, but it depends on how far the money goes,” said Hall. 

The grant money is from CDBG money designated for Clarion Borough that traces itself back to revenue sharing.  A community must have a certain population number and meet low-moderate income standards.  Clarion Township recently gained a similar status because of population growth.  Clarion County also receives a grant, and it is awarded by Clarion County Commissioners based on recommendations from the Clarion County Planning Office.

Clarion Borough is receiving $93,405.00, but 18 percent is designated as administrative costs, leaving $76,605.00 for project funds.  Hall said the borough’s low-moderate income rate as increased to 69 percent from 57 percent, fortunate for the grant, but an unfortunate trend for dropping incomes for Clarion Borough residents.

The renovations and improvements are geared to add recreational attractions to the park in addition to baseball and softball fields.

Another possibility is the addition of a walking perimeter to the outside of the park.  While the funds have been designated for Clarion Borough, an approval of the application at the state level is needed.

“It will probably be next spring until we proceed with some of these improvements,” said Hall.