O’Mara announces $1.6M in state grants benefiting local parks, first responders, and municipalities

SPRINGFIELD, March 16 — State Rep. Jennifer O’Mara today announced $1.64 million in grants awarded to her Delaware County district, which includes awards to local park developments and first responders.

Funding has been distributed as follows:

  • Springfield Township: $500,000 for indoor air quality HVAC replacement at the municipal building.
  • Ray Roche Park: $424,500 to Upper Providence Township to upgrade the park, strengthening ADA accessibility.
  • Veterans Park Trail: $367,500 for the construction of a walking trail and park improvements in Marple Township, including stormwater management measures.
  • Swarthmore Borough: $200,000 for an ADA compliant sidewalk rehabilitation project.

“These grants will improve our area’s outdoor recreation options for people of all ages while strengthening ADA accessibility. I’m happy to help bring these awards home and see how they benefit residents throughout the district,” O’Mara said.

Additionally, The Broomall Fire Company and Upper Providence Police Department received $99,106 and $49,602, respectively. Broomall Fire Company will use their award to purchase a utility vehicle equipped with a snowplow and Upper Providence PD will use theirs toward a new police cruiser.

“Ensuring that Delco’s first responders get their fair share of state funding is a huge part of my job as an elected representative. I’m always happy to help local emergency service companies apply for grants like these to ensure they can do their jobs safely and effectively,” O’Mara said, “Congratulations to Upper Providence Township’s police force and Broomall Fire Company for being selected to receive these awards. I know the grants will help them keep up the fantastic work they do every day.”

Grants come from the Department of Community and Economic Development’s Statewide Local Share Account. This grant program distributes gaming revenues to support projects that improve Pennsylvanians’ quality of life.