On October 26th, 2021, Delaware County announced its winners for Round 2 of the Delco Green Ways Grant Program. The County received 74 grant applications totaling $13 million, which included representation by 46 of the 49 municipalities in Delaware County. Of the 74 applications, 43 projects are being awarded funding, totaling $7,172,521.
Bethel Township submitted two applications and was awarded for both projects. First, Bethel Township was awarded $342,667.00 to assist in the acquisition of the Shaffer Property (1645 and 1657 Bethel Road). The Shaffer Property includes over 20 acres overlooking historic buildings from the 17th and 18th centuries and contains open meadows, tributary of Spring Run buffered by established woodlands, and a pond. While a conservation easement currently provides some protections on the land, the Township is looking to take the next step by granting public access to this incredible resource.
Bethel Township was also awarded $100,000 for the creation of a Bethel Township Parks, Recreation, and Open Space Plan. With help from a consultant, the Township will seek to evaluate existing open space resources, identify key parcels for preservation, create a site plan for the Shaffer Property, and gain public feedback to determine the recreational wants and needs of the community. Additional items for consideration will include public and private open space, conservation easements, and scenic, historic, and natural resources.
Bethel Township is very excited to take the next steps in protecting the open spaces that make a beautiful place to live.
