ST. MARYS –The effort to turn an abandoned local rail corridor into a recreational trail is receiving assistance through a Commonwealth Financing Authority (CFA) grant, according to State Rep. Matt Gabler (R-Clearfield/Elk).
“The 75th Legislative District includes some of the most scenic parts of Pennsylvania,” Gabler said. “Developing this area between Cameron and Elk counties will result in additional opportunities for outdoor recreation and allow more people to see more of our beautiful countryside.”
The $150,000 grant will be used for Phase Two of the project, which involves an area between St. Marys and Rathbun. West Creek Recreational Trail Association applied for the grant as part of its effort to develop a trail for pedestrians, bicyclists, cross country skiers and snowmobilers that runs from St. Marys to Emporium, Cameron County.
The CFA was established as an independent agency of the Commonwealth to administer Pennsylvania’s economic stimulus packages. The grants themselves are derived from Act 13 impact fees, which are imposed on the extraction of natural gas and fluctuate depending on price and the rate of inflation. Fees are collected from the drilling companies with 60 percent passed onto counties and local municipalities affected by drilling.
Questions about this or any legislative issue should be directed to Gabler’s DuBois office at 814-375-4688 or his St. Marys office at 814-781-6301.