I would first like to again thank everyone who graciously supported the purchase of Soldiers Field. Our combined efforts have resulted in the preservation of a very important part of Mt. Gretna history. This property will provide future generations with acres of open space and serene wooded walking paths. 

In my last update I detailed our plans for the stormwater management project on the northeast portion of the property. This work has been completed and the retention area is serving to keep excess stormwater off the central portion of the field. We have submitted all of the necessary paperwork for our reimbursement of $10,025 from the Marcellus Shale funds through Lebanon County. 

Since our last update I am proud to announce that we have been awarded a grant of $300,000 from The Conservation Fund (TCF) which would provide funding for the acquisition and preservation of Soldiers Field. We are in the process of finalizing the paperwork for this grant. 

We are also in the process of submitting a grant request to the Lebanon County Commissioners for a $200,000 grant from the American Rescue Plan Act funds received by Lebanon County. 

As I noted in the last update, the next project on the drawing board will be to connect Soldiers Field to Mt. Gretna proper with an ADA-compliant walking path and bridge over the Conewago Creek. The project will include approximately 75 parking spaces created using environmentally friendly materials which will allow absorption of water and grass to grow. The project will also have rain gardens for stormwater infiltration.

This project was presented to the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection for its approval. The DEP has issued a permit for the bridge. We are in the process of reviewing the 2019 plan that we developed and will be obtaining revised estimates for project. We will next seek approval from South Londonderry Township for the path and bridge when we submit a land development plan for its review and approval in the future. 

Our goal is to provide periodic email updates to you but if you have any questions or concerns, I invite you to please reach out to us at pachautauquafoundation@gmail.com.

John Weaver

Chairman

PA Chautauqua Foundation