Bridgeport Community Fund says $50,000 secured but playground still faces roughly $300,000 shortfall; council approves CDBG application

Randy Bennett, representing the Bridgeport Community Fund, told Borough Council on March 25 that the fund has secured a $50,000 reimbursement grant toward playground work but said the playground alone represents “a $300,000 problem.” Bennett and multiple residents urged faster repairs and clearer communication about timing and responsibilities.

The playground’s condition and long-term park needs were the focus of the community fund presentation and an extended public-comment period that followed. Bennett said the fund had applied to the state Local Share Account (LSA) — casino revenue distributed through the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED) — for roughly $546,000 but had not received a decision. He said the $50,000 grant is secured but not yet in hand and is reimbursement-based.

Why it matters: Bridgeport Park is heavily used year-round, particularly the walking track, and residents said damage, vandalism and safety concerns reduce its usefulness. Council members and residents emphasized that visible, early repairs could build public confidence while longer-term funding is secured.

Bennett outlined other park needs beyond the playground, including tree replanting, signage and bleacher repairs, and maintenance on the walking track, which he called the park’s most-used amenity. He also described ongoing work to restore a downstairs…