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Council votes to raise Columbia Crossing DCNR grant request to $250,000 for facility improvements
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Summary
Council voted to increase the borough's DCNR grant request for Columbia Crossing to $250,000 with a proposed 50% local match, after staff and a consultant outlined plans to connect exhibit space to the river deck, improve ADA access and replace deteriorated column veneers.
Columbia Borough council voted April 28 to increase its DCNR grant request for improvements at Columbia Crossing to $250,000, following a presentation that recommended structural and accessibility upgrades to allow larger events and improved public use.
Derek, the project presenter, described a facilities feasibility study that identified the priority as creating a more cohesive interior-exterior experience. "The number 1 thing that we identified that would enhance the site is the ability to host larger events," he said, explaining a plan to remove a stone partition and install large glass or accordion doors to link the exhibit area with the river-view deck.
The proposal also calls for addressing moisture-damaged column veneers and increasing ADA parking and clearances. Derek said preliminary structural work indicates the center column could remain, with two roughly 6-foot openings, and that designs might later allow removing the center column if feasible. He estimated the improved-scope project at about $500,000 and asked the council to increase the DCNR request from the earlier $200,000 level to $250,000 with a 50% match.
Council agreed to increase the DCNR application to $250,000. "If we can cohesively use the spaces, they expect to be able to accommodate up to almost 150 people," Derek said, noting current program limits are roughly 75–80 participants.
Councilmembers and staff discussed funding timing and other grant sources. Derek warned the DCNR application is due quickly and that the borough would not learn award decisions until the fall; construction would likely be scheduled in 2027 if funded. The council also discussed using CPG funds for the match and pursuing other grants (CDBG, LSA) where appropriate.
Next steps listed during the meeting included finalizing design details for the door openings, confirming ADA improvements that could earn additional grant points, and submitting the revised DCNR application before the grant deadline.
Vote: Council approved increasing the DCNR grant request to $250,000 (motion and second recorded during the meeting).
