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Planning director says commission is "the straw that stirs the drink" as Chester Valley Trail funding increases
Summary
Planning Director Matt Edmond presented the commission's role in municipal planning and trail projects, including a request to amend DCNR trestle funding from $1 million to $2 million and an application for an additional $500,000 for the Enola Low Grade segment of the Chester Valley Trail.
Matt Edmond, director of the Chester County Planning Commission, gave a departmental spotlight summarizing the commission's staff structure, services to municipalities and major programs including comprehensive planning, zoning assistance, climate action and trail development.
Edmond highlighted the Chester Valley Trail program and asked the board to amend a DCNR grant agreement to increase trestle-related funding from $1,000,000 to $2,000,000 after the county received two $500,000 DCNR awards. He also asked for authorization to submit a $500,000 DCNR construction grant application for the Enola Low Grade segment (far western county), which would add to other state and county funds and increase the construction pot to about $3,100,000 when combined with local match and prior grants.
Edmond framed the planning commission as both a board and staff operation that supports municipalities on zoning, subdivision reviews and design guides. He noted ongoing work on the county climate action plan and recent outreach such as a data‑centers information event intended to inform municipalities and stakeholders.
Next steps: the board authorized the grant amendment and application; planning staff will submit the DCNR application and proceed with grant administration if awarded.
