Lower Pottsgrove parks board to pursue $10,000 Schuylkill Highlands grant; staff outlines winter public-works work

Samantha Cronrath, Lower Pottsgrove Township administrative assistant, told the Parks and Recreation Board on Feb. 24 that she will pursue a Schuylkill Highlands Mini Grant of $10,000 to help complete the Pleasantview project, using the township’s existing project funds as the required match. Board member Bob Van Bramer and other members indicated full support for applying for the grant.

Cronrath also delivered the township’s park report for January 2025. She said the Public Works Department patched potholes across the township and plowed or salted roads on Jan. 6, 11, 16 and 19. Staff assisted the Sewer Department with pulling a grinder pump, patched stamped concrete at the intersection of Heritage Drive and East High Street, began tar-sealing the Sanatoga Park parking lot, and repaired a storm grate at Snell and Pruss Hill roads. The department took delivery of 290 tons of salt and stacked it in the salt bin, prepared bidding materials for the 2025 paving projects, and removed remaining shelving from 1963 E. High St.

Votes at a glance: the board approved the Jan. 27 meeting minutes on a motion by Brian Ward seconded by Thomas Orlando; the recorded tally was 3-0 in favor with Thomas C. Troutman abstaining because he had not attended the Jan. 27 meeting. Later, Ward moved to adjourn and Orlando seconded; that motion passed 4-0 and the meeting ended at 6:50 p.m.

Why it matters: the Pleasantview grant, if awarded, would cover remaining local funding needs for a township park project; the public-works items and the salt delivery reflect routine winter maintenance that affects road and park safety and the township’s paving schedule.

What’s next: Ms. Cronrath will proceed with the grant application process for the Pleasantview project; the board’s next meeting is scheduled for April 24, 2025, at 6:30 p.m.