Delaware to Receive $1.3 Million to Improve State Parks

WASHINGTON, DC – As supporters of the Land & Water Conservation Fund, Delaware’s Congressional Delegation today announced that the National Park Service has approved $1,329,475 in matching grants for outdoor recreation facilities in the State of Delaware, which will assist the rehabilitation efforts in five state parks. Because Delaware does not have a federal park, the Delegation fights tirelessly for federal funding to support state parks and other conservation efforts. “I am pleased that Delaware’s park system will receive this important funding. Our state parks are a real treasure and we need to do all we can to make sure they are protected and preserved for current and future generations to enjoy,” said Senator Biden. “We must work together to preserve Delaware’s natural beauty and secure its future for generations to come. Open space makes Delaware a more enjoyable place to do business and a better place to live,” said Senator Tom Carper. “In the last ten years, Delaware has protected more open space than any other state per capita.” “We must constantly find ways to conserve our environment in balance with Delaware’s tremendous economic growth and development in the last decade,” said Congressman Castle who consistently supports full funding for the Land and Water Conservation Fund. “One way to protect our environment from excessive urban sprawl is investing in public open space, wildlife areas, clean lakes and parks for public use and enjoyment.” Cape Henlopen State Park ($200,000): Vehicular access to Herring Point observation area will be improved and a picnic pavilion will be built at the Gordon’s Pond day use area. White Clay Creek State Park ($250,000): Trail and trailhead conditions will be improved and a picnic pavilion will be provided in the newly acquired Judge Morris Estate. Bellevue State Park ($100,000): Oval track will be reconstructed for joggers and bicyclists. Brandywine Creek ($642,500): 29.5 acres of valuable land will be protected from development by incorporation into the park. Delaware Seashore Park ($136,975): 12 cabins will be built and additional various infrastructure improvements will be made. Congress enacted to LWCF in 1964 to provide conservation funds derived from receipts from oil and gas drilling on the Outer Continental Shelf.