Lock Haven wins $414,600 DCNR grant; three-phase Hoberman Park overhaul totals $1.896 million

City staff told council that a grant award from the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) of $414,600 completes a three‑phase funding package totaling $1,896,000 for major improvements to Hoberman Park.

According to staff, the full project will deliver a new playground, walking path, relocated t‑ball field, restrooms, parking, a skate park, a basketball/multipurpose court, a pavilion and other amenities. The city's local cost for the overall project was reported as $128,000.

Staff said construction will not strictly follow funding phases: the skate park (phase 2) is scheduled to begin this year to meet the CDBG‑CV competitive grant deadline, and the remaining improvements are planned for 2024. City staff credited city planner Abigail Roberts for assembling the grant applications that secured funding.

Council members praised the grant as an investment in a neighborhood where residents rely on the park as shared outdoor space. Staff said the award will enable a near total refurbishment of the park rather than the smaller facelift that was initially anticipated.