News & Updates
Ridgway Township is set to witness a transformative project at Sandy Beach Park, thanks to a generous Partnership Grant from the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR). The Lumber Heritage Region (LHR) is thrilled to announce the approval of this grant, which will fund the development of an exciting mountain bike trail within the park.
This innovative project aims to create a sustainable mountain bike trail system, enhancing outdoor recreational opportunities for residents and visitors alike. The trail will provide a thrilling experience for mountain biking enthusiasts while paying homage to the region’s rich lumber heritage, seamlessly connecting the past with the present. Sandy Beach Park, once the site of a sawmill and CCC camp, is an ideal location for this pioneering project.
The LHR recognizes the importance of preserving and celebrating the area’s history, and this project represents a unique opportunity to blend the cultural significance of the lumber industry with contemporary outdoor activities. The trail will weave through areas of historical interest, offering riders a scenic journey that highlights the symbiotic relationship between the community’s heritage and its commitment to healthy, active living.
In a collaborative effort to bring this project to fruition, the LHR is proud to partner with the Allegheny Hike Bike and Ski Club. Their expertise in trail development and dedication to promoting outdoor recreation align perfectly with the goals of this project. This partnership will ensure the creation of a top-tier mountain bike trail that meets the highest standards of safety, sustainability, and enjoyment.
Moreover, this endeavor is expected to leverage over $50,000 in spending, stimulating the local economy and creating job opportunities within the community. The grant from DCNR will not only enhance recreational offerings but also significantly contribute to the economic vitality of Ridgway Township and the surrounding area.
“We are excited to embark on this project that seamlessly weaves together our region’s historical roots with contemporary outdoor recreation. The mountain bike trail at Sandy Beach Park will serve as a living testament to our commitment to preserving heritage while promoting an active and healthy lifestyle,” said Holly Komonczi, Executive Director of the LHR.
The Lumber Heritage Region extends its gratitude to the DCNR for their support and acknowledges the invaluable contributions of the Allegheny Hike Bike and Ski Club in making this vision a reality. The organization looks forward to breaking ground on this exciting project and providing the community with a trail that reflects the essence of Ridgway Township’s past and future. A list of volunteer opportunities will be communicated for those interested in contributing to the project’s success.
Sandy Beach Park, located three miles west of Ridgway, PA, offers pavilions for rent, picnic tables, fire rings, volleyball, baseball and softball fields, a playground, fishing, a dog park, and a disc golf course. For more information on park rentals, contact the township office.
Sandy Beach Location & Contact: 6712 Laurel Mill Rd, Ridgway, PA
Phone: (814) 773-5625
Email: rwytwp@windstream.net
Find us on Facebook @ridgwaytownship
About the Lumber Heritage Region:
The Lumber Heritage Region is dedicated to preserving, promoting, and celebrating the rich history and heritage of the lumber industry in Pennsylvania. Established in 2001, the organization works tirelessly to educate the public about the contributions of the lumber industry to the region’s development.
Classes & Learning Opportunities
The Lumber Heritage Region is partnering with multiple agencies and partners including Cameron County Outdoor Youth Activities (CCOYA), and Penn State Extension to bring the region a Teen Conservation Camp for ages 15-17...
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Additional Grant Opportunities
U.S. Forest Service announces funding opportunity to strengthen forest products economy, forest sector jobs.. This program supports the advancement of outdoor recreation, conservation, trail projects, and programs within the Susquehanna Greenway’s 22 counties: Bradford, Cambria, Centre, Clearfield, Clinton, Columbia, Cumberland, Dauphin, Indiana, Juniata, Lackawanna, Lancaster, Luzerne, Lycoming, Montour, Northumberland, Perry, Snyder, Susquehanna, Union, Wyoming, and York. Projects outside this corridor will not be considered. Eligible applicants include registered non-profit organizations able to apply for DCNR-supported funding and public entities (such as a county, municipality, or municipal agency). Projects must fit within one of these four eligible categories: Outreach & Education Wayfinding & Signage Parks, Land & Water Trails, and Active Transportation Temporary Placemaking Detailed descriptions of these categories are available on the grant landing page at www.susquehannagreenway.org. Funding Details: Up to $10,000 per request 1:1 match required (cash or in-kind) One award per entity (multiple applications may be submitted for consideration) 10-month contract period (January – October 2025) The Susquehanna Greenway Mini-Grant Program is financed by a grant from the Community Conservation Partnership Program, under the administration of the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation & Natural Resources (DCNR), Bureau of Recreation and Conservation. As such, mini-grants may not be used as match for other DCNR-funded projects, and DCNR funding may not be used to match this mini-grant. Awardees must follow all DCNR grant guidelines and acknowledge both SGP and DCNR in all marketing and media. An online information session will be held at 12 noon on October 1, 2025. REGISTER HERE. The application window will close at 4:59 PM on October 31, 2025. Eligible applicants can apply online at susquehannagreenway.org/mini-grant-program. Awarded projects can expect to be notified in December 2025. Questions may be directed to info@susquehannagreenway.org or 570-478-0178. The Susquehanna Greenway is a connected corridor of paddling, walking, and biking trails, boat launches, conserved lands, and communities that runs along the Susquehanna River in PA. The Susquehanna Greenway Partnership (SGP) is a 501(c)3 non-profit dedicated to advancing the vision of the Susquehanna Greenway. SGP works with partners to create a vibrant Greenway that weaves together communities, trails, and natural spaces, transforming the Susquehanna River corridor into a place where adventure beckons, connections deepen, and the river’s beauty inspires.
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