State Rep. Ben Sanchez announced today that two state grants totaling $700,000 will go toward upgrades for a local gathering space and playground.

Funding has been distributed by the Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program as follows:

Salem Baptist Church: $350,000 to fund the remaining renovations for the campus banquet and event space (Freedom Hall). The renovations will include improvements to the capacity, safety, accessibility and potential of the space, safety systems and improved ventilation and airflow systems.

Abington Township: $350,000 for the Inclusive Park and Playground Project. This will help establish the first inclusive playground in Abington Township. The project will feature inclusive play strategies and equipment for children ages 2 to 12 and will be designed to maximize the benefits of play for children with a wide range of physical and mental abilities. The park will be renovated to provide ADA accessibility to the inclusive playground and the playground will be constructed to ensure access and participation to youth of different physical and mental capabilities.

“These projects will benefit the Abington community by creating spaces where everyone, regardless of age or ability, feels welcome and valued,” Sanchez said. “By supporting renovations to Salem Baptist Church’s event space, we’re enhancing a vital community resource, and through creating an inclusive playground, children of all abilities can engage, play and grow together. This funding reflects our commitment to building safer, more accessible and more inclusive spaces for all residents.”

More information about the park can be found here.

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