HAMBURG – Volunteers and officials from Hamburg, including Senator David G. Argall and Rep. Jerry Knowles, gathered today to announce the awarding of a $200,000 state grant to develop a large grass lot located within the Hamburg Borough’s designated Main Street Corridor into a recreational area for community events.
“These state grants are very difficult to obtain, for the demand is very great,” said Senator Argall. “For many years, I have supported their request to create this new public square in downtown Hamburg to provide new economic opportunities – like more space for the Taste of Hamburg-er Festival – to continue the ongoing revitalization of downtown Hamburg. We have finally received the approval for this long-sought goal.”
“Our Town Foundation’s goal in developing the State Street Square lot is to provide additional recreational opportunities, entertainment, and festivities on the lot; thereby creating a community hub which will increase economic vitality in the area,” said Deena Kershner, Executive Director of the Our Town Foundation. “By hosting regular events on the lot, there will be an increase of pedestrian foot traffic into the nearby businesses.”
“The Taste of Hamburg-er Festival Committee is very appreciative of receiving this grant and wants the residents of Hamburg to know that all festival funding will remain in the community for their enjoyment,” said Sandy Christman, who serves on the festival committee.
“I am happy to see the funds be awarded for this important project,” said Rep. Knowles. “I am certain the development of the public square will be a great benefit to this well-run community.”
The fully developed lot will feature a building that will include a built-in stage, concession stand, and storage space for event equipment, as well as a parking lot. This new building will support a wide variety of community events once completed, including the Taste of Hamburg-er Festival.
Contact: Jim Brugger
717.787.2637