Scarnati Announces Grants to Improve Boating Facilities in Tioga, Clearfield Counties

Funds will help pay for improvements at Hamilton Lake and Witmer Park

Warren - State Sen. Joe Scarnati (R-25) today announced the approval of state funds to help pay for improvements at two popular boating sites in Tioga and Clearfield counties.

Scarnati said the grants are funded through the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission's Boating Facility Grant Program. The funds are derived from boat registration fees and other boating-related sources. No state general funds are used.

The senator said a $107,000 grant was awarded to Wellsboro Borough, Tioga County, for improvements at Hamilton Lake. The grant will be used for construction of a new concrete ramp, floating dock, paved access and parking areas, and handicapped accessible bathrooms.

Scarnati said Clearfield Borough in Clearfield County will receive a $25,000 grant to replace an existing boat launch ramp and pave the parking area at Witmer Park.

Boating is a key part of the rich tradition of outdoor recreation in our region. These grants will improve the facilities at these sites and hopefully make for a more enjoyable boating experience," said Scarnati. "Boaters pay fees and taxes to be able to get out on the water for fishing or recreation, and it's important those funds are returned to the communities to pay for improvements and upgrades."

The Boating Facility Grant Program is designed for public entities that have or will have the capability to provide boat access facilities that are open and available for general public use.