Clarion County receives grant for comp plan

Clarion County has received a $30,000 grant to develop a new comprehensive plan.

The new plan will replace the county’s current, outdated plan, which has not been updated since 2004.

The goal of the new plan is to provide direction for the development and future of the county.

County Commissioner Ed Heasley said Wednesday the county will be “reaching out” to several firms to help develop the new plan.

Heasley said the plan incorporates several facets including economic, tourist, infrastructure and other elements.

Heasley said municipalities, boroughs and others would be asked for input into the plan.

The grant is a 50-50 match. Heasley said the county would be able to apply in-kind services with the balance being paid from county funds.

Heasley said the plan would not be completed for about one year.

Earlier this week, Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED) Secretary Dennis Davin announced the approval of 12 projects through the Municipal Assistance Program (MAP) to assist local governments with planning for zoning, coordinating emergency services and creating comprehensive plans.

“The first step in ensuring the continued growth and success of a community is developing a comprehensive plan that addresses and anticipates both established and emerging needs,” said Davin. “This critical funding will help Pennsylvania’s municipalities create and implement the plans that will allow them to be more effective today and more prepared for tomorrow.”

DCED recently approved nearly $475,000 in funding for 12 municipal projects throughout the state.

Funding from MAP helps local governments plan for and efficiently implement municipal projects available in three groups of activities – shared services, community planning, and floodplain management.