Wednesday, May 7, 2014

Atlantic County Awards Municipal Open Space Financial Assistance Funds for EHT Park Expansion

Atlantic County has approved the reallocation of Municipal Open Space Financial Assistance funds that will allow Egg Harbor Township to expand the Tony Canale Park with the purchase of a $1.6 million, 40-acre property off Dogwood Avenue.

The county had previously awarded the township $1.34 million for two projects in funding rounds 5,7 and 8, however, the township was unable to complete those projects. A request to reallocate those awards to supplement the Tony Canale Park 6th round funding project at Block 3201, lot 14 was approved by the township and adopted by the county.

"We are always pleased to assist in the acquisition of open space, especially in areas such as Egg Harbor Township that have experienced tremendous growth and development," remarked County Executive Dennis Levinson. "The Tony Canale Park is enjoyed by residents and visitors. This expansion will further enhance its value to our overall quality of life."

A portion of the property will be retained by the landowner for development as per court settlement agreement. Future development of 223 housing units must include 20 percent that are affordable to low and moderate income households. Development will not occur until the existing mobile park home is connected to public sewer.

Egg Harbor Township is also eligible for reimbursement of a portion of appraisal, survey and environmental assessment costs related to this project.

Settlement on the property is expected to occur in June, according to township officials.

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