This is the last city playground in need of a major upgrade, as all other Warren parks have received an upgrade in the last 10 years. Planned improvements include new playground equipment, drainage work, off-street parking, a pavilion, restrooms, a basketball court and other amenities.

The city will provide a $250,000 match, already secured and budgeted for 2027, while the remaining match will be supplied by community partners including the Community Foundation and the Defrees Foundation. Construction is expected to begin in 2027.

Council affirmed the city’s 2026 financial contribution to the Transit Authority of Warren County, which is used as local matching funds for state transportation assistance.

Council also authorized submission of a PennDOT Multimodal Transportation Fund grant application seeking approximately $1.82 million for a streetscape improvement project on the 400 block of Pennsylvania Avenue West. The project, estimated to cost $2.6 million, would include roadway rehabilitation, curb ramps, sidewalks, lighting, utility work, tree replacement, planters and benches. The city would provide a 30 percent match if the grant is awarded.

Pictured is the 400 block of Pennsylvania Avenue West. The City Council recently authorized a grant application for a $1.82 million streetscape improvement on the block.

Council further approved a resolution authorizing the disposition of non-permanent municipal records in accordance with guidelines established by the Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission.

Committee updates included notice that the Comprehensive Plan Task Force will resume meetings in February and progress on wayfinding signage is expected to be installed in early spring and updates from the Warren County Council of Governments on regional planning initiatives and upgrades to emergency communication towers.

Council also received an update on the city’s riverfront redevelopment project, noting that while a Local Share Account grant was not awarded, the city is still awaiting a decision on an Appalachian Regional Commission grant expected later this spring.

The council’s next regular meeting will be held on Monday, February 16.