CBS19 NEWS, NEWS STAFF

An Orange County community is getting federal money for a new public pool and to expand its park system.

Congresswoman Abigail Spanberger announced that Gordonsville will receive more than $1.6 million to improve Verling Park as well as build the new public pool and expand its park system.

“Investing in our public parks not only keeps these resources safe and accessible for future generations, but supports the outdoor recreation economy,” said Spanberger. “Virginians living, playing, and raising a family in Gordonsville and Orange County will benefit directly from the upgrades this award will soon make possible. I have been proud to work alongside this community to secure this federal grant every step of the way, and I am excited to see these funds headed home to the Seventh District.”

According to a release, she wrote a letter of support for the funding and voted for legislation to fully and permanently fund the grant program through which this money is coming.

The grant is coming from the National Park Service’s Land and Water Conservation Fund, which Congress created to fulfill a commitment to safeguard natural areas, water resources and cultural heritage.

It also aims to provide recreational opportunities for Americans.

“On behalf of the Town of Gordonsville, I would like to offer our sincere thanks to Congresswoman Abigail Spanberger for her crucial assistance in securing a Land & Water Conservation Fund grant, awarded by the National Park Service for $1,605,750, which will serve to renovate and expand the town’s park system and build a new public pool,” said Robert K. Coiner, Mayor of Gordonsville. “Representative Spanberger’s strong letter of support for our grant proposal, after several trips to Gordonsville to review the park and our proposed plans, demonstrates clearly her strong commitment to her constituents and her tireless work ethic.”

The release says the LWCF provides matching grants for local and state park projects outside of the boundaries of national parks.