ALLENTOWN, PA – Senator Nick Miller announced that the Pennsylvania Historical & Museum Commission (PHMC) has awarded a $25,000 Keystone Historic Preservation Grant to the West Park Civic Association to support the initial planning phases for the preservation and restoration of West Park’s historic bandshell. Combined with the $25,000 Senator Miller secured in last year’s state budget for the project, the West Park Civic Association will receive a total of $50,000 to help preserve this historic community landmark.
Keystone Historic Preservation Grants help identify, preserve, promote, and protect Pennsylvania’s historic and archaeological resources while contributing to community revitalization efforts.
The grants are funded through the Keystone Recreation, Park & Conservation Fund, which receives annual support from a portion of the state’s realty transfer tax revenue.
“West Park has been a centerpiece of community life in Allentown for generations, bringing residents together through arts, culture, and public events,” said Senator Miller. “This investment will help preserve one of our city’s most treasured historic landmarks, ensuring the iconic 1907 bandshell continues to serve as a gathering place for future generations.”
“The West Park Civic Association is pleased to move forward with plans to restore the West Park bandshell, made possible in part by Senator Nick Miller’s support through the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources,” said Thomas Yuracka, WPCA Board President. “Dating to 1908 and designed by noted Philadelphia architect Horace Trumbauer, the West Park bandshell is the only remaining wooden bandshell of his design.”
The grant will support electrical, structural, and architectural assessments, as well as historic preservation planning and documentation necessary for the restoration of the bandshell. Designed in the Beaux-Arts style by renowned architect Horace Trumbauer, the 1907 bandshell remains a defining feature of West Park and an important venue for community and cultural programming.
The funding also enabled the association to consult with Richard Grubb and Associates on cultural resource services. This work included securing eligibility for West Park to be listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
For more information, visit PASenatorMiller.com.