Bedford, PA – The Bedford County Development Association (BCDA), in partnership with the Bedford County Commissioners, has been awarded a Circuit Rider grant from the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR). The grant will offset the costs of a full-time, county-wide Outdoor Recreation Coordinator employed by BCDA. Funding comes from the Keystone Recreation, Park and Conservation Fund.
The Outdoor Recreation Coordinator will serve as a catalyst for expanding, connecting, and promoting outdoor recreation assets throughout Bedford County, further positioning the county as a destination for residents, visitors, and businesses alike.
The process to secure the grant began with a PEER Management study to assess the need and define the purpose of the new position, as well as identify the most sustainable hosting location. This study was spearheaded by BCDA and the Bedford County Commissioners in partnership with technical consultant Michael Baker International, Inc., and guided by an ad-hoc steering committee representing a broad range of outdoor recreation stakeholders in the county.
The initiative stems from the Bedford County Outdoor Recreation Alliance, an open group of outdoor enthusiasts and business owners who recognize the economic and community value of enhancing Bedford County’s trail network.
“We are thrilled to see this position come to fruition,” said Jen Marsh, President & CEO of BCDA. “This aligns perfectly with BCDA’s mission of improving the quality of life in Bedford County through economic development, and it plays a vital role in attracting and retaining businesses in both Bedford County and the broader Alleghenies region. Outdoor recreation is a powerful driver of a viable economy, and one of the greatest successes in securing funding for this position has been the power of collaboration and partnerships. Community members and business owners rallied together to make this possible, and we are fortunate to have a forward-thinking board that truly understands the value outdoor recreation brings to our economic future.”
Claire Jantz, Deputy Secretary of DCNR, said: “This investment in Bedford County’s outdoor recreation infrastructure exemplifies DCNR’s commitment to supporting communities that prioritize quality of life, conservation, and economic vitality. The Circuit Rider program ensures that local leaders have the dedicated capacity to connect vision with action, which helps DCNR with its goal of expanding outdoor recreation access for all Pennsylvanians and visitors.”
Nathan Reigner, Director of Outdoor Recreation for the Commonwealth, added: “Outdoor recreation is a $19 billion industry and one of Pennsylvania’s most powerful drivers of economic and community well-being. Bedford County’s commitment to a coordinated approach will not only enhance local experiences but also strengthen the county’s appeal as a premier outdoor destination. Jen Marsh’s tenacity and relentless drive from the Bedford County Development Association were instrumental in making this position a reality, and her leadership will continue to shape the future of outdoor recreation in the county.”
The Outdoor Recreation Coordinator position is expected to be advertised and filled in the coming months, with work immediately focused on implementing the countywide vision and building collaborative partnerships.