Since 1997, the Eastern Schuylkill Recreation Commission (ESRC) has been working to increase the recreational opportunities in Eastern Schuylkill County, with an emphasis on park and trail development and recreational rehabilitation.
The ESRC consists of the Borough of Tamaqua, the Borough of Coaldale, Rush Township, Schuylkill Township, Walker Township, West Penn Township, the Tamaqua YMCA, and the Tamaqua Area School District. The formation of the ESRC is considered a real progress in inter-municipal efforts in a region that had previously been known for being divisive and mistrustful.
The importance of the ESRC cannot be over-stated and its work over the years has exemplified public/private partnerships and synergy with government agencies, private partners, and non-profit organizations. It has also served as a local model of regioanl partnership as other regions of Schuylkill County are studying the concept for implementation. Most notably, the Eastern Schuykill Planning Commission refers to the ESRC as their model for development and pending success.
Over the past five years, the ESRC has been successful in both securing funding for projects and running successful programming for the residents of Eastern Schuylkill County. From assisting with acquiring land for public parks to rehabilitating playgrounds, from developing trails to constructing fully usable recreational facilities, the ESRC has been instrumental and extremely active in improving and increasing our areas recreational opportunities.
Examples of projects that have become possible due to inter-municipal cooperation are: the Lehigh & New England Rail-Trail, the Schuylkill Valley Heritage Trail, the Newkirk Tunnel Environmental Education Area, the acquisition and planning of the West Penn Park East, the development of the Rabbit Run softball field, and the development of the Richard E. Miller Park
In addition, the ESRC runs a wide range of programs through the summer and winter months, from basketball and volleyball leagues, to mountain bike races, to bus trips, etc. These programs target a wide demographic area of men, women, and children of all ages.
We, at the ESRC, thank you for your continued support and dedication, and as always, we look forward to providing you with increased recreational opportunities in Eastern Schuylkill County.
