Washington County Tourism Promotion Agency announces first round of American Spirit Grant projects

Agency awards $150,000 to six Washington County municipalities for initial funding round

As communities across Washington County prepare to celebrate America’s 250th Anniversary in 2026, the Washington County Chamber of Commerce & Tourism Promotion Agency has announced the approval of six new projects totaling $150,000 through the American Spirit Grant Program that will enhance recreation, preserve history, and strengthen community spaces across Washington County.

The first round of American Spirit Grant Program projects was approved by the Tourism Agency’s Board of Directors today, reflecting the agency’s commitment to honoring Washington County’s role in American history while investing in the county’s future.

Through the program, the agency is dedicating $25,000 to each municipality in Washington County for a community project to honor the 250th anniversary of the United States in 2026. From new pavilions to historical reconstructions, these initiatives will provide lasting benefits for visitors and our local communities and their residents.

The initial project approvals mark the first round of funding issued through the American Spirit Grant Program. The application and approval process is ongoing; applications will be accepted on a rolling basis, there is no deadline to apply, but grant projects must be completed by July 4, 2026, to be eligible for funding.

In the first round of American Spirit Grant Program grant approvals, six municipalities submitted applications, and the following projects have been approved by the Tourism Agency’s Board of Directors:

• West Pike Run Township will construct a new 20’ x 30’ pavilion at Crescent Heights Park, the township’s only public park. With strong community support and a track record of recreational improvements, the pavilion will serve as a hub for family reunions, community picnics, and local events.

• North Franklin Township, in partnership with the Washington County Historical Society, will reconstruct the Augusta Town Courthouse, originally built in 1776. Recognized as the first courthouse west of the Monongahela River, the log structure will be rebuilt near the township’s new Waterside Park, providing an educational and cultural destination, while also commemorating the 250th anniversary of both the United States and the construction of the Augusta Town Courthouse.

• Nottingham Township will develop the Andrew Devore Pavilion at Sherwood Park, named in honor of a Revolutionary War soldier and early township settler. The 24’ x 24’ lighted, landscaped, and ADA-accessible pavilion will support growing demand for shelter rentals and complement the park’s existing amenities, which include pickleball courts, trails and a performance stage.

• Somerset Township has identified its newly acquired Township Park on Vanceville Road as a priority site for improvements, beginning with a 24’ x 48’ pavilion through the American Spirit Grant Program. This project will provide covered gathering space and will lay the foundation for future enhancements outlined in the township’s park master plan, which is currently under development.

• South Franklin Township will utilize the American Spirit Grant Program to assist in the construction of a new multipurpose stage at the community park. This new venue will host concerts, festival celebrations, and cultural events, creating opportunities to attract visitors to the township and providing a place for residents to gather and celebrate.

• Peters Township will commemorate America 250 with the installation of a four-faced commemorative street clock in the heart of its Town Center. The clock, adorned with both the township and county seals, will serve as a symbol of community pride and a gathering point near the public library and municipal complex. An accompanying plaque will honor the founding of Washington County, Peters Township, and America’s 250th anniversary.

“These projects reflect the very best of Washington County — our history, our sense of community, and our shared commitment to honoring the past while improving public spaces for future generations,” said Jeff Kotula, President of the Washington County Chamber of Commerce & Tourism Promotion Agency. “Each of these municipalities has stepped forward with meaningful projects that will serve both residents and visitors as we celebrate America 250 during 2026. We are pleased that our board of directors has shared these visions with our municipalities and approved all the projects. We are also looking forward to future applications from all our local municipalities.”

The American Spirit Grant Program has been designed to support community-based projects that enhance tourism, recreation, and historical awareness across Washington County. Collectively, these initiatives will leave a legacy for the county’s residents while welcoming visitors to Washington County throughout the America 250 celebration in 2026 and beyond.

For questions, guidance or to discuss a potential project, please contact:

Will Thomeier, 724-225-3010, will@washcochamber.com

Dana Bucci, 724-225-3010, dana@washcochamber.com

Or, visit washcogrant.com for program guidelines and application information.

About the Washington County Tourism Promotion Agency

The Washington County Tourism Promotion Agency is a 501(c)(6) private, independent, nonprofit corporation that engages in the planning and promotion of programs designed to stimulate and increase the volume of leisure and business travel into Washington County and to assist the promotional efforts of local entities that may bring visitors to Washington County. The Washington County Tourism Promotion Agency is a partner of the Washington County Chamber of Commerce. Learn more at VisitWashingtonCountyPA.com.