The Carousel at Pottstown and Colebrookdale Railroad Preservation Trust will each receive an economic development investment grant of $250,000 authorized by the Montgomery County Commissioners at their September 10 meeting.
The Colebrookdale Railroad will use the grant proceeds to match funds previously raised to establish a Pottstown station for the 8.6 mile tourist railroad that connects Pottstown, Montgomery County to Boyertown, Berks County. The grant funds awarded to the Carousel at Pottstown will also serve as a match and will be used to complete improvements to the building that is home to the restored historic carousel. Both projects are expected to be completed in 2016.
The railroad and carousel are key components or the Gateway Tourism and Recreation District or “TRec District” that serves as the western gateway to the Borough of Pottstown and Montgomery County. Borough and Pottstown Area Industrial Development (PAID) staff proposed the creation of the TRec District in October of 2014. The proposal received the full support of Borough Council.
In addition to the railroad and carousel, the district also includes Memorial and Riverfront Parks, The Schuylkill River Trail, the Schuylkill River, Pottsgrove Manor, and Manatawny Green Mini Golf. Establishment of the TRec District is expected to lead to opportunities for cross marketing and promotions, coordination of event calendars and hours of operation, and sharing or jointly pursuing resources. The goal is to further economic development through encouraging visitors to stay longer and patronize Pottstown businesses.