10/31/2026
Fayette Board of REALTORS® Leverages Placemaking Grant to Support Enhancements at East Park in Connellsville
CONNELLSVILLE, PA (10/29/2026 East Park 3:45pm) – Transforming public land at East Park into a vibrant community space designed to bring people together is happening thanks to the Fayette Board of REALTORS®, which received a $7,500 National Association of REALTORS® Placemaking Grant. Through this initiative, the Fayette Board of REALTORS® is partnering with the Connellsville Park and Recreation Board to maximize the use of green space at East Park. The project focuses on creating gathering places throughout the park by installing new benches and picnic tables, including several ADA-accessible tables to ensure all individuals can enjoy the area.
This collaborative effort directly enhances community livability and revitalization by bringing local residents together. Students from the shop class at the Connellsville Area Career and Technical Center built the benches and tables, which are being installed alongside volunteers from the City of Connellsville and members of the Fayette Board of REALTORS®.
"East Park has long been a cherished, historic landmark in Connellsville, and preserving spaces where neighbors can gather is vital to maintaining a vibrant community," said Cory Cavinee, President of the Fayette Board of REALTORS®. "Bringing this enhancement project to life for East Park was an honor for the Fayette Board of REALTORS®, but the true highlight is the outstanding work done by the students at the Connellsville Area Career & Technical Center. Their skill and dedication are reflected in every bench and table, making this a wonderful example of what we can achieve when our community comes together."
Placemaking focuses on creating people-centered public spaces that strengthen neighborhoods by fostering connection, collaboration and civic pride. By leveraging this grant, the Fayette Board of REALTORS® is helping turn a local vision into a place where residents can gather, engage and build a stronger sense of community.
"This project is a perfect example of community revitalization at its finest," said Greg Lincoln, Mayor of Connellsville. "By providing accessible seating throughout our beautiful green spaces, we are ensuring East Park remains a welcoming place for everyone. We are incredibly grateful to the Fayette Board of REALTORS® for securing this grant, and deeply proud of the talented technical center students and local volunteers who worked side-by-side to improve our city."
"As a REALTOR® for 37 years and a proud member of the Fayette Board of REALTORS®, it’s truly rewarding to see our local board receive a grant that allows us to give back to our community," said Dennis J. Martin, a local Realtor active in many community groups. "This year, East Park in Connellsville, PA benefited from that support. Thanks to the outstanding students and dedicated teachers at the Connellsville Career and Technical Center, new benches and handicap-accessible picnic tables were built and installed for the park. Their craftsmanship and commitment made this project possible. With the cooperation of so many individuals – REALTORS®, educators, students, and community members – it’s inspiring to be part of an effort that strengthens and improves our local neighborhoods. Being involved in projects like this is one of the many reasons I’m proud to be a REALTOR® and proud to serve Fayette County."
Projects like these at East Park reflect REALTORS®’ commitment to building better communities beyond the transaction—using local expertise, partnerships and advocacy to enhance quality of life and support vibrant, resilient neighborhoods.
councilman James Flynn who oversees the Recreation Board emphasized that “this project shows how teamwork, from the city, our high school students, and Fayette Board of Realtors, can bring real improvements to life for our community. We are proud to invest in our parks because this is where our neighbors meet, kids play, and community grows. Seeing local students build those benches and handicap accessible picnic tables makes this park feel truly ours, and we’re grateful for the partnership with Fayette Board of Realtors for making this happen.”
For more information about placemaking projects and other grant-sponsored activities, visit realtorparty.realtor. To learn more about the National Association of REALTORS® Placemaking Grant program, visit: realtorparty.realtor
