O’Hara residents can look forward to tennis court upgrades and safer pedestrian access

Upgraded tennis courts and more curb cuts will come to O’Hara after the township landed more than $130,000 in state grants.

Accessibility and recreation will get a nice boost, officials said, thanks to the Gaming Economic Development and Tourism Fund, which is administered through the Allegheny County Redevelopment Authority. A portion of the money also came through the state Greenways, Trails and Recreation Fund.

The township will receive $50,000 to construct ramps that comply with the federal Americans With Disabilities Act at three sites near Freeport and Fox Chapel roads.

It also will get about $80,500 to upgrade the tennis courts at Meadow Park.

“I am proud to advocate for funding that provides outdoor recreational activities for students and the community, and emphasizes equity and accessibility for all residents,” said state Sen. Lindsey Williams, D-38th District.

The intersection at Fox Chapel Plaza is known as “B’man’s Corner Office,” where teen Bill Carney and his family set up their “BEEP for B’man” outings. He elicits honks and waves from passing motorists and has developed a nice relationship with fire volunteers and police.

Williams said she has been working with the township, PennDOT, Allegheny County and the Carneys to make sure the heavily used intersection is safe.

“This grant funding will ensure that curb cuts, ramps and other infrastructure is brought into compliance with ADA standards,” Williams said.

“These updates mean that B’man can safely spend time in his ‘Corner Office,’ spreading joy to commuters, and that residents of all mobility levels can safely cross the intersection and access the local business district.”

Projects eligible for the grant promote local economic activities, create jobs, improve or create infrastructure and boost public safety.

State Rep. Mandy Steele, D-Fox Chapel, said she supports O’Hara “in working toward ADA compliance at this intersection and their goal of making the township accessible for all residents.”

The tennis court rehab project includes milling and resurfacing the space at Meadow Park, which is O’Hara’s largest developed park and sits off Kittanning Pike.

Money also will be used to replace nets and fencing, and repair disturbed areas.

“Community parks and trails have long been at the core of my work because they improve quality of life for people, create gathering spaces and improve property values,” Steele said.

“I believe these projects will positively impact residents.”