and still have a high paying job.” AN EXCEPTIONAL QUALITY OF LIFE Armstrong County continues to invest in public amenities to enhance its offerings for residents, and the Belmont Complex, a county-owned ice rink and aquatic facility, is undergoing a master plan to become a self-sustaining recreational and wellness hub, partnering with local healthcare providers. “We’re looking at different options on how we want this facility to look now and over the course of the next 30 years,” expands Alviano. “We think that having a top notch community wellness, recreational complex in the heart of our county would be a big draw for families looking to move to this area to raise their kids and enjoy the amenities.” Along with this, funding is being sourced to conduct a study of all recreational facilities within county boundaries.“We will be identifying who the owners are, who’s responsible for the maintenance and upkeep of the facility, and what the game plan for improving those is moving forward,” he says. “We think quality of life plays a major factor in where people choose to live, and we want Armstrong County to be the place where they choose.” Armstrong County has many quality of life amenities on offer, from kayaking on the beautiful Allegheny or Kiskiminetas Rivers to enjoying a scenic walk on Pennsylvania’s most extensive trail networks, with over 100 miles of interconnected trails running through its scenic landscapes. With trail usage booming, bringing in thousands of visitors, Shea says, “The parking lots are full of cars with bike racks.The businesses are catching on and providing services along the trail.” Along with this a public-private partnership with ARDC ensures the county’s river locks remain open, facilitating recreational boating along the Allegheny River and enhancing water-based tourism. Armstrong County also has a rich historical legacy to share, with the Battle of Kittanning in 1755 serving as a key event.Efforts are underway to refurbish a historic train station and develop reenactments to attract heritage tourism.Agritourism is a growing draw, with venues like Renshaw Family Farms providing scenic locations for weddings and seasonal events, while local farms and farmers’ markets showcase the best of rural living. The horse park, under the authority of the Fort Armstrong Horseman’s Association is another regional attraction. “They do rodeos throughout the year,” says Shea. “We’re doing a big fundraiser for them now, they’re looking after grant funding.They want to have a roof over the stadium so we can have rodeos throughout the year.” 47 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 06, ISSUE 03 ARMSTRONG COUNTY, PA
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MTI5MjAx