Sep 27, 2025 4 min read

As the country prepares to celebrate America’s 250th anniversary next year, the Washington County Chamber of Commerce & Tourism Promotion Agency announced grants for six new projects totaling $150,000 through the American Spirit Grant Program that will enhance recreation, preserve history and strengthen community spaces across the county.

The first round of American Spirit Grant Program projects was approved by the tourism agency’s board Thursday, and reflects the organization’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, the projects are designed to provide lasting benefits for visitors and local communities and their residents.

“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, who is president of the 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.”

In the first round of American Spirit Grant Program grant approvals, six municipalities submitted applications and were approved by the tourism board.

North Franklin Township partnered with the Washington County Historical Society and will reconstruct the Augusta Town Courthouse. Originally built in 1776 and 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.

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-by-24-foot lighted, landscaped and ADA-accessible pavilion will support growing demand for shelter rentals and complement the park’s existing amenities.

Peters Township will install 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.

Somerset Township has identified its newly acquired township park on Vanceville Road as a priority site for improvements, beginning with a 24-by-48-foot pavilion. The 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 use its grant money 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.

West Pike Run Township will construct a new 20-by-30-foot pavilion at Crescent Heights Park, which is the township’s only public park and serves as a hub for family reunions, community picnics and local events.

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.

The application and approval process is ongoing, with applications being accepted on a rolling basis. There is no deadline to apply, but grant projects must be completed by July 4 to be eligible for funding.

“We are also looking forward to future applications from all our local municipalities,” Kotula said.

Go online www.washcogrant.com for more information on program guidelines and the application process.