OP-ED: The American spirit lives – and invests – in Washington County
On July 4, 2026, the United States of America will celebrate the 250th Anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. This significant milestone for our country will allow us to reflect on our history as well as honor the heritage of our great nation.
Communities across America are planning creative ways to commemorate the semiquincentennial, and Washington County has already started recognizing our place in our nation’s history with the unveiling of our county’s artwork as part of America250PA Bells Across PA initiative this past summer.
Commissioned by the Washington County Chamber of Commerce and Tourism Promotion Agency, Washington County’s Liberty Bell replica was transformed into a tribute to the county’s rich history, heritage, and industry through the trademark style of renowned artist James Sulkowski. After its unveiling, the chamber donated the bell as a gift to the Washington County Historical Society for permanent display and public viewing. It is a lasting commemoration for our county’s accomplishments and our citizens’ successes, but we are also looking to the future.
As part of the efforts to invest in the next 250 years of our communities, the Tourism Promotion Agency also announced the launch of The American Spirit Grant Program to encourage all of Washington County’s municipalities to develop lasting projects that enhance local tourism, commemorate the nation’s rich history, and foster community engagement as we stride toward 2026.
Through this program, Washington County’s cities, boroughs, and townships will all be eligible to apply for a grant up to $25,000 for a tourism-related project in their community to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the United States. The tourism promotion agency is committing over $1.6 million to our local municipalities to invest in projects important to them and to commemorate our history in meaningful and lasting ways. The program welcomes projects such as restorations of local historic sites, commemorative murals, or new community assets for visitors to enjoy and residents to take pride in.
Recently, the Tourism Promotion Agency approved the first round of grants to North Franklin, Nottingham, Peters, Somerset, South Franklin, and West Pike Run townships. The program is accepting applications from municipalities on a rolling basis to ensure participation and flexibility. The Washington County Chamber of Commerce and Tourism Promotion Agency, along with the Washington County Association of Township Officials, is encouraging every municipality to apply and invest these resources in impactful projects in celebration and betterment of their communities.
Washington County played a vital role in the early days of our nation, and The American Spirit Grant Program offers an exciting opportunity for each of our communities to celebrate our collective history while investing in our bright future.
More information can be found at www.visitwashingtoncountypa.com, and Washington County municipalities can apply online at www.washcogrant.com.
Andrew Walz is president of the Washington County Association of Township Officials, and Jeff Kotula is president of the Washington County Chamber of Commerce and Tourism Promotion Agency.