News Flash

Two projects were awarded ECHO funding this week after receiving approval by the Volusia County Council.

The Charles Paiva Greenway, which runs north from Earl Brown Park along Alabama Avenue to near Stetson University, received a $1.5 million grant that will allow the multi-use trail to be extended about 1.3 miles from East Minnesota Avenue to U.S. 92. 

 With the completion of the trail, DeLand will have trails that not only go through its core area, but also has trails that head east, west, north and south – creating a perimeter around the city.

 “The city is very appreciative of the funding that was awarded by the Volusia County Council,” said Mayor Robert F. Apgar. “These projects will go a long way toward improving the quality of life for our residents and visitors.”

The Volusia County Council also approved appropriating $150,000 in funds for Jackson-Lane Memorial Park to go toward purchasing new playground equipment that will be accessible to children of all abilities.

The city will provide matching funds for the projects, which are expected to be completed or in progress in 2023.

The Volusia County ECHO program is a voter-approved initiative that is funded using property taxes to support projects for environmental, cultural, historical and outdoor recreational purposes.