Welch secured federal funding for the project in 2022 

DERBY, VT – U.S. Senator Peter Welch (D-Vt.) this week joined local leaders, participants of Derby’s Senior Summer Day Camp, and members of the community to celebrate the groundbreaking of the Derby Park project, which will convert acres of unused land into a new community outdoor park. Sen. Welch nominated and secured federal funding for the project through the FY22 Community Project Funding (CPF) process during his last year in the House. 

“The Derby Park project is a commitment to Derby’s future. It will make an impact on many generations all at once—from the folks with the Senior Summer Day Camp who will get to use the pickleball court to kids who will get to play, learn and grow playing. These are tax dollars coming right back to Derby,” said Senator Welch. “I’m so proud to play a part in supporting this project that will create great space for community members to gather and enjoy Vermont’s natural beauty.” 

The town of Derby’s basketball and tennis courts were built decades ago and need repairs and upgrades. The town requested Community Projects Funding from then-Representative Welch in 2022, which he successfully secured. With this funding, Derby will convert acres of unused nearby land into a park with basketball, tennis and pickleball courts (a favorite activity of Derby’s Senior Summer Day Camp, which has more than 160 members), walking paths, 10 fitness stations, landscaping, parking, and benches and tables for public use.  

This year, Senator Welch secured $42.34 million in federal investments to support 19 projects that will improve local infrastructure and accessibility, bolster economic revitalization, preserve community landmarks, and build more affordable housing in Vermont. Project recipients were nominated by Sen. Welch through the Congressionally Directed Spending (CDS) process.

###