UDAEF Announces Approval of ARPA Grant for New Home in Upper Darby

The Upper Darby Arts and Education Foundation is pleased to share following unanimous approval at the December 18th Township Council meeting, Upper Darby Township will honor the original federal ARPA grant of $800,000 in support of creating an Cultural Arts & Education Center at Barclay Square.

“We are grateful to the Mayor, CAO Crandall Jones, Upper Darby Township Council (past and present) and all Township administration officials for coming to this resolution,” said Joe Lunardi, UDAEF Board President. “It has been the Foundation’s position from the start that our 50-year partnership with Upper Darby should be collaborative.” 

A statement from Upper Darby Mayor Brown Statement on December 18, 2024: 

"After careful deliberation with members of the Township Council, we have made the decision to withdraw our appeal to the Pennsylvania Supreme Court concerning the allocation of ARPA funding for the proposed Upper Darby Arts and Education Foundation (UDAEF) Cultural Arts Center at Barclay Square. 

Initially, I had concerns regarding how the funds would be distributed, particularly regarding the emphasis on rent and salaries over youth programming. However, after further reflection, we agree, in the spirit of cooperation and a commitment to champion the interests of our kids and families, to fully support providing this grant to the Arts Center project. The collaborative vision shared by Upper Darby Township, the Upper Darby School District and UDAEF has long been a source of pride, especially in regard to the Upper Darby Summer Stage program. Over the past three years, this partnership has been a positive force, enriching the lives of our residents. I remain deeply committed to ensuring that even more children and families in our Township benefit from these remarkable programs. 

To move forward, the Township will work closely with UDAEF to establish a sub-recipient agreement for the Cultural Arts Center. I am confident that our working together will ensure Upper Darby Township families experience the full benefits of our investment in the arts, while fulfilling the promise to enrich our community and provide valuable opportunities for our youth. I want to extend my gratitude to all those involved for their ongoing dedication and partnership as we continue to strengthen Upper Darby’s cultural and educational offerings. Together, we will ensure this project serves our community for years to come." 

Following the unanimous approval, UDAEF Executive Director Justin Heimbecker stated, “We are thrilled that this visionary project is now poised to become a reality for the Upper Darby community. This forward progress is a wonderful holiday gift to our entire community. Our team members are ready to roll up our sleeves and begin this important work with Township officials.”   

Lunardi concluded, “We are heartened to be so publicly recognized as a force for good in Upper Darby and beyond. We are equally encouraged by the enormous outpouring of support and dedication from community leaders, parents, alumni and residents.” 

UDAEF deeply appreciates the support of all who have and will continue to help bring this project to life. We look forward to engaging the community about exciting new programs and creating a space that lives up to our mission to transform the lives of our outstanding young people every day.