Shapiro Administration Marks Completion of $5.2 Million in Improvements at Cherry Springs State Park, Protecting Dark Skies and Advancing Sustainable Infrastructure on Public Lands

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September 24, 2026 - Coudersport, PA

Shapiro Administration Marks Completion of $5.2 Million in Improvements at Cherry Springs State Park, Protecting Dark Skies and Advancing Sustainable Infrastructure on Public Lands

Coudersport, PA - Today, Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) Secretary Cindy Adams Dunn announced the completion of $5.2 million in new improvements at Cherry Springs State Park, an International Dark Sky Park in Potter County. This major investment enhances visitor accessibility and safety while protecting the park's world class dark skies - advancing the Commonwealth's commitment to modern infrastructure, outdoor recreation, and sustainable public lands management.
"Cherry Springs is one of the most remarkable places in our state park system, where generations of visitors have come to experience a night sky that most people in the world will never see," said DCNR Secretary Cindy Adams Dunn. "This park comes alive after dark, and we have a responsibility to conserve that experience for the future. These improvements help us meet the needs of a park that shines at night and ensure we can continue offering an outstanding dark sky experience with thoughtful, sustainable infrastructure that reflects the best of what Pennsylvania's public lands can provide."
The project redesigned how visitors move through the park at night, reduced artificial light, and expanded facilities to support astronomy, education, and large events.

Speakers:
Tracy Lambert, Park Manager, Cherry Springs State Park
Steve Warner, Environmetal Education Specialist, DCNR
Michael Twigg, Director, DCNR Bureau of Facility Design and Construction
Eric Loch, President, Dark Sky Fund and Cherry Springs State Park Friends Group
Curt Weinhold, astronomer and photographer
Ken Van Sant, President, Board of Directors, Visit Potter-Tioga
Paul Heimel, Commissioner, Potter County
Secretary Cindy Adams Dunn, DCNR

• Press Release