This week the Department of Community and Economic Development announced a grant for $1 million to support the development of “The Treehouse Village” at Two-Mile Run Park in Venango County.

The “Treehouse Village” project -- a unique hotel experience consisting of 30 "treehouse" units for both business and recreational use. Designed by Robert Kobet of

Sustainaissance International in Pittsburgh, these unique overnight accommodations are designed with environmentally sensitive "green building" techniques. Treehouse Village is the cornerstone to a master plan that will create a sustainable future for Two-Mile Run.

The park is pursuing U.S. Green Building Council Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification for this project. The design phase was funded through Department of Conservation and Natural Resources Oil Heritage Region funds. In addition, 20 percent of the "hotel units in the sky" will be accessible to people with disabilities.

Funding for the project came from the Redevelopment Assistance Capital

Program passed by the General Assembly before they adjourned for the summer.

8/20/2004