Delaware County officials have announced that Little Flower Manor in Darby has been acquired by the county for $1.7 million, writes Kathleen E. Carey for the Daily Times.

The acquisition began seven years ago when commercial development plans started to surface.

After local residents expressed concern, Representative Nick Micozzie partnered with Peter Williamson, Vice President of Conservation Services for the Natural Lands Trust, to advocate in favor of preserving the space.

The funds for the purchase included state grants of more than $1.5 million from the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources and the Department of Community and Economic Development, along with the county’s commitment of $300,000.

Immediate plans are to install new sidewalks along Springfield Road and clear away some of the overgrown trees, shrubs, and debris so that the park could be open by the end of the year.

According to county councilman John McBlain, the Manor’s 37.5 acres of lush greenery, combined with the 40 acres of Mineral Hill purchased six years ago, will create “the largest increase in Delaware County’s Park system in 50 years since the acquisition of Rose Tree Park.”

Read more about the new park addition in the Daily Times by clicking here.