🪏 Coatesville Ash Park Reno | ⚖️ Woman Indicted in Immigration Fraud | 🐍 Timber Rattlesnake Spotted

***Limited Summer Posting Schedule***

In Today’s Edition of Downingtown Local Pulse…

☀️ Downingtown PA Weather

🪏 Coatesville Breaks Ground on Major Renovation of Ash Park

⚖️ Chester County Woman Indicted in Alleged $1M Immigration Fraud Scheme

🥾 Chester County Honors Rangers on World Ranger Day

🐍 Timber Rattlesnake Found in Chester County 

🎙️ Entrepreneur Jenna Dobbyn Joins Jenny Leigh on Good to Know Podcast

🗓️ Upcoming Local Events

🏡 Just Listed Real Estate Listings

🔎 Support Local Downingtown Businesses

Coatesville Breaks Ground on Major Renovation of Ash Park

COATESVILLE, PA — Ash Park, a nearly 100-year-old community hub in Coatesville, is undergoing a major transformation following the launch of a multi-phase renovation project. Backed by federal, state, county, and private funding, the redevelopment will expand recreational offerings, replace the long-closed pool with a splash pad, and add landscaped gathering areas, new pavilions, and upgraded stormwater infrastructure. Officials say the project, years in the making and supported by a wide network of local partners, will restore Ash Park as a premier destination for residents and visitors alike. Work on the first two phases is expected to take four to six months, with additional upgrades planned in future stages.

Chester County Woman Indicted in Alleged $1M Immigration Fraud Scheme

Federal authorities have charged Fatima DeMaria, 65, of Lincoln University, with running an immigration fraud scheme that allegedly targeted undocumented immigrants seeking work permits. Prosecutors say DeMaria falsely presented herself as an attorney, collected thousands of dollars from clients, and submitted fabricated asylum applications on their behalf without consent. The filings contained false claims of political persecution, and clients were unaware that such applications could place them in deportation proceedings if rejected. Authorities allege DeMaria pocketed over $1 million from the operation, some of which was withdrawn at casinos. If convicted, she faces up to 240 years in prison and $4 million in fines. The FBI is urging additional victims to come forward.

Chester County Honors Rangers on World Ranger Day

WEST CHESTER, PA — Uwchlan Township is inviting the public to help shape the future of its parks. Officials are planning upgrades to Lionville Park, a hub for local sports and events, and the creation of a new park on the Rossi Property. Residents of all ages can share their ideas through an online survey. Township leaders say community feedback will play a key role in determining what features and amenities to include in both projects, ensuring the spaces reflect local priorities and needs.

Rare Timber Rattlesnake Found in Chester County Neighborhood

MALVERN, PA — Timber rattlesnakes, once widespread across Pennsylvania, have largely disappeared from heavily developed regions like Chester County. This week, a rare sighting prompted a police response after one was discovered beneath a vehicle in Willistown Township. The snake was safely removed and handed over to state wildlife officials. Although venomous, rattlesnakes are considered non-aggressive unless provoked and serve an important role in controlling rodent populations. Authorities do not know how this snake ended up in the neighborhood or whether more may be nearby. Residents are advised to keep their distance and report any sightings to local authorities.

Upcoming local events…

Coatesville First Friday (Coatesville) - Aug 1st, 5pm-9pm

National Night Out Concert: Chico’s Vibe (Caln twp) - Aug 5th, 6pm

17th Annual Golf Outing and Dinner (Downingtown) - Aug 8th, 11am-8am

Caln Summer Series: Wonka (Caln twp) - Aug 8th, 7:30pm

Cars and Coffee and Donuts (Downingtown) - Aug 9th, 9am-11am

Tomato Fest at Downingtown Farmers’ Market (Downingtown) - Aug 9th, 9am-1pm

96th Old Fiddler’s Picnic (Coatesville) - Aug 9th, 10am-4pm

Roots and Blues Festival (Kennett Square) - Aug 9th, 11-6:45pm

West Bradford Movie Night (West Bradford) - Aug 9th, 8:30pm

Free Summer Concert: The Flying Komorowski Brothers (West Bradford) - Aug 21st, 6pm

1526 WALTON DR Downingtown ($529,900)

140 VIADUCT AVE Downingtown ($329,000)

335 STUART AVE Downingtown ($289,900)

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