County spends $1.4 million to expand Neighborhood First – Bucks Round-Up – November 12, 2026
County spends $1.4 million to expand Neighborhood First. Bucks County officials and Bristol Township community members met to mark the growth of Neighborhood First, a program that fosters mentorship, education, and structured activities for at-risk youth. The organization outgrew its original Bath Road facility, prompting the county to help fund a new 2,300-square-foot modular building next door. The expanded space includes staff offices, a classroom, an open programming area and private rooms for educational and skills development. The project also included an expanded parking lot, stormwater improvements, and landscaping. Neighborhood First Executive Director Walter Mims said the expansion is a milestone for an organization that has served local youth for 25 years. County Commissioner Chair Diane Ellis-Marseglia praised the program’s staff for their commitment to young people and their track record of helping students succeed. The project is estimated to cost approximately $1.4 million, funded through several sources, including federal American Rescue Plan Act funds and the Opioid Settlement Fund.