Erie County Times

On October 31, Gov. Tom Wolf continued his commitment to helping communities across Pennsylvania by awarding $40.1 million to projects focused on redevelopment and infrastructure improvements.

According to a release by Wolf’s office, the funds are through the Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program (RACP). They will support 10 “critical projects” spanning nine counties that are meant for the revitalization of the communities, as well as provide work opportunities for Pennsylvanians.

“I’m pleased to provide $40.1 million for projects that support a cleaner environment, economic development, job creation, and education,” Wolf said. “These projects will be transformative for their communities.”

In Allegheny County, the Almono Limited Partnership is receiving $3 million for development and infrastructure for the Mill District of Hazelwood Green for the University of Pittsburgh’s BioGorge Facility and the Carnegie Mellon University Robotics Innovative Center. 

There will be $5 million going to Riverfront 47, LP or Its Assigns for phase 1 of a new residential and commercial property called Allegheny Shores in Sharpsburg Borough, as well. The funds are for earthwork, utility installation, stormwater system upgrades and roadway construction.

In Cambria County, the city of Johnstown is receiving $2 million for a redesign of Main Street the Central Park. These funds will be used for sidewalks, curbing, crosswalks, lighting, parking, and more. The train station will also be rehabilitated.

In Erie County, IRG Erie, Inc. receives $5 million for the redevelopment of a $200 million plastic recycling facility in a high unemployment area on 25 acres of property.

In Dauphin County, the city of Harrisburg is receiving $6 million for improvements at FNB field, which is the home of the Harrisburg Senators. There will be new field lighting, locker room renovations, a new home clubhouse, a boardwalk for activities and a new scoreboard.

In Lancaster County, the city of Lancaster Operations Facility Expansion is receiving $3 million to purchase land and expand its operations center. The funds will go toward constructing a salt shed, building equipment storage spots, a garage space, a recycled good drop-off area and a weatherized storage area.

In Monroe County, $3.6 million is going to the Monroe County Industrial Development Authority for the construction of a railroad line that is along the Pocono Mainline. This involves required upgrades for a new Amtrak Corridor passenger train that goes to Northern Pennsylvania.

In Northampton County, ArtsQuest is receiving $7 million for a redevelopment project at the abandoned Bethlehem Steel Corporation plant. The funds will go toward creating a facility for entertainment, cultural attractions, community events and science displays.

In Philadelphia County, $1.5 million is going to WHYY for renovations of its facility that includes landscaping, lighting, new workspaces and a digital media center.

The York County Agricultural Society receives $4 million for building renovations and upgrades at York Fairgrounds. This will be for things like security improvements, fences and grandstands, as well as other modernization efforts.