Four projects aimed at protecting and restoring the Lake Erie Coastal Zone in Erie County will receive more than $168,000 in state grant funding, Rep. Ryan Bizzarro (D-Erie) announced Tuesday. The funding comes through the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection’s Coastal Zone Grant Program, which supports initiatives impacting coastal waters and adjacent shorelands.
The Lake Erie Coastal Zone spans 77 miles, including the shoreline, major tributaries, and waters extending to the international border. The funded projects focus on research, community outreach, and environmental education.
Erie County Department of Planning and Community Development received $49,000 for coordination and technical assistance with coastal communities and enforcement of the Bluff Recession and Setback Act to prevent erosion.
Regional Science Consortium received $60,000 for monitoring and analyzing harmful algal blooms in Lake Erie and Presque Isle Bay.
Bayfront East Side Taskforce received $15,000 for the Same Day Work and Pay Program to remove litter, reduce employment barriers, and foster neighborhood pride.
Erie Bird Observatory received $44,337 for songbird migration research and visitor engagement at Presque Isle State Park.
“The Lake Erie Coastal Zone offers tremendous recreational, educational, and environmental resources,” Bizzarro said. “This funding will help protect this critical habitat, keep the shoreline clean, and increase community and visitor engagement.”
The announcement continues Bizzarro’s efforts to secure state investments for Erie County. So far this year, he has helped bring more than $18.8 million in state funding to local projects.