U.S. Representative Mike Kelly has announced that $20.6 million in Community Project Funding (CPF) grants that had been submitted to his office have officially been approved for the 16th Congressional District of Pennsylvania. The projects had been included in the legislation that was passed by the U.S. House on Thursday.
The projects had been included in the Transportation and Housing & Urban Development (THUD) and Homeland Security Bills. Legislation will now advance to the U.S. Senate for their consideration.
“I believe it’s important for everyone to remember: this money isn’t from the government. These are your taxpayer dollars at work in local communities,” said Rep. Kelly. “As my team and I reviewed this year’s projects, our priority was ensuring Pennsylvania taxpayers received the strongest return on their investment. I look forward to seeing these projects take shape in the months and years ahead.”
Funds of $7 million to Ekastown West 3R Rehabilitation in Butler County to realign, construct, and rehabilitate the roadway of PA 228 in Clinton and Buffalo Townships. This project will provide a significant improvement for commuting and transportation throughout the Pittsburgh area and in the areas beyond. This project will allow for traffic and safety improvements that have already been made.
A project budget of $3 million will go towards restoring and resurfacing the pavement of SR 422 in Lawrence County. This project will allow for a safer and more efficient passage through the region. Pedestrian safety and drainage will also be improved.
The new Erie County Industrial Park in McKean Township will be funded with $3 million. Without adequate infrastructure the project provides the necessary infrastructure needed for a new industrial park while also allowing economic growth, creating jobs, attracting businesses, and increasing tax revenue. The project will improve infrastructure, foster business expansion, and promote environmental stewardship as well.
Erie County will receive funds of $2.6 million to go towards a new Emergency Operations Center. The existing facility at 311 Marsh Street had severe deterioration. The new center will serve 14 counties in Northwestern Pennsylvania. The center will increase public safety, improving coordination and collaboration with the first responders and law enforcement organizations, facilitating regional training opportunities, reducing crime, and improving the efficiency of effectiveness in disaster response through the region. Â
A restoration and repave project of State Route 18 will be funded with $2 million. The current road is deteriorating and is in desperate need of replacement. This route connects New Castle, PA to SR 208 and the towns of Pulaski, New Wilmington, and Volant.
 The Erie Coke Demolition Project in Erie County will receive $2 million to demolish the existing smokestack and condemned structures at the former Erie Coke Site. The site had been abandoned in 2019 and has been an environmental hazard for nearly five years. The site once demolished can provide 200 acres of lakefront property.
Erie International Airport’s Aircraft Rescue Firefighting Vehicle in Erie County will receive $1.05 million for a new Aircraft Rescue Firefighting Vehicle.