Erie County will receive more than $460,000 in funding for environmental sustainability programs throughout the region. Representatives Ryan Bizzarro, Pat Harkins, and Bob Merski all announced the funding on Monday.
“By encouraging our marinas and vineyards to use effective stormwater and sediment runoff management practices, we are helping protect our water and environment, which directly supports public health,” said Bizzarro, who represents Millcreek and Fairview Townships. “This is a strong example of tax dollars being reinvested to improve the sustainability and well-being of our community.”
Through the state’s Growing Greener grant program, the funding will go towards restoring streams, improving watersheds, and reducing water pollution.
The Regional Science Consortium at the Presque Isle Center will receive $310,855 to implement stormwater BMPs along the shoreline allowing for management of stormwater runoff and protecting the overall water quality.
The Erie County Conservation District will receive $150,000 for the Pennsylvania Vested in Environmental Sustainability program which is an initiative to reduce excess sediment and nutrient runoff into local waterways.
“Protecting our watershed and investing in shoreline resilience is essential for Erie County,” Harkins said. “These projects will reduce runoff, improve water quality in Presque Isle Bay, and support community efforts to steward our natural resources for generations to come. Forward‑thinking investments like these strengthen public health, recreation, and the local economy.”
“Addressing stormwater runoff at our marinas and supporting sustainability programs is a smart, preventative approach,” Merski said. “By reducing pollution and improving how we manage runoff, we lower the risk of costly damage from flooding and protect the places our residents and visitors rely on.”
Administered by the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection the Growing Greener grant program has awarded more than $17.3 million to 89 projects statewide.