West Central PA News

HARRISBURG – Westmoreland County communities will receive over $180,000 in funding through Pennsylvania's Greenways, Trails and Recreation Program, thanks to the impact fee on unconventional natural gas wells. The grants were approved at the Commonwealth Financing Authority (CFA) meeting on January 16, 2024.

Sen. Joe Pittman, along with Reps. Abby Major and Leslie Rossi, announced the funding and expressed their support for the improvement projects. Pittman highlighted the broader impact of the revenue generated from the impact fee, stating, "For more than a decade now, the revenues from the impact fee on natural gas have helped not just areas in which the gas is collected, but all of Pennsylvania."

Major emphasized the positive impact of the funding on the Lower Burrell community, stating, "This will enhance recreational opportunities for Lower Burrell residents and visitors by providing an outlet for people to get outside and exercise. A healthy community contributes to an area's vitality."

Rossi echoed Major's sentiments and stressed the importance of investing in communities within the 59th District. She stated, "It is imperative that we invest in communities that make up the 59th District because it will attract business growth, provide jobs, tourist attractions, and outdoor activity. I support every effort possible to rejuvenate our area so it can be a place where people want to live, work, play, and be educated."

The impact fees, which are in addition to regular business taxes, were established by Act 13 of 2012 to ensure that communities affected by gas drilling receive their fair share of funding. These funds are authorized by the Commonwealth Financing Authority and used for various state programs, including road and bridge repairs, housing, and other infrastructure needs.

The grants awarded to Westmoreland County communities will contribute to the enhancement of parks and infrastructure, benefiting residents and attracting business growth. The investments in these communities will create job opportunities, tourist attractions, and promote outdoor activities.

Commending the approved projects, Pittman expressed his satisfaction with the state funding, stating, "These improvement projects will be an asset to our local communities, and I'm pleased to have advocated for this state funding."

As the impact fee continues to generate revenue, Pennsylvania remains committed to supporting communities throughout the state by investing in their infrastructure and promoting economic growth.

Media Contacts:

- Kate Eckhart Flessner (Sen. Pittman)

- Tracy Polovick (Rep. Major)

- Rick Leiner (Rep. Rossi)