West Central PA News

Sen. Joe Pittman and Reps. Jill Cooper, Abby Major, and Leslie Rossi have announced that $1,647,151 will be awarded through the Multimodal Transportation Fund and Local Share Account Category 4 Facilities Program to benefit Westmoreland County communities. The grants were approved by the Commonwealth Financing Authority on March 26, 2024.

"I’m proud to have worked with local and state leaders to advocate for this substantial state funding for projects within our region," said Sen. Pittman. "These investments will have a positive impact on local residents, as well as help to advance local economic development for many years to come."

Rep. Cooper expressed her satisfaction with the grants, stating, "Our local officials balance keeping taxes as low as possible with providing services and amenities, and grants like these go a long way in accomplishing both. These investments in projects and equipment will be huge improvements to the delivery of things that residents want and need."

Rep. Major highlighted the importance of the grants in addressing crucial area projects, saying, "Each of these grants will address an important area project. I’m pleased to have advocated for these needs in order to address necessary work that will make the Alle-Kiski Valley a better place to live, work and visit."

"These grants will go a long way in many areas to help promote improvements in security, water systems, infrastructure, and safety," added Rep. Rossi. "It is necessary we invest in communities that make up the 59th District because it will attract business growth and provide jobs. I support all efforts to rejuvenate our area. It was my pleasure to help advocate for this funding."

The Multimodal Transportation Fund provides grants to encourage economic development and ensure a safe and reliable transportation system for Pennsylvania residents. Funds from this program can be used for various purposes such as streetscape enhancement, sidewalk improvement, and transit-oriented development.

The PA Race Horse Development and Gaming Act distributes gaming revenues from Category 4 licensed facilities through the Commonwealth Financing Authority to support projects in the public interest within specific host counties, including Westmoreland County.

The awarded grants are expected to make a significant impact on the Westmoreland County communities by improving infrastructure, promoting economic development, and enhancing the quality of life for residents.

For media inquiries, please contact Kate Eckhart Flessner (Sen. Pittman), Jordan Frei (Rep. Cooper), Tracy Polovick (Rep. Major), or Rick Leiner (Rep. Rossi).