West Central PA News

Two Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program (RACP) grants, totaling $5 million, have been allocated for projects in Westmoreland County. This announcement was made by Senator Joe Pittman and Representative Jill Cooper.

The New Kensington Advanced Manufacturing Park Redevelopment in New Kensington City will receive $3 million. The funds are designated for demolishing older structures unsuitable for tenancy due to structural and safety concerns. Additionally, the site will be prepared for new construction, and existing buildings will be upgraded to accommodate manufacturing, technology, and flexible space.

TECfusions in Upper Burrell Township has been awarded $2 million for the Keystone Connect Data Center multiphase project. This initiative aims to construct a hyperscale data center in New Kensington with three buildings powered by a dual-fuel energy-efficient micro-grid. Phase I includes equipment installation, emergency generation systems, UPS systems, electric switchgear, transformers, breakers, cabling, and building materials.

Senator Pittman stated: “Investing in these projects is about helping our communities have the resources they need to thrive.” He expressed satisfaction with advocating for this support and highlighted that the funding would open new opportunities and expand previous initiatives to boost economic and community development.

Representative Cooper added: “When the Commonwealth invests in new and growing businesses, not only does it create new positions and expand our workforce, but it lays the groundwork for even more economic development.” She emphasized that one new business can attract others, leading to significant neighborhood transformation.

The RACP is managed by the Office of the Budget. It supports regional economic projects authorized under a Capital Budget Itemization Act. These projects must impact multiple jurisdictions or regions significantly while generating or maintaining employment levels and tax revenues.