West Central PA News

Senator Cris Dush and Representative Mike Armanini have announced the distribution of over $2.7 million in grants to local municipalities and schools through state government programs.

“With so many hard-working families struggling with ever-rising costs and inflation, I am pleased to have played a role in securing this highly competitive funding for the citizens I serve in Elk County,” said Dush. “These grants are important investments in the safety and quality of life for residents of all ages. Securing this highly competitive funding is a huge win for even more homeowners, employers, schools and farmers who will not have to bear the economic burden for millions of dollars of critical infrastructure upgrades.”

The Local Share Account (LSA) grant recipients include Benezette Township receiving $172,500 for a public restroom facility construction, Jay Township with $32,500 for septic grinder pumps purchase, Johnsonburg Municipal Authority getting $104,275 for waterline replacement, St. Marys Area Economic Development Corporation awarded $700,000 for property development at 129 N. Michael St., and City of St. Marys allocated $438,000 for seating and park amenities improvements.

“The Local Share Account (LSA) and the Public School Facility Improvement Grant programs are both examples of good stewardship of taxpayers’ hard-earned dollars being put to use as investments in our communities,” Armanini said. “I’m glad to see this funding support everything from school safety to basic infrastructure needs and applaud the recipients for being proactive in pursuing these highly competitive grants.”

The LSA grants come from gaming revenues approved by the Commonwealth Financing Authority (CFA), an independent agency responsible for overseeing Pennsylvania’s economic growth programs.

The Public School Facility Improvement Grant Program also administered by CFA includes two grants totaling $795,000 awarded to Johnsonburg Area School District for roof replacement at Johnsonburg Elementary School and HVAC project at Johnsonburg Area High School. Ridgway Area School District received $500,000 aimed at enhancing safety at the middle school/high school entrance.