Lawrence Times

Rep. Marla Brown has announced that the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED) has approved a grant for New Castle amounting to $86,400. The funding is allocated through the department's Strategic Management Planning Program (STMP) and aims to support Phase 1 of the city's efforts by financing an economic development role.

The position in question is for the executive director of the Citywide Development Corporation (CDC). This role is considered vital to New Castle’s strategy for transitioning out of Act 47 status, aiming for long-term sustainability.

“It’s all too easy for towns to find themselves in financial distress, but it’s far more difficult to claw out of trouble,” said Brown. “This grant is an important step toward New Castle’s revitalization, and it only happens when community officials and residents work together to make systematic changes. Everyone in New Castle should be incredibly proud of this progress.”

The funds are intended to assist New Castle in meeting the necessary conditions required to exit Act 47, Pennsylvania’s program designed for financially distressed municipalities. To qualify for an exit from this program, New Castle must eliminate operational deficits and record a budget surplus over three consecutive years. The new economic development position will play a crucial role in implementing the changes needed to achieve these goals.

“This is more than just funding; it’s about building a sustainable future for New Castle,” stated Brown.