Lawrence Times

In a recent announcement, Representative Marla Brown of the 9th Legislative District disclosed that over $1.9 million in state funding has been allocated for community improvement projects. These grants aim to enhance safety, transportation, infrastructure, and water quality within the district.

"Improving our community infrastructure is essential to ensuring the safety and well-being of our residents," Brown stated. She emphasized that these funds will assist local governments and organizations in making necessary upgrades to wastewater systems, transportation projects, and public facilities. "These grants will help our local governments and organizations make critical upgrades to wastewater systems, transportation projects and public facilities - all of which are crucial for fostering long-term economic growth."

The allocation includes several specific grants: $450,000 to Bessemer Municipal Authority for upgrading its wastewater treatment plant; $100,000 to Lawrence County for renovations on the Stavich Bike Trail; $225,000 to Lawrence County Economic Development Corporation for Cedar Street Industrial Office Building renovations; $150,000 each to Mahoning Township and North Beaver Township Municipal Authority for pump station rehabilitation and electrical improvements respectively; $75,000 to South New Castle Borough for constructing a salt shed building; $500,000 to Taylor Township for sewage treatment plant upgrades; and $436,454 to Wilmington Township for purchasing new maintenance equipment.

Brown expressed her commitment to regional economic development by stating her pride in being part of efforts that build a foundation for a thriving community. "As someone who is deeply committed to advancing our region's economic development," she said.

The Commonwealth Financing Authority approved these grants as part of their fiduciary responsibility over funding programs aimed at Pennsylvania’s economic growth. The Local Share Account (LSA) grants are funded through gaming revenues.