Shenango Valley News

Lawrence County in Pennsylvania has been awarded over $966,000 in funding to support various projects, including water, sewer, and arts initiatives. The grants were provided by the Commonwealth Financing Authority (CFA) and were announced by Senator Michele Brooks and Representative Marla Brown.

Senator Brooks emphasized the importance of strong infrastructure networks for the growth of communities. She stated, "Growing our communities relies on strong infrastructure networks, however these projects can be very costly. I’m pleased the funding will defray costs that would have otherwise likely been passed on to residents."

Representative Brown expressed her satisfaction with the approval of grants for the projects. She highlighted the significance of improved wastewater treatment systems and sewage pump systems in preventing diseases and protecting the environment. Brown said, "Improved wastewater treatment systems and sewage pumps systems eliminate disease-causing bacteria and kill harmful organisms. This filtering process prevents diseases from entering water sources and farm animals, helping to protect the environment. These projects will help to improve the quality of life in our community."

One of the funded projects is the replacement of raw sewage pumps in New Castle City, which will receive $350,000 through the H2O PA program. This program, established by the General Assembly in 2008, provides grants for various water, sewer, and storm sewer projects, as well as flood control projects and the repair of unsafe dams.

The Small Water and Sewer (SWS) Program also contributed to the grants. This program provides funding for small water, sewer, and stormwater infrastructure projects. Municipalities and municipal authorities that own and maintain public water supply, sanitary sewer, or stormwater systems are eligible to apply for grants.

Additionally, the Arts and Education at the Hoyt organization received a grant of $13,541 for marketing expenses. This funding comes from the PA Arts and Culture Recovery Program, which aims to support nonprofit arts and culture organizations, local arts and culture districts, and arts and culture professionals in their recovery after the pandemic.

The grants provided by the Commonwealth Financing Authority will have a positive impact on Lawrence County, improving infrastructure, protecting the environment, and supporting the arts and culture sector. These investments will contribute to the overall quality of life in the community.

For more information, please contact Adam Gingrich from Senator Brooks' office at 717-787-1322 or Rick Leiner from Representative Brown's office at 717-260-6437.

Click this link to access more information: https://www.senatorbrooks.com/2023/12/19/brooks-announces-966000-in-grants-benefitting-lawrence-county/