Happy Valley Times

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

Representative Armanini highlighted the significance of these grants, stating, "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." He emphasized the importance of funding school safety and infrastructure needs.

Senator Dush expressed satisfaction with securing funds for Elk County residents amid economic challenges. "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," he said. Dush noted that these grants relieve financial burdens on homeowners, employers, schools, and farmers by supporting critical infrastructure upgrades.

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

These LSA grants are funded by gaming revenues and were approved by the Commonwealth Financing Authority (CFA), an independent agency responsible for managing Pennsylvania's economic growth programs.

Additionally, the Public School Facility Improvement Grant Program administered by CFA has provided Johnsonburg Area School District with two grants totaling $795,000 for projects at Johnsonburg Elementary School and Johnsonburg Area High School. Ridgway Area School District received $500,000 for enhancing safety at their middle/high school entrance.

For further information or inquiries about these initiatives, contact Scott Little at 717-260-6137 or via email at slittle@pahousegop.com.