Happy Valley Times

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

“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 stated. “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.”

Dush added, “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. 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.”

Recipients of the LSA grants include Benezette Township, which will receive $172,500 for constructing a public restroom facility, and Jay Township, which will obtain $32,500 for the purchase of septic grinder pumps. The Johnsonburg Municipal Authority is set to receive $104,275 for a waterline replacement project. The St. Marys Area Economic Development Corporation will use $700,000 for property development at 129 N. Michael St., while the City of St. Marys is allotted $438,000 for improvements in park amenities.

The CFA, an independent agency responsible for funding programs and investments aimed at Pennsylvania’s economic growth, approved and awarded these LSA grants, derived from gaming revenues.

Under the Public School Facility Improvement Grant Program, the Johnsonburg Area School District will benefit from two grants totaling $795,000 for projects involving roof replacement at Johnsonburg Elementary School and HVAC upgrades at Johnsonburg Area High School. The Ridgway Area School District will receive $500,000 for a middle school/high school entrance safety enhancement.