Senator Dave McCormick (R-PA) has announced that more than $270 million in federal funding will be directed to projects throughout Pennsylvania. The funds are intended to address public safety, infrastructure, education, healthcare, economic development, and environmental restoration across the state.
“This funding delivers real results for Pennsylvanians,” said Senator McCormick. “It helps communities advance important projects and ensures taxpayer dollars are put to work where they are needed most. This money would have been spent by those in Washington, D.C. regardless. My goal is to steer these tax dollars home to worthy projects rather than leave these decisions to unelected bureaucrats.”
Projects receiving support range from upgrading wastewater systems and replacing bridges to improving emergency services facilities and supporting local business initiatives. The list includes investments such as $183 million for improvements at three Ohio River lock and dam sites by the Army Corps of Engineers; $15 million for a Machinery Control Development Center supporting the Naval Supply Systems Command; and $5 million for expanding Lancaster Airport’s terminal.
Local leaders and organization representatives expressed appreciation for the funding. Petra Bracko Mitchell, President and CEO of Catalyst Connection, stated: “A robust local manufacturing supply chain for AI Data Centers has the potential for significant job growth and economic impacts, leading to community benefits well beyond the construction and operation of data centers. Catalyst Connection looks forward to working with Senator McCormick and his team to engage local suppliers for the benefit of businesses, workers, families and communities.”
Sara Innamorato, Allegheny County Executive, commented: “Thank you to Senator McCormick for his bipartisan partnership and for delivering critical investments for our Police and Fire Academy that strengthen public safety across the county. This and the additional funding for strategic blight removal in the Mon Valley will help keep our communities safe, bolster economic development, and move our region forward.”
James D. Moate, County of Cameron Commissioner, added: “As we continue to advocate for the advancement and improvement of our local community, this funding is both necessary and greatly appreciated. I see the award of these funds as a step in the right direction for Cameron County.”
Jessica Herzing, Commissioner Chair for the County of Cameron said: “That is wonderful news. This funding represents an important investment in Emporium Borough’s Town Hall and the community it serves. We appreciate the support for projects that strengthen local infrastructure and help ensure our public facilities remain safe, accessible, and functional for residents.”
Kathleen A. Getz, PhD., President of Mercyhurst University stated: “We are grateful to Senator McCormick for his support and for recognizing the critical role Mercyhurst plays in addressing the healthcare workforce shortage. This investment strengthens nursing and physician assistant education while delivering real value for patients and communities.”
Duane Piccirilli, President of Hermitage Board of Commissioners said: “This funding will improve the efficiency of the wastewater collection system in the merged Wheatland Neighborhood of Hermitage by eliminating a pump station that has reached its useful life. We are grateful for the strong support of Senators Dave McCormick and John Fetterman, and Congressman Mike Kelly, in making this appropriation possible.”
Public Safety Director Ken McCorrison noted: “This initiative closes significant coverage gaps in our emergency communications system. Improved communications are essential to ensuring the safety of our first responders while also enhancing the level of response that can be provided to residents and visitors. As outdoor recreation grows as a sector of our economy, we’re particularly pleased that this project will expand emergency radio coverage on portions of the Allegheny National Forest. We’re grateful to Sen. McCormick for sharing in the vision of what we’re looking to accomplish with this project and his advocacy in securing this funding on our behalf.”
Dr. Walter Iwanenko, President of Gannon University stated: “We are deeply appreciative of this support of our First Ascent Biomedical lab. These funds obtained through Sen. McCormick’s efforts will immediately support new jobs in Erie, Pa., at First Ascent as well as aid the development of two academic programs designed to fill gaps in the region’s healthcare workforce for years to come.”
Ven Raju, President & CEO at Innovation Works commented: “Sen. McCormick has been one of Pennsylvania’s strongest advocates for building a thriving innovation economy. His leadership in securing significant investment in AI and power infrastructure underscores that commitment,” he said.“This earmark is yet another testament to his support for organizations like Innovation Works that help build and scale technology companies—creating jobs, transforming communities and reshaping regions.”
Evan D Kardosh from Meadville Fire Department remarked: “This federal investment represents a transformational step forward for emergency medical services in Meadville and for rural communities across Pennsylvania… We are grateful to Senator McCormick and our federal partners for recognizing the importance of innovative fire-based EMS solutions.”
Fredrick J Ferguson from Moshannon Valley Emergency Medical Services expressed thanks stating these funds “will help us realize completion” of their new facility serving Clearfield & Centre Counties.
Bob Shaffer from DuBois Regional Airport Authority highlighted regional impact saying their airport project ensures “safe airline operations” and continued access “to nation’s air transportation system.”
According to officials involved with administering these grants or benefiting organizations—such as colleges upgrading laboratories or municipalities updating stormwater systems—the federal money is expected not only provide direct improvements but also foster long-term economic opportunity throughout Pennsylvania.
Projects were submitted by eligible entities such as local governments or nonprofits under guidelines set by U.S Senate Committee on Appropriations’ fiscal year 2026 process.
