Rep. Dane Watro announced on May 20 that nearly $875,000 in state grants have been awarded to support public safety and recreational projects in the 116th Legislative District.
The funding is intended to improve parks and emergency services across several local communities. The grants are expected to benefit a wide range of residents by enhancing outdoor spaces and increasing the capacity of local fire departments.
“Our region is blessed with parks that encourage people to come together and enjoy the great outdoors, and with people who are committed to ensuring the health and safety of our residents,” Watro said. “There are great things happening in our communities, and I’m always glad to advocate for grants like these that empower our local leaders to invest in making things even better for our residents.”
Senator Dave Argall also commented on the announcement. “Towns and neighborhoods in all corners of our region will benefit from this funding,” said Argall.
The grant awards include $300,000 for improvements at Hazle Township Community Park’s western athletic fields; $29,076 for a community pavilion at Hazleton City’s 12th Ward Park; $155,802 for an ice cream concession stand project at City View Park; $100,000 for renovations at three city fire stations; $89,715 toward purchasing a utility task vehicle (UTV) for emergency response by Hazleton’s fire department; and $200,000 for roadway and sidewalk upgrades including ADA accessibility improvements in West Hazleton Borough.
The Commonwealth Financing Authority awarded these funds through its Local Share Account grant program.
