Baker, Fritz, Olsommer Announce More Than $900,000 for Community Projects
5/22/2024
HARRISBURG – State grants totaling $929,713 were awarded to local projects through the Commonwealth Financing Authority (CFA), according to Sen. Lisa Baker (R-20) and Reps. Jonathan Fritz (R-111) and Jeff Olsommer (R-139).

"These are significant community priorities that often don't align with existing operating budgets. Local officials and community leaders frequently bring up these projects during our discussions,” said Baker. “The local share funds from gaming revenues enable a diverse range of initiatives – such as equipment acquisition, facility renovations, infrastructure expansion and community protection upgrades – to progress more swiftly. These competitive awards acknowledge that these communities are well-managed and that the proposed projects are both practical and essential."

“This is a very competitive program, and I am happy to support funding requests for public safety enhancements and infrastructure projects in our local communities,” said Fritz. “Thanks to a joint effort, we are delivering big wins for worthy applicants in the 111th!”

“I am pleased that these funds will reinvest tax dollars directly into our district,” said Olsommer. “Our communities will be able to enhance public safety, provide better services and improve the quality of life for our residents.

The approved projects in Pike County include:

• Matamoras Borough – $45,000 for the purchase of a new police vehicle.
• Lackawaxen Township Volunteer Fire – $100,000 for the purchase of an airboat and related safety equipment.
• Veterans Memorial Park and Education Center – $75,000 for the construction of historical monuments.
• Shohola Township – $100,000 for the purchase of road maintenance equipment.
• Westfall Township – $100,000 for upgrades to the municipal building.

The approved projects in Wayne County include:

• Berlin Township – $32,000 for upgrades to the community center.
• Canaan Township – $190,933 for the reconstruction of the Mican Road bridge.
• Dyberry Township – $90,160 for the purchase of maintenance equipment.
• Honesdale Borough – $16,520 to replace the Honesdale Central Park stage.
• Paupack Township – $60,000 for the construction of a salt shed.
• Preston Township – $120,100 for the purchase of road maintenance equipment.

The CFA was established in 2004 as an independent agency of the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development to administer the commonwealth’s economic stimulus packages.

CONTACTS:
Jennifer Wilson (Baker) jwilson@pasen.gov
Melissa Fox (Fritz/Olsommer) mefox@pahousegop.com