Santarsiero, Warren announce state funding for Upper Makefield pedestrian and roadway improvements

HARRISBURG, Dec. 23 – State Representative Perry Warren and state Senator Steve Santarsiero today announced that Upper Makefield Township has been awarded a $250,000 grant from the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation’s Multimodal Transportation Fund to support a series of pedestrian and roadway improvements along Route 532.

The funding will be used to construct new sidewalks, install ADA-compliant ramps, add curb bump-outs at two intersections, implement decorative crosswalks, upgrade pedestrian signals, perform milling and overlay, and make other enhancements along the corridor. These improvements aim to increase pedestrian safety, accessibility, and overall community connectivity.

“This investment will make a real difference for the families, seniors, and visitors who use Route 532 in Washington Crossing,” Santarsiero said. “By improving sidewalks, crossings, and roadway conditions, we’re making Upper Makefield a safer, more pedestrian-friendly, and accessible area. I’m proud to support this funding and to work with Representative Warren and local leaders to deliver infrastructure improvements that strengthen our communities.”

“The residents of Upper Makefield deserve safe, accessible streets that encourage walking and make our neighborhoods more welcoming,” Warren said. “This investment from the Multimodal Transportation Fund will enhance pedestrian safety, improve traffic flow, and strengthen the community’s infrastructure for years to come.”

The Multimodal Transportation Fund provides dedicated funding for projects that improve transportation across multiple modes, including walking, biking, transit, and freight. Through its statewide competitive funding program, the MTF supports municipalities, councils of governments, businesses, public transportation agencies, and other organizations in making transportation safer, more accessible, and more reliable for all Pennsylvanians.

For more information on PennDOT’s Multimodal Transportation Fund, including a list of projects awarded in previous rounds, visit PennDOT’s MTF resources page.

Santarsiero represents the 10th Senatorial District in Bucks County, comprised of Bristol Borough, Bristol Township, Buckingham, Chalfont, Doylestown Borough, Doylestown Township, Falls, Lower Makefield, Morrisville, New Britain Borough, New Britain Township, New Hope, Newtown Borough, Newtown Township, Plumstead, Solebury, Tullytown, Upper Makefield and Yardley.

Warren represents the 31st Legislative District in Bucks County, comprised of Lower Makefield, Newtown Borough, Newtown Township, Upper Makefield and Yardley.

Senator Steve Santarsiero and Representative Jim Prokopiak announce more than $500,000 in grants

BUCKS COUNTY – Senator Steve Santarsiero (D-10) along with Representative Jim Prokopiak (D-140) announced today ­­­­­$ 527,623 in state funding:

  • $400,000 for Morrisville Fire Department for a Light Rescue/High Water Vehicle
  • $127,623 for Tullytown Borough for a dump truck
  • $150,000 for Falls Little League for LED field light upgrade

Morrisville Fire Company, a nonprofit volunteer fire company that serves Morrisville Borough and the surrounding communities, is receiving funding for a new vehicle. Due to the Borough’s proximity to the Delaware River, the fire company needs a dynamic lifted rescue truck that would take over support of the Borough’s marine and technical responses. This new truck will also assist in responses during backwater flooding in the city and snowy conditions.

“Our volunteer firefighters are heroes who put themselves on the front lines every day to keep our community safe,” said Senator Santarsiero.  “This new truck will improve the Morrisville Fire Company’s ability to respond during crises, regardless of the location or weather condition. I will continue to support getting our first responders the equipment they need to provide critical assistance to communities in times of emergency.”

“The volunteers fire fighters of Morrisville faithfully serve Morrisville, protecting lives and property every day,” said Representative Prokopiak. “The awarding of the grant for a new light rescue vehicle with the ability to traverse high water allows our first responders to help those in need, even in conditions of heavy rains and flooding.” 

Tullytown Borough will be receiving a new dump truck to improve the efficiency, safety, and operational capabilities of Tullytown’s Public Works Department in managing snow removal and roadway salting operations during winter months. The new truck will be equipped with a stainless-steel dump body, plow, and salt spreader.
“Keeping our roads safe and clear is one of the basic tasks of government and I was happy to support this grant for Tullytown Borough to do just that,” said Senator Santarsiero “Especially during the winter months, it’s essential that our municipalities have the equipment they need to keep our roads in good condition.”

“Investing in modern equipment for Tullytown’s Public Works Department will improve winter road safety, enhance efficiency, and help the borough better serve residents during severe weather conditions,” said Representative Prokopiak.

The Falls Little League is receiving funds to update their field with new LED lighting through the Greenways, Trails, and Recreation Program.

“Little League is about teamwork, confidence, and giving kids a place to fall in love with the game, and I’m proud to support these LED upgrades so more families can enjoy the field safely and longer into the evening,” said Senator Santarsiero. “As a lifelong baseball fan, I know how much these small but meaningful investments matter for our kids.”

“Providing opportunities for our kids to get outside, off their devices, and play is critical to our families,” said Representative Prokopiak. “This grant will allow the little league to upgrade their lights with energy efficient and money saving LED lights.”

Administered through the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development, the Local Share Account (LSA)- Statewide program allocates gaming revenue through the Commonwealth Financing Authority to support projects that improve the quality of life of citizens in the Commonwealth.

Additional information about the Local Share Account- Statewide program can be found on the DCED website.

Act 13 of 2012 establishes the Marcellus Legacy Fund and allocates funds to the Commonwealth Financing Authority (the “Authority”) for planning, acquisition, development, rehabilitation and repair of greenways, recreational trails, open space, parks and beautification projects using the Greenways, Trails, and Recreation Program (GTRP).

Additional information about the Greenways, Trails, and Recreation Program can be found on the DCED website.

Senator Santarsiero, Representative Tina Davis, and Representative Jim Prokopiak announce nearly $1.4 million in grants

BUCKS COUNTY – Senator Steve Santarsiero (D-10) along with Representatives Tina Davis (D-141) and Jim Prokopiak (D-140) announced today ­­­­­$1,355,000 in state funding:

  • $1,000,000 for Bucks County Technical High School Field House/Gymnasium Project
  • $355,000 for Levittown-Fairless Hills Rescue Squad for new ambulance to be used in Bristol and Falls Townships

The Bucks County Redevelopment Authority will receive funds to build a gymnasium/fieldhouse at the Bucks County Technical School located at 610 Wistar Road, Fairless Hills. The Technical School Authority is comprised of Bensalem, Bristol Borough, Bristol Township, Morrisville, Neshaminy, and Pennsbury School Districts. Currently, the school lacks a dedicated gymnasium so physical education classes are currently held in a repurposed cafeteria that is inadequate for the school’s needs. There are no proper locker room facilities for students to change.

“As a former teacher, I know that safe and quality facilities are key to effective learning for every child who walks through a school’s doors,” said Senator Santarsiero. “This new gymnasium with locker room facilities will make sure students at Bucks County Technical High School can gain the full benefits of physical education. This investment is essential to ensuring every child has quality and equitable education in Bucks County.”

“Every student deserves safe, equitable access to quality physical education facilities, and this project helps ensure that happens at Bucks County Technical High School,” said Representative Davis. “A dedicated gymnasium and locker rooms will greatly improve students’ daily experience and support their health, teamwork, and overall well-being. This is an important investment in our region’s students and their future.”

The Levittown-Fairless Hills Rescue Squad will be receiving funding for a new, state-of-the-art ambulance. The new ambulance will replace a current ambulance in their fleet that is nearing the end of its expected life.

“One of the fundamental jobs of government is to provide services that save lives in case of emergencies,” said Senator Santarsiero. “I’m proud to support this funding with Representatives Davis and Prokopiak that will make sure we have the latest and best equipment for our first responders. This ambulance will make sure the Levittown-Fairless Hills Rescue Squad can continue their important, life saving work here in Bucks County.”

“Reliable emergency medical services save lives, and having up-to-date equipment is essential to that mission,” said Representative Davis. “This new ambulance will help ensure faster, safer, and more effective care for residents in Bristol and Falls Townships. I’m grateful for the dedicated first responders at the Levittown–Fairless Hills Rescue Squad and proud to support this critical investment in public health and safety.”

“The Levittown Fairless Hills Rescue Squad provides lifesaving care to our community,” said Representative Prokopiak. “They are there for our families in their time of need, and it is vital that they have reliable equipment. This new ambulance will help them continue to serve our community and save lives.”

Administered through the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development, the Local Share Account (LSA)- Statewide program allocates gaming revenue through the Commonwealth Financing Authority to support projects that improve the quality of life of citizens in the Commonwealth.

Additional information about the Local Share Account- Statewide program can be found on the DCED website.

Senator Santarsiero Announces $2.87 Million in Housing Support Funding

BUCKS COUNTY – State Senator Steve Santarsiero (D-10) announced today $2,870,000 in state grant funding for multiple projects in Bucks County through the PA Housing Finance Agency’s Pennsylvania Housing Affordability and Rehabilitation Enhancement (PHARE) program.

The projects benefitting residents of the 10th Senate District are as follows:

  • Habitat for Humanity Bucks County: $300,000 for the 2026 Home Repair Program
  • YWCA of Bucks County: $350,000 for Housing and Supportive Services for Victims of Human Trafficking
  • Friends Village: $375,000 for HVAC upgrades at Paxson Hall
  • A Woman’s Place: $250,000 for Rapid Rehousing of Domestic Violence Survivors
  • A Woman’s Place: $75,000 for Emergency Domestic Violence Safe House Support
  • Bucks County Opportunity Council: $250,000 for Homeless Prevention
  • Bucks County Opportunity Council: $250,000 for Innovative Solutions to Address Housing Disparities
  • Better Homes, Inc. of Bucks County: $500,000 for a Towpath Apartment Preservation
  • Bucks County, Housing Services Department: $500,000 for Bucks County Housing Link Addressing Community Needs Program
  • Family Services Association of Bucks County: $150,000 for Emergency Shelter Operations Support
  • Bucks County Housing Group: $150,000 for Housing Counseling Program
  • Navicore Solutions: $100,000 for Housing Counseling Support Services
  • Norris Square Community Alliance: $120,000 for Economic Mobility Counseling to Address Housing Insecurity

“We are fortunate to have so many organizations dedicated to helping our most vulnerable neighbors,” said Senator Santarsiero.  “These funding awards will help provide critical resources to assist those in needs of safe housing and support in times of crisis or economic instability.”

Additional funding was awarded to regional and statewide programs.

Information about the PHARE Program can be found on the PA Housing Finance Agency website.

Senator Santarsiero Applauds $5 Million in PCCD Awards Benefitting the 10th District

BUCKS COUNTY – September 16, 2024 — State Senator Steve Santarsiero (D-10) announced $5,000,418 in state funds benefitting the 10th Senate District were awarded through the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency (PCCD).

Five Local Law Enforcement Support Grants will benefit four police departments in the 10th District:

  • Falls Township will receive $204,650 for its Bucks County Human Services Co-Responder Program, as well as $99,105 for Pathfinder software integration;
  • Central Bucks Regional Police Department will receive $162,467 for National Incident-Based Reporting System;
  • Lower Makefield Township will receive $51,573 for National Incident-Based Reporting System; and
  • Yardley Borough will receive $46,735 for National Incident-Based Reporting System compliance.

“Our communities are safest when our local police departments have the funding necessary to do their job,” said Senator Santarsiero.  “Each of these awards will enable our local police to respond to calls safely, efficiently and effectively.”

Rep. Jim Prokopiak (D-140), who represents Falls Township, said, “As a former Falls Township Supervisor, I know how important these grants are to local police departments.  I thank Governor Shapiro and the PCCD for their investments in Falls township and in Bucks County.”

Of the funding for Yardley Borough and Lower Makefield Township, both in House District 31, Rep. Perry Warren (D-31) said, “These grants will allow our police departments to improve services through upgraded systems, technology and data.”

Rep. Tim Brennan (D-29) represents the municipalities served by the Central Bucks Regional Police Department.  Rep. Brennan said, “I’m heartened by PCCD’s consistent efforts to make sure local police departments and organizations that provide services to victims have the funding they need to operate effectively. Since taking office, I’ve been working closely with law enforcement agencies across our region to learn what they need and use my position to pursue solutions. Programs like this that provide resources to municipal police forces and related agencies helps to lessen the burden on the PA State Police.”

Organizations supporting crime victims in the 10th district will receive significant funding, including:

  • Network of Victim Assistance (NOVA) will receive $125,000 in STOP Violence Against Women Act funding, $1,299,520 for Victims of Crime Act support, as well as $190,000 for a statewide crisis response project;
  • A Woman’s Place will receive $672,985 in funding to support services for domestic violence victims;
  • Legal Aid of Southeastern Pennsylvania will receive $535,140 for legal services for domestic abuse victims; and
  • SeniorLAW Center will receive $1,454,913 to support its programming to help elder victims.

“Unfortunately, there are far too many victims of crime right here in our community,” said Senator Santarsiero.  “We are fortunate to have NOVA and A Woman’s Place working to exclusively help residents of Bucks County, as well as legal providers like Legal Aid and SeniorLAW Center serving the broader region.  The advocacy and dedication of these organizations serves a critical role in assisting some of our most vulnerable residents when they need it most.”

In addition, Bucks County will receive $143,37 for its jail based Vivitrol Program and $14,959 to develop a 2024 Bucks County Reentry Strategic Plan.

The 10th Senate District includes Bristol Borough, Bristol Township, Buckingham Township, Chalfont Borough, Doylestown Borough, Doylestown Township, Falls Township, Lower Makefield Township, Morrisville Borough, New Britain Borough, New Britain Township, New Hope Borough, Newtown Borough, Newtown Township, Plumstead Township, Solebury Township, Tullytown Borough, Upper Makefield Township and Yardley Borough.

Senator Santarsiero Announces $616,000 in State Funds to Combat Substance Use Disorders and Reduce Incarceration in Bucks County

BUCKS COUNTY – Senator Steve Santarsiero (D-10) today announced $616,000 in state funds were awarded by the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency (PCCD) to combat substance use disorders and reduce incarceration in Bucks County.  

  • Child and Family Focus, Inc: $200,000
  • The Council of Southeast Pennsylvania: $200,000
  • Bucks County Restrictive Probation Program: $216,000

The funding for Child and Family Services and The Council of Southeast Pennsylvania is a disbursement of State Opioid Response Funds to benefit Bucks County residents with substance use disorders.  State Opioid Response Funds support drug courts, Medication Assisted Treatment, Naloxone for first responders and evidence-based prevention programs.

“The opioid epidemic touches every corner of our community, and we must do more to help those who are suffering from substance use disorders,” said Senator Santarsiero.  “These organizations do great work treating those in need in our community and I am pleased these state funds are supporting programs to benefit our residents in Bucks County.”

The funding for Bucks County is from Intermediate Punishment Treatment Program funds and will support the county’s Restrictive Probation Program.  The program is a sentencing alternative for non-violent offenders in lieu of incarceration.

“Probation is an effective alternative to incarceration for certain non-violent offenders and Bucks County has an impressive program in place,” Senator Santarsiero continued.  “These funds will help the county continue its work supporting individuals on probation, setting them on a path toward positive behavioral change.”

Bucks County Commissioner Diane Ellis-Marseglia said, “As a board member of PCCD I was very happy to see these awards were made.”

Child and Family Focus Inc. is a non-profit mental health agency serving children and youth primarily in Bucks, Chester, Delaware, Lehigh and Northampton, and Montgomery counties in Pennsylvania. Additional information about Child and Family Focus can be found on their website.

The Council of Southeast Pennsylvania is a private non-profit prevention, education, advocacy, assessment, intervention, and recovery support organization, serving the counties of Bucks, Chester, Delaware, Montgomery & Philadelphia.  Additional information about The Council of Southeast Pennsylvania can be found on their website.

For additional information on the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency visit the PCCD website.

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Senator Santarsiero Announces Over $328,000 in Grants for Local Fire and EMS Units

BUCKS COUNTY– Senator Steve Santarsiero (D-10) announced $328,117.66 today in grants for fire companies and EMS units in the 10th district. These awards are from the Office of the State Fire Commissioner and are offered annually for a wide variety of projects relating to equipment, training, debt reduction, and more.

“It is critical that we support our fire companies and EMS workers, who keep our loved ones safe every day by putting themselves on the front lines,” Sen. Santarsiero said. “Our communities are a safer and better place as a result of these brave men and women. This funding will help ensure that they have the resources they need to continue their vital work.”

The grand awards in the 10th district are as follows: 

  • America Hose Hook and Ladder Company- $13,580.66 
  • Bristol Consolidated Volunteer Fire Co- $13,826.29 
  • Bristol Township Fire District- $14,071.92 
  • Bristol Vol CPNY Number 6- $13,580.66 
  • Bucks County Rescue Squad- $10,000 
  • Central Bucks Ambulance & Rescue Unit- $6,088 
  • Chalfont Chemical Fire Engine Company No 1- $15,000 
  • Chalfont Emergency Medical Service Inc- $10,000 
  • Croydon Fire Co No 1- $15,000 
  • Edgely Fire Co No 1 Inc- $15,000 
  • Fairless Hills Volunteer Fire Co- $15,000 
  • Levittown Fairless Hills Rescue Squad Inc-$10,000 
  • Levittown Fire Company Number 1- $14,808.81 
  • Midway Volunteer Fire Co- $15,000 
  • Morrisville Fire Company- $14,317.55 
  • New Hope Eagle Fire Company- $15,000 
  • Newtown American Legion Ambulance Squad Inc- $10,000 
  • Newtown Fire Association- $15,000 
  • Plumsteadville Volunteer Fire Co- $15,000 
  • Point Pleasant Plumsteadville EMS- $10,000 
  • Third District Fire Company 1- $15,000 
  • Tullytown Fire Company- $12,843.77 
  • Upper Makefield Fire Co- $15,000 
  • Yardley Makefield Emergency Unit- $10,000 
  • Yardley Makefield Fire Company- $15,000 

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Senator Santarsiero, Representative Warren Announce $675,000 Awarded in State Funds for Local Transportation Improvement

BUCKS COUNTY – April 21, 2021 – State Senator Steve Santarsiero (D-10) and state Representative Perry Warren (D-31) announced today the award of Multimodal Transportation Fund Grants to Lower Makefield Township, Newtown Township and Yardley Borough.  Lower Makefield Township will receive $353,000, Newtown Township will receive $227,000 and Yardley Borough will receive $95,000 in funding from the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED).

“These funding awards are an important opportunity to make improvements to our local transportation infrastructure while providing economic benefits to our communities,” said Sen. Santarsiero.  “I enthusiastically supported all of these applications, which will hep residents enjoy the outdoors and drive traffic in our thriving boroughs.”

“Bikepath, trail, sidewalk – these CFA grants support local projects that enhance our health, our safety and our quality of life. And, these projects provide recreational opportunities and benefits to residents and businesses in all our communities,” said Rep. Warren.

Lower Makefield Township will use the funds for its Woodside Road bike path project, which will run from Makefield Highlands Golf Course to Taylorsville Road, and connect to a new path on Woodside Road.  The bike path ultimately provide bicycle and pedestrian access to Scudder Falls Bridge.

“This bike path will be a welcome addition to Lower Makefield Township, providing increased access and safety for cyclists along Woodside Road,” continued Sen. Santarsiero.

The funds to Newtown Township will be used for the second phase of construction of a multi-use trail along Lower Dolington Road.  The first phase of the trail was funded through the same grant program and was awarded in 2019.

Of the Newtown project, Sen. Santarsiero said, “The second phase of the multi-use trail along Lower Dolington Road will improve recreational opportunities for walkers and cyclists to safely enjoy the outdoors, benefit the health of our residents and keeping our residents safe.”

The Yardley Borough project will construct approximately 1,200 linear feet of concrete sidewalk along the northern side of North Main Street.  The project will also include related stormwater and pedestrian facility improvements.

“Yardley Borough is home to many restaurants and businesses right along North Main Street.  Construction of the sidewalk in this area will help customers access these shops, helping our local economy continue to grow and thrive,” said Sen. Santarsiero.

Rep Warren continued, “Senator Santarsiero and I have advocated for these grants, as they represent the state’s commitment to partner with community leaders on pedestrian and cyclist access and safety and the corresponding recreational and economic benefits to our communities.”

Multimodal transportation fund grants encourage economic development and ensure that a safe and reliable system of transportation is available to the residents of the commonwealth. For more information about the Multimodal Transportation Fund Grants, visit the DCED website.

 

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Senator Santarsiero Announces $700,000 to Chalfont Borough and Doylestown Township for Water Infrastructure Improvement Projects

BUCKS COUNTYAugust 17, 2020 − State Senator Steve Santarsiero (D-10) announced two municipalities in his district will receive a total of $700,000 through the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development’s (DCED) H2O PA Water Supply, Sanitary Sewer and Storm Water Projects Program.  Chalfont Borough will receive $300,000 for improvements to its storm sewer replacement project and Doylestown Township Municipal Authority (DTMA) will receive $400,000 for its project to interconnect the DTMA and Delaware Valley University water systems.

“The funding awards for these programs will help the environment, improve our economic development opportunities and protect the health of residents,” said Sen. Santarsiero.  “I enthusiastically urged DCED to provide these critical funds to our community, which will help fund much needed local improvements to our water and storm sewer infrastructure.”  

Chalfont Borough will use the funds to rehabilitate its stormwater system, making critical changes to fix an aging system.  DTMA’s project will regionalize and consolidate two water systems, interconnecting the system currently serving Doylestown Township, New Britain Borough and Plumstead Township with the Delaware Valley University water system, improving access to public water.

H2O PA Water Supply, Sanitary Sewer and Storm Water project grants seek to help municipalities or municipal authorities with the construction or drinking water, sanitary sewer and storm sewer projects.

For more information on DCED’s H2O PA Water Supply, Sanitary Sewer and Storm Water Projects Program, visit the DCED website.

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Senator Santarsiero Announces Career and Technical Education Equipment Grants to Three Bucks County Technical Schools 

BUCKS COUNTY – December 19, 2019  – State Senator Steve Santarsiero (D-10) announced the award of $118,892 in grant funding from the Pennsylvania Department of Education (PDE) to Middle Bucks Institute of Technology and Bucks County Technical High School each for $50,000, as well as $18,892 to Upper Bucks County Technical School. The grant awards will be used for the purchase of new equipment to provide hands-on training to students in high-demand occupations, specifically focusing on the needs of local employers.      

 “Investments in our Career and Technical Education programs are vital to ensuring a diverse and well-trained workforce,” Sen. Santarsiero said. “We are fortunate to have three technical schools serving Bucks County residents and I, along with my Senate colleagues from the county, look forward to seeing the impact of these grants on the job opportunities afforded our area students.”  

Middle Bucks Institute of Technology is located in Jamison, PA and serves 800 daytime students from Centennial, Central Bucks, Council Rock, and New Hope-Solebury School Districts, as well as 500 adult learners. For more information about the school and programs, visit their website

Bucks County Technical High School is located in Fairless Hills, PA and serves 1,500 students from Pennsbury, Neshaminy, Bensalem Township, Bristol Borough and Township, and Morrisville Borough School Districts, and adult learners through both day and evening programs.  For more information about the school and programs, visit their website

Upper Bucks County Technical High School is located in Perkasie, PA and offers twenty-one programs to students in grades 9 through 12 from Pennridge, Quakertown, and Palisades School Districts, in addition to its adult education program.  For more information about the school and programs, visit their website.  

For more information on the various grant opportunities through the Pennsylvania Department of Education, visit their website

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