March 21, 2023
Bucks County, PA- March 21, 2023 – Today, Senator Steve Santarsiero (D-10) and Representative John Galloway (D-140) announced a total of $367,162 in state funds from the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED) Local Share Account Statewide Program for community improvement projects for Morrisville Borough and the Township of Falls Authority.
The projects and the awarded amounts are as follows:
- Bucks County- Summerseat Window Replacement: $35,826
- Morrisville Borough- Multipurpose Vehicle Purchase: $128,930
- Township of Falls Authority- Sanitary Sewer Rehabilitation: $202,406
The project at Summerseat includes the replacement of all 19 windows with more historically appropriate wood storm windows. Additionally, weather strips will be installed to increase the energy efficiency of the historical landmark. Summerseat, a National Historic Landmark, was once home to two signers of the Declaration of Independence and the US Constitution. The home’s largest claim to fame is its status as George Washington’s headquarters in December of 1776.
“Summerseat is a beautiful glimpse into our local history,” said Senator Santarsiero, “These improvements ensure that this landmark, and the stories it shares, will be around for years to come.”
“We are so appreciative of the generosity of the state, Senator Santarsiero and Representative Galloway for this funding opportunity. It is wonderful we received this grant and we are thankful to be able to make these needed improvements to the windows of the home, which will better allow us to enjoy the history of the building,” said Sam Davis, President of the Historic Morrisville Society.
Morrisville Borough is also set to receive funds for the purchase of a new dump truck with both snow plowing and salt spreading capabilities. This multi-use truck will be used by the Borough for year-round maintenance of roadways, community parks, and parking lots.
“Local government is so important because it manages the day-to-day needs of the community,” added Senator Santarsiero. “I was happy to advocate for these funds so that Morrisville can meet the needs of their residents all year-round.”
Morrisville Borough Manager Judith Danko expressed gratitude for the funds to be able to purchase a vehicle for the public works department to help in maintaining Morrisville’s roadway systems throughout the borough. “The Morrisville public works department, council, Mayor and manager are all thankful for State Senator Santarsiero’ s support in helping the borough of Morrisville with supplementing funding for their fiscal responsibilities.”
The Township of Falls Authority will use the funds for a sanitary sewer rehabilitation project, repairing the lengths of sewer main currently experiencing inflow and infiltration of groundwater, further preventing future issues and restoring system capacity.
“It is crucial that the local community has a fully functioning and sanitary sewer system,” Senator Santarsiero said. “This rehabilitation project will improve the system for residents and businesses alike.”
“This is fantastic news for the Township of Falls Authority,” said Executive Director Timothy Hartman. “It is extremely helpful to our budget to have a local share component to pay for ongoing projects. We’ll be using it to do continued work on our sewer system. This will do a lot for us to maintain the program for years to come, while keeping our expenses low for customers.”
The funds come from the distribution of gaming revenues through the Commonwealth Financing Authority. They support a variety of community projects and can be used for any project that serves the public interest and improves the quality of life for members of the community.
For more information on the Local Share Account Statewide Program, visit the DCED website.
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March 17, 2023
March 17, 2023- BUCKS COUNTY, PA — Today, Senator Steve Santarsiero (D-10) and Representative Shelby Labs (R-143) announced $345,000 in state funds from the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED) Local Share Account Statewide Program for a community improvement project based in Plumstead Township.
Plumstead Township was awarded $345,000 to replace two aging water filter vessels in their municipal water system. These filters remove iron and manganese from Cabin Run Wells 2 and 3 in the Northern System. That system serves seven communities in Plumstead Township, and around 880 properties.
“These new water filters will allow Plumstead Township to continue providing clean, safe water to all residents of the township,” said Senator Santarsiero. “I am always happy when I can help municipalities in my district make important infrastructure upgrades that improve the quality of life for residents.”
“This project is vital in continuing to provide residents of Plumstead Township with suitable drinking water,” Representative Labs said. “The grant funding will replace two filter vessels, which remove iron and manganese from the Cabin Run Wells to ensure water continues to meet quality standards.”
Plumstead Township Manager Angela Benner added, “This is wonderful news. We are so appreciative of the funding and for Senator Santarsiero and Representative Labs’ continued support of Plumstead Township. This green sand filter project is a major capital project for one of our main wells in Plumstead Township. Projects like this have to be completed by the Township so that we can continue to provide our residents with quality drinking water.”
The funds come from the distribution of gaming revenues through the Commonwealth Financing Authority. They support a variety of community projects and can be used for any project that serves the public interest and improves the quality of life for members of the community.
For more information on the Local Share Account Statewide Program, visit the DCED website.
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March 17, 2023
BUCKS COUNTY, PA – March 17, 2023- Today, Senator Steve Santarsiero (D-10) and Representative Perry Warren (D-31) announced $1,527,051 in state funds from the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED) Local Share Account Statewide Program for community improvement projects based in Lower Makefield Township, Newtown Borough, Newtown Township, and Yardley Borough.
The projects and the awarded amounts are as follows:
- Lower Makefield Township: $900,000 for Memorial Park
- Newtown Borough: $30,000 for Sidewalk & Trail Study
- Newtown Township: $534,221 for Business Commons Improvements
- Yardley Borough: $62,830 for an Open Space Project
“The 10th Senate District is filled with beautiful spaces that deserve to be utilized by residents and visitors to their full potential,” said Senator Santarsiero. “I was happy to support these projects, which will improve the economic and recreational potential of these areas, bringing substantial benefit to these vibrant communities.”
“Open spaces, trails and parks are integral to and valuable assets of our communities and these grants make a sizeable investment in expanding the scope of and access to our open spaces,” said Representative Warren. “Thank you to all of the people who worked for our communities in securing these grants and who will make the expansion and improved accessibility a reality for our residents and visitors.”
Lower Makefield Township will use the funds for continued improvement projects at Memorial Park. Once completed, the park will include a playground, picnic pavilion, horseshoe pits, bocce courts, exercise stations, a gazebo, and walking paths.
“This funding will enable us to get closer to fully realizing the vision established in the initial master plan for Memorial Park by the community approximately 15 to 20 years ago,” said Lower Makefield Township Manager David Kratzer. “We thank Senator Santarsiero and Representative Warren for their continued support of the Lower Makefield Township community, and we truly value our partnership.”
The funds for Newtown Borough will be used to conduct a comprehensive study of sidewalks and trails in order to prioritize the current needs of residents and visitors, ultimately helping the borough develop a long-term plan for pedestrian traffic.
“We are grateful to have been identified for this grant distribution, and I hope it yields wonderful results for the Borough,” said Newtown Borough Council President Tara Grunde-McLaughlin.
Newtown Township will use the funds to construct ADA curb ramps and improve its current stormwater management system throughout the business commons area. This will be done in conjunction with an ongoing sidewalk project, ultimately improving pedestrian safety and the walkability of the business commons.
“We are very grateful for this funding to improve accessibility and pedestrian safety in the Newtown Business Commons. This grant will go toward construction of ADA ramps and stormwater management,” said Newtown Township Board of Supervisors Chair Dennis Fisher.
The funds for Yardley Borough will be used to purchase a 1.26-acre lot, owned by PECO, that is currently vacant. This lot will be redeveloped into preserved open space and a trailhead to the Delaware Canal Towpath.
Yardley Borough Council President Caroline Thompson said, “Yardley Borough is grateful for the advocacy of Senator Santarsiero and Rep Warren to secure funding for us to purchase a plot of land currently owned by PECO for open space. The lot, located at Fuld Rd. and Morgan Ave., is completely within a class-A flood zone making it unsuitable for development. However, because the land borders the canal tow-path and the Yardley Borough owned Mary Yardley Bridge, it represents a phenomenal opportunity for passive recreation, connectivity of the borough to the canal, parking and event space. Canal-o-ween already utilizes this space each year. We are so excited to formally acquire this property and ensure its future as undeveloped open space! Without the support of Senator Santarsiero and Rep Warren, this purchase would have been out of reach for the borough.”
The funds come from the distribution of gaming revenues through the Commonwealth Financing Authority. They support a variety of community projects and can be used for any project that serves the public interest and improves the quality of life for members of the community.
For more information on the Local Share Account Statewide Program, visit the DCED website.
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March 16, 2023
March 17, 2023- BUCKS COUNTY, PA– Today, Senator Steve Santarsiero (D-10) and Representative Tim Brennan (D-29) announced a total of $1,193,959 in state funds from the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED) Local Share Account Statewide Program for community improvement projects based in Doylestown and Solebury townships.
The projects and the awarded amounts are as follows:
- Bucks County: $1,000,000 for Neshaminy Manor Property Improvements
- Solebury Township: $193,959 for Intersection Upgrades at Route 202 and Lower Mountain Road
Bucks County will use the funds for the construction and engineering costs involved with the demolition of the former Neshaminy Manor structure in Doylestown Township and hazardous materials abatement at the site. Since closing its doors in 1999, Neshaminy Manor has been left vacant due to the level of deterioration and presence of hazardous building materials within the structure.
“The economic potential of this property has been stalled for more than twenty years now,” said Senator Santarsiero. “Finally, because of these funds, the county will be able to move forward and welcome new growth on this valuable property.”
“This is such a critically important grant and I speak for all 3 commissioners with gratitude,” said Diane Ellis-Marseglia, Vice-Chair of the Bucks County Board of Commissioners. “This building has become an eyesore, cannot be restored, and it blocks any economic development or improvements in that area. The County would not have been able to tackle this project without help from Senators Santarsiero and Representative Brennan.”
The funds for Solebury Township will go toward improving traffic conditions and safety at the intersection of Route 202 and Lower Mountain Road, adjacent to Aquetong Spring Park. The upgrades include widening Route 202 to three lanes and creating a left-turn median lane.
Senator Santarsiero said, “These funds will provide safer access to Aquetong Spring Park, reduce traffic delays, and improve connectivity in the area. I fully supported Solebury Township’s application for this grant and I am happy to announce these funds have been awarded. These improvements will help Solebury continue to be a thriving community for all those who live and work there.”
Mark Baum Baicker, Chair of Solebury Township Board of Supervisors expressed his appreciation for the funding saying, “This grant for intersection improvement will go a long way toward helping Solebury Township accomplish our goal of increased pedestrian and motorist safety in the area around Aquetong Spring Park. We are grateful to Senator Santarsiero and Representative Brennan for their efforts in obtaining these needed funds.”
“Improvements to roads, buildings, and recreational opportunities are investments in our future,” said Representative Brennan. “These state grants will make it possible to complete long-needed projects that will enhance safety, quality of life, and recreational opportunities in our district. I am excited for the work to begin.”
The funds come from the distribution of gaming revenues through the Commonwealth Financing Authority. They support a variety of community projects and can be used for any project that serves the public interest and improves the quality of life for members of the community.
For more information on the Local Share Account Statewide Program, visit the DCED website.
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March 16, 2023
Bucks County, PA – March 16, 2023 – Today, Senator Steve Santarsiero (D-10) and Representative Tina Davis (D-141) announced a total of $2,083,796 in state funds from the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED) Local Share Account Statewide Program for community improvement projects in Bristol Borough and Bristol Township.
The projects and the awarded amounts are as follows:
- Redevelopment of Chestnut & Elm Streets in Bristol Borough- $1,000,000
- Bucks County Technical High School Facility Improvements- $1,000,000
- YMCA of Bucks & Hunterdon Counties- $83,796
In Bristol Borough, the funds will be used to continue to revitalize properties along Chestnut Street in Bristol Borough. Senator Santarsiero and Representative Davis secured $1.3 million in state funds in October 2022 to begin work on this project. Phase 2 includes the acquisition, demolition, and revitalization of 30 residential units on the 1000 block of Chestnut Street.
“Bristol Borough has seen tremendous growth and rejuvenation in recent years,” said Senator Santarsiero. “I am proud to support this project to further improve the Borough, which will help grow the local economy and increase its appeal for residents and visitors alike.”
Bristol Borough Council President Ralph DiGuiseppe expressed his gratitude for the funding saying, “Senator Santarsiero and Representative Davis truly understand the importance of redevelopment in a small town like Bristol Borough. I can’t thank both of them enough for their extreme generosity and support. It’s because of this funding, that we will be able to take our Chestnut and Elm Street project to the next phase.”
The funds for Bucks County Technical High School (BCTHS) will be used to upgrade the existing roof and HVAC equipment at the school.
“The Bucks County Technical High School is a fantastic school that allows students in our area to receive education and certification in trades that can enable them to have long and successful careers,” Sen Santarsiero said. “The grant will allow the school to make much needed upgrades to its building so that students can continue to learn meaningful career skills.”
“Bucks County Technical High School truly appreciates these additional funds,” said Leon Poeske, Administrative Director at BCTHS. “These funds will allow the school to continue making the much-needed renovations of replacing a very leaky roof, replacing the end-of-life HVAC/R units, and replacing our outdated fire/security system. The LSA grant helps the school reduce the funding gap created by the dramatic increase in building materials and supplies. We hope to completely close the funding shortfall by securing RACP funds at a later date so the students can continue to learn and train in our premier technical school. Thank you, Senator Santarsiero and Representative Davis for your support.”
The YMCA of Bucks & Hunterdon Counties will use the funds to purchase two cargo vans for the YMCA branch in Bristol Township. The vans will be used for the food program, summer camp and maintenance.
“The YMCA offers programs that reach so many in our community, and these vans will help expand that reach” Sen Santarsiero said. “I am proud to stand behind an organization doing such valuable work for our community.”
“We are so grateful to Senator Santarsiero and Rep. Davis for helping us secure these funds and to the Bucks County Redevelopment Authority (BCRDA) for supporting our application,” commented Zane Moore, president/CEO of YMCA of Bucks and Hunterdon Counties. “This will enable us to purchase much-needed vans to transport food, including donated produce, to support feeding programs at our childcare and summer camp sites, and our food backpack program. The ability to easily move food and supplies from location to location greatly impacts our ability to serve more families through this critical program.”
“The grants announced today represent a major investment in our community,” Davis said. “I am proud of the work that the YMCA of Bucks and the Bucks County Technical High School have done to help shape the lives of our young people in a positive way and help them secure a brighter future. I am pleased that Sen. Santarsiero and I were able to work together to bring this critical funding back home to Bristol Township.”
The funds come from the distribution of gaming revenues through the Commonwealth Financing Authority. They support a variety of community projects and can be used for any project that serves the public interest and improves the quality of life for members of the community.
For more information on the Local Share Account Statewide Program, visit the DCED website.
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