January 6, 2023
BUCKS COUNTY − January 6, 2023 − Senator Steve Santarsiero was sworn in on Tuesday for his second four-year term as a member of the Senate of Pennsylvania. Today, he announced his reappointment as Democratic Chair of the Senate Judiciary Committee as well as additional committee assignments.
Sen. Santarsiero was first elected to represent the 10th district, which includes a portion of Bucks County, in 2018. His accomplishments include amending the fiscal code in 2020 to pave the way for 8,000 permanent jobs at the former U.S. Steel site, passing Kayden’s Law in 2021 in the Senate, preserving the fracking ban in the Delaware River Basin, and spearheading a budget initiative in 2022 that established $5 million in new disaster emergency funds.
“Serving the people of the 10th district in Bucks County is my honor. I am proud of all that we have accomplished in my first term, and I am humbled to have the support to serve for another four years,” Sen. Santarsiero said. “I am ready to get back to work in the fight to preserve our environment, protect the rights of all Pennsylvanians, and pass commonsense solutions to end gun violence.”
The 10th Senatorial 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.
For the 2023-2024 session, he will continue to serve as the Democratic chair of the Senate Judiciary Committee. Additional committee assignments include Appropriations, Banking & Insurance and Consumer Protection & Professional Licensure.
In reference to his committee assignments, Santarsiero added, “As Democratic Chair of the Senate Judiciary Committee, I will continue to work with Chairwoman Baker to pass important legislation that improves safety in our communities, brings quality judges to our courts, and ensures fairness throughout the legal process.
“Additionally, we will work together to pass Kayden’s Law through the Senate and get the bill through the House and to the Governor’s desk for signature this session.”
The Judiciary Committee reviews all legislation relating to aspects of the civil and criminal court systems, law enforcement and corrections, and is responsible for evaluating prison staffing, inmate populations, and housing conditions. The committee also oversees the Attorney General’s Office, Department of Corrections, State Ethics Commission, Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency, Pennsylvania Commission on Sentencing and the Municipal Police Officers Education and Training Commission, among others.
The Appropriations Committee plays a key role in the development of the state budget and reviews the fiscal impact of proposed legislation. The Banking & Insurance Committee has jurisdiction over legislation relating to financial institutions and insurers and is tasked with overseeing the Pennsylvania Department of Insurance and the Pennsylvania Department of Banking and Securities. The Consumer Protection & Professional Licensure Committee is tasked with overseeing rules, regulations, and legislation that protects the health and safety of the public in consumer affairs. It also oversees Pennsylvania’s 29 professional and occupational licensing boards.
Learn more about what services Senator Santarsiero’s office provides by visiting his website at www.senatorstevesantarsiero.com. He can be reached via email at SenatorSantarsiero@pasenate.com.
Video of the swearing in can be found by clicking here.
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January 6, 2023
BUCKS COUNTY − January 6, 2023 − The following statement is attributable to Senator Steve Santarsiero (D-10), in response to Governor Wolf calling a Special Session of the General Assembly on Childhood Sexual Abuse.
“Reforms to Pennsylvania’s child sexual assault laws to allow victims to bring civil claims against their abusers is long overdue. For more than a decade I have supported legislation to lengthen the statue of limitations for childhood sexual assault claims and open a window for previously barred claims.
“For too long, victims of childhood sexual assault and their families have been denied justice because their claims have been barred by an arbitrary statute of limitations.
“Legal scholars and our state Attorney General have all agreed the General Assembly has the power to reform these laws but the Republican majorities in the House and Senate have blocked those bills and instead have insisted on the significantly more protracted process of amending the state constitution.
“I welcome Governor Wolf’s call for a Special Session of the General Assembly to address the statute of limitations for claims involving childhood sexual abuse.
“It was Pennsylvania’s founder, William Penn, who famously said that “to delay justice is injustice.”
“I will continue to work with my colleagues in the General Assembly to ensure that survivors of child sexual assault and their families are granted access to the justice they have been denied for so long.”
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December 15, 2022
BUCKS COUNTY – December 15, 2022 – State Senator Steve Santarsiero (D-10) announced $5,798,480 in grants from the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency (PCCD) awarded throughout the 10th Senatorial District. The grant awards are as follows:
- $70,250 to the United American Muslim Association of NY, Inc. for safety and security upgrades.
- $75,000 to the Zubaida Foundation for safety and security upgrades.
- $525,164 to Bristol Township for mobile data computers, camera and license plate recognition (LPR) upgrade, and fixed LPR recognition.
- $515,793 to the Central Bucks Regional Police Department for maintaining and expanding the co-responder Victim Services Unit, consultant counseling services for victims of crime and for officer wellness, and mobile data terminals and laptops.
- $125,200 to Falls Township for retention bonuses and implementation of a recruitment program.
- $68,371 to Lower Makefield Township for Cellebrite physical analyzer annual subscription and related forensic subscriptions, Talino forensic workstation, AXIOM software, and related training expenses.
- $89,793 to New Hope Borough for CODY Pathfinder records management system, body worn cameras system, and accessories licensing.
- $144,049 to Plumstead Township for Records Management System upgrade, in-car cameras, automated license plate readers, and an evidence-building camera.
- $70,915 to Yardley Borough for mobile data terminals, body-worn cameras, and license plate readers.
- $3,079,328 to the Bucks County Commissioners to support the salary and benefits of two new county detectives, one new prosecutor, and four task force officers.
- $47,000 to the Network of Victim Assistance (NOVA) for the 2023 National Children’s Alliance (NCA) Member Child Advocacy Center.
- $291,162 to the Bucks County Commissioners – District Attorney for Rights and Services Act compliance for 2023 and 2024.
- $304,396 to NOVA for Rights and Services Act compliance for 2023 and 2024.
- $254,422 to the Bucks County Commissioners – Juvenile Probation for Victims of Juvenile Offenders (VOJO) 2023 and 2024.
- $66,174 to A Woman’s Place for improving response to domestic violence victims.
- $71,463 to KS Consultants for the Bucks County Youth Justice Advisory Board.
“The grants awarded from PCCD will provide meaningful improvements throughout the district to protect our community, prevent crime, and prosecute those responsible for committing crimes.” Sen. Santarsiero said. “These grants will support local law enforcement and victims of crime alike. I was proud to work with my colleagues to pass a budget that allowed for the PCCD to give nearly $230 million in grants using funding from both state and federal sources. I am pleased that the PCCD has awarded nearly $5.8 million in Bucks County and I look forward to seeing all the good it will do.”
The grants from PCCD will allow localities to invest in infrastructure critical to their core functions and prevent them from becoming obsolete. The grants to Bucks County will allow the Commissioners and District Attorney to hire new officers, detectives, and a prosecutor which will lighten the individual caseload and allow the county to function more efficiently. Finally, the organizational grants will allow the various nonprofits in the community to continue to operate in a way that maximizes the safety and security of all involved.
“Community safety is a legislative priority,” Representative Warren (D-31) said. “These state grants to local governments and local and countywide organizations are investments in the present and future safety and security of our communities.”
“This state funding for the Bristol Township Police Department will help make our streets safer, our homes safer, our workplaces safer,” Representative Davis (D-141) said. “A commitment to public safety will fuel Bristol’s economy, drawing new homeowners and contributing to Bristol Township’s growth. This is a wise investment in Bristol Township’s future.”
“We owe our safety to the Falls Township Police Department so I am proud that the Falls Township FTPD Recruitment and Retention Program has been awarded this state funding to retain its great officers and implement a recruitment program to build an even stronger department,” Representative Galloway (D-140) said. “This is state funding being put to great use to build safer, and therefore stronger, communities.”
The United American Muslim Association of NY, Inc aims to create a safe space where Muslims can fulfil their educational and religious duties, and to teach Islamic knowledge without separation or discrimination. Visit their website.
The Zubaida Foundation is a non-profit in Yardley that holds congregational prayers, educational programs, social activities, interfaith dialogues, and peace efforts centered around the teachings of Islam. Visit their website.
NOVA’s programs serve residents across Bucks County, with offices in Jamison, Perkasie and Fairless Hills. Their Children’s Advocacy Center is a member of the NCA and works to provide a child-friendly setting to assist children and families and investigate abuse. For more information about NOVA, visit their website. For information on the Children’s Advocacy Center, visit their website.
A Woman’s Place is a domestic violence community benefit organization that provides programs and services to individual’s experiencing domestic violence, their children, and their community. Visit their website.
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November 21, 2022
BUCKS COUNTY – November 21, 2022 – Senator Steve Santarsiero (D-10) announced today $1.8 million in state funds to support and grow the YMCA of Bucks and Hunterdon Counties through the Empower U and Stand-Up programs, empowering and serving the needs of area teens.
“Teens today face unprecedented challenges. Programs like Empower U and Stand Up provide them with a supportive and positive space to work on their health, wellness and self-esteem,” said Senator Santarsiero. “The YMCA of Bucks and Hunterdon Counties has been an important part of the community for many years serving as a vital partner to ensure families and youth have local resources and opportunities to thrive.”
“We are grateful to Senator Santarsiero for recognizing the needs of youth in our community by supporting our programs that nurture a young person’s physical, social and emotional health,” commented Zane Moore, president/CEO of YMCA of Bucks and Hunterdon Counties. “This funding will make a tremendous impact upon our ability to continue to offer these free programs.”
Empower U is a donor-supported free program that was established in 2014 with Y member Peg George. Ms. George was a former member of the PA House of Representatives, serving between 1976 and 1980. She established this program dedicated to the health, well-being, and self-esteem of teen girls as a 12-week program of two one-hour sessions per week. The sessions have the goal of strengthening self-esteem, positive relationships, and overall health and wellness.
Sen. Santarsiero continued, “I was very happy to secure these funds in honor of the late Peg George, a former State Representative from Doylestown and a friend. I am grateful for her vision and all she did for the community, and I am honored be a part of her continued legacy through the growth of the Empower U program.”
The Stand-Up program will be newly implemented in 2023 and will target boys in grades 7-9. Students in the program will receive a free 12-month membership to the YMCA. This membership grants access to facilities for health and wellness, a complimentary fitness orientation, and access to e-sports. The Stand-Up program aims to provide a place for teen boys to improve their physical wellness, meet new friends, and build confidence and other social skills.
More than 90% of boys and girls who participated in these programs experienced overall improvements in physical and mental wellness and improved senses of confidence and self-esteem.
More information about the YMCA of Bucks and Hunterdon Counties can be found here.
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November 21, 2022
BUCKS COUNTY – November 21, 2022 – State Senator Steve Santarsiero (D-10) and Representative Tina Davis (D-141) announced $2 million in state funds from the Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program (RACP) will go to a redevelopment project in Bristol Township, transforming a warehouse space and creating both short-term construction jobs and permanent jobs in the area.
“This warehouse redevelopment project would be a welcome addition to Bristol Pike and the township, creating jobs for the construction phase and permanent jobs upon completion,” said Senator Santarsiero. “I’d like to thank Governor Wolf for supporting my request to dedicate RACP funds for this project, which will help grow Bristol Township’s local economy.”
“These state funds will help support the ongoing revitalization of manufacturing industries in the area through the redevelopment of an industrial and logistics warehouse,” Rep. Davis said. “I thank Gov. Tom Wolf for allocating these RACP funds to this project which will create new jobs and support industry, energizing Lower Bucks’ economy.”
The current property holds a low-occupancy hotel located at 6201 Bristol Pike. The property has been rezoned as Heavy Manufacturing, paving the way for the redevelopment. The project will include demolition of the current structure and construction of a 130,000 SF industrial and logistics warehouse that will include the addition of private water, sewer and stormwater infrastructure.
“We are ecstatic that Governor Wolf has chosen this project for RACP investment and are grateful to Senator Santarsiero and Representative Davis for everything they have done to make this project a reality. This investment will help return this property to a productive and positive use, generating jobs and tax revenues to benefit the community” said Mike S. Callahan, VP of Acquisitions and Development for Benchmark Real Estate and Benchmark Construction.
RACP is a Commonwealth grant program administered by the Office of the Budget for the acquisition and construction of regional economic, cultural, civic, recreational, and historical improvement projects. RACP projects have a regional or multi-jurisdictional impact and generate substantial increases or maintain current levels of employment, tax revenues, or other measures of economic activity. RACP projects are state-funded projects that cannot obtain primary funding under other state programs.
To learn more about RACP projects and grants, visit the Pennsylvania Office of the Budget website.
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November 4, 2022
HARRISBURG, November 3, 2022 – State Sen. Steve Santarsiero and Rep. Tina Davis, both D-Bucks, announced today that they secured $500,000 in Neighborhood Assistance Program tax credits to revitalize Croydon and Bristol through support for local business projects.
“I am very glad to have secured these state funds for our district as they will provide critical financial assistance to local businesses, which will in turn help keep Lower Bucks on the path towards revitalization,” Davis said. “These tax credits will be used to improve the functionality and aesthetics of a business property in Croydon and aid in the achievement of long-term plans for a company expansion in Bristol. This state funding will help to drive economic development in Lower Bucks, reaping benefits for local businesses, their employees and area residents. I want to thank Senator Santarsiero for working with me to secure this funding and Gov. Tom Wolf for allocating them.”
“These Neighborhood Assistance Program funds are a key investment to help businesses keep jobs in our community and continue to grow,” Santarsiero said. “The tax credits offered through this program help boost our local economy and incentivize businesses to be strong community partners.”
The tax credits will assist in the rehabilitation of these local projects:
- $250,000 to EDC Real Estate, LLC to purchase and improve the Croydon property that their operating company (B-Tec Solutions) has leased for many years. The company is making necessary improvements to the property, including repairs to the leaking roof and landscaping to beautify the property and clear the vacant lots across the street. All 88 B-Tec Solutions jobs (86 full-time, 2 part-time) will be retained within the Bucks Enterprise Zone through the project. All approximately 40 current Neshaminy Creek Brewing jobs will also be retained.
- $250,000 to Grundy Commons, LLC to purchase the Bristol building in which it currently operates to protect TESCO’s leasehold and to allow for future expansion and utilization of the building to best suit their long-term growth plans. It will help them purchase the building, replace a portion of the roof in addition to some other structural improvements, and make improvements to tenant spaces. This project will retain all of the TESCO jobs in Bristol plus remote jobs. To accommodate the operating company’s ongoing growth, it is estimated that 12 new jobs will be created in the next year.
The Neighborhood Assistance Program is a tax credit program administered by the Pennsylvania Department of Economic Development. NAP encourages private sector investment into projects that will help improve distressed communities by providing tax credits to businesses that donate capital to support projects that address neighborhood and community problems. NAP can be used for projects in categories including affordable housing, community services, crime prevention, education, job training, food access, blight, special population issues, veteran’s initiatives and long-term community revitalization.
The program has five main components: The Neighborhood Assistance Program (NAP), Special Program Priorities (SPP), the Neighborhood Partnership Program (NPP), Charitable Food Program (CFP), and the Enterprise Zone Program (EZP). A description of each of these components is available within the NAP fact sheet.
November 2, 2022
BUCKS COUNTY – November 2, 2022 − State Senator Steve Santarsiero (D-10) has announced $50,000 in state funds for Solebury Township to assist with a project to mitigate future flooding issues in Carversville.
“Carversville Village has experienced significant flooding events over the years, but was hit especially hard during Hurricane Ida,” said Senator Santarsiero. “After touring the damage and speaking with township staff, Solebury Township shared a plan for dredging and excavating part of the stream, which will help control future flooding from storms. As we continue to see more severe weather from climate change, it is more important than ever that we support our communities with flood control projects like the one Solebury Township is implementing.”
The funding will be used to clean the culvert and dredge parts of the stream, a tributary to Paunnacussing Creek, at Wismer Road and Carversville Road. It will include the removal of debris from the culvert and the use of excavation equipment for bulk excavation upstream. This is the first phase of a larger project that includes stream restoration along the Paunnacussing Creek.
“We’ve been working on many fronts since the destruction to Carversville caused by Ida in September of 2021 to get funding to address the long-term flooding risks faced by our residents,” said Solebury Township Board of Supervisors Chair Mark Baum Baicker. “Senator Santarsiero was able to get us these critical funds for badly-needed culvert dredging. Not only is that work so important on its own but it also seems to have created momentum toward getting us even more help, potentially on the federal level, for projects to shore up the banks of the Paunnacussing Creek through Carversville down to the Delaware River to mitigate future disasters.”
October 28, 2022
BUCKS COUNTY – October 28, 2022 – State Senator Steve Santarsiero (D-10) and Representative John Galloway (D-140) announced $1 million in state funds have been secured from the Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program (RACP) for a major redevelopment project in Morrisville Borough.
“The redevelopment of a long-vacant property in Morrisville Borough will breathe new life into the area and help grow Morrisville’s local economy,” said Sen. Santarsiero. “Thank you, Governor Wolf, for prioritizing this project at our request, which will provide additional space for commercial and retail development, bringing new business to the Borough.”
“I’m very proud that I was able to secure this $1 million in grant money to help redevelop a part of Morrisville’s history,” Rep. Galloway said. “Thanks to this critical amount of state funding, Morrisville Borough will once again be a hub of business, a sign of the town’s economic growth and vitality.”
The funds will be used for construction costs associated with the redevelopment, including demolition, site work, environmental remediation and streetscape improvements.
“This Administration wants to thank Sen. Steve Santarsiero and Rep. John Galloway who were able to secure $1 million in state funding to help with a major redevelopment project in Morrisville Borough,” said Bucks County Commissioner Diane Ellis-Marseglia. “This has been a high priority for the Commissioners and will hopefully become a centerpiece for revitalization in Morrisville for years to come.”
“Morrisville is grateful to Governor Wolf and the Commonwealth for generously awarding a one million dollar grant to our borough to jump-start a major renovation project,” said Morrisville Borough Council President Robert Paul. “Rehabilitating the center of town will reinvigorate Morrisville’s ongoing commitment to promoting the safety and prosperity of our community without destroying its innate charm.”
RACP is a Commonwealth grant program administered by the Office of the Budget for the acquisition and construction of regional economic, cultural, civic, recreational, and historical improvement projects. RACP projects have a regional or multi-jurisdictional impact and generate substantial increases or maintain current levels of employment, tax revenues, or other measures of economic activity. RACP projects are state-funded projects that cannot obtain primary funding under other state programs.
To learn more about RACP projects and grants, visit the Pennsylvania Office of the Budget website.
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October 27, 2022
BUCKS COUNTY – October 27, 2022 − State Senator Steve Santarsiero (D-10) and Representative John Galloway (D-140) announced a state investment of $667,024 from the Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program (RACP) for a Community Center at Snipes Farm & Education Center.
“Snipes Farm has a long and admirable history in Bucks County of giving back to the community and the new community center will provide an ideal space for keeping that tradition alive and well,” said Senator Santarsiero. “Thank you, Governor Wolf, for prioritizing these funds, which will help bring our community together to connect with the natural bounty of our land and provide education and resources to children and adults alike.”
The project will include the renovation and expansion of an existing barn on the property, creating a year-round community center. The center will include an indoor/outdoor teaching kitchen, educational classroom spaces, restrooms, storage, and an outdoor deck.
“I am pleased that Snipes Farm and Education Center will be receiving these funds to build a community center on their property, which will bring people together and provide critical educational resources,” said Rep. Galloway. “The Snipes’ family has long supported our local community and I am happy to be able to secure these funds to support their mission and continued good work.”
“Snipes Farm and Education Center is deeply grateful for the work of State Senator Steve Santarsiero and State Representative John Galloway for securing an RACP grant for the renovation of an existing barn into a teaching/learning center for environmental sustainability, nutrition education and whole foods culinary arts,” said Jonathan Snipes, Executive Director. “This education center will allow expansion of critical enrichment programs to people of all ages, income levels and backgrounds. The facility will be ADA compliant, use renewable energy and is located in the heart of the working farm, building a bridge with the local community to gain needed wisdom for a sustainable future.”
Snipes Farm & Education Center is a 501(c)(3) educational organization located in Morrisville, Pennsylvania. The Snipes family are 11th generation Bucks County farmers, dating back to 1688, and have operated the present Snipes Farm since 1808. More information on Snipes Farm & Education Center can be found at www.snipesfarm.org.
RACP is a Commonwealth grant program administered by the Office of the Budget for the acquisition and construction of regional economic, cultural, civic, recreational, and historical improvement projects. RACP projects have a regional or multi-jurisdictional impact and generate substantial increases or maintain current levels of employment, tax revenues, or other measures of economic activity. RACP projects are state-funded projects that cannot obtain primary funding under other state programs.
To learn more about RACP projects and grants, visit the Pennsylvania Office of the Budget website.
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October 26, 2022
BUCKS COUNTY – October 26, 2022 – State Senator Steve Santarsiero (D-10) and Representative John Galloway (D-140) announced $1 million in state funds from the Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program (RACP) for the renovation of Falls Township Fire Company No. 1.
“I’d like to thank Governor Wolf for supporting my request to dedicate RACP funds for the Falls Township Fire Company No, 1 project, which will provide the fire company with an improved facility to better serve the residents of Falls Township in emergencies,” said Sen. Santarsiero. “I am incredibly grateful for the time and service of the volunteer firefighters who serve our community, and I enthusiastically supported the fire company’s application to ensure the company has an upgraded space.”
The project will include a large-scale renovation of the existing firehouse, originally constructed in 1958. The funds will be used to help with demolition, the renovation of the existing structure, the construction of an addition to the building and a new building façade. Improvements will include areas for apparatus bays, administration space and storage, along with upgrading sleeping areas, showers, workout areas for physical fitness, radio communications, technology upgrades, training room and kitchen and day room area improvements, which are essential to attract and retain members now and into the future.
“Our firefighters put their lives on the line for our community on a daily basis, but for too long in Falls Township they have not had an adequate facility to work from,” said Rep. John Galloway. “I’m pleased these funds will be used to upgrade the existing firehouse and add a new addition to the property, which will make it easier for the firefighters to do serve the community.”
“As we move towards our 100th year of operation, the current firehouse needs updating,” said Falls Township Fire Company President Michael McClellan Jr. “In order to serve Falls Township, investments are needed to update our facility with the modern amenities required to provide Fire Protection in the 21st Century. The upgrades will benefit our greatest assets, our members. Falls Township and the areas we respond to with our Lower Bucks Mutual Aid Partners, will benefit exponentially with the investment made by this grant.”
RACP is a Commonwealth grant program administered by the Office of the Budget for the acquisition and construction of regional economic, cultural, civic, recreational, and historical improvement projects. RACP projects have a regional or multi-jurisdictional impact and generate substantial increases or maintain current levels of employment, tax revenues, or other measures of economic activity. RACP projects are state-funded projects that cannot obtain primary funding under other state programs.
To learn more about RACP projects and grants, visit the Pennsylvania Office of the Budget website.
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October 26, 2022
BUCKS COUNTY – October 26, 2022 – State Senator Steve Santarsiero (D-10) announced $500,000 in state funds he has secured from the Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program (RACP) for the Doylestown Township Community Recreation Center.
“I’d like to thank Governor Wolf for supporting my request for additional RACP funds for the Doylestown Township Community Recreation Center project,” said Sen. Santarsiero. “The community center will provide a multi-use indoor and outdoor facility for residents and community groups to meet and stay active. Recreation centers are a key component of a strong, healthy and connected community, which is why I enthusiastically support continued funding for this project.”
In June 2022, Sen. Santarsiero announced $1 million for the first phase of the project to construct a multi-use, public community recreation center on the municipal campus in Doylestown Township. The $500,000 in additional funds will be used to remove outdated outdoor activity courts and construct new, contemporary sports courts on the site. Funds will also go toward the construction of indoor classrooms in the community center building.
“Doylestown Township is thrilled to learn of this additional RACP grant funding for our Park/Recreation Community Center project,” said Doylestown Township Manager Stephanie Mason. “We are grateful and appreciate the efforts of Senator Santarsiero for advocating for our project. We look forward to the project getting underway in 2023 and opening the doors to the Park/Recreation Community Center in 2024.”
RACP is a Commonwealth grant program administered by the Office of the Budget for the acquisition and construction of regional economic, cultural, civic, recreational, and historical improvement projects. RACP projects have a regional or multi-jurisdictional impact and generate substantial increases or maintain current levels of employment, tax revenues, or other measures of economic activity. RACP projects are state-funded projects that cannot obtain primary funding under other state programs.
To learn more about RACP projects and grants, visit the Pennsylvania Office of the Budget website.
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October 26, 2022
BUCKS COUNTY – October 26, 2022 − State Senator Steve Santarsiero (D-10) and Representative Tina Davis (D-141) announced $2 million in state funds from the Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program (RACP) will go to a major renovation project at the Bristol Riverside Theatre in Bristol Borough.
“I’d like to thank Governor Wolf for supporting our request to dedicate RACP funds for the Bristol Riverside Theatre renovation, which will revitalize this award-winning establishment and breathe new life into the arts scene in Bristol Borough,” said Sen. Santarsiero. “The Bristol Riverside Theatre has produced quality theatre for 35 years, and this project will enable the theatre to attract locals and visitors for years to the area for years to come.”
“I’m proud that I had the opportunity to work with Sen. Santarsiero on securing the $2 million in RACP funds for the Bristol Riverside Theatre renovation,” state Rep. Davis said. “The renovation of this award-wining cultural jewel will help enhance the area’s quality of life and economy, drawing new residents to this booming quarter of the commonwealth.”
The renovation will be a total overhaul of the theatre, which has not been upgraded since opening in 1986 in a historic movie theater in Bristol Borough. The project will include demolition of the 300-seat space and construction of a state-of-the-art facility to attract theatre-goers to the more than 200 performances the theatre puts on annually.
“We are absolutely overjoyed by the announcement of this grant which will be truly transformational for Bristol Riverside Theatre,” said Amy Kaissar, Co-Producing Director for the theatre. “This grant, at this moment in time, is a moving recognition of the importance of our mission and BRT’s centrality to our community. Our buildings have not been updated since 1986 so we can’t wait to welcome patrons to a refreshed, upgraded, and newly accessible building. We are deeply grateful to Sen. Santarsiero, Rep. Davis, Gov. Wolf, Ralph DiGuiseppe and the Redevelopment Authority of Bucks County for recognizing the value of what we do.”
RACP is a Commonwealth grant program administered by the Office of the Budget for the acquisition and construction of regional economic, cultural, civic, recreational, and historical improvement projects. RACP projects have a regional or multi-jurisdictional impact and generate substantial increases or maintain current levels of employment, tax revenues, or other measures of economic activity. RACP projects are state-funded projects that cannot obtain primary funding under other state programs.
To learn more about RACP projects and grants, visit the Pennsylvania Office of the Budget website.
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October 26, 2022
BUCKS COUNTY – October 26, 2022 – State Senator Steve Santarsiero (D-10) and Representative Shelby Labs (R-143) announced $1,666,030 in state funds they have secured from the Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program (RACP) for the Plumsteadville Volunteer Fire Company.
“I am incredibly grateful for the time and service of the Plumsteadville Volunteer Fire Company firefighters who serve our community, and I enthusiastically supported the fire company’s application for funding to renovate and rebuild various parts of the fire station,” said Sen. Santarsiero. “I’d like to thank Governor Wolf for supporting our request to dedicate RACP funds for the Plumsteadville Fire Company, which will provide the fire company a state-of-the-art facility with which to serve the community.”
“The new and renovated stations will bring improved safety to our communities,” Labs said, “and it will give our first responders a better place to do their invaluable job of protecting us.”
The grant funds will be used for re-construction of the recently demolished Plumsteadville Volunteer Fire Company’s Sub-Station #20 and for renovations to their main station #24. These renovations and rebuilding projects will replace the existing, outdated structure, bringing it up to code and ensuring safe operation for years to come.
“This grant application was successful due to the collaborative efforts of the Plumsteadville Volunteer Fire Company, Plumstead Township Board of Supervisors, and Bedminster Township Board of Supervisors,” said Plumsteadville Volunteer Fire Company President Charlie Rumble. “We want to acknowledge Senator Santarsiero, Representative Labs and their staff members for advocating for this public safety project.”
RACP is a Commonwealth grant program administered by the Office of the Budget for the acquisition and construction of regional economic, cultural, civic, recreational, and historical improvement projects. RACP projects have a regional or multi-jurisdictional impact and generate substantial increases or maintain current levels of employment, tax revenues, or other measures of economic activity. RACP projects are state-funded projects that cannot obtain primary funding under other state programs.
To learn more about RACP projects and grants, visit the Pennsylvania Office of the Budget website.
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October 26, 2022
BUCKS COUNTY – October 26, 2022 – State Senator Steve Santarsiero (D-10) and Representative Tina Davis (D-141) announced $1.3 million in state funds from the Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program (RACP) for Bristol Borough to redevelop multiple properties along Chestnut and Elm Streets in the Borough.
“Bristol Borough has seen great economic growth and revitalization in recent years, attracting new businesses and residents to the area. The redevelopment of the vacant properties at Chestnut and Elm Streets will help the Borough continue to expand its appeal and breathe new life into the area,” said Sen. Santarsiero. “I’d like to thank Governor Wolf for allocating RACP funds for this project, which will help Bristol Borough complete a vision two decades in the making.”
“I am so proud that Sen. Santasiero and I were able to secure $1.3 million in RACP funding to redevelop the vacant properties at Chestnut and Elm Streets,” Rep. Davis said. “This funding will help to rehabilitate these dilapidated properties and help rejuvenate the entire area. This redevelopment is one more sign of Bristol Borough’s revitalization.”
The project is a partnership between Bristol Borough and the Redevelopment Authority of Bucks County to complete a project to revitalize properties along Elm & Chestnut Streets in Bristol Borough. Specifically, the funds will used to purchase seven units on Chestnut Street, clearing the way for the demolition and redevelopment of vacant units in the area.
“This project is so vital to the continuing Renaissance of Bristol Borough,” said Bristol Borough Council President Ralph DiGuiseppe. “On behalf of Council and Mayor DiGuiseppe, I would like to thank Senator Steve Santarsiero and Representative Tina Davis for their hard work to bring this crucial funding back to Bristol Borough.”
RACP is a Commonwealth grant program administered by the Office of the Budget for the acquisition and construction of regional economic, cultural, civic, recreational, and historical improvement projects. RACP projects have a regional or multi-jurisdictional impact and generate substantial increases or maintain current levels of employment, tax revenues, or other measures of economic activity. RACP projects are state-funded projects that cannot obtain primary funding under other state programs.
To learn more about RACP projects and grants, visit the Pennsylvania Office of the Budget website.
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October 26, 2022
BUCKS COUNTY – October 26, 2022 – State Senator Steve Santarsiero (D-10) and Representative Tina Davis (D-141) announced $1 million in state funds from the Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program (RACP) will go to the Croydon Fire Company for the construction of a new Emergency Services Building.
“I’d like to thank Governor Wolf for supporting our request to dedicate RACP funds for the Croydon Fire Co Emergency Services Building project, which will provide the fire company a modern facility from which to serve the community,” said Sen. Santarsiero. “The upgraded space will streamline fire station operations, ensuring the volunteers of the Croydon Fire Company have the resources they need to respond to community emergencies safely and efficiently.”
“I am proud to work with Senator Santarsiero to bring this critical funding back to our district,” Rep. Davis said. “This $1 million in grant money will help expand and renovate the Croydon Fire Company’s Emergency Services Building. The renovated building’s upgraded operations will enable its firefighters to more quickly get to residents in danger. This is literally life-saving funding and I thank Governor Wolf for approving its allocation.”
The renovation will be a two phased project. The first phase will entail the demolition of the existing building and site work. Phase two will be the construction of the new building. The new building will contain an engine room, an enhanced decontamination area for equipment, office space, and living quarters.
“Our organization is a completely volunteer fire company that serves a very challenging area, protecting residents, schools, and businesses between an industrial chemical plant, three major highways, and the Delaware River,” said Croydon Fire Company President Bob Struble. “This funding is crucial to allowing us to make the necessary improvements to our station to meet these challenges. We are grateful to Sen. Santarsiero and Rep. Tina Davis for the incredible efforts.”
RACP is a Commonwealth grant program administered by the Office of the Budget for the acquisition and construction of regional economic, cultural, civic, recreational, and historical improvement projects. RACP projects have a regional or multi-jurisdictional impact and generate substantial increases or maintain current levels of employment, tax revenues, or other measures of economic activity. RACP projects are state-funded projects that cannot obtain primary funding under other state programs.
To learn more about RACP projects and grants, visit the Pennsylvania Office of the Budget website.
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October 26, 2022
BUCKS COUNTY – October 26, 2022 – State Senator Steve Santarsiero (D-10) announced $500,000 in state funds from the Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program (RACP) will go to the renovation and expansion of the Craft Barn at Pine Run, which is part of Doylestown Health System, creating new and renovated activity space for the community.
“The Craft Barn renovation and expansion project would be a welcome addition to Doylestown Hospital’s growing campus, creating an enhanced space for creative activities that residents and visitors can use,” said Sen. Santarsiero. “I’d like to thank Governor Wolf for supporting my request to dedicate RACP funds for this project, which will help Doylestown Hospital continue to provide quality care for residents and outreach to the broader Doylestown community.”
The space will gain a new front entrance, gathering area, new studios, a larger and improved wood shop, a pottery studio, and several other upgrades and safety improvements.
“We sincerely appreciate the support of Senator Santarsiero and Governor Wolf to this very important project not only for the Villagers of Pine Run but for the entire community as a way to support creative and active lifestyles for our seniors,” said Jim Brexler, President & CEO of Doylestown Health.
RACP is a Commonwealth grant program administered by the Office of the Budget for the acquisition and construction of regional economic, cultural, civic, recreational, and historical improvement projects. RACP projects have a regional or multi-jurisdictional impact and generate substantial increases or maintain current levels of employment, tax revenues, or other measures of economic activity. RACP projects are state-funded projects that cannot obtain primary funding under other state programs.
To learn more about RACP projects and grants, visit the Pennsylvania Office of the Budget website.
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October 21, 2022
BUCKS COUNTY – October 21, 2022 – Senator Steve Santarsiero (D-10) announced today $630,000 in state funds to support and grow The Rainbow Room, ensuring the LGBTQ+ youth center’s continued presence in Doylestown and previewing a new, second location in Lower Bucks County.
The Senator was joined by Melissa Reed, CEO & President of Planned Parenthood Keystone, Marlene Pray, Director of The Rainbow Room, parents and youth of The Rainbow Room and clergy, to discuss the importance of supporting and expanding the organization to reach more youth.
“The Rainbow Room has been an important part of the Bucks County LGBTQ+ community for 20 years, and this investment will ensure the future of The Rainbow Room is robust and bright,” said Senator Santarsiero. “I have seen first-hand the immense benefit The Rainbow Room offers LBGTQ+ youth and their families in Bucks County. At a time in their lives with so much pressure and scrutiny, The Rainbow Room provides a safe and nurturing space for these young people to find community, education, and empowerment.”
“This year marks the 20th anniversary of the Rainbow Room and an already special milestone becomes even more memorable with this grant. The expansion of the Rainbow Room means that more LGBTQ+ youth have access to the peer support, education, and resources they need to be their authentic selves,” stated Marlene Pray, Founder and Regional Director of LGBTQ+ Youth Education.
“We are honored to be recipients of this grant that will expand LGBTQ+ youth programming in Bucks County. Senator Santarsiero is an outspoken advocate for LGBTQ+ youth, and we are thankful for this support in making this expansion possible. Now the Rainbow Room will have two locations in Bucks County to ensure that LGBTQ+ youth have a safe and supportive space all their own. In the face of attacks on and discrimination against the LGBTQ+ community, this grant empowers us to stand up in the face of bigotry and provide more educational programming and resources to youth,” stated Melissa Reed, President and CEO of Planned Parenthood Keystone.
SueAnn Devito, the parent of a Rainbow Room youth member echoed support for the organization saying, “The most difficult thing as a parent of an LGBTQ youth was fearing for my daughter’s safety. I am eternally grateful for the safe space that Rainbow Room provided her. In addition to having a safe place to gather, she and her friends learned about healthy relationships, holding safe space for others, and civic engagement-positively shaping all of their lives. The Rainbow Room has had a long lasting and profound impact they have all carried into adulthood.”
An initiative of Planned Parenthood Keystone, The Rainbow Room, which opened in 2002, is Bucks County’s LGBTQ+ youth center, which provides a supportive, brave and empowering environment and dynamic programs for youth ages 14-21. Currently, The Rainbow Room has one location at 186 E. Court Street in Doylestown, PA.
Additional information on The Rainbow Room can be found here.
The full press conference can be viewed here.
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October 12, 2022
BUCKS COUNTY – October 12, 2022 – Senator Steve Santarsiero (D-10) announced fourteen school entities in his district will receive a combined $4,103,231 in state funds to support programs related to student mental health and school safety. Senator Santarsiero has been advocating for this funding, in partnership with Sandy Hook Promise, to provide schools across the Commonwealth with the resources necessary to keep children safe and prevent acts of violence in school.
The awarded amounts are as follows:
- Bristol Borough School District: $240,422
- Bristol Township School District: $410,042
- Central Bucks School District: $721,540
- Council Rock School District: $510,470
- Morrisville Borough School District: $229,175
- New Hope-Solebury School District: $239,821
- Pennridge School District: $404,212
- Pennsbury School District: $507,549
- Bucks County Intermediate Unit 22: $140,000
- Bucks County Technical High School: $140,000
- Middle Bucks Institute of Technology: $140,000
- Upper Bucks County Technical School: $140,000
- Bucks County Montessori Charter School: $140,000
- Center for Student Learning Charter School at Pennsbury: $140,000
“This funding is critical to helping our schools implement programs to keep students safe and better equip teachers and students with the skills necessary to stop potential acts of violence or suicide,” said Senator Santarsiero. “The pressure on our students and teachers is greater now than ever before. Evidence-based programs to support the health and safety of those in our schools will help keep our schools safe and allow students to focus on what they are in school to do—learn and grow.”
Senator Santarsiero first announced the availability of $200 million in this year’s budget to address student mental health and school safety during an August 18th press conference in Lower Makefield Township where he was joined by Mark Barden, Founder and CEO of Sandy Hook Promise, a non-profit group based in Newtown, Connecticut, led by several family members whose loved ones were killed in the 2012 mass shooting at Sandy Hook Elementary School.
The program is based on Senator Santarsiero’s Senate Bill 1263, the Safety and Violence Education (SAVE) Students Act, which would require schools to implement at least one hour, or a standard class period, per year of suicide prevention training, violence prevention training, and social inclusion training to students in grades six through twelve. Sandy Hook Promise advocates across the country for this training to be mandatory.
“As a society, we have an obligation to support our children and keep them safe,” Senator Santarsiero said during the August event. “To do that, we must focus on mental health issues in our schools. Every district across the Commonwealth should be taking advantage of this funding and implementing evidence-based programs to effectively teach youth and adults how to prevent school violence, shootings, and other harmful acts.”
Senator Santarsiero emphasized that while this program funding is important, there is still work to be done.
“We really do need to have these programs across the Commonwealth, in every school. I’d like to see a uniform approach spearheaded by the Pennsylvania Department of Education, which is why passing SB 1263 is still important,” he said.
Additional information about the School Mental Health and Safety and Security Grant funds can be found at https://www.pccd.pa.gov/schoolsafety/.
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September 23, 2022
BUCKS COUNTY – September 23, 2022 – State Senator Steve Santarsiero (D-10) and State Representative Tina Davis (D-141) announced today that Bristol Township will receive $255,000 in state funding for a watershed restoration project.
The project will improve the existing swales along Mill Creek near Plumbridge Drive in the township, helping to combat erosion of the existing swales and prevent the flow of sediment into the creek.
“Vegetated bioswales are an environmentally-friendly way to manage stormwater runoff and protect water quality in our local creeks,” said Sen. Santarsiero. “Solutions like what Bristol Township is implementing here will preserve our natural resources while strengthening our infrastructure to combat increasingly severe weather.”
Bristol Township Manager Randee Elton described the project, noting, “With this funding, the Township has the opportunity to implement stormwater projects in an effort to reduce sediment in our waterways. The focus area is along the wooded section of Mill Creek adjacent to the Plumbridge Drive. The existing swales exhibit signs of severe erosion occurring and lacks vegetation which allows sediment to flow directly into Mill Creek. The proposed installation of vegetated swales will improve Mill Creek to protect water quality, promote groundwater recharge, and provide a reduction of pollutants to the waterways.”
“This state grant award will help implement the Plumbridge BMP Vegetated Bioswales project in Bristol Township whose goal is to reduce runoff and ensure that it is cleaner and better for the environment,” Davis said. “As we are affected by increasingly violent storms due to climate change, we must be innovative and resourceful in our approaches to mitigating their impact on our communities. This money will help us implement one such innovation in Bristol Township’s infrastructure.”
Council President Craig Bowen said, “The Township of Bristol is committed to preserving its natural resources and with the acceptance of this grant funding we are one step closer to that goal.”
For more information on the Watershed Restoration and Protection Program, visit the DCED website.
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September 13, 2022
BUCKS COUNTY – September 13, 2022 – Senator Steve Santarsiero (D-10) announced today that Doylestown Borough was awarded a grant for $250,000 from the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) for the further development of Broad Commons Park.
The expansion of Broad Commons Park is the second phase of the Borough’s project to develop the park, providing a playground for children ages 5-12, including custom and inclusive play structures. The project will also include required safety surfacing, fencing, ADA access and landscaping.
“The Broad Commons Park development project has been transformative for Doylestown Borough, remediating the former PennDOT maintenance site and turning it into a green space for our entire community to enjoy,” said Sen. Santarsiero. “The addition of the Tot Lot will make the park a great option for families, provide increased recreational opportunities for area youth, and highlight the legacy of Henry Mercer and the rich history of our region with tilework and artistic design.”
The state grant is through DCNR’s Community Conservation Partnership Program. Funds from this program had already been awarded for 2022, but an additional grant round was added with funds from this year’s 2022-2023 budget.
Sen. Santarsiero applauded the availability of additional funds saying, “This year’s budget saw historic investments in the outdoors and our park system. Thank you, Governor Wolf for your continued commitment to conservation and outdoor recreation projects like the Broad Commons Park project.”
In 2019, Senator Santarsiero secured $1.5 million in Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program (RACP) funds to acquire and redevelop the existing PennDOT maintenance facility on the corner of North Broad and Doyle streets to build a new Doylestown Borough Hall, the Central Bucks Regional Police Department and Broad Commons Park.
The second phase of the park project will cost $584,667, with the additional funding provided through a local match.
For more information on the Community Conservation Partnership Program, visit the DCNR website.
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August 25, 2022
BUCKS COUNTY – August 25, 2022 – Senator Steve Santarsiero (D-10) was joined by state and local officials, prosecutors, and gun violence prevention advocates in Doylestown to announce $50 million in state grant funds for a new program to help law enforcement and District Attorneys investigate and prosecute gun crimes.
The Gun Violence Investigation and Prosecution Grant Program was funded in this year’s budget using American Rescue Plan Funds, thanks to a push by Senator Santarsiero and other Democratic lawmakers and will be administered through the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency. Joining Senator Santarsiero at the press conference at the Bucks County Justice Center were the Senate Appropriations Democratic Chair Vince Hughes (D-7), Senator Jimmy Dillon (D-5), Deputy District Attorney for Bucks County David Keightly, Jr., Chair of the Bucks County Commissioners Bob Harvie and Bucks County volunteer leader with CeaseFire PA Aileen Bochanski.
“Keeping our communities safe, in Bucks County and across the Commonwealth, requires supporting our local law enforcement and prosecutors with the resources to do their jobs,” said Sen. Santarsiero. “As we continue to fight the gun violence epidemic we must focus on prosecuting gun crimes, investigating and preventing straw purchases and implementing reasonable gun safety measures to protect children, families and our law enforcement community.”
Grants will be awarded to district attorneys and law enforcement agencies to investigate and prosecute violations of the firearms act and crimes of violence. Grant funds may be used to:
- Improve and enhance coordination between Federal, State and local law enforcement agencies,
- To support personnel costs;
- To purchase technology systems, initiatives that support the tracing of firearms used to commit crimes; and,
- Any other efforts that aid in the investigation, arrest and prosecution of crimes.
“Finding the solution to the gun violence crisis plaguing our communities is a complex and arduous task; however, it is one we are not giving up on. This historic, new $50 million investment will give district attorneys additional new resources to better investigate gun crimes and to prosecute those making our communities less safe. This is just one of three measures my colleagues and I, with the full support of Governor Tom Wolf, were able to get included in the ’22-’23 state budget to improve public safety and combat gun violence, and we look forward to seeing the impact all three will have on making our commonwealth an even better place to live.” Ten percent of available grant funds will be reserved under the program for county district attorney’s offices and law enforcement agencies serving rural communities. The remaining funds are available on a schedule based on municipal size and population, which can be found here.
David Keightly, Jr. spoke of the need for additional staff to investigate and build strong cases, saying “We don’t want to be satisfied with working backwards. We want to be able to work forwards, using this money to figure out purchase trends, suspicious trends among people who keep buying firearms and their guns keep winding up on the street. We want to be able to tackle that before these guns hit the streets. A lot of what we need right now is technology and manpower, and that is exactly what this grant money will be used for if we were to receive it.”
Support for the program was echoed by community advocates, including representatives from CeaseFire PA. “For too long, our communities have faced gun violence without the resources necessary to intervene and prevent it before a life is lost,” said Adam Garber, Executive Director of CeaseFire PA. “Now, thanks to leaders like Sen. Santarsiero and Senator Hughes, we’re now investing in a safer community.”
The full press conference can be viewed here.
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August 1, 2022
BUCKS COUNTY − August 1, 2022 − Senator Steve Santarsiero (D-10) recently secured two state grants to support Snipes Farm & Education Center’s mission to share produce with seniors in the community and provide education to low-income children through its summer camp program.
A $100,000 grant was used to purchase a refrigerated food delivery vehicle and an electric UTV. The refrigerated food delivery vehicle is being used to deliver fresh produce, grown on the farm, to senior centers and partners across Bucks County. The electric UTV allows staff to get around the farm and is helping Snipes meet its commitment to sustainable energy.
The second grant of $33,419 was used by Snipes Camp to provide educational programming for 21 children living in the Bucks County Emergency Homeless Shelter this summer.
“Snipes Farm and the Snipes family have a long and admirable history in Bucks County of giving back to the community and helping those in need,” said Senator Santarsiero. “I was happy to support these grants for the vehicles and summer camp, both of which help them share the bounty of the farm with more community members.”
“Healthy food should be for everyone, no matter their income level,” said Jonathan Snipes, Executive Director. “And providing enriching, science-based programs in nature for the most vulnerable kids is one of the best things we do at Snipes Farm! This grant support helps our mission come true! We are thrilled!”
Snipes Farm & Education Center is a 501(c)(3) educational organization located in Morrisville, Pennsylvania. The Snipes family are 11th generation Bucks County farmers, dating back to 1688, and have operated the present Snipes Farm since 1808. More information on Snipes Farm & Education Center can be found at www.snipesfarm.org.
July 15, 2022
BUCKS COUNTY − July 15, 2022 − Senator Steve Santarsiero (D-10) announced today the award of $1,248,462 in state funds for five projects in the district as part of the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) Green Light-Go grant program.
Four municipalities were awarded grants to complete five projects:
- Doylestown Township – $469,492 for fiber interconnection of traffic signals at seven intersections along Swamp Road (Route 313);
- Doylestown Township – $100,000 for safety upgrades including flashing yellow arrow and advance dilemma-zone detection along Route 611 from Edison Furlong Road to Kelly Road;
- Dublin Borough – $129,360 for upgrades to traffic signals at three intersections along Main Street (Route 313);
- Falls Township – $244,290 for upgrades to the traffic signal at Trenton Road and North Olds Boulevard; and
- Lower Makefield Township – $305,320 for upgrades to the traffic signal at Pine Grove Road and Big Oak Road.
“These upgrades will help relieve congestion and improve the flow of traffic on some of our busiest roadways, benefitting residents and travelers,” said Sen. Santarsiero. “Traffic signal upgrades like these projects increase accessibility to our local businesses and ensure safety on our roadways.”
Green Light-Go grants are provided as reimbursement to municipalities for updates to improve the efficiency and operation of existing traffic signals. Grant funding through the Green Light-Go program may be utilized for a range of operational improvements including, but not limited to light-emitting diode (LED) technology installation, traffic signal retiming, developing special event plans and monitoring traffic signals, as well as upgrading traffic signals to the latest technologies. For more information visit the PennDOT website.
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June 30, 2022
BUCKS COUNTY − June 30, 2022 − The following statement is attributable to Senator Steve Santarsiero (D-10), in response to the Supreme Court of the United States’ decision in West Virginia v. Environmental Protection Agency.
“The Supreme Court’s decision today in West Virginia v. Environmental Protection Agency represents another major departure from established legal precedent and ignores the clear will of Congress in passing the Clean Air Act, which gave discretion to the EPA and its environmental experts to implement reasonable measures to protect our environment.
This politically motivated Supreme Court majority is again out of step with the majority of Pennsylvanians and Americans. We cannot further delay reasonable and scientifically valid regulations to address the imminent and present dangers climate change poses to our economy, our environment, our national security and indeed our way of life.
Here in Pennsylvania, the environmental amendment in our state Constitution is clear: ‘The people have a right to clean air, pure water, and to the preservation of the natural, scenic, historic, and esthetic values of the environment. Pennsylvania’s public natural resources are the common property of all the people, including generations yet to come.’
I will continue to work with my colleagues in the General Assembly to ensure those rights are protected and that we do all we can to combat the devastating effects of climate change we feel every day.”
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June 29, 2022
BUCKS COUNTY − June 29, 2022 − Senator Steve Santarsiero (D-10) announced today that he has introduced legislation to support student mental health in our public schools. Senate Bill 1263, the Safety and Violence Education (SAVE) Students Act would require schools to implement at least one hour, or a standard class period, per year of suicide prevention training, violence prevention training, and social inclusion training to students in grades six through twelve.
“As a society, we have an obligation to support our children and keep them safe,” said Sen. Santarsiero. “Experts say childhood depression and anxiety were on the rise for years, but the pandemic’s unrelenting stress and grief exacerbated the problems. These early-prevention measures empower everyone to keep our schools and communities safe, and effectively teach youth and adults how to prevent school violence, shootings, and other harmful acts.”
In the training, school personnel will also learn how to identify the signs and signals of depression, suicide and self-injury in students, and when and how to refer youth and their families to appropriate mental health services for assessment within the school entity and the community.
The legislation has support from the Network of Victim Assistance (NOVA) in Bucks County, which offers programs like the ones in the legislation to area schools.
“NOVA supports SB 1263,” said NOVA Executive Director Penny Ettinger. “As the comprehensive victim service organization in Bucks County, the core of our mission is violence prevention. For over 30 years, NOVA has provided school-based programs that not only give students and school personnel the tools to recognize signs of a young person suffering but also deliver an age-appropriate interactive learning experience that advances and creates a culture of empathy, kindness, inclusion, and positive relationship building. The demand for these programs and our suicide prevention training has significantly increased over the past year.”
The effort to mandate this training has been advocated for by Sandy Hook Promise, a non-profit group based in Newtown, Connecticut, and led by several family members whose loved ones were killed in the 2012 mass shooting at Sandy Hook Elementary School.
“Experience tells us that when students are taught how to contribute to the emergence of an inclusive school environment and how to recognize the signs and signals of someone who may be at risk of harming themselves or others, they do the right thing; they speak up. SB 1263 will ensure all students have access to high-quality violence-prevention training and the opportunity to help others by being Upstanders instead of bystanders,” said Mark Barden, co-founder and CEO of the Sandy Hook Promise Action Fund.
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