HARRISBURG – Sen. Tracy Pennycuick (R-24) today announced the awarding of three state grants she helped secure for key projects in Berks County.
The grants were awarded through the Commonwealth Financing Authority’s (CFA) Local Share Account – Category 4 Facilities Program, which uses revenue generated by PA casinos to fund community improvement projects in Berks, Cumberland, Westmoreland, and York Counties.
“I advocated for these grants because public infrastructure and recreation are essential for healthy communities, but come with a significant price tag,” Pennycuick said. “It’s important that our residents in Berks County receive the assistance they need to complete these worthy projects.”
Boyertown Borough will receive $66,462 to help pay for locker room renovations at the Boyertown YMCA.
The borough had applied on behalf of the Greater Philadelphia YMCA, which plans to renovate the existing locker room into a new, 2,600-square-foot family locker room. This project will aim to fix the ongoing complaints by transforming the underutilized area across from the pool into a welcoming locker room which will be designed to meet the various needs of the community.
Washington Township will receive $30,681 to purchase new portable radios, including installation of equipment and professional services.
The township’s current radio system is more than 30 years old and is nearly obsolete. The problems with the communications system create safety concerns, including slower response times in emergencies, and does not provide strong coverage over the entire township. This project will purchase a UHF Repeater, 15 mobile radios and eight handheld radios and related equipment.
Additionally, Washington Township will receive $100,000 to purchase and install an emergency generator for the Weinsteiger Road Pump Station.
The generator will provide power to the pump station in emergency situations, helping ensure the township’s sewer infrastructure operates efficiently during severe weather or major power outages.
The Commonwealth Financing Authority is an independent agency of the Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED) that administers many of Pennsylvania’s economic development and community improvement programs.
CONTACT: Lidia DiFiore