HARRISBURG – Sen. Tracy Pennycuick (R-24) announced today she has assisted in securing over $1.7 million in funding for five redevelopment projects in Berks and Montgomery Counties.
The grants, which total $1,783,000, were recently awarded by the PA Department of Community and Economic Development and the PA Department of Conservation and Natural Resources to support local infrastructure, historic preservation, and environmental sustainability.
The Morgan Log House Historical Society, located in Towamencin Township, will receive $400,000 to support efforts to preserve the early 18th-century structure. The Morgan Log House was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1973 and is open to the public for tours.
“A special thank you to State Senator Tracy Pennycuick and her staff for finding this opportunity and shepherding it through approval. This funding is timely as we prepare for the 50th Anniversary of the Morgan Log House reopening to the public in 1976 and our country’s Semi-quincentennial in 2026,” said Towamencin Township Board of Supervisors Chairman and Morgan Log House Historical Society Board Member, H. Charles Wilson III.
North Wales Borough will receive $350,000 to complete its stream bank restoration project at 9th Street Park. This project will help the Borough fulfill its Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (MS4) requirements.
“We extend our heartfelt thanks to Senator Pennycuick for supporting the streambank restoration project at 9th Street Park in North Wales Borough. This grant will play a crucial role in enhancing our local environment while helping us meet stormwater management requirements. By restoring our stream banks, we are not only beautifying our community but also protecting our waterways and promoting sustainability. Thank you for your commitment to improving North Wales and ensuring a healthier future for all our residents.” said North Wales Borough Manager, Christine Hart.
Douglass Township (Berks County) will receive $500,000 for remediation of invasive insect species such as ash beetle and spotted lantern fly populations. These invasive species have caused environmental concerns within the Township’s forests for several years.
“We are very grateful for the grant funding that will allow us to address the issue of dead and diseased trees in our rural community. This investment not only enhances public safety, but also environmental sustainability. By taking proactive steps to remediate these trees, the Township is ensuring a safer and more vibrant environment for residence and future generations.” said Douglass Township Manager, Kaleena Breitbarth.
Collegeville Borough will receive $325,000 to construct trail connections along the 400 block of Main Street, Collegeville. This project will establish a connection to the Perkiomen Trail near Clamer Avenue.
“On behalf of Collegeville Borough, I would like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to Senator Pennycuick for her unwavering support of Collegeville’s infrastructure, environmental and economic needs and her willingness to assist us in securing funding for projects. These investments in our community will have lasting impact on the Borough and surrounding areas, and we are extremely appreciative of her commitment to assisting us with our mission.”
Collegeville Borough will also receive $208,000 to complete stream bank restoration along Donny Brook Creek. This project will help the Borough fulfill its Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (MS4) requirements.
“I am thrilled to see that the Commonwealth continues to make worthwhile investments back into our communities in the Southeast.” said Senator Pennycuick “Projects that promote public infrastructure, environmental stewardship and historic preservation are common goals we can all rally behind, and I am proud to support these efforts whenever I can.”
The Department of Community and Economic Development’s mission is to encourage the shared prosperity of all Pennsylvanians by supporting good stewardship and sustainable development initiatives across the Commonwealth. The Department of Conservation and Natural Resources is tasked with establishing community conservation partnerships with grants and technical assistance to benefit rivers, trails, greenways, recreation, regional heritage parks, open space, and natural areas.
CONTACT: Lidia Di Fiore (215) 541-2388