RED HILL: Today, Sen. Tracy Pennycuick (R-24) announced state grants she has secured for public safety projects across the 24th Senatorial District. The grants, which total $1,275,000, were recently approved by the PA Department of Community and Economic Development.
“Keeping our communities safe is among my top priorities as a legislator. Our police, fire, EMS and municipal partners play essential roles in promoting public safety in times of need,” said Pennycuick. “I’m proud to support emergency response efforts throughout the 24th District by helping ensure they have the resources they need to act swiftly and effectively.”
The grants awarded are as follows:
Collegeville Borough Police Department to purchase and upfit a new police vehicle ($71,000).
“The purchase of a new detective vehicle is essential to assist with investigations, surveillance operations, evidence collection, and other community safety initiatives.” said Chief John Barnshaw, of the Collegeville Police Department. “A reliable, properly equipped vehicle will help with operational efficiency, improve response capabilities, and ensure our detective has the necessary resources to conduct investigations effectively while on-scene at an investigation.”
Douglass Township, Berks County to purchase a new vehicle for its public works department ($300,000).
Victims Services Center of Montgomery County, Inc. to support its 24/7 crisis counseling hotline and advocacy for victims of crime and child abuse ($100,000).
“This funding has helped support VSC 24/7 crisis counseling hotline and advocacy for victims of crime and child abuse.” said VSC Executive Director, Mary Onama, “The grant will also support VSC operations and is critical to stabilizing services as VSC has experienced reductions in state and federal funds.”
Douglas Township, Montgomery County to upfit its existing vehicle fleet with dash cameras and purchase and upfit a new police vehicle ($185,000).
“On behalf of the Douglass Township Police Department, Montgomery County, I would like to extend our sincere gratitude for supporting our department with this DCED grant.” said Chief Robert Evans “This grant will directly support our efforts to purchase new police vehicles and in-car camera systems for our fleet.”
Lower Salford Police Department to install new dash cameras in police vehicles ($44,000).
Lower Salford Police Chief Cory Moyer stated “Our Department would like to thank Senator Tracy Pennycuick for her generosity and support in assisting us with acquiring new WatchGuard Mobile Video Records (MVR). Senator Pennycuick’s commitment to support law enforcement is greatly appreciated. This equipment will enhance our department’s ability to document incidents, improve transparency and accountability. Thank you for your continued dedication to the residents of Lower Salford Township and those who visit our community. “
Lower Pottsgrove Police Department to install new laptops in police vehicles ($30,000).
“Lower Pottsgrove Township and the Lower Pottsgrove Township Police Department very much appreciate the relationship we have built with Senator Pennycuick and the assistance we have received when it comes to purchasing this much needed equipment.” said Chief Richard Bell, “Without her assistance we would not be able to accomplish our goals!”
Pennsburg Borough to purchase a new emergency generator ($60,000).
“Pennsburg Borough is extremely grateful for the support of Senator Tracy Pennycuick and her staff in securing grant funding for the purchase of a generator. This project has been several years in the making and will provide a much-needed safety feature for Borough and Police operations.” said Patrick Suter, Borough Council President. “Additionally, in the event of an emergency, the Civic Building will be able to serve as a community shelter and provide critical support to residents when it is needed most. We sincerely appreciate Senator Pennycuick for her continued assistance and commitment to enhancing the safety and resilience of our community.”
North Penn Volunteer Fire Company to purchase HVAC upgrades for their station ($125,000).
North Wales Borough Police Department to purchase and upfit a new police vehicle ($100,000).
“For small communities like North Wales Borough, we often must stretch every penny and every dollar entrusted to us by our taxpayers.” said Mayor Neil McDevitt. “This grant from the Commonwealth allows us to modernize our police fleet while maintaining a high level of service and value to our community. We are grateful to the Senator and their staff for enabling us to make this happen for our community.”
North Wales Police Chief David Erenius gave a statement, “On behalf of the North Wales Police, we extend our sincere gratitude to Senator Pennycuick for securing the grant funding dedicated to upgrading our fleet with new vehicles. Thank you for your vital support in securing this grant funding for the North Wales Police Department. This investment allows us to acquire new patrol vehicles, directly enhancing our community response times and operational efficiency. Your commitment to public safety ensures our officers have the reliable equipment necessary to protect and serve our residents effectively. We deeply appreciate your continued advocacy and partnership.”
Perkiomen Township Fire Company to purchase new emergency rescue equipment ($15,000).
Skippack EMS to purchase new safety equipment and refurbish a 2017 ambulance ($170,000).
“Skippack EMS expresses our sincere appreciation for Senator Pennycuick’s assistance in arranging the grant from DCED and helping facilitate the payments we receive from the State Correctional Institution Phoenix.” said Skippack EMS’s President, Barry Evans, “Her support, attention to our concerns, and commitment to serving her constituents have been invaluable. We are truly grateful for the time and effort she has dedicated to our organization, and the financial support has made a meaningful difference in our community.”
Telford Diving and Rescue Squad to purchase a new utility truck and turnout equipment ($75,000).
“Senator Pennycuick doesn’t just talk about supporting us as first responders; she delivers.” said Lieutenant Sean Sablosky of Telford Diving and Rescue Unit, “Her leadership was instrumental in securing state funding that helped us achieve a generational upgrade to our equipment. In this case, replacing a vehicle that was older than many of our members. The funding she helped us secure also went toward additional training opportunities for our membership. All this combined to help us to continue our almost 80 years of service to our community with our technically challenging and unique public safety services. She listens to our concerns, shows up at our unit for meetings, and fights for funding and policies that help us do our jobs.”
The PA 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.
CONTACT: Lidia Di Fiore (215) 541-2388