HARRISBURG – Six Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program (RACP) grants totaling $11,350,000 have been awarded for projects in Indiana, Jefferson and Westmoreland Counties, according to Sen. Joe Pittman (R-41), Rep. Jim Struzzi (R-62), Rep. Brian Smith (R-66) and Rep. Leslie Rossi (R-59).
Homer City Redevelopment, LLC in Center Township, Indiana County, is receiving $5,000,000 for the proposed Pipeline Improvement Project. This multiphase project will consist of design, engineering, permitting, and construction of the natural gas pipeline infrastructure. The Generating Station is located within five miles of the Texas Eastern gas pipeline system, which consists of three lines running east-west between Blairsville and Black Lick, PA. The proposed route will start from the Texas Eastern at the Delmont-Armagh pipeline segment in Blairsville, PA to traverse north to the Homer City Generating Station.
Indiana County Commissioners, Indiana County, are being awarded $1,750,000 for design, bidding, permitting, and construction activities to renovate and redevelop the Old Indiana County Courthouse, the Old Sheriff’s House and Jail Buildings, along with the 600 Philadelphia Street building. Establishing a Welcome Center in the downtown will enhance the community’s delivery of economic development services including tourism.
YMCA of Indiana County in White Township, Indiana County, is being awarded $1,750,000 for bringing areas within the building up to ADA compliance, construction of new wellness center, renovation of old wellness spaces to allow for group exercise and classes, community space, teen space, kitchen space both for feeding at risk youth outside of school hours and for teaching. The project will also allow for well needed major maintenance, infrastructure, and utilities repair and improvements.
Platinum Visual Systems in Green Township, Indiana County, is receiving $600,000 for a project to facilitate the restoration, rehabilitation, and renovation of various interior and exterior improvements of the Dixonville Commons facility. These changes include but are not limited to the roof, structural, ADA restrooms, HVAC, electrical, demolition, construction, floors, driveways and parking areas, architectural, engineering, and acquisition.
“Investing in these projects is about helping our communities have the resources they need to thrive,” Pittman said. “The funding awarded today will open new opportunities and expand upon previous initiatives throughout our region to increase economic and community development, as well as provide greater access to medical care. The ongoing redevelopment and repowering of the Homer City Plant site is tremendously positive for future growth, as we continue our work to increase access to local, maximum wage, family sustaining jobs.”
“The $8.5 million in RACP funding coming to the 62nd House District will help redevelop downtown Indiana, construct new natural gas infrastructure and revitalize the YMCA of Indiana County,” shared Struzzi. “These projects will help the economy and boost accessibility to services, and I am excited to share them with our community.”
Indiana Regional Medical Center (IRMC), Indiana County, is being awarded $1,250,000 which will be used by IRMC to purchase a building in Ligonier, Westmoreland County that is presently vacant and to convert it into a community medical center for the area. The project will involve acquisition of the property and renovation of the building to convert the space to use as a medical oriented facility.
“This funding marks a transformative opportunity for our community,” said Rossi. “By investing in this project, we are not only addressing immediate needs but also laying the groundwork for long-term growth and sustainability. This initiative will contribute to a healthier, more connected and vibrant district, ultimately improving the lives of all residents.”
Punxsutawney Area Hospital in Young Township, Jefferson County is receiving $1,000,000 for renovations to parking with major improvements in the parking and entrances of the hospital to provide better access for ambulances, medivac, patients, and visitors.
“The funding awarded to the 66th Legislative District will help a pair of businesses make the most out of the facilities they’re currently working with,” Smith said. “These upgrades will allow both of these employers to maximize what they do best: creating jobs and improving the lives of our residents.”
RACP is administered by the Office of the Budget for the acquisition and construction of regional economic, cultural, civic, recreational, and historical improvement projects. RACP projects are authorized in the Redevelopment Assistance section of a Capital Budget Itemization Act. They must 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.
Media Contacts:
Kate Eckhart Flessner (Sen. Pittman)
Matthew Davis (Rep. Struzzi)
Jake Gillespie (Rep. Smith)
Rick Leiner (Rep. Cooper)