PITTSBURGH, PA – January 29, 2025 – Today, Senator Jay Costa announces $1,175,000 in Gaming Economic Development Tourism money and Act 13 money benefiting the 43rd senatorial district.
“I am delighted to be announcing funding that supports our parks, our trails, our first responders, and our critical nonprofits that make our community so special,” said Senator Costa. “Supporting these crucial community organizations to improve their infrastructure is just one way we can continue to deliver safe, welcoming spaces for every Pennsylvanian.”
“These investments will enhance public spaces, improve accessibility, and strengthen community infrastructure,” McAndrew said. “From upgrading parks and public safety to supporting local firefighters, this funding ensures long-term benefits for residents. Thanks to Sen. Jay Costa for his advocacy in securing these essential funds.”
Alongside Representative Joe McAndrew, Senator Costa announces the following awards from Act 13 funding:
- The Municipality of Penn Hills was awarded $80,000 for the Verona, Oakmont, Penn Hills, Plum (VOPP) Trail Connector Milltown Bridge Restoration
- Oakmont Borough was awarded $80,000 for Riverview Park Field Lights
Additionally, alongside Representative Abigail Salisbury, Senator Costa announces that Wilkins Township was awarded $80,000 in Act 13 funding for Community Center Outdoor Renovation.
Per the Department of Community and Economic Development’s website, “Act 13 of 2012 establishes the Marcellus Legacy Fund and allocates funds to the Commonwealth Financing Authority for planning, acquisition, development, rehabilitation and repair of greenways, recreational trails, open space, parks and beautification projects using the Greenways, Trails, and Recreation Program.”
From GEDTF, Senator Costa and Representative McAndrew announce the following:
- Allegheny Valley North COG in Oakmont was awarded $195,000 to purchase and install full fixture light poles at Oakmont-Riverside Park.
- Tamion Enterprises in Penn Hills was awarded $250,000 for road paving, landscaping and cleanup & lighting at the East Hills Drive Gateway.
- North Bessemer Community Volunteer Fire Association in Penn Hills was awarded $125,000 to repair and replace the North Bessemer Community VFD Parking Lot Replacement.
- Verona Volunteer Fire Company was awarded $60,000 for Enhanced Emergency Response Equipment, specifically the purchase a new Stanley Land craft fire/rescue boat.
SEIU Local 668 in Wilkinsburg was awarded $125,000 in GEDTF funding for the installation of ADA compliant ramps, interior construction and upgrades, roof repairs and lighting in the SEIU 668 Wilkinsburg Office
With Representative Dan Frankel and Representative La’Tasha D. Mayes, Rodef Shalom Congregation was awarded $110,000 in GEDTF funding to replace lighting fixtures throughout the building.
“Supporting the organizations that bring people together is always a good bet,” said Rep. Frankel. “With needed state support, these projects will enhance the day-to-day lives of neighbors throughout our community.”
“These grants from the GEDTF will allow us to continue investing in Pittsburgh’s economy by supporting recreation, community services and affordable housing throughout Allegheny County,” Mayes said. “Not only can we continue to attract tourism, but we can also improve our local recreational offerings, diversify Pittsburgh’s services to communities of color, and bring down the cost of housing in our area.”
In conjunction with Representatives Frankel, Mayes, and Abney, Senator Costa announces Pittsburgh Parks Conservancy was awarded $70,000 in GEDTF funding for ADA accessible pathways, improve stormwater and create new connections between park and CMU campus at Schenley Park.
“Public safety and accessibility are at the heart of these funds,” Abney said. “Thank you to Sen. Costa for his collaboration in securing these dollars.”
Gaming Economic Development Tourism Fund (GEDTF) grants allow municipalities, authorities, councils of government (COGs), and both non- and for-profit businesses to carry out significant economic development for current and future use. Administered by the Redevelopment Authority of Allegheny County (RAAC), these grants provide financial assistance to entities to facilitate economic development projects in Allegheny County.
Learn more about the Pennsylvania Senate Democrats commitment to every Pennsylvanian here.
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