Eight new projects, focusing on such areas as youth activities, recreation, public safety, veterans and outdoor improvements, were approved for funding by the Lackawanna County Commissioners through their Community Re-Invest Program totaling $80,500.
Since the Community Re-Invest Program was established in July of 2013, the Commissioners have approved grants for 94 projects totaling $1,374,975. In all of the projects, the Community Re-Invest Program has provided the “last mile” funding to help complete the initiatives, which has allowed these valuable community projects to come to fruition. The total amount of public-private investment in all of these ventures is $6,629,173.
“I am very proud to have implemented this community-changing program. It has had a historical impact on shaping a number of communities in Lackawanna County,” said Commissioner Jim Wansacz. “We provided last mile funding for game-saving initiatives that catered to youth, the disabled, veterans, historical operations, community centers, civic groups and a host of other organizations who could not have completed their projects without our help. This was the right way to give back, and I am extremely pleased to have a role in reshaping the overall landscape of our County over the last four years.”
“Once again, we are giving back to the core of Lackawanna County – our neighborhoods. This program makes good business sense. We will continue this initiative in 2016 as a means of further improving the landscape of our communities, creating economic opportunities, and fulfilling the dreams of organizations up and down the valley,” explained Commissioner Patrick M. O’Malley.
“I have been very impressed with the projects funded by the Community Re-Invest Program. It has served as a true partnership with for the County, our communities and civic groups. It has also made a big difference in our area, and I am very proud to have played a role in shaping the future,” explained Commissioner Edward G. Staback.
“The funding for these projects once again highlights the Commissioners’ commitment to the growth and enhancement of Lackawanna County’s communities, neighborhoods and quality of life. The funding track record has helped to leverage new development in our cities, boroughs, townships and municipalities,” explained George Kelly, the County’s Director of Economic Development. “This program has been a tremendous economic incentive. It has strengthened our communities and triggered growth, improving the overall appearance of our area.”
The projects that were approved during this round of funding include:
Applicant: Hill Neighborhood Association Inc.
Project Description: This vacant lot revitalization project involves the preparation of a program of land use, landscape installations, and environmental management for 17 vacant lots within the historic hill neighborhood.
Total Project Cost: $70,000
Amount from CRP Program: $10,000
Applicant: Friendship House
Project Description: A building and grounds improvement project that includes parking lot expansion, office renovations, and restroom facilities.
Total Project Cost: $274,628
Amount from CRP Program: $15,000
Applicant: Connell Park Little League
Project Description: Exhaust fan replacement in the food stand.
Total Project Cost: $12,000
Amount from CRP Program: $6,000
Applicant: Cottage Hose Company
Project Description: Replacement of a 25 year-old heating and air conditioning unit with a more energy efficient ductless system.
Total Project Cost: $20,000
Amount from CRP Program: $6,000
Applicant: Madisonville Independent Fire Department
Project Description: Replacing a 30-year old roof with a metal roof.
Total Project Cost: $17,000
Amount from CRP Program: $8,500
Applicant: Whitmore Hose Company (Mayfield)
Project Description: Fire house addition.
Total Project Cost: $145,647
Amount from CRP Program: $10,000
Applicant: Moosic Little League
Project Description: Construction of Farm System Field dugouts, replacement of water line, installation of drainage, construction of handicap accessible ramping, and batting cage improvements.
Total Project Cost: $30,000
Amount from CRP Program: $10,000
Applicant: Chabad of the Abingtons
Project Description: Construction of a community playground.
Total Project Cost: $30,000
Amount from CRP Program: $15,000
Projects will continue to be reviewed and funded throughout 2015. Boroughs, municipalities, townships and nonprofit entities are encouraged to submit applications for projects that are ready to start so that the Community Re-Invest Program can help to successfully complete them.
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