Nearly $2.4 million in grants have been awarded to support municipal equipment, infrastructure, and recreation projects in Cameron, McKean, and Potter counties. The announcement was made by Rep. Martin Causer (R-Cameron/McKean/Potter) and Sen. Cris Dush (R-25).
The funding will be used for a range of local improvements. Projects include road work, flood mitigation efforts, the purchase of maintenance equipment, and investments in recreation facilities.
“From road work and flood mitigation to maintenance equipment and recreation investments, these grants support vital improvements in our communities to better meet the needs of residents,” said Causer. “I was pleased to advocate for these important local initiatives and bring this funding to our region, and I commend our local officials for making these projects happen.”
Senator Dush referenced past weather events that affected the area: “Tropical Storm Debby caused catastrophic flooding in much of our area back in 2024 and has had lasting effects in areas like Coudersport and Emporium,” he said. “As someone who has been a strong advocate for funding to help rebuild these areas, I am pleased to see these flood prevention projects receive significant state support.”
The grants were distributed through the statewide Local Share Account program, which is funded by state gaming revenues. Projects receiving funds include:
– Ceres Township: $140,000 for a Ford F600 truck equipped with snowplow attachments.
– Corydon Township: $228,846 for purchasing and upgrading a plow truck.
– Coudersport Area Municipal Authority: $550,000 for sewer replacement on Park Avenue Levee in Eulalia Township.
– Driftwood Borough: $60,242 for a new Masey Ferguson Hydro-Compact tractor with multiple attachments.
– Eldred Township: $183,665 to renovate Sartwell Road bridge over Newell Creek.
– Emporium Borough: $780,342 for about seven miles of roadway improvements designed to manage stormwater during high-water events.
– Genesee Township: $76,209 toward a new maintenance truck with plow attachments.
– Lafayette Township: $99,968 for a tandem roller used in road maintenance.
– Roulette Township: $85,000 for a mini excavator dedicated to road and drainage upkeep.
Additional grants came from the Greenways, Trails and Recreation Program—supported by impact fees from natural gas production—such as:
– Genesee Township receiving $25,000 to upgrade playground equipment at its park.
– Tuna Valley Trail Association awarded $150,000 for construction related to the Kinzua Trail Bridge Connection.
Final approval of all grant awards took place Thursday at a meeting of the Commonwealth Financing Authority.
