Markosek applauds $275,000 in state grants for local projects

Funding will support demolitions, park upgrades, stormwater improvements

MONROEVILLE, Jan. 16 – Rep. Brandon Markosek, D-Allegheny, announced today that the projects in East McKeesport, Wilmerding and Turtle Creek were awarded a combined $275,000 in state funding from the Commonwealth Financing Authority.

Markosek said the grants – awarded under the Gaming Economic Development Tourism Fund – will help address practical land use issues and improve recreational safety.

“The new funding will support projects to help us fight blight, manage stormwater runoff and complete important park renovations to enhance safety,” Markosek said. “I am grateful to CFA and to our community partners who worked with us to bring this funding home.” 

Markosek said the funding to Turtle Creek Valley Council of Governments includes:

  • $175,000 to demolish 13 structures in Turtle Creek.
  • $50,000 for renovations to East Field Park in East McKeesport, which has two to three multi-use fields that are currently unusable. The project includes leveling the current fields, adding sod and replacing the retaining wall along Walnut Alley.
  • $50,000 to replace catch basins in multiple inlets in Wilmerding with a bicycle safe grate installed on each inlet.

The Gaming Economic Development Tourism Fund is administered by the Redevelopment Authority of Allegheny County and funded through state gaming revenues that are deposited with the CFA for economic and community development projects. More information is available here: https://www.alleghenycounty.us/Projects-and-Initiatives/Economic-Development/Authorities/Redevelopment-Authority-RAAC/Gaming-Economic-Development-Tourism-Fund-GEDTF.