Bizzarro announces nearly $2.5 million in state investments for region
State approves multiple grants to deliver local improvements, job creation
Rep. Ryan Bizzarro December 18, 2025 | 1:28 PM
ERIE, Dec. 18 – State investments announced today will allow local improvement projects to get across the finish line, according to state Rep. Ryan Bizzarro. The projects include job creation, and greater access to clean water and utilities, as well as upgrades needed at the local level.
“The state made targeted investments that turn potential into reality,” said Bizzarro, who represents Fairview and Millcreek townships. “I continue to fight in Harrisburg for the final dollars needed to move critical Erie County projects closer to completion. These investments will create dozens of well-paying jobs, ensure seniors have rides to their medical appointments, and expand access to clean water and utilities for homes and local businesses. Without state intervention, these projects might not see the light of day.”
The Commonwealth Financing Authority approved funding totaling $2,379,102 through the Local Share Account for five of the approved projects Bizzarro worked on:
- $1 million: Gannon University and First Ascent Biomedical for the construction of medical laboratories in the university’s Health and Cyber Knowledge building. The federally compliant labs will support accurate results for medical treatment. This grant helps offset costs for the $5.2 million project, which the state previously pledged a $1.72 million investment. The project expects to transform and provide individualized cancer treatment, while creating an estimated 38 jobs.
- $529,102: Erie County Redevelopment Authority for LECOM Institute for Successful Living and its senior transportation services. The grant will allow LECOM to replace its aging fleet of vehicles and continue its decade-long transportation program for medical appointments for seniors living in Erie, Warren, McKean and Forest counties. The grant will allow the purchase of 10 wheelchair vans and four mobility passenger vans to expand services. The total cost of replacing the fleet is $916,408.
- $400,000: Erie City Water Authority to improve water infrastructure and expand future access along the Route 8 corridor in Millcreek and Greene townships. The grant supports Phase 2 of a project adding almost 2 miles of water infrastructure expansion. The total cost of the project is $2.2 million, with $1.2 million committed from Erie Water Works.
- $250,000: Millcreek Township to replace the old Shorehaven lift station. State funding will support the construction of a new, more-accessible station with a new electrical panel, back-up generator, piping, utility lines and necessary pumps. The total project will cost approximately $540,000.
- $200,000: Fairview Township Sewer Authority for the addition of new sewer lines for residents with potentially failing septic systems. The additions will connect 52 residences along Welcana Drive, Wellman Drive, Scott Lane, Lynann Lane and portions of state Route 98.
Today’s announcement continues Bizzarro’s effort to secure state funding for local projects. So far this year he has helped secure nearly $27 million in funding for improvements to the region.