Bradford applauds $5.2 million awarded in Central Montco

HARRISBURG, Nov. 1 – State Rep. Matt Bradford, D-Montgomery, today applauded $5.2 million in state funding for local construction projects that will make the community a better place.

“Each of these projects will enhance our community and provide new and improved facilities for our neighbors,” said Bradford. “I’m excited about the investment in the incredible expansion of Elmwood Park Zoo, which is a wonderful way to cap the zoo’s centennial celebration. I’m also thrilled for a new community center for our Whitpain Township neighbors and for the revitalization of the Old National Bank into a retail space, which will bring new local businesses for our Schwenksville neighbors to enjoy. I’m grateful to the Shapiro Administration for investing in our community.”

Elmwood Park Zoo: The zoo was awarded $3 million toward the construction of both the Welcome Center and the Frank and Paige Engro Animal Hospital. The animal hospital contains veterinary surgical suites as well as an animal commissary and support spaces.

Whitpain Community Center: Whitpain Township was awarded $1.7 million toward the construction of a community center that includes an indoor recreation facility with two basketball courts, which also could be configured to accommodate six pickleball courts. Additionally, the facility would include both a large and small meeting room, a fitness center, an elevated walking track and a lobby, along with bathroom and storage space. As part of the project, site improvements also include parking facilities, lighting and trails to connect to an existing sidewalk and trail network.

Old National Bank of Schwenksville Adaptive Re-Use: $500,000 was awarded toward the project, located in Schwenksville Borough, to transform the historic property into a multipurpose retail campus. The project includes the restoration of the existing structure to preserve its architectural heritage, as well as the construction of an addition. The project also includes renovations to accommodate a restaurant/brewpub and a coffee shop.

The state funding was awarded through the Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program, a state grant program for the design, acquisition, and construction of regional economic, cultural, civic, recreational and historical improvement projects.

House Democrats are committed to promoting better jobs, better schools and better communities. Putting people ahead of politics, House Democrats are leading the charge to lower taxes, help workers save for retirement, put more teachers in local schools, and make communities safer. More information on these successful efforts is at pahouse.com/deliveringforpa. 

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