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Conklin: More than $114,000 secured for District 77 fire and EMS companies

(Feb 17, 2026)

STATE COLLEGE, Feb. 17 – Fire and EMS companies in the 77 th Legislative District are slated to receive nearly $114,350 in funding from the Office of the State Fire Commissioner, state Rep. Scott Conklin, D-Centre, announced today. Conklin said the grants will allow area fire and EMS companies to upgrade equipment, replace supplies, make facility repairs, and cover other operational expenses. “As our brave first responders answer the call 24/7, their departments are constantly juggling expenses to cover personal protective gear, equipment, fuel, facility repairs, and myriad other expenses,” Conklin said. “The new funding will help departments cover more of these costs, to help our frontline heroes carry out their lifesaving work.” Conklin said the funding includes: Alpha Fire Company, State College – $16,137. Hope Fire No. 2, Philipsburg – $14,900. Moshannon Valley Emergency Medical Service, Philipsburg – $15,000. Mountain Top Fire Co. (EMS), Sandy Ridge – $15,000. Mountain Top Fire Co. (fire), Sandy Ridge – $12,633. Port Matilda Emergency Medical Services, Port Matilda – $15,000. Port Matilda Volunteer Fire Company Inc., Port Matilda – $13,457. Reliance Volunteer Fire Company, Philipsburg – $12,220. The funding was secured through the Fire Company and Emergency Medical Services Grant program, which is Read more

 

Smith-Wade-El celebrates release of Pa.’s first comprehensive housing plan

(Feb 13, 2026)

LANCASTER, Feb. 13 – A longtime advocate for housing rights of Pennsylvanians, state Rep. Ismail Smith-Wade-El, D-Lancaster, issued the following statement about the release of Pennsylvania’s first comprehensive Housing Action Plan to address the commonwealth’s housing crisis. "Housing is a human right and a matter of justice, and the Shapiro administration’s housing action plan will help working Pennsylvanians achieve the American dream — a home of their own — by building more housing and cutting red tape to make housing more affordable. “The Housing Action Plan strongly supports renters’ rights, and I am grateful that it includes my legislative plan to seal eviction records for people who were not actually evicted. This step will ensure fair housing access for many and protect whole communities in Pennsylvania. “I am also glad that the Housing Action Plan addresses the legacies of racism in homeownership in Pennsylvania that is the primary driver for the racial wealth divide. While White homeownership was 72% in 2023 nationally, the homeownership rate for people of color was 45% . As homeownership is the biggest key to wealth accumulation , the Housing Action Plan to close the equity gap for minority homeownership by 25% will in turn also reduce the racial wealth divide in Pennsylvania. “Pennsylvania’s families deserve access to safe and affordable housing, and this Housing Action Plan Read more

 

Guzman to host annual Black History Month Celebration

(Feb 12, 2026)

READING, Feb. 12 — State Rep. Manny Guzman, D-Berks, announced today that he will host his annual Black History Month Celebration at the WCR Center for the Arts from 5 to 7 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 18. This free event will honor the enduring legacy and significant contributions of the Black community while providing an opportunity for engagement, and community pride. “This annual event is growing in the heart of our community, and I could not be prouder,” said Guzman. “The event honors remarkable individuals across the district and provides a meaningful space for connection, reflection and empowerment,” he added. Guzman said that this year, he will honor 32 community leaders, including religious figures, government officials, educators, and business owners. “This celebration will be a vibrant event showcasing culture, history and pride, reminding us all of the power of dedication, resilience and shared progress.” A key component of the festivities is that Guzman’s staff will be available to provide information about state programs and services that support families across Reading and Berks County. For more information, residents may contact Guzman’s office at 610-376-1529. Read more

 

Smith-Wade-El to Hold two Student Town Halls at Local Elementary Schools

(Feb 11, 2026)

LANCASTER, Feb. 11 – A strong advocate for civic education, state Rep. Ismail Smith-Wade-El, D-Lancaster, said he believes teaching civics equips youth to become informed and engaged members of a democratic society. He will host two student civic town halls in Lancaster this February. The first town hall will take place at 2 p.m. on Friday, Feb. 20 in the cafeteria of Washington Elementary School, 545 S. Ann St. Smith-Wade-El will be joined by Lancaster Mayor Jaime Arroyo and School District of Lancaster Board Vice President Katrina Holmes. The second town hall will be held at 1:30 p.m. on Thursday, Feb. 26 at Smith-Wade-El Elementary School, 910 Hamilton Park Drive. Smith-Wade-El will be joined by School District of Lancaster Board President Jennifer Eaton. These events will give students the chance to learn about state government, share their ideas for improving their communities, and participate in a Q&A session with Smith-Wade-El. “A truly democratic society relies on an informed and engaged citizenry, and civic education must begin early,” Smith-Wade-El said. “As we approach the United States’ 250th birthday and reflect on Pennsylvania’s pivotal role in its founding, now is the perfect time to teach our students about their rights and responsibilities as American citizens.” The town halls follow Smith-Wade-El's recent participation in Hamilton Elementary School's Celebration Assembly on Wednesday, Read more

 

Smith-Wade-El, Rivera announce $1.2 million in state funds for bicycle and pedestrian improvements

(Feb 10, 2026)

LANCASTER, Feb. 10 –State Reps. Ismail Smith-Wade-El and Nikki Rivera, both D-Lancaster, today announced that their districts will receive over $1.2 million in state funding to make critical bicycle and pedestrian safety improvements in the City of Lancaster and in Manheim Township. The funding comes from the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation's Automated Red-Light Enforcement (ARLE) program. Established in 2010, ARLE funds improvements at signalized intersections and is primarily supported by fines from red-light violations at 38 intersections currently operational in the commonwealth. The program is designed to reduce congestion, enhance mobility, and improve safety at high-traffic intersections. In Smith-Wade-El’s district, the City of Lancaster will receive $974,544 to improve bicycle safety by installing a bi-directional/two-way separated bike lane on the south and east side on the roadway from South Queen Street to East King Street. “I am very excited to see the City of Lancaster receive this significant investment in bicycle safety,” said Smith-Wade-El. “As someone who learned ride a bike at the old age of 29, I love the freedom and the whole new way of seeing the city that I experience when I’m riding a bike. This investment in our city will make Lancaster a healthier place to live thanks to more people engaging in this heart-healthy activity instead of driving a car, which increases air pollution and traffic Read more

 

Conklin: Nearly $340,000 secured for Ferguson Township pedestrian crossing improvements

(Feb 10, 2026)

STATE COLLEGE, Feb. 10 – Ferguson Township pedestrians and cyclists will see improved safety and mobility at several local intersections, thanks to $337,704 in funding from the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation, state Rep. Scott Conklin announced today. Conklin, D-Centre, said the funding will support pedestrian crossing upgrades at the intersections of Science Park Road at Tudek/Circleville bike path, Martin Street and Park Crest Lane, and Martin Street at Park Crest Terrace Apartments. “Ferguson Township identified these intersections as high priority for pedestrian safety and determined they would benefit from enhancements such as rectangular rapid flashing beacons, which significantly reduce the risk of pedestrian crashes,” Conklin said. “This funding ensures the township can move forward with these improvements so pedestrians and cyclists can travel more safely.” A township mobility study recommended rectangular rapid flashing beacons with accessible buttons for the visually impaired, a refuge island, ADA-compliant curb ramps, improved lighting, and enhanced signage at the Science Park Road intersection. The study also found that similar measures—including rectangular rapid flashing beacons, nighttime lighting upgrades, and ADA accommodations—would improve safety for pedestrians and cyclists at the Martin Street intersections. The funding was awarded under Read more

 

Grant Memo: Transportation, Parks, Pedestrian Safety, School Mental Health, and Additional Grant Opportunities

(Feb 10, 2026)

NEWLY LISTED PROGRAMS Department of Conservation and Natural Resources: All-Terrain Vehicle/Snowmobile Grants Who May Apply: County and municipal governments, non-profits, for-profits Use: Planning, acquisition of land, development, rehabilitation, maintenance of ATV or snowmobile trails and facilities, purchase of equipment, and educational programs related to the use of ATVs or snowmobiles Funds: Grants will range between $25,000 and $1,000,000 Application Deadline: March 31, 2026 More information: DCNR Website PROGRAMS OPEN FOR APPLICATIONS: Department of Community and Economic Development: PA SITES Who May Apply: Municipalities, economic development organizations, redevelopment authorities, municipal authorities, industrial development agencies, and for-profit organizations. Use: To develop competitive sites for businesses to relocate or expand within Pennsylvania. Funds: $400 million in funding is available. Application Deadline: Applications are accepted on a rolling basis and approved on a quarterly basis More information: DCED Website Department of Community and Economic Development: Manufacturing PA Training-to-Career Grant Who May Apply: Technical and trade schools, school districts, post-secondary academic institutions, workforce investment boards, economic development organizations, and non-profit organizations. For-profit Read more

 

Transportation, Public Schools, Public Safety, and Additional Grant Opportunities

(Feb 03, 2026)

NEWLY LISTED PROGRAMS Commonwealth Financing Authority: Greenways, Trails and Recreation Program Who May Apply: Municipalities, Councils of Governments, Authorized Organizations, Institutions of Higher Education, Watershed Organizations, for profit businesses. Use: Planning, acquisition, development, rehabilitation and repair of greenways, recreational trails, open space, parks and beautification projects. Funds: Grant requests shall not exceed $250,000. Application Deadline: May 31, 2026 More information: CFA Website Commonwealth Financing Authority: Baseline Water Quality Data Program Who May Apply: Municipalities, Councils of Governments, Authorized Organizations, Institutions of Higher Education, Watershed Organizations, for profit businesses. Use: Eligible projects are those that will use accepted scientific principles and practices for water sample collection and analysis to document existing groundwater quality conditions on private water supplies. Funds: Grant requests shall not exceed $250,000. Application Deadline: May 31, 2026 More information: CFA Website Commonwealth Financing Authority: Flood Mitigation Program Who May Apply: Municipalities, Councils of Governments, Authorized Organizations, Institutions of Higher Education, Watershed Organizations, for profit businesses. Use: Eligible projects are to assist with flood Read more

 

Conklin bill would lay foundation for new affordable housing when state sells former prison land

(Jan 30, 2026)

HARRISBURG, Jan. 30 – To address the growing shortage of affordable housing, state Rep. Scott Conklin today introduced legislation that would require the state to reserve a portion of any former state prison land it plans to sell and offer that land to the host county for affordable housing. Conklin said his bill, H.B. 2180 , would give the county in which a former state correctional institution is located the option to receive a transfer of up to 2% of the property. “Nearly half of Pennsylvania renter households are cost-burdened, meaning they spend more than 30% of their income on housing, and a significant number are severely cost-burdened, spending more than 50%,” Conklin said. “One of the primary drivers of this crisis is the lack of affordable housing. My bill would help ease that shortage by ensuring that whenever the state sells former prison land, a portion is set aside and offered to the county for affordable housing use.” Under the proposal, counties would not be required to accept the land. However, if they do, they would be required to use it for affordable housing and to meet certain requirements and timelines to ensure that housing becomes available. House Bill 2180 is the second measure Conklin has announced following the state’s decision to close SCI-Rockview. Earlier this year, he and state Rep. Dallas Kephart introduced legislation (H.B. 1951) to promote fairness and Read more

 

Pennsylvania House passes Conklin bill to help state retirement plans operate more efficiently

(Jan 28, 2026)

HARRISBURG, Jan. 28 — The state House today unanimously passed legislation sponsored by state Rep. Scott Conklin that would allow Pennsylvania’s pension systems for state and public education employees to operate more efficiently by implementing a deadline change requested by the administering agencies. Conklin’s H.B. 1304 would adjust the deadlines for the Pennsylvania State Employees’ Retirement System and the Public School Employees’ Retirement System to complete and submit the results of required annual financial testing so that the deadlines better align with the agencies’ fiscal year. “State law requires SERS and PSERS to conduct annual financial stress testing to assess the financial health of their pension funds and the plans’ ability to withstand adverse market conditions,” Conklin said. “The law also sets deadlines for the agencies to complete and submit the test results to state officials and for the Independent Fiscal Office to compile the results into a summary report. “The agencies have told us the current deadlines are not workable and have asked that they be adjusted to provide more time,” Conklin said. “My bill would move the testing and reporting deadlines back by three months to better align with the agencies’ fiscal year and actuarial practices.” Conklin said SERS – which already conducts more rigorous testing than Read more

 

Smith-Wade-El to host Free Stuff to Do Fair Jan 31; Event will feature over 55 classes, clubs, hobbies, and activities

(Jan 27, 2026)

LANCASTER, Jan. 27 — State Rep. Izzy Smith-Wade-El and the School District of Lancaster will host the second annual Stuff to Do Fair from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday, Jan. 31. The event aims to help community members find a class, hobby, club, or activity to join. Fifty-five community organizations will host more than 50 tables, showcasing a wide range of activities and interests. The event is ideal for anyone looking to try something new, explore the many activities Lancaster has to offer, or simply enjoy a community fair. While the Stuff to Do Fair is primarily geared toward adults, children are welcome to attend. This year’s fair will feature more than 50 tables to browse, highlighting everything from book clubs and dance classes to sports, volunteering, nature, technology, and more. Attendees will also be able to enjoy live demonstrations of select activities, including dance, improv comedy, karate, and more. WHERE: Washington Elementary School, 545 S. Ann St., Lancaster, PA WHEN: 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 31 Read more

 

Rivera: $650K in state funding for pedestrian safety improvements in Lancaster

(Jan 22, 2026)

LANCASTER, Jan. 22 – Pedestrians will enjoy increased safety thanks to $650,000 in pedestrian safety improvements approved by the Commonwealth Finance Authority, state Rep. Nikki Rivera, D-Lancaster, announced today. “This funding to Frankin & Marshall College will help improve the pedestrian safety of college students and residents alike on Harrisburg Avenue,” Rivera said. “This is a smart allocation of state funding that will improve the quality of life here in Lancaster. I was proud to be able to use my position as state representative to advocate for the approval of this project with the CFA and the Shapiro administration.” The Multimodal Transportation Fund, administered by the CFA, provides grants to encourage economic development and ensure that a safe and reliable system of transportation is available to the residents of the commonwealth. Funds may be used for the development, rehabilitation and enhancement of transportation assets to existing communities, streetscape, lighting, sidewalk enhancement, pedestrian safety, connectivity of transportation assets and transit-oriented development. Photo: Rivera pictured with Franklin & Marshall President Andrew Rich on Harrisburg Avenue. Read more

 

Smith-Wade-El: $600K in state funding awarded for infrastructure improvements

(Jan 22, 2026)

LANCASTER, Jan. 23 – The Commonwealth Financing Authority has approved $600,000 in Multimodal Transportation Funding to Garman Builders to address existing queuing and safety issues present along PA Route 741 (Millersville Pike) and PA Route 999 (Millersville Road), state Rep. Ismail Smith-Wade-El, D-Lancaster, announced today. The funding will be used for the following improvements to Routes 741 and 999 in Millersville: Construction of a roundabout along PA Route 741(Millersville Road). Traffic signal upgrades, including a northbound left turn and signal timing. Construction of an 8-foot-wide multi-purpose trail along PA Route 741 and PA Route 999. Creation of a bus stop, including a shelter, bench and streetlight. Repaving, striping and signage. “This strategic state investment helps us make Routes 741 and 999 in Millersville safer for our residents—whether they are traveling by car, bicycle or on foot—and will help offset some of the cost for local taxpayers. I am grateful to the CFA and the Shapiro administration for following our guidance about the project’s importance for our area,” Smith-Wade-El said. The MTF, administered by the CFA, provides grants between $100,000 and $3 million to encourage economic development and ensure that a safe and reliable system of transportation is available to the residents of the commonwealth. Funds Read more

 

Community Parks, Public Schools, Public Safety, and Additional Grant Opportunities

(Jan 21, 2026)

NEWLY LISTED PROGRAMS Department of Conservation and Natural Resources: Community Conservation Partnerships Program (C2P2) Who May Apply: County or Municipal Government, Higher Educational Institution, Other Educational Institution, Non-profit with 501(c)3 IRS Status and Non-profit with PA Bureau of Charitable Organizations Status. Use: Park rehabilitation and development, recreation and conservation planning, land acquisition and conservation, trail projects, river conservation and development, and community and watershed forestry. Funds: The total grant awards vary based on state and federal funding sources, with the program awarding approximately $50 million for projects each year. Individual grant amounts also vary, with typical awards ranging from $50,000 - $500,000. Application Deadline: April 30, 2026 More information: DCNR Website Liquor Control Board: Alcohol Education Grant Program Who May Apply: School districts and institutions of higher education (including technical, trade, and post-secondary establishments), community organizations, municipal police departments, municipal officials/representatives, and nonprofit and for-profit organizations. Use: To fund programs that discourage and reduce underage and dangerous drinking and promote a message of responsible alcohol consumption by those of legal drinking age. Funds: The grant cycle is for two years, from July 2026 through June Read more

 

Conklin: Nearly $17M secured to upgrade Rush Township sewer infrastructure

(Jan 21, 2026)

STATE COLLEGE, Jan. 21 – New funding of $16.8 million from the Pennsylvania Infrastructure Investment Authority will fund a sanitary sewer extension project in Rush Township, state Rep. Scott Conklin announced today. Conklin said the funding – which includes a 30-year, low-interest loan of $9.2 million and grant funding of nearly $7.6 million – will support work to replace on-lot sewer systems that Rush Township has identified as malfunctioning. “A sanitary survey by the township showed that some on-lot sewer systems are failing and allowing untreated or improperly treated sewage into surface water and groundwater,” Conklin said. “I’m glad we were able to secure the new funding and grateful to Pennvest for providing needed resources to tackle this important public health project.” Conklin said the project includes installation of approximately 11 miles of sewer line and three pump stations to connect and serve approximately 245 residential equivalent dwelling units and three commercial equivalent dwelling units that are currently using on-lot sewer systems. Pumps at the plant will also be upgraded to handle the additional waste from the new connections. This existing system currently serves 1,046 households in Rush Township in Centre County and Decatur Township and Osceola Mills Borough in Clearfield County with median household income levels below the state median. Once the project is Read more

 

Conklin: Nearly $2 million secured for District 77 infrastructure improvements

(Jan 20, 2026)

STATE COLLEGE, Jan. 20 – Transportation, water, and wastewater improvements are coming to the 77 th Legislative District thanks to $1.9 million in grant funding from the Commonwealth Financing Authority, state Rep. Scott Conklin announced today. Conklin said the funding includes $1.35 million under the Multimodal Transportation Fund Program for pedestrian, cyclist, and roadway improvements and $553,600 under the PA Small Water and Sewer Program for water and wastewater improvements. “The new funding will help our townships and boroughs tackle multiple projects across the district to address paving needs and strengthen water, sewer and stormwater infrastructure,” Conklin said. “The funding will also support improvements to Calder Way in State College, to enhance pedestrian and cyclist safety.” Conklin said the funding under the Multimodal Transportation Fund Program includes: $425,202 to State College Borough to improve pedestrian and cyclist safety along Calder Way. $400,000 to Taylor Township for roadway improvements to two sections of South Mountain Road. $350,000 to Worth Township for road paving and other upgrades to rehabilitate East Mountain Road. $174,150 to Patton Township for the Douglas Drive Drainage Improvement project, involving rehabilitation of a stormwater pipe along North Oak Lane and Douglas Drive in the Park Forest Village area. Funding under the PA Small Water and Sewer Read more

 

Guzman secures $242,596 in state grants

(Jan 20, 2026)

READING, Jan. 20 – State Rep. Manuel Guzman, D-Berks, announced today that $242,596 in grant funding from the Commonwealth Financing Authority, through the Multimodal Transportation Fund, has been awarded to support the Gerry Street Connector Project in Reading. The $242,596 grant will be used for the creation of a pedestrian trail connector from Gerry Street to the Lancaster Avenue Plaza. “This funding will deliver a vital pedestrian connector for our community,” Guzman said. “The Gerry Street Connector Project will improve safety, accessibility and connectivity for residents and visitors, while strengthening links between our neighborhoods. “This investment also reflects my ongoing commitment to building infrastructure that promotes walkability and improves quality of life in Reading,” he added. Read more

 

Universal school meals: Most direct path to stronger schools

(Jan 14, 2026)

“The goal of this hearing was to identify proven solutions that guarantee every student has access to healthy, high-quality meals, while also eliminating the stigma of meal debt so children can overcome hunger,” said state Rep. Nate Davidson, who hosted the hearing and represents portions of Cumberland and Dauphin counties. “What we heard tonight is that universal school meals support students’ needs and improve classroom environments and academic results for all.” Read more

 

Smith-Wade-El: Nearly $824K secured for Lancaster City traffic signal improvements

(Dec 30, 2025)

LANCASTER, Dec. 30 – Smoother, safer traffic flow is coming to Lancaster thanks to nearly $824,000 in grant funding from the state Transportation Department, state Rep. Ismail Smith-Wade-El, D-Lancaster, announced today. Read more

 

Rivera: Nearly $874K secured for Lancaster City, Manheim Township traffic signal improvements

(Dec 30, 2025)

LANCASTER, Dec. 30 – Safer and more efficient traffic flow is coming to the 96th Legislative District thanks to nearly $874,000 in grant funding from PennDOT, state Rep. Nikki Rivera, D-Lancaster, announced today. According to Rivera, the funding -- awarded through the Green Light-Go Program -- will support traffic flow and safety improvements in the city of Lancaster and Manheim Township. The funding includes: • City of Lancaster: $91,476 to study and remove unwarranted traffic-control signals. • City of Lancaster: $732,095 to modernize multiple intersections. • Manheim Township: $50,000 to install LED traffic signal modules at multiple locations. “These critical investments will help motorists, bicyclists, and pedestrians get where they’re going more quickly and safely,” Rivera said. “This funding will increase the efficiency and reliability of our traffic signal systems, making travel on our streets safer for everyone. I want to thank PennDOT and our local partners for helping to bring this funding home.” Green Light-Go is a reimbursement-based grant program that requires applicants to provide a 20% local match. Grants may be used for operational improvements, such as installing light-emitting diode technology, retiming traffic signals, developing special-event traffic plans, monitoring signal performance, and upgrading traffic signals to the latest technologies. Read more

 

Conklin: More than $114,000 secured for District 77 fire and EMS companies
Feb 17, 2026

Smith-Wade-El celebrates release of Pa.’s first comprehensive housing plan
Feb 13, 2026

Guzman to host annual Black History Month Celebration
Feb 12, 2026

Smith-Wade-El to Hold two Student Town Halls at Local Elementary Schools
Feb 11, 2026

Smith-Wade-El, Rivera announce $1.2 million in state funds for bicycle and pedestrian improvements
Feb 10, 2026

Conklin: Nearly $340,000 secured for Ferguson Township pedestrian crossing improvements
Feb 10, 2026

Grant Memo: Transportation, Parks, Pedestrian Safety, School Mental Health, and Additional Grant Opportunities
Feb 10, 2026

Transportation, Public Schools, Public Safety, and Additional Grant Opportunities
Feb 03, 2026

Conklin bill would lay foundation for new affordable housing when state sells former prison land
Jan 30, 2026

Pennsylvania House passes Conklin bill to help state retirement plans operate more efficiently
Jan 28, 2026

Smith-Wade-El to host Free Stuff to Do Fair Jan 31; Event will feature over 55 classes, clubs, hobbies, and activities
Jan 27, 2026

Rivera: $650K in state funding for pedestrian safety improvements in Lancaster
Jan 22, 2026

Smith-Wade-El: $600K in state funding awarded for infrastructure improvements
Jan 22, 2026

Community Parks, Public Schools, Public Safety, and Additional Grant Opportunities
Jan 21, 2026

Conklin: Nearly $17M secured to upgrade Rush Township sewer infrastructure
Jan 21, 2026

Conklin: Nearly $2 million secured for District 77 infrastructure improvements
Jan 20, 2026

Guzman secures $242,596 in state grants
Jan 20, 2026

Universal school meals: Most direct path to stronger schools
Jan 14, 2026

Smith-Wade-El: Nearly $824K secured for Lancaster City traffic signal improvements
Dec 30, 2025

Rivera: Nearly $874K secured for Lancaster City, Manheim Township traffic signal improvements
Dec 30, 2025