Merski, Harkins: Nearly $25,000 secured for neighborhood improvement plan

Rep. Patrick J. Harkins December 20, 2022 | 9:53 AM

ERIE, Dec. 20 – A new grant of $24,250 will fund development of a neighborhood improvement plan for Erie’s East Avenue Commercial Corridor, state Reps. Pat Harkins and Bob Merski announced today.

The lawmakers, both D-Erie, said that the funding to Erie Center for Arts and Technology – awarded through the Keystone Communities Program – will lay the groundwork for major improvements.

“Improvements to the commercial corridor are greatly needed, but having a comprehensive plan in place is a critical first step,” Merski said. “With this funding, Erie Center for Arts and Technology can develop a blueprint to ensure that the improvements made will best suit the community and that future money invested will be used in the most cost-effective and productive way possible.”

Harkins said, “Getting this planning underway is exciting. It’s the first step in a project that will transform the corridor in ways that will invite new residential and commercial traffic to the area.”

Keystone community grants are administered through the Department of Community and Economic Development for projects such as business facades, accessible housing, public infrastructure and other community-strengthening projects.

The grants are part of a package of nearly $8 million in funding for 51 projects statewide. More information is available at: https://www.governor.pa.gov/newsroom/gov-wolf-announces-nearly-8-million-in-new-funding-to-support-51-community-improvement-projects-across-pennsylvania/.

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