Harkins, Merski announce $8 million secured for new Erie projects

Rep. Robert Merski, Rep. Patrick J. Harkins    October 31, 2022 | 2:20 PM

ERIE, Oct. 31 – Two Erie projects will be receiving $8 million in funding, state Reps. Pat Harkins and Bob Merski announced today.

The lawmakers, both D-Erie, said the funding from the Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program includes $5 million to IRG Erie Inc., to support development of a $200 million waste plastic recycling facility on 25 acres in a high-unemployment area of Erie City and $3 million to Enterprise Development Center of Erie County for largescale renovations and construction at the former EMI property.

“The IRG recycling facility will put Erie on the map as a leader in plastics and recycling and create hundreds of jobs for the Erie community,” Merski said. “This project has the potential to be a game changer for the East side. This private-public partnership will reuse an industrial site, help the environment and employ people in a growing industry.

“In addition, the funding to the Enterprise Development Center will help spur additional economic development by supporting large-scale renovations and construction at the former EMI property. The project is going to help expand our manufacturing and industrial base and invite new industry. Both projects will continue to expand Erie’s footprint as a key region for high-tech manufacturing.”

Harkins said, “Both projects are in areas of the city that need a boost. They are former sites where blue-collar jobs existed but over time left the area. Both will be a boon for innovation, technology and job growth.”

The lawmakers said the EMI facility project will use the grant funding plus matching funds for work including structural repairs, electrical, plumbing and HVAC.

The lawmakers said the funding is part of a pack of more than $40 in RACP funding. More information is available at: https://www.governor.pa.gov/gov-wolf-delivers-more-than-40-million-for-community-improvement-redevelopment-projects-to-revitalize-communities-across-the-commonwealth/.