Conklin: Nearly $673,000 secured to support District 77 equipment needs, building renovations, performing arts center project

Rep. Scott Conklin    October 23, 2024 | 1:43 PM

STATE COLLEGE, Oct. 22 – New grant funding of $672,400 will help municipalities and other groups in the 77th Legislative District purchase needed equipment, renovate and repair public buildings, and help fund design and planning of a new performing arts center, state Rep. Scott Conklin announced today.

“The new funding will help our townships and other district organizations meet a wide range of practical needs, from medical equipment for our first responders to accessible transportation to building renovations,” Conklin said. “Some of the funding will also help lay the groundwork for a new performing arts center to draw more visitors to our growing downtown arts district.”

Conklin said eight separate grants awarded from the Local Share Account program include:

  • Nearly $162,000 to Rush Township, including $103,985 for a new brush truck for Mountain Top Fire Department and $57,861 for township maintenance equipment including two plows, a vibratory roller, a pressure washer and a tilt trailer.
     
  • $118,891 to Halfmoon Township, including $82,385 to allow Port Matilda EMS to replace its existing 18-year-old, high-mileage para transit van with a newer, more reliable vehicle and $36,505 to allow Port Matilda EMS to purchase a power-lift stretcher.
     
  • $105,750 to the State College Borough Redevelopment Authority to allow the Nittany Performing Arts Centre to begin design and engineering work for a 200-seat studio theater and an 800-seat, full-sized stage with an orchestra pit, a lobby with concessions, parking and related features.
     
  • $102,500 to Patton Township to replace the roof on a township building that serves as an emergency shelter.
     
  • $100,000 to Moshannon Valley Economic Development Partnership Inc. for second-phase renovations to the Moshannon Valley Enterprise Center for roof repairs, restroom modernization, window replacement, stormwater management and floor work.
     
  • $83,390 to Centre County to allow Strawberry Fields Transportation Program to purchase a fully accessible van with a wheelchair lift to transport residents with disabilities.

Statewide Local Share Account funding comes from the PA Race Horse Development and Gaming Act, which provides for distribution of gaming revenues to support projects in the public interest in Pennsylvania.