Pashinski presents three grant checks for projects in Wilkes-Barre and Bear Creek Township
Rep. Eddie Day Pashinski July 30, 2024 | 4:31 PM
WILKES-BARRE, July 30 – State Rep. Eddie Day Pashinski, along with state Sens. Marty Flynn and David Argall, and Wilkes-Barre Mayor George Brown today presented grant checks to a local arts center and to Bear Creek Township.
The first check of $200,000 was presented to the Circle Center of the Arts in Wilkes-Barre to be used for a capital improvement project that will include upgrades to the HVAC and security systems, installation of an elevator, construction of an ADA-compliant lobby entrance and accessibility points.
Additionally, the project will include renovating two galleries, archive and storage areas, the addition of an administrative area, and repurposing a space for an art studio, instruction and education center.
The second check of $56,508 was presented to Bear Creek Township Public Works. Bear Creek will use this funding to purchase equipment for the public works department to replace aging units and give the department increased capability. The department will acquire a new flail mower to replace a 50-year-old unit; a Bobcat Toolcat, which will replace the current street sweeper and give new offroad, light-duty haul capabilities; and a Bobcat skid steer to assist existing dump and plow trucks with their duties. A tractor will also be purchased to assist with other maintenance duties, along with the necessary attachments to ensure effective use by the public works department.
The final check of $45,919 was also presented to Bear Creek Township. The funding will be used for installation of a 2000-foot walking trail encompassing the perimeter of the park’s sports fields. Additionally, the project will construct dugouts at the softball field, which currently has only aluminum benches that offer players no protection from the elements and replace the aging fence around the park.
“These funds will be used to enhance the quality of life for our community,” said Pashinski. “Adding a trail for those in the community to walk their dogs or to give them a reason to get out for some fresh air and daily exercise. Additionally, renovations and efficiency are the themes of the other projects, continuing to update and ensure infrastructure in our community is as stable as possible to minimize daily complications that may otherwise arise. I must thank Senator Marty Flynn, Senator David Argall, and Mayor George Brown for their continued work in presenting these checks and helping bring back these funds to our community.”
The grants were awarded from the state’s Local Share Account provided by gaming revenue and administered through the Commonwealth Financing Authority, which was established in 2004 to administer Pennsylvania’s economic stimulus programs.