Abney: over $637,000 for community safety and the arts
Rep. Aerion Andrew Abney January 29, 2025 | 11:53 AM
PITTSBURGH, Jan. 29 – State Rep. Aerion A. Abney, D-Allegheny, announced that more than $637,000 in state funds has been approved for several Pittsburgh institutions for safety measures and preserving the arts.
More than $347,000 was secured by Abney and state Sen. Wayne Fontana, D-Allegheny, for the following entities:
- Carnegie Institute: $100,000 to purchase specialized entertainment and industry-grade equipment for The Andy Warhol Museum.
- YMCA of Greater Pittsburgh: $60,000 to install two elevators, a sprinkler system, HVAC, mechanical plumbing and electrical systems at the Allegheny YMCA.
Abney collaborated with state Rep. Dan Frankel, D-Allegheny, and Fontana to help deliver $70,000 to POORLAW for a new HVAC system, phone system and PA system, along with upgrades to plumbing and the electrical system, at its Hazelwood One-Stop Shop Equity Resource Center.
He also worked with state Sen. Jay Costa, D-Allegheny, and state Reps. La’Tasha D. Mayes, D-Allegheny, and Frankel to acquire $70,000 for Pittsburgh Parks Conservancy to construct ADA-accessible pathways at Schenley Park, improve stormwater infrastructure, and create new connections between the park and the Carnegie Mellon University campus.
Abney, Fontana and state Rep. Lindsay Powell, D-Allegheny, helped procure a $150,000 grant to modernize a passenger elevator at Heinz Hall for Pittsburgh Symphony Inc. and make it ADA-compliant.
“Neighbor and neighborhood safety is essential to maintaining and growing Pittsburgh as a place for families to lead enriching and rewarding lives. Another part of this equation is fostering our city’s cultural footprint and showcasing their collective talent on the national and international stage,” Abney said. “I’m so proud to partner with so many state legislators on these dollars and thank them for their advocacy and support.”
All grants were made possible by the Gaming Economic Development and Tourism Fund, under the Commonwealth Financing Authority. The grants, funded through gaming revenues, provide financial support to municipalities, authorities, councils of government, non-profits and others to carry out important economic development projects in Allegheny County.
Eligible projects promote local economic activities, create jobs, improve or create infrastructure, promote public safety, assist in workforce development, or improve recreational activities.