HARRISBURG, Feb. 25 -- Concerned about the impact the closures of SCI Rockview and Quehanna Boot Camp will have on the region, state Rep. Paul Takac will host several community forums to gain input from area residents on precisely how they will be impacted so he may better tell their stories to the Shapiro administration. As part of his budget proposal for the 2025-26 fiscal year, Gov. Josh Shapiro recommended closing two state prisons and two community corrections centers. Days later, a state Corrections Department steering committee recommended that the two prisons in Centre and Clearfield counties be closed. “For generations, Rockview and Quehanna have provided good-paying union jobs with benefits to over 900 of our hardworking friends, neighbors and loved ones,” Takac said. “And they, in turn, have supported our local economy and communities. I understand the importance of saving money, but any decision with that kind of potential impact must be a discussion, not a dictate. “That’s why I’m holding districtwide listening forums on these proposed shutdowns to hear directly from those who would be affected by a shutdown of one or both of these facilities.” All forums will be held from 5 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.: Friday, March 21 -- Milesburg Community Center, 101 Mill St., Milesburg. Thursday, March 27 -- Howard United Read more
HARRISBURG, Feb. 24 – Two grant awards totaling $468,694 will help an ongoing road improvement project in Boggs Township as well as the realignment of Spring Valley Road located in Benner Township, state Rep. Paul Takac, D-Centre, announced today. Boggs Township was awarded a $218,694 grant that will be utilized to complete a road improvement project on Curtin Hollow Road. A $250,000 grant will help fund a realignment and enhancement project along Spring Vallery Road in Benner Township. “I am excited to announce these multimodal transportation grant awards to support two important and impactful projects in our area,” Takac said. “The realignment of Spring Valley Road in Benner Township, near the Shiloh Road exit on I-99 is a key piece of a much larger effort to redevelop and upgrade the Shiloh Road corridor and surrounding areas between the bypass and the Nittany Mall, while the second project will help improve public safety and transportation along Curtain Hollow Road in Boggs Township. “Projects like these demonstrate our ongoing commitment to deliver results for the people and communities of Centre County and the 82nd District,” he added. The grants were awarded through the Multimodal Transportation Fund, administered by the Commonwealth Financing Authority, which provides grants to encourage economic development and ensure that a safe and reliable system of transportation is available to Read more
“One of my key priorities in Harrisburg is supporting the remarkable men and women who invest so much of their time and talent - often without compensation - to staff our local fire and emergency medical services. They do a tremendous job serving our community. And yet, while I am delighted to announce these annual grant awards, I also recognize that they are not enough. The high cost of vehicles, equipment and training are a significant financial strain on these organizations. That is why I will continue to advocate and fight for additional funding to help take better care of those who take such good care of us." Read more
Statement on PA DOC's Recommendation to Close SCI Rockview & Quehanna Boot Camp I am deeply surprised and concerned by the proposal from the PA Department of Corrections to close the State Correctional Institute Rockview and the Quehanna Boot Camp. Together, these facilities employ nearly 900 of our neighbors across Centre and Clearfield counties with good paying, union-supported jobs. If implemented, such closures could have significant negative impacts on not only the employees and their families, but our communities and our local and regional economy. I am in close contact with the Governor’s team, other elected officials, and community and business leaders across our area. As this process plays out in the coming months – including economic impact Read more
HARRISBURG, Feb. 10 – State Rep. Paul Takac, D-Centre, released the following statement today in response to the Pennsylvania Department of Corrections’ recommendation to close SCI Rockview and the Quehanna Boot Camp: “I am deeply surprised and concerned by the proposal from the Pennsylvania Department of Corrections to close both the State Correctional Institution Rockview and the Quehanna Boot Camp. Together, these facilities employ nearly 900 of our neighbors across Centre and Clearfield counties and beyond with good paying, union-supported jobs. The closure of these facilities could have significant negative impacts on not only the employees and their families, but our communities and local economy as a whole. “I want to assure the families and communities potentially impacted by these recommendations that their voices are and will continue to be heard, and I will do everything I can for the best possible outcome for them and our entire region. It is vital that we fully understand the consequences of this proposal on our local economy and community wellbeing. “I have already been in close contact with the governor’s team, other elected officials, and community and business leaders to learn more about what comes next. The Public Safety Facilities Act is very clear on the timeline and process needed to make a final decision to close facilities like these, requiring impact studies, protection for Read more
HARRISBURG, Jan. 31 – State Rep. Paul Takac, D-Centre, said he is proud to announce significant funding initiatives totaling $1.8 million aimed at protecting and expanding maternal health services in central and south-central Pennsylvania. These initiatives feature annual $300,000 awards to both Penn State and the Family Health Council of Central Pennsylvania Inc. through June 2027, to help develop regional healthcare coalitions that will be instrumental in advancing maternal health research and support programs. Takac emphasized the importance of these initiatives in helping to ensure the well-being of mothers and families across the state. "Investing in maternal health care is investing in the future of our communities," said Takac. "This funding will provide critical resources to support maternal health services, ensuring that more mothers and babies have access to the care they need." These $300,000 annual awards will be used to enhance research and develop innovative programs that address the unique challenges faced by mothers across Pennsylvania. This funding will support efforts to reduce rising mortality rates and improve maternal health outcomes, reduce health care disparities, and provide comprehensive care for mothers and their families. "These awards are a testament to our commitment to advancing maternal health," Takac stated. "By leveraging the expertise and resources of Read more
Delivering Real Results for Our Community On January 7th, I took the oath of office to begin my second term as your State Representative. I am deeply honored by the trust our community has again placed in me and remain committed to working tirelessly on your behalf to address the challenges we face and seize the opportunities that lie ahead. My focus is on continuing to deliver real results for the people and communities of Centre County and the entire commonwealth. In addition to helping bring unprecedented state funding back to our area, my first term focused on issues such as increased funding for public schools, access and affordability of healthcare, tax relief for seniors and working families, and continuing to Read more
“I am deeply honored to continue serving the people of the 82nd District,” said Takac. “Our community has once again placed their trust in me, and I am committed to continue working tirelessly on their behalf. Together, we will address the many challenges we face and seize the opportunities ahead to continue delivering real results for the people and communities of Centre County and the commonwealth.” Read more
HARRISBURG, Dec. 11 – A $751,261 grant from the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection will be dedicated to the ongoing cleanup efforts of Pennsylvania rivers and streams within the Chesapeake Bay watershed, state Rep. Paul Takac, D-Centre, announced today. “This grant reflects our Commonwealth’s steadfast dedication to environmental stewardship, emphasizing the vital importance of maintaining clean rivers and streams within the Chesapeake Bay watershed for the health of our environment and the well-being of our communities,” Takac said. “These waterways are lifelines that support diverse ecosystems and provide invaluable recreational opportunities. “By protecting our waterways, we’re supporting clean drinking water, diverse habitats, and the recreational opportunities that they provide while helping to ensure a sustainable, healthy ecosystem for future generations." The grant funding will enable the Centre County Conservation District to support various initiatives aimed at reducing pollution, improving water quality, and enhancing the overall health of the Chesapeake Bay watershed. These efforts include streambank stabilization, riparian buffer restoration, and the implementation of best management practices to reduce runoff and sedimentation. Read more
STATE COLLEGE, Nov. 20 – New funding of nearly $400,000 from the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources will support two environment-based projects benefiting Centre County and the region, state Rep. Paul Takac announced today. Takac said the funding includes $300,000 to College Township for the development of the ClearWater Community Conservation Center. “I am proud to support this new center which will be a cornerstone for community building and environmental stewardship,” Takac said. “It will provide new and unique opportunities for folks to engage with nature, learn about conservation, and actively participate in hands-on projects to protect our environment and the Spring Creek watershed. This long-awaited and innovative project will create jobs, attract visitors and showcase the incredible natural beauty of our region.” The DCNR grant will support foundational work at the site, including the construction of a pedestrian walkway, access drive, parking area, ADA-accessible pathways, lighting, utilities, landscaping and other essential infrastructure improvements. Takac said an additional, separate grant of $99,700, also to ClearWater Conservancy of Central PA, will support installation of 6 acres of riparian forest buffers in the Susquehanna River Watershed. “Riparian buffers are a win-win for our environment because they reduce pollutants and sediment from entering our Read more
HARRISBURG, Nov. 18 – A $250,000 grant from the Multimodal Transportation Fund will help State College Borough engage in a comprehensive transportation study for State College and the Centre Region, state Rep. Paul Takac, D-Centre, announced today. “I’m excited to have helped secure this funding for a comprehensive transportation study for State College and the Centre Region,” Takac said. “The goal is to map out a plan that encompasses all modes of public transit -- from bus and taxi service to ride sharing -- from a central point (the current bus station) to benefit not only Penn State but our community as a whole. “This is an urgent issue that impacts economic development and quality of life and I look forward to the results and recommendations on next steps.” The grant was awarded through the Multimodal Transportation Fund, which provides grants to encourage economic development and ensure that a safe and reliable system of transportation is available to the residents of the commonwealth. Read more
STATE COLLEGE, Nov. 15 – Centre County’s tourism bureau has secured more than $93,000 in state funding for the bureau’s support of the 2024 Ironman 70.3 Pennsylvania Happy Valley Triathlon, state Rep. Paul Takac announced today. Takac said that the funding for Happy Valley Adventure Bureau – secured through the Department of Community and Economic Development – provided important funding to ensure the event’s success and provides great return on investment. “Major sporting events aren’t just exciting for our community, they’re also a great economic driver,” Takac said. “This summer’s Ironman Triathlon in Centre County attracted more than 1,500 participants, families and supporters to appreciate all our region has to offer and to patronize local shops, restaurants and hotels. “Our region’s ability to successfully host major events like the Ironman Triathlon depends on the coordinated efforts of talented state, county and local partners,” Takac said. “Happy Valley Adventure Bureau and Happy Valley Sports & Entertainment Alliance are a key part of that success. I’m grateful to them for all their work and to DCED for this funding, which provides an important stimulus to help power these efforts. “As a previous Ironman competitor and supporter of this series in Centre County, I’m thrilled to see this event, which Read more
HARRISBURG, Nov. 01 – $750,000 in funding from the Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program will help ClearWater Conservancy offset the cost of constructing a community center, state Rep. Paul Takac, D-Centre, announced today. This infusion of grant dollars will be used to help create a new 12,000 square foot Community Conservation Center on 10 acres along Spring Creek in Houserville. “This grant is a fantastic opportunity for our community,” Takac said. “The funds will help repurpose and renovate a historic barn and surrounding landscape into a vibrant, multi-purpose community hub focused on conservation and education. “This new facility will not only preserve a key piece of our local heritage but also provide a vital, dynamic space for residents and visitors to connect, learn, and grow together. It will include first-class meeting and workspaces, as well as hands-on opportunities for folks of all ages. As the former chair of the Spring Creek Watershed Commission, I am truly excited about the potential of this beautiful new community space to help showcase the importance of preserving and protecting healthy waterways and ecosystems. This is a win-win for both our past and our future." Elizabeth Crisfield, Executive Director of ClearWater Conservancy, said, "ClearWater Conservancy is thrilled to receive the news of this award. We truly appreciate Representative Read more
HARRISBURG, Oct. 29 – Underscoring his commitment to advancing the interests of rural communities across Pennsylvania, state Rep. Paul Takac, D-Centre, today announced his recent appointment by Pennsylvania House Speaker Joanna McClinton to serve as the House Democratic caucus representative on the Center for Rural Pennsylvania’s newly created Rural Population Revitalization Commission. Takac's appointment comes at a critical juncture. Counties in rural Pennsylvania face many serious challenges, including a projected 5.8% population decline by 2050. The commission's mandate is to identify innovative strategies that will help drive development and revitalization efforts to ensure the long-term growth and sustainability of these vital regions. "This appointment provides me a unique opportunity to focus on, identify, and help tackle the real challenges facing our rural communities across Pennsylvania,” Takac said. “One of my top priorities is working to find solutions that will ensure a vibrant future for every resident of our commonwealth. Since taking office, I have been laser focused on delivering for rural Pennsylvania, and my legislative record embodies that philosophy. “From helping deliver a first-of-its-kind $10 million Agricultural Innovation fund to championing the reauthorization of the $50 million Rural Jobs Investment Tax Credit program -- and from helping secure over $5.5 million in Read more
“Snow Shoe EMS covers a service area of 171 square miles, including a long stretch of Interstate 80 running through a rural area that is prone to accidents, especially in bad weather, so when an opportunity presented itself to help the EMS agency continue to aid residents and travelers alike on the Mountaintop, I was glad to help,” said Takac, D-Centre. “As the proud father of a paramedic, I know the vital role that EMS plays in supporting the health and wellbeing of our community – they support us, and we must support them.” Read more
“From vehicles and facility upgrades to construction of a new community park, these projects represent a significant investment in our quality of life and collective well-being,” Takac said. “It's a reflection of the value we place on community and our commitment to safety and prosperity. “I am proud to continue my work with local elected officials and organizations to help secure grants and demonstrate my support for the entire 82nd District — from the Mountaintop and Bald Eagle Valley to the Centre Region. Since taking office, bringing these funds back from Harrisburg has been one of my top priorities and I’m happy to say that we have been very successful. In fact, to date we have helped secure well over $7 million for projects in rural Centre County, addressing longstanding infrastructure needs and setting our region up for the future.” Read more
STATE COLLEGE, Oct. 21 – New funding of nearly $1.15 million will support a wide range of programs and projects at the Penn State University College of Agricultural Sciences, state Rep. Paul Takac announced today. Takac said the funding, secured through the Department of Agriculture, includes 13 grants that will support PSU’s Ag Resource Centers, the Center for Agricultural Law and multiple individual studies. “PSU’s world-class College of Agricultural Sciences produces cutting-edge research that gives our farmers and growers the best possible tools to fight plant and livestock disease, boost productivity and keep our food supply safe,” Takac said. “The new funding is going to support a wide range of projects – from promoting pollination to detecting pathogens and improving cattle health – to keep PA a national leader in agriculture.” Takac said the grant recipients and funding amounts include: Ag Resource Centers – $300,000. Center for Agricultural Law – $100,000. Evaluating ammonium thiosulfate and lime sulphur as apple bloom thinners: efficacy and pollinator impact – $71,339. Conversion of spent mushroom substrate and low-value trees to sprayable bioplastics for agriculture – $100,000. Monitoring bee populations in Pennsylvania to improve information on wild pollinator Read more
According to Takac, the farm’s existing manure storage unit will be decommissioned and a new, 60-by-280-foot stacking structure and heavy use feeding area will be built elsewhere on the farm utilizing recommended agricultural best management practices. The construction also will include a roof, fencing, gates, reinforced animal trails, access lane, septic tank and piping outlets. Read more
STATE COLLEGE, Sept. 10 – Once again delivering on his commitment to improve local schools and ensure safer learning environments for all, state Rep. Paul Takac, D-Centre, today announced a new $105,906 grant to State College Area School District as part of the new $75M Public School Environmental Repairs Program, made possible by funding that Takac voted for in the 2023-24 Pennsylvania state budget. "There is no better investment we can make in our future than public education,” Takac said. “But unfortunately, many school buildings are aging and districts often struggle to find the money needed to repair and modernize them. “Our kids deserve buildings that are safe and free from asbestos, lead-based water pipes and paint, and inadequate or non-functioning critical infrastructure such as air conditioning and heating systems. “Like others across the commonwealth, the State College Area School District will use these funds to improve learning environments for students, teachers and staff, in this case to support much-needed renovations and upgrades at the high school’s North Building. “This is a great example of the good that government can and should do – working together to build better, safer schools for all,” Takac added. Read more
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