December 19, 2023
Harrisburg, December 19, 2023 – West Elizabeth’s efforts to improve its sewer system will be boosted by more than $700,00 from Pennsylvania’s share of American Rescue Plan funds, State Senator Jim Brewster and State Representative Andrew Kuzma announced today.
Brewster, along with Rep. Kuzma, supported the funding for the important local efforts.
“Clean and safe drinking water is critical to community health and local municipalities face numerous maintenance challenges with limited local funds,” Brewster said. “I’m grateful for their efforts and always supportive of their projects.”
West Elizabeth Sanitary Authority will receive $212,445 for a wastewater treatment plant improvement project located in West Elizabeth Borough as well as $200,000 to install solar electric system at their Ferry Street lift station and wastewater treatment plant in the borough.
The authority will also receive an additional $100,000 for the rehabilitation of the wastewater treatment plant, and $200,000 to rehabilitate the Lovedale Pump Station located in Elizabeth Township.
“I’m pleased to support this important project for Elizabeth Township,” Kuzma said. “When pump stations are not functioning properly, environmental problems can occur. This grant will help ensure the facility operates appropriately for years to come.”
The funds come from the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) signed into law by President Joe Biden in March of 2021. In Pennsylvania, the grants are awarded through the COVID-19 ARPA PA Small Water & Sewer program and the COVID-19 ARPA H2O PA program administered by the Commonwealth Financing Authority.
The Commonwealth Financing Authority (CFA) was established in 2004 as an independent agency of the Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED) to administer Pennsylvania’s economic stimulus packages. The CFA holds fiduciary responsibility over the funding of programs and investments in Pennsylvania’s economic growth.
December 19, 2023
Harrisburg, December 19, 2023 – Local efforts to upgrade water and sewer systems will be supported by more than $8.6 million from Pennsylvania’s share of American Rescue Plan funds, State Senator Jim Brewster announced today.
Brewster supported more than two dozen grant requests that will help maintain critical local infrastructure and provide relief to taxpayers in the 45th Senatorial District through the COVID-19 ARPA H2O PA program and the COVID-19 ARPA PA Small Water & Sewer program. In Pennsylvania, the grants are administered by the Commonwealth Financing Authority (CFA).
“Maintaining our aging water and sewer infrastructure projects is expensive and time consuming,” Senator Brewster said. “But this critical work must continue if we want clean streams and healthy drinking water for the generations to come. These projects make important upgrades to water and sewer systems, and I’m grateful to the local municipalities and authorities doing the hard work.”
The following municipalities and authorities received awards:
COVID-19 ARPA H2O PA
- West Mifflin Sanitary Sewer & Stormwater Authority – $1.5 million for grit removal equipment and operational improvements at the Thompson Run Sewage Treatment Plant;
- Monroeville – $889,778 for the sanitary sewer system rehabilitation project;
- Plum – $916,043 for a waterline replacement along Sardis Road.
COVID-19 ARPA PA Small Water & Sewer
- Duquesne – $300,000 for a water system improvement project;
- Braddock – $200,000 for sewer repairs;
- East McKeesport – $100,000 for Ice Plant Hill Groundwater and Stormwater Remediation project;
- Castle Shannon – $425,000 for Hamilton Park Lining Improvements;
- Clairton Municipal Authority – $180,439 for Golden Gate Storm Sewer Improvements Phase 2;
- East Pittsburgh – $275,000 for Grandview Avenue Storm Sewer Separation Project;
- Elizabeth Township – $200,000 for Lovedale Pump Station Upgrades;
- Homestead – $100,000 to construct a separate storm sewer system;
- Liberty – $100,000 for the replacement of sanitary sewer;
- Munhall Sanitary Sewer Municipal Authority – $146,000 to repair a collapsed segment of the sanitary sewer;
- Munhall Sanitary Sewer Municipal Authority – $300,000 for Phase 1 of sanitary sewer improvements;
- North Braddock – $200,000 to construct a storm-only sewer system along O’Connell Boulevard;
- North Versailles Township Sanitary Authority – $265,323 for sanitary sewer upgrades along Woodland Street;
- Versailles – $200,000 for sanitary sewer repairs;
- Wall – $300,000 for the replacement of rusted metal pipes;
- West Elizabeth Sanitary Authority – $212,245 for wastewater treatment plant improvement project;
- West Elizabeth Sanitary Authority – $100,000 to install a solar electric system at Ferry Street lift station;
- West Elizabeth Sanitary Authority – $100,000 to install a solar electric system at the wastewater plant;
- West Elizabeth Sanitary Authority – 100,000 for the rehabilitation of the wastewater treatment plant;
- West Mifflin Sanitary Sewer & Stormwater Authority – $400,000 for pump station improvements;
- Whitaker – $100,000 for rehabilitation of sanitary sewer system; and
- Wilkinsburg-Penn Joint Water Authority – $450,000 to remove and replace asbestos concrete waterline in East McKeesport.
For more details on all the local grants, click here.
The CFA was established in 2004 as an independent agency of the Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED) to administer Pennsylvania’s economic stimulus packages. The CFA holds fiduciary responsibility over the funding of programs and investments in Pennsylvania’s economic growth.
More information about CFA grants and programs are available online.
December 19, 2023
Allegheny County, December 19, 2023 – Today, Senator Jim Brewster (45th Senatorial District), Representative Nick Pisciottano (38th Legislative District), and Representative Matt Gergely (35th Legislative District) announced that West Mifflin’s efforts to improve its water and sewer systems will be boosted by more than $2 million from Pennsylvania’s share of American Rescue Plan funds.
Brewster, Pisciottano and Gergely supported grant funding for infrastructure projects awarded through the COVID-19 ARPA H2O PA program and the COVID-19 ARPA PA Small Water & Sewer program. In Pennsylvania, the grants are administered by the Commonwealth Financing Authority (CFA).
The West Mifflin Sanitary Sewer & Stormwater Authority was awarded $1,500,000 from the H2O PA program to fund grit removal equipment and operational improvements at the Thompson Run Sewage Treatment Plant.
“The maintenance of safe and reliable water and sewer systems is crucial for healthy, thriving communities,” said Senator Brewster. “I’m grateful for efforts by local municipalities to keep us safe and always supportive of their projects.”
Act 54 of 2022 appropriated $205.4 million of American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds to the H2O PA – Water Supply, Sanitary Sewer and Storm Water Projects program for the construction of drinking water, sanitary sewer and storm sewer projects.
The West Mifflin Sanitary Sewer & Stormwater Authority was also awarded $400,000 from the Small Water & Sewer program for pump station improvements.
“Having a safe and reliable sewer system is essential for any community to thrive,” said Representative Pisciottano. “The funding announced today will deliver necessary upgrades to our local water treatment and stormwater infrastructure. I’m proud to have partnered with Sen. Brewster and Rep. Gergely to help bring this grant money back to West Mifflin.”
Act 54 of 2022 appropriated $105.6 million of ARPA funds to the PA Small Water & Sewer Program for the construction, improvement, expansion, or rehabilitation or repair of a water supply system, sanitary sewer system, and storm water system projects.
In addition, West Mifflin Borough will receive $107,583 from the Small Water & Sewer program for the replacement of a section of storm sewer on Melvin Drive that extends down to the 300 block of Regis Avenue.
“I’m happy to see state funds coming back from Harrisburg to support deserving projects,” said Representative Gergely. “We all recognize the importance of water and sewer infrastructure projects like this for various reasons, including sanitation, rainwater management and flood control.”
The CFA was established in 2004 as an independent agency of the Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED) to administer Pennsylvania’s economic stimulus packages. The CFA holds fiduciary responsibility over the funding of programs and investments in Pennsylvania’s economic growth.
More information about CFA grants and programs are available online.
December 15, 2022
Harrisburg – December 15, 2022 – Police departments in the 45th Senate District will receive more than $1.8 million in state funds to for equipment and training, state Sen. Jim Brewster announced today.
“We’re still facing and epidemic of violence that surged during the early days of the pandemic and hasn’t really let up,” Brewster said. “These grants will help provide equipment and training to help local police face new and lingering challenges.”
The grants were awarded through the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency (PCCD) and approved at their meeting on Wednesday. Brewster serves on the Commission’s School Safety and Security Committee.
Local governments receiving grants include:
- Baldwin Borough – $200,000 for Medical Marijuana Enforcement
- Plum Borough – $200,000, for Medical Marijuana Enforcement Training
- Duquesne City – $739,479, for surveillance cameras, license plate readers, and IT upgrades as well as $645,150 to staff and support a gun violence investigation unit
- West Mifflin Borough – $90,240 for in-car cameras
The grants were part of $170 million awarded statewide through the Local Law Enforcement Support (LLES) Program and Gun Violence Investigation & Prosecution (GIVIP) Program. Both are administered by PCCD. Brewster helped secure funding for these programs in the most recent state budget.
The LLES program provides law enforcement agencies with the necessary resources to implement information technology improvements, purchase or upgrade equipment, cover nontraditional law enforcement personnel costs, support retention and recruitment efforts, and provide necessary training. Priority consideration for these grants is given to areas of Pennsylvania with high rates of violence or to law enforcement agencies with low clearance rates (i.e., lower ability to solve crimes).
More funding will be made available next year. Interested groups can visit the PCCD website for information.
October 27, 2022
McKeesport – October 26, 2022 – State Sen. Jim Brewster today announced more than $12 million in economic development grants for projects in the 45th Senate District.
“These state grant programs are extremely competitive and the great coordination between government and business in my district helped win significant investments in the region,” Brewster said. “Economic recovery is not done with miracles. It’s done through hard work, strong vision and consistent cooperation among state, local and business leaders.”
The money is being awarded through Pennsylvania’s Redevelopment Assistance Capitol Program, administered by the Office of the Budget for the acquisition and construction of regional economic, cultural, civic, recreational, and historical improvement projects.
Projects in the 45th Senate District include:
Braddock – Braddock Carnegie Library Association – $2 million – The BCLA’s overall renovation will create universal accessibility and year-round access to all three floors of the building while upgrading ADA accessibility. The primary focus of these funds will be to renovate and modernize the BCLA’s historic Music Hall. Renovation of the historic Music Hall and addition of amenities will allow the BCLA to host professional acts, performances & convenings.
Braddock – Braddock School Lofts – $500,000 – The project will focus on the adaptive reuse of the Braddock Junior High School. It will revive the historic façade and features of the structure while introducing community-based amenities and quality living space; repair the deteriorated elements of the building; and replace all broken or missing windows with high-performance replications. The existing building envelope’s historical integrity will be maintained, requiring an interior insulation approach. All building systems, including HVAC, plumbing, fire protection, and electrical, will be upgraded.
Brentwood – Economic Development – $1.5 million – In this project, Brentwood Borough will demolish its vacant former municipal building to the subgrade level. Asbestos and other hazardous materials will be professionally remediated. The site will be restored to pad-ready condition.
East Pittsburgh – Municipal Facility – $1,00,000 – This project will demolish the old gymnasium facility and construct the new municipal facility that would be centrally located to a majority of the residents. It will allow all borough services to locate in the same building, simplifying communications and overall operations. It would also move the public works department closer to the salt and construction storage area. The entire area will also be repaved and re-seeded, resulting in a net decrease of impermeable surfaces compared to the current condition.
Latterman Family Health Center – New Family Health Center and Magee OBGYN – $1.5 million – This project will construct a new family health center. It will expand operations and the number of exam rooms to provide ample space for patients as well as current, and future staff.
Lincoln – Rail Line for 2045 Lincoln Boulevard – $500,000 – This project includes the installation of a new mainline switch to the facility, the removal and reconstruction of existing track and the construction of new, additional track, as well as renovations to the rail scale improvements in site drainage to address frequent flooding at the rail scale location.
McKeesport – Executive Building – $1 million – The Executive Building is no longer condemned, and businesses are moving into its retail spaces. This project will help address the major mechanical concerns for long-term viability and stability. It will also allow a faster renovation timeline.
McKeesport – The People’s Building – $1 million – The People’s Building is no longer condemned and there are only a few small obstacles preventing occupancy for tenants. This project will address the major mechanical concerns for long term viability and stability. It will also speed up the renovation timeline which will allow developers to build out space for tenants faster.
River Materials – Transloading Expansion – $1,00,000 – With the aid of an RACP award, RMI plans to purchase the final piece of the site from RIDC and double its current dock capacity. Through this expansion RMI will have the area to fleet more than 65 barges. RMI is presently in negotiations to lease the five rail lines adjacent to their property to allow for expansion of the site to include rail to ground, river or trucks along with the loading of railcars with various commodities. RMI expects this will increase employment with the addition of 30 plus well-paying jobs in the Mon Valley region of Pittsburgh.
Monroeville – Jewish Community Center Family Park Facility – $2 million – This project includes renovations/improvements to four areas of JCC’s Monroeville Family Park facility: aquatics center renovations, including liner replacement and related filter/grating; renovation and addition of activity areas at the site, including the addition of much needed shaded play areas; construction of a new indoor building with classroom space; construction/renovation of kitchen and dining area to facilitate meal preparation and dining needs during the summer.
Wilmerding – Allegheny Petroleum Expansion – $1 million – The overall proposed project involves the purchase of the company’s existing leased building and renovations to improve the building’s structure and manufacturing capabilities. Manufacturing infrastructure includes new air compressors, compressor room, electric power redistribution, heat exchanger, nitrogen generations system, and six new processing tanks with piping.
September 21, 2022
Allegheny County, September 21, 2022 – Today, Senator Jim Brewster and Representative Nick Pisciottano announced two grants for community projects in their legislative district.
The Borough of Dravosburg was awarded $120,000 to fund improvements to the U.S. Steel Ball Fields by the Commonwealth Financing Authority (CFA).
“I’m happy to see state funds coming back from Harrisburg to support deserving community projects,” said Senator Brewster. “Representative Pisciottano and I both recognize the importance of recreational projects like this to maintaining a good quality of living.”
The ballfields are frequented by many families in the region for games and other recreation. Funds will be used to support improvements to ensure the fields are in great shape for years to come.
“Youth sports play a fundamental role in our community,” said Representative Pisciottano. “I’m grateful for the hard work of Senator Jim Brewster to help secure these funds that will improve the baseball park and make it more accessible for the public.”
More information about CFA grants and programs are available online.
The Dravosburg Housing Association was also awarded a state grant for $166,000 to maintain the Housing Association complex in the Borough and install handicap ramps for more accessibility.
Pisciottano said this is an exciting time for community revitalization efforts in Dravosburg, highlighting the additional state grant of $166,000 awarded to the Dravosburg Housing Association earlier this year for local road and curb repair, funding that he played a major role in securing.
“These upgrades to the ballpark and roads are much needed and will directly improve the lives of local residents,” added Pisciottano. “These grants can be very competitive, and Senator Brewster and I fight hard to bring funds like these back to our area. I’m very proud to see our efforts help make our corner of Allegheny County a better place to live, work, and play.”
The Dravosburg Housing Association is a non-profit organization in the Borough offering affordable housing options and dedicated to community revitalization.
September 21, 2022
Harrisburg, September 21, 2022 – Today, State Senator Jim Brewster announced a Commonwealth Financing Authority (CFA) grant for the Yough Riverfront Trail Improvement project (Phase 3) in Versailles Borough. The project received $100,000 from the CFA’s Greenways, Trails, and Recreation Program (GTRP).
“These funds provide an important investment in the region,” said Sen. Brewster. “I’m happy to see state funds support spaces that can be enjoyed by all who live in and visit our communities.”
Additional CFA grants awarded in the 45th Senatorial District include:
- Borough of Pitcairn, The Joseph Markosek Sports Complex Improvements – $121, 931
- Clairton Industrial Center LLC, Clairton Redevelopment Well Plugging Project – $150,000
- Plum Borough, Plum Borough PRP Stormwater Improvements – $73,203
A park project planned for Castle Shannon Borough, a new area of Sen. Brewster’s district, was also awarded $125,000 from the CFA.
More information about CFA grants and programs are available online.
September 7, 2022
Harrisburg, September 7, 2022 – Stewards of a popular and still-developing trail system in the Pittsburgh region will be receiving more than $200,000 as part of a historic state investment in conservation and recreation, state Sen. Jim Brewster announced today.
Friends of the Riverfront, the group that oversees development of the Three Rivers Heritage Trail system was awarded the grants by Pennsylvania’s Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR).
“One of the lessons learned during the pandemic was the critical importance of recreational trails to our health and well-being,” Brewster said. “As part of the recovery, Pennsylvania is making the largest one-time investment in recreation and conservation projects in its history, an investment that will pay off for generations to come.”
The 33-mile Three rivers Heritage Trail is a designated National Recreational Trail system that has segments on both banks of the Allegheny, Monongahela, and Ohio rivers that branches into Pittsburgh and local communities.
Friends of the Riverfront will receive a $114,000 grant to coordinate and fund training and technical assistance as well as to build organizational capacity to advance multi-use trail development on the Three Rivers Heritage Trail, Turtle Creek Connector, Pine Creek Connector and VOPP Trail in Allegheny County.
In addition, the group will receive $90,200 for rehabilitation and further development of Three Rivers Heritage Trail and Great Allegheny Passage in Baldwin Borough. Work will include construction of an observation deck, picnic shelter, and pedestrian walkway as well as making ADA-compliant improvements.
“I’m honored to have supported this important work and help direct part of this record funding to the region,” Brewster said. “I congratulate all the administrators and volunteers whose work made these grants possible.”
In all, Governor Wolf announced a historic investment of $90 million for more than 330 projects across Pennsylvania that will create new recreational opportunities, conserve natural resources, and help revitalize local communities. The investments surpass the previous record of $70 million awarded last year.
July 22, 2022
Harrisburg, July 22, 2022 – A municipality in the 45th Senate District will be among dozens receiving reimbursement from the state for upgrades to traffic signals, state Sen. Jim Brewster announced today.
Elizabeth Township was awarded $28,080 for LED traffic signals at three intersections through the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation’s (PennDOT’s) “Green Light-Go” program.
“These improvements should save energy and move traffic more efficiently,” Brewster said. “I’m proud to support the efforts of local officials who pursue state funding to move their citizens smoothly into the future.”
Green Light-Go grants are provided as reimbursements to municipalities for updates to improve the efficiency and operation of existing traffic signals. Grant funding through the Green Light-Go program may be utilized for a range of operational improvements including, but not limited to, light-emitting diode (LED) technology installation, traffic signal retiming, developing special event plans and monitoring traffic signals, as well as upgrading traffic signals to the latest technologies.
Gov. Tom Wolf announced 70 such projects across the state. For more information on Green Light-Go, visit PennDOT’s website.
June 16, 2022
Harrisburg − June 15, 2022 − Senator Jim Brewster announced today that he is the prime co-sponsor of legislation aimed at improving student mental health. This bill seeks to put more school-based mental health care programs and professionals into classrooms.
Senator Brewster and Senator Williams are co-sponsoring SB 1285, which will focus the majority of grants awarded through the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency’s School Safety and Security program for the 2022-23 school year on funding applications for projects that support students’ behavioral and mental health.
“As a member of Pennsylvania’s School Safety and Security Committee, I have been a leading advocate for more resources for mental health services in our schools,” Brewster said. “This legislation will direct a majority of funding for 2022-2023 to school districts for additional mental and behavioral health programming.”
This legislation is modeled after a similar step that the General Assembly took in 2020, when it temporarily focused these grants on responding to the COVID-19 pandemic.
“Even before the pandemic, students have been telling us that there is a growing youth mental heath crisis,” said Senator Williams. “Safe2Say reports let us know that bullying, suicide, and self-harm are three of the biggest problems facing our students right now, and it’s time for the General Assembly to take action to address these. We’ve talked about how the pandemic has caused a mental health crisis in our students for over two years—it’s long past time we start taking action to fund the services that can provide immediate assistance to those students.”
June 14, 2022
HARRISBURG, June 14, 2022 – Projects in the 45th Senate District aimed at expanding housing and preventing homelessness will get a $1.6 million boost from the state, Sen. Jim Brewster announced today.
“Safe and sufficient housing is becoming out of reach for too many in our region,” Brewster said. “These grants will help increase the stock of available and affordable living space for struggling families. I’m proud to work with so many good organizations dedicated to addressing this crisis.”
The funding comes through the Pennsylvania Housing Affordability and Rehabilitation Enhancement (PHARE) fund. Gov. Tom Wolf named 245 housing and community development initiatives in 67 counties that will share a portion of a total $48.4 million in PHARE funding for fiscal year 2021-22. The PHARE fund is managed by the Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency.
“Too many seniors and young families are being priced out of the market,” Brewster said. “With this program, the money goes where it is needed most and helps our neighbors remain our neighbors.”
A list of the proposals receiving PHARE funding is available at www.phfa.org/legislation/act105.aspx
Funding for 45th district projects was awarded to:
712 Hawkins Avenue, Za’kiyah House Housing Inc
$300,000 to create three affordable housing units in a historic church which will additionally be the future site of programs and services to address homelessness and promote healthy lifestyles. The apartments will be priority housing for individuals facing housing discrimination because of their criminal record or substance use disorder.
Allegheny County Accessibility Program, Allegheny County Economic Development
$200,000 to provide accessible modifications to households in Allegheny County, excluding the City of Pittsburgh, for individuals with low to moderate incomes and at least one permanent physical disability. Allegheny County will provide $100,000 from its Allegheny Housing Trust Fund (AHTF) as 50% matching funds (generated by the Act 137 enabling legislation).
North Hills Affordable Housing, Inc: A Home For Every Family
$200,000 to maintain safe, decent, and affordable housing and resources to vulnerable populations, including transitional and affordable housing. Funds will be used primarily for individuals with children who are working towards economic mobility after surviving domestic violence or other trauma within HEARTHs transitional housing program. The focus of the funding priority is homelessness prevention to assist households below fifty percent (50%) of the median area income.
Housing Connector, The United Way of Southwestern Pennsylvania
$200,000 to support the salary of a Housing Connector, who assists people with disabilities to locate and obtain housing that is affordable and accessible. Additionally, two expert housing navigators will offer one-on-one assistance using a custom database created in collaboration with community resources, providing tangible support to make a move possible and help people maintain stable housing.
Homeless Prevention Assistance Program, Westmoreland Human Opportunities, Inc.
$100,000 to provide necessary supports to Westmoreland County residents to prevent homelessness. These supports are accompanied by case management to ensure the assistance will make a lasting impact on the individual or family and provide the tools necessary to help the individual or family reach self-sufficiency.
Morning Sun Senior Lofts, The Westmoreland County Land Bank
$500,000 for adaptive reuse purposes of the former East Vandergrift school building. Work to include interior selective demolition, roof replacement, limited façade restoration, and closure to points of entrance for weather elements.
The SMART Housing Program, Westmoreland Human Opportunities, Inc.
$100,000 to prevent homelessness and provide rapid-rehousing and rental assistance to nine transition-age youth (ages 18-24) who are homeless or at-risk for homelessness. All enrolled youth will receive supportive services from a Peer Support Specialist and Case Manager including assessing educational needs, job skills, financial stability, and transportation needs.
March 24, 2022
McKeesport, March 24, 2022 – State Senator Jim Brewster today reminded Emergency Medical Services (EMS) agencies in Pennsylvania to complete the online certification to receive some of the $25 million made available by the American Rescue Plan Act to support these companies.
The Office of the State Fire Commissioner (OSFC) opened the online Certification Portal where eligible EMS agencies must complete certification by Sunday, April 10 to be awarded grant funding through the Emergency Medical Services COVID-19 Recovery Grant Program. The grant program was established through Act 10 of 2022.
“Throughout the pandemic, EMS workers and our health care professionals have been sacrificing so much of themselves in our communities,” Brewster said. The creation of our grant program was a bi-partisan effort and passed unanimously to help boost necessary resources these EMS companies need to continue to save lives.”
Brewster noted that the OSFC will not accept any late certifications for the grant program. Some items required for the grant, like an active SAMS registration, can take up to three weeks for processing so it is important that agencies start the certification process as soon as possible. Grant funding through the Emergency Medical Services COVID-19 Recovery Grant Program will be divided equally among all agencies that process certification by April 10.
I encourage all eligible EMS agencies to complete online certification as soon as possible to ensure that they receive their portion of the available $25 million in grant funding, Brewster added.”
A list of eligible EMS companies is available online. If you believe your company should be eligible for grant funding and is not listed, please email the Pennsylvania Department of Health, Bureau of EMS at paemsoffice@pa.gov immediately.
More information about the Emergency Medical Services COVID-19 Recovery Grant Program can be found here.
January 26, 2022
Harrisburg, January 26, 2022 – A McKeesport violence prevention program will receive a $150,000 state grant to help address an uptick in incidents that coincided with the COVID pandemic.
“I’m proud of this community-based effort to interact with people where they live and where they congregate to prevent conflict from erupting into violence,” Brewster said. “This boots-on-the-ground approach takes time and hard work but it’s an important complement to wider efforts in the region.”
The Healthy Village Learning Institute requested $150,000 over two years to support an intensive community outreach process in McKeesport that will train and prepare Violence Intervention Outreach workers to directly engage McKeesport resident members on how to respond to community violence. The program will also identify “hot spots” and will connect directly with individuals at risk of perpetrating violence.
The grant, administered through the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency’s School Safety and Security Committee, was among more than $23 million awarded at the committee’s meeting in Harrisburg today.
Brewster, who sits on the committee, congratulated the Healthy Village Learning Institute and several other Allegheny County grant winners for their efforts.
“These grants are highly competitive, and applications far outpace the money available,” Brewster said. “You have to take your best ideas and turn them into solid plans. They did a great job.”
Last year, Brewster worked with colleagues in the Senate and House Democratic Leadership and the Wolf Administration to appropriate $30 million in the 2021-2022 state budget to stem the surge in violence across the state. By December, nearly $23 million of state funds were awarded to community groups and municipalities across the state to combat the increase in gun violence, but applications outstripped the appropriated funds by a ratio of 7-1.
“There’s more work to be done and we’d like to see a continued commitment to local efforts where the programs know their communities and respond to their unique circumstances,” Brewster said.
For detailed information the statewide grant winners, click here.
Allegheny County organizations winning grants today were:
Healthy Village Learning Institute
The Healthy Village Learning Institute requested $150,000 over two years to support the planning and implementation for an intensive community outreach process in McKeesport that will train and prepare Violence Intervention Outreach workers (female and male) to directly engage McKeesport resident members in educating them in how to respond to community violence.
Additionally, the program intends to have a weekly presence throughout McKeesport with concentration on the “hot spots” and will connect directly with individuals at risk of perpetrating an incident of violence. Funds will support the training costs of the part-time Outreach Workers and Violence Specialists/Interrupters; several consultants, including a Program Coordinator, two part-time Summer Violence Prevention Specialists/Interrupters; as well as supplies to support their work, including laptops and cellphones.
Community College of Allegheny County – $800,000
Requested funds to develop a holistic approach to reducing the ever-increasing rates of gun violence for youth within the City of Pittsburgh and all of Allegheny County. CCAC’s approach includes mental health/social work services, transportation services to and from workforce development programs provided by CCAC as well as mentorship opportunities during and after successful completion of any program provided through CCAC. Funds will support personnel (one full-time staff member to manage the program, two full-time staff members to provide academic support and job search services); financial assistance to potential participants; transportation services for participants to attend courses at the West Hills Center; various supplies and operating expenses; and compensation for licensed community mental health providers in the region.
Foundation of HOPE – $1.3 million
The Foundation of HOPE is requesting up to $1,300,000 to support the implementation of an Aftercare/Diversion model program where trained peer support specialists work hand in hand with case managers and a mental health therapist to support those negatively impacted by the criminal justice system, thereby attempting to break the cycle of incarceration and gun violence within marginalized communities. Additionally, this request would permit the Foundation of HOPE to support and serve those traumatized for almost two years of isolation behind bars for 23/24 hours as a result of COVID isolation restrictions. These efforts would strengthen families and support local communities. Funds will support the training and hiring of several peer support specialists; additional case managers; a mental health therapist; the cost of a consultant; support staff. Funds would also cover programming and supplies to support their work, including benefits, laptops and cellphones, travel, and community education expenses.
January 25, 2022
McKeesport, January 26, 2022 – State Sen. Jim Brewster announced today that the Redevelopment Authority of Allegheny County (RAAC) has awarded $600,000 in Gaming Economic Development Tourism Fund (GEDTF) grants for projects in his senatorial district.
“I was happy to support and advocate for these projects,” Brewster said. “I have been lobbying the Governor and the General Assembly as a member for many years for these types of grants to help our communities.”
GEDTF grants were awarded to the following projects in Senator Brewster’s District:
- North Braddock Borough received $100,000 for bridge rehabilitation on Hawkins Avenue
- Plum Borough received $100,000 for Center Beach flood improvement
- Wilmerding Borough received $75,000 for the Wilmerding Community Center rehabilitation
- Port Vue Borough received $75,000 for blight remediation
- Liberty Borough received $75,000 for storm inlet replacement
- Elizabeth Borough received $75,000 for the Historic Elizabeth Building
- Elizabeth Township received $50,000 for the Greenock Log House
- Wall Borough received $50,000 for a retaining wall on Marie Street
“These projects will go a long way in our ongoing efforts to revitalize these communities,” Brewster added. “I’d like to say congratulations to the awardees and thank you to the RAAC for investing in this region.”
GEDTF grants allow awardees to carry out important economic development projects. Eligible applicants include municipalities, authorities, councils of government, non-profit organizations, trusts, and for-profit businesses.
November 19, 2021
Harrisburg, November 19, 2021 – State Sen. Jim Brewster today announced $1,025,000 in state grant funding for community projects in the 45th Senate District.
“Local officials are working hard to improve our communities while protecting taxpayers,” Brewster said. “It is a privilege to advocate for state funding on their behalf in Harrisburg so that we can continue to move our communities forward.”
The grants were approved by the Commonwealth Financing Authority today at a meeting in the Capitol.
Grants approved today include:
Act 13
- Pool improvements in Baldwin, $50,000
- East field wall repair in East McKeesport, $40,000
- Amphitheater construction in West Mifflin, $35,000
Multimodal Transportation
- Phase 2 of the revitalization of Rankin Street in Arnold, $100,000
- Repair of Eagle Lake by Friends of the Riverfront in Baldwin, $50,000
- Road reconstruction of Delaware Avenue in Glassport, $300,000
- Virginia Avenue storm sewer in Lincoln, $150,000
- Repair of Naser Road in North Versailles, $300,000
Multimodal Transportation Grants and Act 13 grant funding is distributed by the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED). For more information, visit DCED’s website.
November 9, 2021
HARRISBURG – November 9, 2021 – Community revitalization efforts will receive more than $2.6 million in tax credits to help fund their projects, state Sen. Jim Brewster announced today.
“It is gratifying that the efforts of these organizations are being recognized for the work they’re doing to improve their communities, especially for the most challenged among us,” Brewster said. “These are highly competitive awards, and I was honored to help these efforts stand out in Harrisburg.”
The funding through the Neighborhood Assistance Program (NAP) supports nonprofits, businesses, and resident projects in distressed areas or low-income neighborhoods.
The program also provides for COVID-19 and social justice related assistance. In this round of funding, priority was given to projects that sought to address critical issues related to the pandemic, its aftermath and recovery, social justice and support for policy changing movements, and improving opportunities for marginalized populations.
“We know that the pandemic hit some communities harder than others,” Brewster said. “We are striving for a recovery that recognizes disparities and aims to build a more equitable economy going forward.”
The Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank located in Duquesne, which serves 11 counties in southwestern Pennsylvania will receive more than $1.3 million to help cover a more than 30 percent increase in need since the pandemic began.
Other recipients in the 45th District include:
- McKees Point Development Group – McKeesport, $360,000
- Rebuilding Together Pittsburgh, McKeesport – $150,000
- Rebuilding Together Pittsburgh, Clairton – $15,000
- Mon Valley Initiative, Clairton – $380,000
- Mon Valley Initiative, North Braddock – $160,000
- Westmoreland Community Action, New Kensington $160,000
- Tube City Renaissance – McKeesport, Allegheny County $13,750
For more details on the applicants and awards, click here.
December 23, 2020
McKeesport – December 23, 2020 – Senator Jim Brewster today announced more than $6 million in state grants that will go to projects in the 45th senatorial district.
“I was happy to advocate for these important projects, and I am excited to see them come to fruition thanks to this investment from the state,” said Senator Brewster. “Each of the projects funded today will bolster our region’s economy.”
The funding comes from the Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program (RACP), a Commonwealth grant program administered by the Office of the Budget for the acquisition and construction of regional economic, cultural, civic, recreational, and historical improvement projects.
One of the projects funded will be the expansion of PurePenn in McKeesport. The medical marijuana manufacturer will receive $2,000,000 to conduct an interior build-out which will include mechanical, electrical, fire protection, and other interior building components.
“This investment in McKeesport has been a job creator and a real contributor to the regional economy”, said Brewster. “I am looking forward to what comes for the area from this substantial funding.”
Also, UPMC St. Margaret’s Family Health Center in New Kensington will receive $1,250,000 for a new clinical space to accommodate more patients, provide room for team and group meetings, and offer swing spaces for outside social service agencies.
The Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank will receive $1,000,000 to improve overall efficiency and support distribution of more fresh produce.
In addition to these investments, the Braddock Carnegie Library Association is slated to receive $1,000,000 to implement the first comprehensive building renovation and preservation plan in the 132-year history of the Braddock Carnegie Library.
And finally, the Former Westinghouse HQ/Pittsburgh Supercomputing Center in Monroeville will receive $1,000,000 as it moves forward with efforts to provide university, government and industrial researchers with access to systems for high-performance computing, communications, and data storage.
August 6, 2020
McKeesport – August 6, 2020 – State Senator Jim Brewster today announced eight state pandemic relief grants totaling $658,370 to area schools and technical colleges.
“These emergency funds will help many of these schools remain active and viable as we continue to work our way through the devastating effects of the COVID-19 pandemic,” Brewster said. “I will continue to seek state support for schools, businesses and workers who were set back by this devastating coronavirus.”
The schools include:
- West Mifflin Area School District $68,750
- Woodland Hills School District $76,150
- A W Beattie Career Center $100,863
- Forbes Road CTC (Career and Technical Center) $186,856
- McKeesport Area Tech Center $35,477
- Eastern Westmoreland CTC $32,949
- Northern Westmoreland CTC $45,882
- Central Westmoreland CTC $111,443
The two school districts received Continuity of Education Equity Grant (CEEG) funds. Extended statewide school closures have compelled education leaders to adapt to unprecedented disruptions in teaching and learning to ensure that students have access to quality opportunities for educational continuity. The grants are intended to provide additional financial support to local education agencies (LEAs) and schools with the highest percentages of students unable to participate in continuity of education.
The other grant funds were obtained from the federal Governor’s Emergency Education Relief (GEER) funds towards Equity Grants for Career and Technical Centers. The money is used by postsecondary institutions and adult basic education providers across Pennsylvania to help implement public health and safety plans toward the resumption of fall operations.
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May 22, 2020
Senators Jay Costa, Vince Hughes, John Blake, Jim Brewster and Pam Iovino today called for $550 million of funds allocated to Pennsylvania through the federal CARES act to be used for a program they are calling the Main Street Business Revitalization Initiative, which will issue grants.
“This pandemic has exposed the fragile ecosystem and slim margins that small businesses and their workers function within every single day,” Costa said. “As Pennsylvania begins to recover both economically and physically from the COVID-19 pandemic, we must make sure that our business owners have the resources they need. We must seek a just recovery from this pandemic.”
The Senators are calling for $425 million to go to traditional main street businesses, and a separate $125 million to be allocated to historically disadvantaged businesses.
Pennsylvania has received $4 billion from the federal government that must be spent or allocated by December 31, 2020. The Senate Democrats have proposed a robust plan for those funds called PA CARES (more info at pasenate.com/pacares)
“These main street businesses did not cause this pandemic, but they are feeling its worst financial effects,” Sen. Hughes said. “Our plan gets these small businesses the financial assistance they deserve. Money has been sitting in Pennsylvania’s account for six weeks, which is money intended, by the direction of the federal government, to assist small businesses, and that money needs to go out immediately. The question is: Why are we waiting? The answer is: We can wait no longer. Small mom-and-pop, main street, and neighborhood businesses — especially those businesses in historically disadvantaged communities who have born the financial brunt of this pandemic — need this help. Our plan gets it to them immediately. All grants and no loans. They need this cash now and our plan gets it to them now. From the barbershop in North Philadelphia and to the nail salon in Pittsburgh, and from the pizza shop in Scranton and to the auto body shop in Erie; our plan sees their pain, especially those in historically disadvantaged communities, and responds to it. Real money in real time.”
This initiative will be run by Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs) who are committed to providing flexible loans, debt relief and business technical assistance to support the recovery and sustainability of Pennsylvania businesses. CDFIs are known to be “first responders” during periods of economic turmoil because of their keen knowledge of and connection to the communities they serve. More importantly, they have a demonstrated capacity to focus on the critical needs of small businesses.
The Main Street Business Revitalization Initiative is a retroactive way to address the serious challenges of the main street small business community caused by the COVID-19 and the devastating but necessary closures ordered in Pennsylvania to protect public health.
“Our small businesses – restaurants, barbershops, cafes, bakeries, boutiques – are the heartbeat of our communities and the backbone of our economy,” said Senator John Blake. “Throughout the pandemic, their bills have continued to mount despite limited or no sales at all, insufficient income and, to-date, inadequate support and funding from the federal stimulus package. Our proposal will provide $550 million in grants to Main Street small business owners throughout the state using Pennsylvania’s share of the federal CARES Act COVID-19 relief package. It will allow small business owners to pay health care premiums, insurance policy premiums, rent, loan payments, real estate tax payments, as well as covering some of the costs that must be incurred to ensure the safety of workers and customers as businesses reopen.”
Eligible businesses will include barbers, salons, restaurants, bars, and taverns, retailers, coffee shops, neighborhood hardware stores, garden shops, realtors, childcare facilities and the numerous other small businesses who have suffered economically during this challenging time.
Previous business assistance programs have inadvertently disadvantaged many main street businesses who were unprepared to tap into the network of assistance. Through the assistance of CDFIs, main street businesses will have access to job protection and initiatives through financial institutions they are comfortable with.
“To spur a vigorous economic rebound, state and federal resources must be deployed effectively including using federal CARES dollars to help small businesses that have been severely impacted by the pandemic,” Brewster said. “Driving funds out now to help businesses get their operations underway, cover costs, and navigate the regulatory environment in the immediate aftermath of a government-mandated closure is an excellent approach.
“The stimulus plan that I offered earlier this year to re-ignite business activity and speed the economic recovery once the pandemic’s health risk was addressed included elements to aid small business. Pushing financial assistance while promoting safety and security for workers and consumers is the way to reengage our economy in a meaningful way.”
“Small businesses represent nearly half of the private sector workforce in Pennsylvania – 2.5 million jobs. They are the job creators in our communities, yet they were glaringly overlooked by federal business relief programs,” said Senator Iovino. “While small business owners are making difficult decisions about how long they can hang on, they need to know that a lifeline will be available to them. We do not want to see any of these businesses fail, and the $550 million Main Street Business Revitalization Initiative is exactly the kind of lifeline that these economic drivers need.”
As many Pennsylvania counties are now in the Yellow phase of reopening and on their way to Green phase, businesses cannot be expected to open their doors and have all the issues of these past months disappear.
Local businesses, and the workers that they employee, need the legislature to act and disperse funds that will aid in the lost revenue and assist in building back up the business back bones of our community.
The Pennsylvania Senate Democrats have released their PA CARES plan with initiatives that include assistance for the business community, housing assistance programs, student debt relief, veterans’ assistance, utility assistance, and food bank support. Read all proposals at pasenate.com/pacares.
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April 23, 2020
McKeesport – April 23, 2020 – New federal grant funds to help first-responders secure life-saving personal protection equipment (PPE) and aid them in safely and securely responding to health emergencies will soon be available, state Sen. Jim Brewster (D-Allegheny/Westmoreland) said today.
“We received notification that new federal funding will soon be available to help our first-responders acquire PPE and other supplies,” Brewster said. “The window to apply for these funds is relatively short so I encourage fire companies, ambulance, EMS and others emergency response organizations to examine information about the program and seek funding if appropriate.”
Brewster said the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) indicated it will release more details of the $100 million Fiscal Year 2020 Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program – COVID-19 Supplemental (AFG-S) soon.
Information specifically about the program will be available at https://www.fema.gov/grants and https://www.grants.gov/. Additional resources can be found at FEMA’s websites https://www.fema.gov/welcome-assistance-firefighters-grant-program or https://www.fema.gov
“We must continue to make resources available for our police, fire, and EMS first-responders amid the COVID-19 pandemic,” Brewster said. “More federal and state resources should be made available to protect everyone on the front lines.”
Brewster said the financial assistance will be provided directly to eligible organizations.
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February 26, 2020
Harrisburg – February 26, 2020 – State Sen. Jim Brewster today said that $1.7 million in state school safety grants will soon be distributed to local schools.
Brewster, who represents portions of Allegheny and Westmoreland counties, serves as a member of the School Safety and Security Committee. He has been the General Assembly’s foremost advocate for addressing school safety issues. The funds were approved by the committee at its meeting today.
“These grants are critical tools that can be used to protect students, teachers, administrators and visitors to school facilities,” Brewster said. “As a member of the committee that approves these grants, I am keenly aware of the needs of area schools and committed to helping improve security.”
Brewster said that he would continue to work to adjust competitive grant criteria so that more school districts can access maximum funding.
The following school districts in Brewster’s area will receive competitive and meritorious school grants:
Allegheny County:
- Baldwin-Whitehall School District $45,000
- Brentwood School District $35,000
- Clairton School District $30,000
- Duquesne School District $30,000
- East Allegheny School District $481,508
- Elizabeth Forward School District $40,000
- Gateway School District $40,000
- McKeesport Area School District $45,000
- Plum Borough School District $40,000
- South Allegheny School District $455,000
- West Allegheny School District $40,000
- West Mifflin Area School District $40,000
Westmoreland County:
- Burrell School District $35,000
- Kiski Area School District $40,000
- New Kensington-Arnold School District $35,000
- Penn-Trafford School District $45,000
- Westmoreland IU7 $239,000
Brewster has been a strong and vocal advocate of improving security at school facilities. He has sponsored a package of bills to enhance safety in schools. The legislation includes: the development of a school safety commission, requiring school safety upgrades to be part of approved school construction and rehabilitation projects, and armed guards in school building.
In addition, last August the school safety committee approved Brewster’s request to create a subcommittee to explore the development of baseline safety and security standards that could be universally applied to all school districts.
“We must keep providing grant funds to pay for safety upgrades to schools,” Brewster said. “Our children deserve a safe and secure environment that is conducive to education.”
The School Safety and Security Committee was established in 2018. The grants are administered through the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency.
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December 20, 2019
Harrisburg – December 20, 2019 – State Sen. Jim Brewster (D-Allegheny/Westmoreland) said today that the state Department of Education has awarded Northern Westmoreland CTC $16,930 and A.W. Beattie Career Center $49,650 for new equipment to better align job training programs with high demand jobs.
“There is a real need to ensure that individuals in job training programs can access state-of-the-art equipment, so they are well-prepared to enter the workforce,” Brewster said. “The funds will help better match job skill with job.”
Brewster said the grants were among 32 which were awarded to job training and vocation education centers. He said almost $1,2 million was awarded statewide.
“The funding will enable more students to receive hands-on training which boosts their skill sets and makes them better prepared to meet the needs of local employers,” Brewster said. “Matching job with trained employee is a win for the employee, the employer and our economy.”
The maximum grant is $50,000 and must be matched locally.
Brewster is a member of the Senate Education Committee.
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December 18, 2019
Harrisburg – December 18, 2019 – Sen. Jim Brewster (D – Allegheny/Westmoreland) said today that $1,146,950 has been awarded for various railway track upgrades and expansion projects in the region.
“The railways that serve the industrial facilities of our region remain as critical components of highly integrated rail network,” Brewster said. “I am pleased that the state has made this significant investment that will help businesses in the area and create an environment that is conducive to job creation.”
U.S. Steel Corporation has been awarded $689,500 to complete rail track updates to accommodate their new hot rolling mill in Braddock.
Union Railroad was awarded $457,450 to construct new railway track and a new rail turnout that will also serve U.S. Steel’s new hot rolling mill.
PennDOT will be distributing the funds for the projects.
“I will continue to push for investments in railway and manufacturing operations,” Brewster said.
November 14, 2019
Harrisburg – November 14, 2019 – State Sen. Jim Brewster (D-Allegheny/Westmoreland) said today that recreation and park projects in Lower Burrell, Westmoreland County and Baldwin Borough in Allegheny County have been awarded Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) grants totaling nearly $230,000.
“State resources redirected back to help local communities fund park and recreation projects are important and help municipalities in their redevelopment efforts,” Brewster said. “Planning for future recreation and the preservation of open spaces, in addition to developing community parks are excellent uses of DCNR grants.”
- Lower Burrell was awarded $19,000 to prepare a recreation and open space plan for the city;
- Baldwin Borough will receive a $210,000 grant to help rehabilitate and further develop Elm Leaf Park. The project includes renovations, development of parking areas, dugouts, comfort stations, new play equipment in addition to other improvements.
The grants were part of third-round funding for Community Parks and Partnerships.
September 17, 2019
Harrisburg – Sept. 17, 2019 – State Sen. Jim Brewster (D-Allegheny/Westmoreland) today said he is pleased that more than $500,000 in state grant funding was approved for an array of recreation projects in Allegheny and Westmoreland counties.
“Our ability to help local communities improve their recreation and public spaces is significantly bolstered by funding that is brought back from Harrisburg,” Brewster said. “These new dollars for the enhancement of recreation projects in both Allegheny and Westmoreland counties will improve the quality of life in our communities.”
Funding was approved for park and recreation projects in Port Vue, Baldwin, Plum, Elizabeth and North Versailles in Allegheny County. Vandergrift and Lower Burrell in Westmoreland County also received state funds for park and pool rehabilitation projects.
The grants were made available through the Commonwealth Financing Authority’s Act 13 program funds. The following program dollars were approved in this round of funding for projects in Brewster’s district in Allegheny County:
- Port Vue Borough Port Vue Athletic Association Recreation Building $53,763
- Baldwin Borough Elm Leaf Park Improvements $50,000
- Plum Borough Logan’s Ferry Park Improvements $150,000
- Elizabeth Borough Streetscape, Riverfront Park Improvements $50,000
- North Versailles Crestas ball field lighting $50,000
In the Westmoreland County portion of Brewster’s district, funding for the following projects were approved:
- Lower Burrell Veterans Central Park Improvements $50,000
- Vandergrift Borough Pool Renovation $165,313
Brewster said that while he is pleased that these grants were approved, he will continue to seek other resources for communities through other state programs.
