June 20, 2019
Legislation will be brought to a vote in the Senate
Harrisburg – June 20, 2019 – Sen. Jim Brewster (D-Allegheny/Westmoreland) applauded the passage of his Sunday Hunting Bill (Senate Bill 147) out of the Senate Appropriations Committee. The legislation, which would authorize the Game Commission to allow Sunday hunting in Pennsylvania for up to three Sundays, will be brought to the Senate floor for a vote.
“I am happy the Appropriations Committee realized the benefits of allowing Sunday hunting in Pennsylvania,” said Brewster. “Increased tourism to our state game lands, increased revenue from hunting licenses, and providing working hunters a little extra time to enjoy their sport are all positive impacts of SB147.”
Brewster authored the legislation with Sen. Dan Laughlin (R-Erie) to start a dialogue on the number of established hunting days, the process of managing public lands, protections for farmers and their crops, and how to combat chronic wasting disease that effects Pennsylvania’s deer herd. The way the bill will be amended would permit hunting on three Sundays throughout the year.
“We set out to start a conversation and I believe the approval of the bill is a positive sign that the conversation has been successful,” said Brewster. “If we are going to be a state that values the environment and conservation efforts to protect it, allowing Sunday hunting is a revenue stream that we must tap into.”
Brewster is confident that allowing the Game Commission to open state game lands for three Sundays per year will combat the decrease in hunting license sales, encourage Pennsylvania hunters to hunt in-state, and attract out-of-state hunters for weekend trips. These three aspects will bring increased revenue for conversation initiatives championed by the Game Commission and support rural communities near state game lands.
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May 29, 2019
McKeesport – May 29, 2019 – Sen. Jim Brewster (D-Allegheny/Westmoreland) announced that McKeesport is set to receive funding assistance to improve traffic safety through the Automated Red-Light Enforcement (ARLE) fund.
“This funding is instrumental to improve traffic flow and safety,” Brewster said. “I am glad to see our region receiving assistance to invest in traffic projects that will ensure both motorists and pedestrians are able to travel safely.”
Three projects were approved for ARLE funding totaling $344,000.
They include:
- McKeesport Traffic Safety Project;
- Versailles Avenue and Evans Street Signal Replacement; and
- Lysle Boulevard and Coursin Street Audible Pedestrian Upgrade.
The approved projects will provide a variety of traffic safety improvements in McKeesport such as new traffic signal supports, updated pedestrian accommodations, and the creation of traffic safety programs.
According to Brewster, the improvements implemented with the ARLE funding will help to remediate speeding and sight issues that have concerned pedestrians and motorists in McKeesport.
“As travel increases in our area, we must do what we can to provide for traffic improvements that keep motorists and pedestrians safe,” Brewster said. “I believe this funding is an excellent step in addressing the traffic concerns of local residents and those traveling through the area.”
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March 26, 2019
Harrisburg – March 26, 2019 – State grant funding including $525,000 for road slide repairs in Pitcairn and $200,000 for a streetscape project in White Oak was approved today, state Sen. Jim Brewster (D-Allegheny/Westmoreland) said.
“The ability to successfully access state resources to address key projects in the area is very important,” Brewster said. “Many communities need the state dollars to undertake valuable projects and enhance the quality of life in their communities.
“Local municipalities try to stretch dollars to meet needs, yet critical projects cannot be considered unless the state steps up to help fill funding gaps.”
The money for Pitcairn and White Oak was approved by the Commonwealth Financing Authority.
The projects include:
- Pitcairn Borough: Center Avenue slide remediation project involves cutting the hillside, removing material, stabilizing the hill and relocating portions of Center Avenue between Fifth and Highland Avenues ($525,000);
- White Oak: Streetscape and pedestrian safety improvements along Lincoln Way including new light poles, electrical work and street signs ($200,000).
Brewster said that he would continue to be a strong advocate for funding and work to bring even more state funding to the district through other state programs.
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March 14, 2019
Harrisburg – March 13, 2019 – State Sen. Jim Brewster (D-Allegheny/Westmoreland) said that the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency (PCCD) has approved funding for numerous programs to aid victims in Allegheny and Westmoreland counties.
“The funding is critical for important programs to address those impacted by crime,” Brewster said. “The dollars will help fund outreach activities, training, improved communications, advocacy and those impacted by crime.”
Brewster said a total of nearly $6 million was approved for a wide range of programs in Allegheny and Westmoreland counties. The funding is available through the Victims of Crime Act and includes both non-competitive and competitive grants. Among others, the grant recipients include:
- Alle-Kiski Area Hope Center $225,430
- Center for Victims $571,538
- Court Appointed Special Advocates of Allegheny County $2,159
- Neighborhood Legal Services $244,803
- Womens Center and Shelter of Greater Pittsburgh $511,251
- Center for Victims $1,265,361
- Casa of Westmoreland Inc. $173,174
PCCD supports justice-related programs with a focus on research, police and support services. The approved funding support programs that serve individuals countywide.
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March 7, 2019
McKeesport − March 7, 2019 – State Sen. Jim Brewster (D-Allegheny/Westmoreland) was recently reappointed to serve on the board of directors for the Port Authority of Allegheny County.
“Public transportation has always been a priority for me,” Brewster said. “Accessible public transportation is an important feature of a community’s quality of life and is an essential element in the development of business and industry.”
Brewster, who has been a member of the board since 2013, was reappointed by Sen. Jay Costa (D-Allegheny). Brewster serves as board secretary.
“Public transportation helps build a strong economy by making employment opportunities accessible,” he said. “An efficient public transportation system is good for workers and their companies. Public transportation connects workers to their jobs in urban, suburban, and rural areas.”
Brewster has long been an advocate for an enhanced public transportation system. He supported additional funding for mass transit systems that added routes and service in various communities.
In 2018, the Port Authority conducted a customer satisfaction survey that revealed that nearly 60 percent of customers use the service five or more days per week, and 90 percent at least three days a week.
“There are many challenges that we face in public transportation and hurdles to overcome,” Brewster said. “I am confident that by working together we can rebuild and restructure our public transit system to meet the needs of public transit consumers throughout the county.”
The Port Authority is the second-largest transportation system in the state, employing about 2,600 people and serving approximately 200,000 daily riders.
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January 29, 2019
Harrisburg – January 28, 2019 – Sen. Jim Brewster (D-Allegheny/Westmoreland) announced more permanent satellite offices throughout the 45th Senatorial District.
“I am happy to announce new satellite offices and extended office hours that will be available in many communities throughout the district,” Brewster said. “I look forward to continuing and improving the services that are offered and the help that my staff and I provide.”
The senator’s district offices have been instrumental in helping local residents apply for essential state programs and services including property tax relief, rent rebate programs, the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), the Pharmaceutical Assistance Contract for the Elderly program (PACE), and many others.
“With new offices and hours available in more communities, residents can better access the programs and services they need with the assistance of my district offices,” Brewster said.
New district office locations and hours of operation are:
- North Braddock Municipal Building, 600 Anderson Street, North Braddock open every Monday, 9:00 am-4:00 pm;
- Turtle Creek Borough Building, 125 Monroeville Avenue, Turtle Creek open every Tuesday, 9:00 am-4:00 pm;
- North Versailles Township Building, 1401 Greensburg Avenue, North Versailles open every Wednesday, 9:00 am-4:00 pm;
- Lower Burrell City Hall, 2800 Bethel Street, Lower Burrell open the 2nd Tuesday of each month, 1:00 pm-4:00 pm;
- Elizabeth Twp. Municipal Building, 522 Rock Run Road, Elizabeth open the 2nd Tuesday of each month, 1:00 pm-4:00 pm.
Brewster also reminds residents that other community district offices remain open and staffed during their scheduled hours of operation:
- Allegheny Twp. Municipal Building, 136 Community Building Road, Leechburg open every Monday and Tuesday, 9:00 am − 4:00 pm;
- Vandergrift Municipal Building, 109 Grant Avenue, Vandergrift open every Wednesday and Thursday, 9:00 am − 4:00 pm;
- Forward Twp. Municipal Building, 1000 Golden Circle, Elizabeth open the 2nd Tuesday of every month, 9:00 am − 12:00 pm;
- Human Services Center Corp.,413 Penn Avenue Ext., Turtle Creek open the 1st Thursday of every month, 1:00 pm − 4:00 pm.
In addition, Brewster operates full-time offices in Monroeville, McKeesport and New Kensington.
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January 25, 2019
Brewster, Costa, Kortz, Davis receive update during morning conference call
McKeesport – January 25, 2019 – State Sens. Jim Brewster (D-Allegheny/Westmoreland), Jay Costa (D-Allegheny) and state Reps. Bill Kortz (D-Allegheny) and Austin Davis (D-Allegheny) received an update from officials from the Allegheny County Health Department concerning the Dec. 24 fire at U.S. Steel’s Clairton Coke Works.
The update was provided during a morning conference call.
“We had a discussion with Dr. Karen Hacker and her team at the health department about the fire and its aftermath,” Brewster said. “Conversations will continue at a public meeting on February 7 at the Clairton Municipal Building.”
Brewster said the discussion focused on proper community notification procedures, air quality monitoring, improving communications and emergency response. He said the county officials pledged that these issues would be covered at the February public meeting.
The fire damaged the coke work’s gas processing system. The fire and response were the focus of a public meeting held in Clairton earlier this week.
Brewster said that additional information would be available at a public meeting, which is a joint Senate-House Democratic Policy Committee hearing, scheduled for Feb. 7 beginning at 12 noon at the municipal building, 551 Ravensburg Boulevard, Clairton.
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January 18, 2019
Harrisburg, Jan. 17, 2019 – Education grants dedicated to the implementation and improvement of computer science programs and career-readiness have been awarded to schools in Allegheny and Westmoreland counties, said Sen. Jim Brewster (D-Allegheny/Westmoreland).
“As computer technology continues to evolve, it is important that students can experience and learn new computer skills first hand,” Brewster said. “I am pleased that students in our area will benefit from Pennsylvania’s grants dedicated to improving computer science programs in local schools.”
Baldwin-Whitehall, Duquesne, East Allegheny and South Allegheny in Allegheny County, along with Burrell and Kiski school districts in Westmoreland, were approved for funding through the PAsmart initiative. The grants are for $35,000 each.
PAsmart grants are used to fund high-quality STEM and computer science courses for K-12 students, specifically those in low-income areas where access to up-to-date STEM technology may be limited.
Brewster noted that the state’s commitment to funding innovative technology and STEM education for Pennsylvania students has resulted in the state ranking second in the country for STEM education funding.
“PAsmart grants are an excellent investment in the future of our students,” Brewster said. “We must continue to provide for educational programs and opportunities that will prepare students to enter the ever-changing, fast paced workforce.”
A total of $8.7 million were distributed to 221 school districts for 765 individual schools.
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January 16, 2019
Veteran lawmaker also appointed to seats on Banking and Insurance, Education and Transportation
Harrisburg – January 16, 2019 – State Sen. Jim Brewster (D-Allegheny/Westmoreland) has been appointed Democratic chair of the Senate Law and Justice and Game and Fisheries committees.
“Serving as chair on both Law and Justice and Game and Fisheries is an honor and privilege,” Brewster said. “There are significant issues to be discussed and key decisions will have to be made about modernizing our liquor system and redefining game and fishing rules and regulations.”
Brewster also served as Democratic chair of both committees in the last two-year legislative session.
The veteran lawmaker was also reappointed to seats on the Senate’s Banking and Insurance, Education and Transportation committees.
“As a member of key committees that handle issues that are important to my district, I can ensure that the needs of our region are served well,” Brewster said.
On education, Brewster has led the effort to reform charter schools. He has fought for additional dollars for education and plans to reintroduce his “Extraction for Education” severance tax plan that will provide dollars not only to bolster basic education, but also to fund school safety initiatives.
Brewster was appointed as an inaugural member of the statewide School Safety and Security Committee established under Act 44 in 2018.
“There are key problems in education that need to be fixed,” Brewster said. “I’ve sponsored bills to reform charter schools, aid school safety initiatives and ensure that we have more resources for our children to learn.”
The McKeesport lawmaker said his appointment to the Transportation Committee will ensure that issues that arise relative to the construction of the Mon-Fayette Expressway and mass transit will be addressed. Brewster has long been an advocate of the Mon-Fayette Expressway and rapid expansion of mass transit into underserved areas. He currently serves as secretary of the Port Authority of Allegheny County Board of Directors.
“Building and expanding the reach of transportation systems that serve eastern Allegheny and western Westmoreland counties, plus meeting the unique needs of the Mon and Allegheny Valleys continues to be a priority,” Brewster said.
Prior to his election to the Senate, Brewster served as mayor of McKeesport, and was formerly Vice-President of Operations at Mellon Bank in Pittsburgh.
Brewster said his appointment to a seat on the Banking and Insurance Committee provides an opportunity to utilize his expertise and experience in banking to have significant impact on crafting better banking laws.
Brewster said his legislative agenda is chalk full of important initiatives. In addition to his charter school reform package and severance tax piece, Brewster has advocated changing game laws to allow hunting on Sundays and more financial support for the Game Commission. He has introduced a far-reaching plan to address the opioid crisis, including mandatory treatment for those addicted.
In addition, Brewster has prime sponsored legislation to promote the use of American made steel in Marcellus Shale drilling and improve pipeline safety. Several years ago, Brewster spearheaded a study of the country of origin for steel pipe used in drilling.
He said he will introduce legislation to invest new dollars in environmental protection and school safety.
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January 16, 2019
Harrisburg – January 16, 2019 – Education Partnership Grants to improve technical career training have been approved for projects in Allegheny and Westmoreland counties, said Sen. Jim Brewster (D-Allegheny/Westmoreland).
Westmoreland/Fayette Business Education Partnership and Three Rivers were approved for grant funding to help implement programs that will demonstrate the importance of technical careers to students and help those interested in technical careers prepare for post-secondary education and apprenticeship opportunities.
“STEM and technical careers are essential to our local and state economy,” Brewster said. “It is important that we continue to fund education programs that offer students pathways into these career fields.”
Westmoreland/Fayette Business Education Partnership was awarded $127,050 to develop technology projects and interactive programs that will allow students to explore and prepare for post-secondary education and careers within the STEM field. The programs, which will serve 600 K-12 students in the Westmoreland and Fayette area, will include both classroom and work-based learning opportunities.
Three Rivers in Allegheny was awarded $115,641 to implement a three-phase conference and networking program that will showcase careers in the building and construction industry.
“Providing students with the opportunity to explore more careers and the chance to gain hands-on experience is a great educational investment,” Brewster said. “I am happy that these local programs have been awarded the funds to help students see more options available to them in their future.”
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January 11, 2019
Brewster, Hughes, Yudichak to introduce comprehensive legislative package
Harrisburg – January 11, 2019 – Three Democratic state senators today announced a comprehensive package of legislation aimed at sparking a rapid and sustained expansion of Pennsylvania’s manufacturing sector.
State Sens. Jim Brewster (D-Allegheny/Westmoreland), Vincent J. Hughes (D-Philadelphia/Montgomery) and John Yudichak (D-Luzerne/Carbon) said they will sponsor legislation that would better focus state efforts to develop manufacturing opportunities and create jobs.
“We need to focus our efforts and address all aspects of economic development, including manufacturing,” Hughes said. “We have to do better coordinating our efforts, funding job training, purchasing new equipment and investing in communities in need.
“Manufacturing is a large and important part of our economy and it needs to continue to grow and develop. Our urban and rural areas are heavily dependent on this sector of our economy.”
According to the Center for Manufacturing Research, 12 percent of Pennsylvania’s gross state product is directly related to manufacturing with more than 550,000 workers engaged. Manufactured products account for $33 billion annually in exports.
Yudichak’s legislation calls for the creation of a “Chief Manufacturing Officer” within the governor’s office and a “Manufacturing Competitiveness Board” to help craft an overall manufacturing strategy.
“A chief manufacturing officer would serve as a strong advocate for manufacturing at the highest level of state government,” Yudichak said. “The individual who serves in that position should be well-schooled in the development of manufacturing strategies, especially as it relates to rural areas.”
A key aspect of growing the manufacturing sector is having capital on hand to help businesses invest in new equipment and training. Brewster’s legislation would channel up to $5 million in state grants for vocational technical schools, vocational programs and equipment purchases from the state’s Machinery and Equipment Loan Fund. The proposal would increase the maximum loan amount from $5 million to $7.5 million and authorize loans to retrofit equipment.
“This grant program is essential for vocational schools and small businesses,” Brewster said. “The grants would allow schools to purchase state-of-the-art equipment to train a new generation of skilled workers.”
Over the next decade, nearly 3.5 million manufacturing jobs will likely be needed, and 2 million are expected to go unfilled due to the skills gap, according to Deloitte and the Manufacturing Institute.
Hughes’ legislation would expand the Manufacturing Tax Credit by lifting the credit cap to $12.5 million from its current $4 million. A portion of the tax credit – up to $2.5 million – would be set aside for businesses in distressed communities. It would also be used for disadvantaged, minority, women and veteran-owned businesses.
Brewster said that the investment in manufacturing pays dividends for Pennsylvania’s workers. The average annual compensation for manufacturing employees in Pennsylvania in 2016 was $72,151. The average statewide salary for non-manufacturing and nonfarm business in Pennsylvania in 2016 was $49,059, according to National Association of Manufactures – State Data.
“We must have investments in manufacturing to ensure that Pennsylvania has a well-rounded and diverse economy,” Brewster said. Brewster’s Senate district includes many areas dependent on heavy manufacturing operations in the Monongahela and Allegheny River valley’s in Allegheny and Westmorland Counties.
Yudichak, who is from Northeast Pennsylvania, has a diverse district that includes manufacturing operations in cities and rural areas. He said it was critical that Pennsylvania policy stay current with national and international economics.
“A small manufacturing business, often located in a rural area, produces products that are used in goods manufactured all over the world,” Yudichak said.
The changing world economic landscape has altered how manufacturing is being developed and sustained in the United States. In 2015, compared to urban areas, manufacturing represented a greater share of both private nonfarm rural jobs (14 percent vs. 7 percent) and rural earnings (21 percent vs. 11 percent) according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
While the legislation was also introduced last session, the Democratic senators said they are hopeful they can advance the legislative package this year. They said will question state officials about their commitment to manufacturing during the upcoming budget hearings.
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December 6, 2018
Harrisburg – Dec. 6, 2018 – Allegheny County Airport in West Mifflin is slated to receive a $223,000 grant to acquire equipment for the airport facility, Sen. Jim Brewster (D-Allegheny/Westmoreland) announced today.
“The Allegheny County Airport is a tremendous asset and an important part of the region’s transportation network,” Brewster said. “The grant funds will be utilized to buy equipment and support operations at the facility.”
The funding was approved through the state Department of Transportation’s Aviation Development Program. The Allegheny County Airport is one of 26-grants approved statewide for aviation projects. Over $6 million was approved for aviation projects in this funding round.
“The airport serves the entire economy of southwestern Pennsylvania and will grow in importance when other key local economic projects – such as the Mon-Fayette Expressway – are completed,” Brewster said. “A first-rate airport is a strong economic tool that can be used to attract other development and jobs.”
Brewster said that funding for the grants is generated through the state’s jet fuel tax and the multimodal fund.
Brewster is a member of the Senate Transportation Committee.
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November 16, 2018
Harrisburg – Nov. 16, 2018 – Several state grants were approved to fund conservation partnership projects in Monroeville, Brentwood and Glassport in addition to the Great Allegheny Passage in Elizabeth Township and Lincoln Borough, state Sen. Jim Brewster (D-Allegheny/Westmoreland) said today.
“These grants will not only open up areas for recreation, but they will enhance a community’s quality of life,” Brewster said. “Citizens from the area will be able to enjoy greater access to open space, have improved recreational areas, site improvements, facilities and public walkways.”
The grants include the following:
- Allegheny Land Trust: $20,000 is earmarked toward the acquisition of 30 acres in Monroeville for open space and recreation;
- Brentwood Borough: $697,600 to revitalize the Brentwood Community Park including the reconstruction of the swimming pool, liner, piping, fencing, ADA access, landscaping and other site improvements;
- Glassport Borough: $40,000 to develop the 9th Street Park including walkways, pavilions, fencing, ADA access and other site improvements;
- Great Allegheny Passage in Elizabeth Township and Lincoln Borough: $170,500 to Regional Trail Corporation to rehabilitate 9.8 miles of trail from Buena Vista to Durabond bypass. The project includes installation of gates, ADA access and other improvements.
Brewster said the grants were approved through the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources’ Community Conservation Partnership Program. Partnership grants are funded through a mix of state and federal sources.
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November 1, 2018
McKeesport – Oct. 30, 2018 – Sen. Jim Brewster (D- Allegheny/Westmoreland) announced today that $450,000 in School Safety and Security grants were awarded to various school districts in Allegheny and Westmoreland counties. The grant funding was authorized by the School Safety and Security Committee within the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency.
“Pushing resources out to schools quickly was one of the top priorities of the School Safety and Security Committee,” Brewster said. “Districts can use the funds to help protect students and make our school buildings safer and more secure.”
Brewster is a member of the School Safety and Security Committee. He was appointed earlier this year.
Local school districts that received the $25,000 grant allocation include:
- Baldwin-Whitehall School District (Allegheny County)
- Brentwood Borough School District (Allegheny County)
- Clairton City School District (Allegheny County)
- Duquesne City School District (Allegheny County)
- East Allegheny School District (Allegheny County)
- Elizabeth Forward School District (Allegheny County)
- Gateway School District (Allegheny County)
- McKeesport Area School District (Allegheny County)
- Plum Borough School District (Allegheny County)
- South Allegheny School District (Allegheny County)
- West Mifflin Area School District (Allegheny County)
- Woodland Hills School District (Allegheny County)
- West Jefferson School District (Allegheny County)
- Burrell School District (Westmoreland County)
- Kiski Area School District (Westmoreland County)
- New Kensington-Arnold School District (Westmoreland County)
- Leechburg Area School District (Westmoreland County)
- Penn-Trafford Area School District (Westmoreland County)
Gov. Tom Wolf signed Act 44 into law in June of 2018 which established the School Safety and Security Committee. The committee was charged with developing criteria for school safety and security assessments along with issues surveys to measure their safety and security preparedness. It also administers grants to schools to improve safety and security.
There was a total of $52.5 million allocated to the School Safety and Security Grant Program for the 2018-2019 fiscal year.
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October 25, 2018
Harrisburg – Oct. 24, 2018 – State Sen. Jim Brewster (D-Allegheny/Westmoreland) said today that legislation to help ambulance services recoup costs of responding to emergencies is set to become law.
“This legislation will financially help ambulance companies who respond to emergencies,” Brewster said. “Insurance companies will no longer be able to expose emergency responders to costs simply because services were refused.”
Brewster said that the legislation (House Bill 1013) passed unanimously in the Senate and state House of Representatives in the last week of session. The bill was presented to the governor for his signature into law on Oct. 17.
“This is clearly a step forward in the effort to help our local first responders,” Brewster said. “Ambulance services respond to emergencies regardless of cost and they should not bear the responsibility if an insurance company determines that medical help was not necessary.”
Brewster has long been a supporter of emergency services. He said that his experience in local government underscored his appreciation for the work of emergency responders.
“Emergency responders put their lives on the line to help others,” Brewster said. “This new law will help them continue their life-saving work.”
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October 18, 2018
Harrisburg – Oct. 18, 2018 – A $40,000 grant has been approved for the Allegheny County Conservation District to reduce pollution runoff from Round Hill Park in Elizabeth Township, according to state Sen. Jim Brewster (D-Allegheny/Westmoreland).
“Reducing pollution runoff requires focus and resources,” Brewster said. “The grant to fund work at Round Hill Park will improve the environment and eliminate pollutants that get into our water systems.”
Brewster said the funds are made available from a legal settlement with Sunoco related to the Mariner East 2 pipeline project. There were 61 projects approved to receive a piece of the $12.6 million settlement.
The Sunoco settlement funds were awarded not only for pollution abatement, but also for invasive species removal, reforestation, farm runoff and other projects designed to address water quality.
Brewster said he would continue to seek funds for other critical environmental projects in the region.
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October 12, 2018
Harrisburg – Oct. 12, 2018 – Baldwin Borough in Allegheny County and New Kensington in Westmoreland County are set to receive grants to support their recycling efforts, according to state Sen. Jim Brewster (D-Allegheny/Westmoreland).
Baldwin will receive $264,681 and New Kensington $98,716.
“Recycling grants help municipalities deal effectively with reducing waste and extending the life of landfills,” Brewster said. “Recycling helps the environment and provides a way to remove waste.
“Recycling is a win for municipalities, citizens and the environment.”
The Wolf Administration said today that $37 million will be distributed to nearly 200 local and county governments for recycling efforts.
Brewster said the funds can be used not only to bolster recycling, but funds may also be employed in leaf litter collection and education.
“I am pleased that this grant funding was approved and certain that it will be put to good use in New Kensington and Baldwin,” Brewster said.
The lawmaker said that the funds were approved under the Department of Environmental Protection’s Recycling Development and Implementation Grant program.
Under the program, municipalities are eligible for up to 90 percent funding.
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October 10, 2018
Dravosburg, Elizabeth Volunteer Fire Companies Receive Grants
Harrisburg – Oct. 9, 2018 — Two local fire companies In the Mon Valley were awarded grants to help combat wildfires in state forests and undeveloped areas, according to state Sen. Jim Brewster (D-Allegheny/Westmoreland).
Dravosburg Volunteer Fire Department No. 1 is slated to receive $2,775 and Elizabeth Volunteer Fire Co. $10,000 to respond to wildfires.
“Our volunteer fire companies do an extraordinary job in responding to fires and emergency situations, not only in built up areas but also in forests and more rural regions,” Brewster said. “These grants will help equip firefighters and provide training in dealing with forest or brush fires.”
There were 132 grants for fire companies approved statewide. The total grant funding available this year is $646,891.
Since 1982, more than $12.5 million in grant funding has been approved. The funding was received through the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
“We simply must do more to support our fire services,” Brewster said. “These dollars will be put to good use in both Dravosburg and Elizabeth.”
Brewster said fires in forests and undeveloped areas are difficult to manage and often require special equipment and training.
“These grants are a tool that we can use to help local fire companies save lives and property,” Brewster said.
Last year, nearly $600,000 in grant funding was released to 129 volunteer fire companies.
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October 5, 2018
McKeesport – October 4, 2018 – State Sen. Jim Brewster (D-Allegheny/Westmoreland) today announced a total of $154,000 in state grants to improve safety and security in local schools.
“This funding will help establish safety programs, hire additional security personnel and purchase security-related equipment,” Brewster said. “I’m pleased with this round of state support and will continue to seek additional dollars to make our schools safer and more secure.”
The statewide grants were announced today by the state Department of Education following a report issued by the recently-established Pennsylvania School Safety Task Force. Brewster was the first state lawmaker to call for such a statewide task force, which provides an encompassing review of school safety procedures and makes recommendations for improvements.
Local schools receiving funds today include:
- $20,000 for the McKeesport School District (violence prevention program);
- $30,000 Baldwin-Whitehall School District (hire/train school security officers);
- $30,000 Plum Borough School District (hire/train school security officers);
- $30,000 Elizabeth Forward School District (hire/train school security officers);
- $30,000 Allegheny Township (hire/train school security officers)
- $14,000 for the Westinghouse Arts Academy (equipment);
Brewster said another round of grant funds will be coming from the new $60 million School Safety and Security Grant program he supported in this year’s state fiscal budget. Those grants will be administered by the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency (PCCD). The deadline for schools to apply for the PCCD grants is Oct. 12.
“Following the tragic school shooting in Florida last year, I am pleased to see that local schools are working to bolster school security and safety,” Brewster said. “It is imperative that we continue taking steps to provide a safe and positive learning environment for all students.”
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October 2, 2018
Transportation grant validates Brewster’s work in seeking significant investment
Harrisburg – Oct. 2, 2018 – Nearly $3 million in grant funding will help bolster downtown McKeesport, expand the Steel Valley Trail, connect the new Multimedia Center and fund improvements to the city’s parking garage, state Sen. Jim Brewster (D-Allegheny/Westmoreland) announced today.
“This massive investment will yield tremendous benefits for years to come,” Brewster said. “We aggressively sought state funding to help the city transform its downtown, tie-in new development with an expansion of the trail, enhance tourism and rehabilitate nearby parking to attract more visitors to the city.”
The $2.9 million state multimodal grant to McKeesport was one of 43 approved statewide.
Brewster said he envisions the development of a secure, lighted elevated track that encompasses an area along the RIDC property that will generate foot and bike traffic and add to the work now being done at the former Daily News building. He said the new Multimedia Center will be a focus point of activity.
“This is incredibly exciting news for the region,” Brewster said. “The expansion of the trail, coupled with the new energy and activity at the center — including excellent access to nearby parking –creates even more commercial opportunities in the city.”
Brewster credited Gov. Tom Wolf for approving the funds for the project. He said McKeesport Mayor Mike Cherepko along with the many officials involved in the effort to bring the former Daily News building back should be extremely pleased with the funding. He said the officials worked exceptionally hard to bring dollars and development back to the city’s center.
“This is a big development project for the downtown area,” Brewster said. “Now, it is up to all the officials involved to effectively use the state grant funding to complete the critical work and make the next phase of the development a success.”
Brewster said the trail expansion and new multimedia center will generate additional commercial activity it the vicinity of the trail and in the downtown area. He said there will be substantial spinoff benefits once the grant funding is applied and the area improved.
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September 19, 2018
McKeesport, Sept. 19, 2018 – State Sen. Jim Brewster (D-Allegheny/Westmoreland) and Rep. Austin Davis (D-Allegheny) will host a Senior Wellness and Safety Expo in McKeesport on Thursday, Sept. 27.
The Expo will be held at the McKeesport Palisades at 100 Fifth Avenue in McKeesport. The event will open at 10:30 a.m. and close at 1:00 p.m.
“Helping seniors in the community connect with services and benefits that assist them is a top priority,” Brewster said. “By hosting events such as this we are able to increase awareness and provide access to many community services that improve the well-being of Pennsylvania seniors.”
“This event will highlight community services, opportunities, and assistance for seniors,” Davis said. “We encourage seniors and their families to attend the expo for the chance to discuss and find more information on a variety of programs available in the community.”
Services and organizations at the expo will include offering free flu shots, available without proof of insurance, and the Department of Military and Veterans Affairs’ Veterans Outreach Unit to connect veterans with available services.
More information on the September 27 expo is available at Brewster’s district offices. His offices are located at One Monroeville Center, 3824 Northern Pike, Suite 1015, Monroeville (Phone: 412-380-2242); 201 Lysle Boulevard, Suite 100, McKeesport (Phone: 412-664-5200); and New Kensington City Hall, 301 11th Street, Suite L, New Kensington (Phone: 724-334-1143).
Davis’ district offices at 627 Lysle Blvd, McKeesport (Phone: 412-664-0035), 3910 Main Street, Suite 5, Munhall (Phone: 412-476-3046), and 551 Ravensburg Blvd, Clairton (Phone: 412-233-2505).
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September 10, 2018
Harrisburg – Sept. 7, 2018 – Finding new ways to reduce gun violence remains a top priority for cities and communities, state Sen. Jim Brewster (D-Allegheny/Westmoreland) said today following the announcement that McKeesport received $149,999 in state funds to help reduce gun violence.
“The funding will allow McKeesport to deploy even more resources in the fight against gun violence,” Brewster said. “The city has been working in concert with law enforcement, the housing authority, school district and other entities on strategies to halt gun violence.”
Brewster, who formerly served on council and as mayor of McKeesport, is currently the chair of the city’s housing authority. He said he knows the importance of using all resources to combat gun violence.
The funding will be channeled to the city through the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency for the McKeesport Gun Violence Reduction Program. The state dollars will be used to employ proactive policing, intervention strategies, community outreach and aspects of community policing.
Grant funding can be used for personnel, equipment and consulting.
Gov. Tom Wolf said today that seven other municipalities, in addition to McKeesport, have been awarded grants. A total of $1.5 million was released for the program.
“As a former councilman, mayor, chair of the housing authority, and ranking member of the Senate’s Law and Justice Committee, I realize the incredible challenges cities, school districts, and housing authorities face in dealing with gun violence,” Brewster said. “State resources combined with local initiative can help save lives and protect communities.”
Brewster said he is pleased that the grant was approved and will work to help make more state resources available to fund additional local safety programs. He said that the efforts of his office, McKeesport Mayor Mike Cherepko, District Attorney Steve Zappala, state Rep. Austin Davis (D-Allegheny) and other local officials in finding funding to support anti-gun violence initiatives are critically important.
“My hope is that the anti-gun violence grant program can be expanded so that more communities facing gun violence challenges are able to receive assistance,” Brewster said.
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September 6, 2018
Harrisburg – Sept. 6, 2018 – A $500,000 state grant for environmental upgrades at the Three Rivers Marine and Rail Terminals in Glassport has been secured by state Sen. Jim Brewster (D-Allegheny/Westmoreland).
“This is an important project for the facility,” Brewster said. “The grant will be used to ensure that the environmental upgrades to the ponds on site meet all state standards.”
Brewster said the project includes synthetic liners and outfalls for two ponds. He said that officials at Three Rivers Marine and Rail Terminals have worked with state and county environmental officials to ensure that all requirements are met.
“The redevelopment of our region, including the growth of business and jobs, requires state investment,” Brewster said. “Finding state resources to complete local projects will pay dividends for years to come.”
Brewster said that the funding was approved through the state’s Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program.
Brewster said that he, along with state Rep. Bill Kortz (D-Allegheny) who represents Glassport in the state House of Representatives, know the importance of securing state funding of local projects. He said he and Kortz actively seek funding from various state programs, including those on the state’s capital budget.
The senator said that Gov. Tom Wolf was instrumental in helping find the dollars for the grant.
“The governor has stepped up and worked to fund important grants for worthwhile projects,” Brewster said.
The state Department of Environmental Protection has worked closely with Three Rivers Marine and Rail Terminal on the project.
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September 5, 2018
Harrisburg – Sept. 5, 2018 – The Pittsburgh Institute of Aeronautics (PIA) in West Mifflin has been awarded a $500,000 state grant to aid renovations of the campus, according to state Sen. Jim Brewster (D-Allegheny/Westmoreland).
“Facilities at the PIA campus in West Mifflin will be significantly improved as a result of these new state funds,” Brewster said. “PIA is a well-established school dedicated to training students for jobs in aviation.
“These new dollars will help the institute continue its critical mission.”
The funding will be used to renovate several areas on the campus. The rehabilitation project includes new entry doors, building upgrades, reconfiguration of the learning center, replacement of the HVAC system, as well as lighting and technology improvements.
The funding has been earmarked through the state’s Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program.
Brewster credited the governor with seeing the value of the project.
“The governor’s support of this project was critical, and I am pleased that he was engaged and delivered the funding,” Brewster said.
Brewster said that both he and state Rep. Bill Kortz (D-Allegheny) who serve West Mifflin and the surrounding areas are strong supporters of PIA. He said they welcome more state investment for the school because of the job opportunities that are created for its students.
The estimated total cost of the project is $1.3 million.
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August 10, 2018
McKeesport – State Sen. Jim Brewster (D-Allegheny/Westmoreland) visited “The Wall That Heals” Vietnam Veterans Memorial Replica and Mobile Education Center in McKeesport’s Renziehausen Park.
Funded by the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Fund, the Wall That Heals is a three-quarter sized replica of the Vietnam Memorial in Washington D.C.
The Wall was escorted to its place in Renziehausen Park on Aug. 7 by more than 200 motorcycle riders and police. The procession began at 5 p.m. at Olympia Shopping Center in McKeesport and moved to the park where wall setup began on Aug. 8.
The wall is displayed at Jimmy Long Field in Renziehausen Park from until Sunday, Aug. 12. The opening ceremony was at 6:30 p.m. on Aug. 9. At the opening ceremony, a pinning presentation honored more than 40 Vietnam veterans.
Reading of the names took place at various times on Aug. 10 and Aug. 11.
The closing ceremony will be on Sunday, Aug. 12 at 11 a.m. Admission is free, and visitors are welcome around the clock.
