Lehigh Times

Last week, Gov. Tom Wolf announced that there will be five agricultural projects funded through a $2 million First Industries Fund, which is intended to help existing farms expand and increase their revenue through a number of ways.

The projects will be located in four counties across the state and involve farms using the funds to build on the existing land, purchase other parcels and build structures, a recent press release from the governor’s office said.

“Pennsylvania’s economy is deeply rooted in the agriculture industry and supporting projects that spur growth in these communities is important,” Wolf said in the release. “The funding provided by the First Industries Fund helps farmers in the commonwealth grow their operations. Ensuring our farmers thrive is an investment in Pennsylvania’s future.”

In Chester County, Stephen and Lydia Smucker were approved for a loan amounting to $400,000 through the Chester County Economic Development Council. This will be used to buy a 49.1-acre farm located at 1191 Gap Newport Pike, Highland, West Fallowfield and Londonderry townships.

In Huntingdon County, Bradley A. and Brittany J. Coffman were approved for a loan of $400,000 through the Southern Alleghenies Planning and Development Commission. Funds will be used to build a 31,369-square-foot swine nursery located at 5505 Hughes Road in West Township.

In Lebanon County; Dalton, Dale and Kyle Himmelberger were approved for a $400,000 loan through the Lebanon Valley Economic Development Corporation. Funds will be used to build two 31,500-square-foot broiler houses at 10837 Jonestown Road in Jonestown. 

Also in Lebanon County; Clyde, Carolyn, Michael and Rodney Meyer were approved for a loan of $400,000 through the Lebanon Valley Economic Development Corporation to build two 31,500-square-foot broiler houses at WS Thompson Avenue in North Annville Township.

In Northumberland County, Kevin D. and Jill A. Brosious were approved for a $400,000 loan through the SEDA Council of Governments to construct two 31,500-square-foot broiler houses, located at 2185 Hallowing Run Road in Lower Augusta Township.