Lehigh Times

HARRISBURG – Senator Jarrett Coleman (R-16) has announced the allocation of nearly $7.5 million in state grants for water infrastructure, arts, and culture projects in Bucks and Lehigh counties. The grants, funded by the federal COVID-19 American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA), will support initiatives that promote health, wellbeing, and the recovery of local communities.

"The water infrastructure systems in local communities provide clean drinking water for residents and businesses and ensure wastewater is properly treated," said Senator Coleman. "These water infrastructure grants promote health and the wellbeing of local residents."

The grants are being distributed through various programs, including the H20 PA Program, the PA Small Water and Sewer (SWS) Program, and the PA Arts and Culture Recovery (PACR) Program. These programs aim to address the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on water infrastructure, arts, and culture organizations.

"The forced government shutdown during the COVID-19 pandemic hurt many local arts and culture organizations," Coleman explained. "Arts and culture programs enhance the quality of life in our communities, which makes them more attractive to businesses and employees when they are looking to relocate."

The grants were awarded by the Commonwealth Financing Authority (CFA), an independent agency of the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development. The CFA administers the commonwealth's economic stimulus packages and supports initiatives that drive economic growth and development.

The H2O PA Program, established in 2008, provides grants for the construction of drinking water, sanitary sewer, storm sewer projects, flood control projects, and the repair or rehabilitation of high-hazard unsafe dams. The SWS Program offers grants for small water, sewer, and stormwater infrastructure projects. Municipalities and municipal authorities that own and maintain public water supply, sanitary sewer, or stormwater systems are eligible to apply for these grants.

The PACR Program was created to ensure the stability and recovery of Pennsylvania's arts and culture sector from the COVID-19 pandemic. It provides grants to nonprofit arts and culture organizations, local arts and culture districts, and arts and culture professionals located in Pennsylvania.

These grants will not only support essential infrastructure projects but also contribute to the overall wellbeing and economic vitality of Bucks and Lehigh counties. By investing in water infrastructure and revitalizing arts and culture organizations, Senator Coleman aims to create more attractive communities for businesses and residents alike.

Residents who want to learn more about Senator Coleman can visit his website at www.SenatorColeman.com, follow him on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SenatorJarrettColeman, and sign up for email newsletters at www.SenatorColeman.com/eNewsletters.

For further information, please contact Leo Knepper.

To learn more, click on this link: https://senatorcoleman.com/2023/12/20/coleman-announces-nearly-7-5-million-in-water-infrastructure-arts-and-culture-grants/