February 17, 2026
West Chester, Pa (February 17, 2026) – Pennsylvania college students who attend school in-state and plan to live and work in the Commonwealth after graduation are invited to apply for up to $5,000 in student financial aid through the Grow PA Scholarship Grant Program, state Senator Carolyn Comitta announced.
Applications are now being accepted for the program, which aims to reverse the trend of young Pennsylvanians studying here before leaving to pursue job and career opportunities in other states.
Now in its second year, Grow PA supports eligible in-state students who agree to attend college in Pennsylvania, pursue a degree in an in-demand occupation, and work in that occupation in the Commonwealth after graduation.
“Pennsylvania is home to many colleges, universities, and institutes of higher learning that attract in-state students to in-demand fields and courses of study. With the Grow PA Scholarship Grant Program, it pays for them to stay in the Commonwealth after graduation,” said Comitta, who serves on the Senate Education Committee. “I encourage students to apply for the scholarship so they can develop their skills, build our workforce, strengthen our economy, and lead the next generation of innovative and successful Pennsylvanians.”
Last year, 5,700 students participating in one or more of the more than 460 eligible programs of study or majors were awarded a grant. The top programs of study in the first year of Grow PA included nursing, early childhood education, business administration and management, biological sciences, accounting, computer science, engineering, trades, agriculture, criminal justice, and more.
Grant recipients are required to work in Pennsylvania for one year for each year they receive the grant. Failure to meet the requirements will result in the grant being converted to a loan that must be repaid.
A student can receive a Grow PA Grant for up to 4 academic years. Grant recipients must reapply each year, meaning applicants who received the grant last year must reapply to receive it again for the upcoming academic year.
Interested applicants must complete the 2026-2027 Grow PA Scholarship Grant Application and submit the completed form through a PHEAA Account Access profile on pheaa.org. Grants are awarded on a first-come, first-served basis.
The program was created through Act 89 of 2024, which Comitta voted for in the State Senate.
This year’s state budget added $7.5 million to Grow PA, enough to fund an estimated 1,500 additional students in the 2026-27 academic year.
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February 11, 2026
West Chester, Pa (February 11, 2026) – Three intersections in the Downingtown area will be upgraded to enhance traffic and pedestrian safety and relief congestion thanks to state funding approved this week, state Senator Carolyn Comitta and state Rep. Danielle Friel Otten announced.
“Investments in our transportation infrastructure help make our roads safer for everyone, including motorists, pedestrians, cyclists, and passengers on public transit,” Comitta said. “As Chester County continues to attract more residents and visitors to the region, it’s important that we take steps, like these, to ensure smooth, safe, and efficient travel on our roadways.”
“These investments will help to improve traffic flow, walkability and pedestrian safety in a busy part of town near some of Downingtown’s most popular parks and local businesses,” said Otten. “I applaud the borough’s ongoing commitment to building a safe, convenient and welcoming community for residents and visitors.”
The grant funding, which comes through the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation’s ARLE program, is as follows:
- $65,000 for Downingtown Borough for lane configuration and detection upgrades at the intersection of Wallace Avenue and Pennsylvania Avenue, as well as detection upgrades at two adjacent intersections within the borough
- $94,000 for Downingtown Borough to enhance the existing midblock pedestrian crossing along Pennsylvania Avenue at Kerr Park.
- $257,000 for East Caln Township to replace outdated signal heads with new heads at all signalized intersections and replace five-section left-turn signal heads with four-section flashing yellow arrow signal heads.
The Chester County grants are part of 51 projects awarded more than $27 million in total to improve intersection safety across 44 municipalities statewide. Municipalities submitted 113 applications, totaling over $67 million in requests.
State law specifies that projects improving safety, enhancing mobility and reducing congestion can be considered for funding. Projects were selected by an eight-member committee based on such criteria as safety benefits and effectiveness, cost, and local and regional impact.
“Under Governor Shapiro’s leadership, we’re making important investments in communities across the Commonwealth that make a real difference in the lives of Pennsylvanians,” said PennDOT Secretary Mike Carroll. “The ARLE program helps municipalities improve traffic flow and safety at intersections, not only for drivers, but for pedestrians, cyclists, and other road users. I’m proud that PennDOT continues to invest directly in communities through programs like ARLE, delivering real results for Pennsylvanians.”
Funding for the ARLE program is supplied by fines from automatic red light enforcement violations at 38 intersections in Philadelphia. There are no automated red light enforcement intersections or locations in Chester County
Today’s funding announcement brings PennDOT’s total investment through the ARLE program to more than $60 million to support 121 safety projects under the Shapiro Administration.
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February 4, 2026
West Chester, Pa (February 4, 2026) – High school seniors and their families are invited to attend a free FAFSA workshop organized by State Senator Carolyn Comitta on the morning of Saturday, February 14, at 11 a.m. at the Chester County Intermediate Unit.
The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is a form used by students each year to apply for federal, state, and institutional financial aid for college or career school. It determines eligibility for work-study funds, need-based scholarships, loans, and private and public grant programs such as the Federal Pell Grant, the Pennsylvania State Grant, and the PATH Program.
The FAFSA serves as the largest source of student financial aid, providing over $120 billion annually in federal grants, work-study funds, and loans to nearly 10 million students. However, filling it out can be a lengthy process.
“Filling out the FAFSA is the first step to financial aid and making your dream of higher education and post-secondary success a reality,” said Comitta, who serves on the Senate Education Committee. “We’re organizing this free event so applicants can get hands-on assistance from experts in completing the FAFSA properly and submitting it on time.”
At the event, representatives from the Pennsylvania Higher Education Assistance Agency (PHEAA) will be on hand to provide one-on-one support and assistance in completing the FAFSA. Spanish language translation services will be available.
Advance registration is required at pasenatorcomitta.com/fafsa
The Pennsylvania high school class of 2023 left an estimated $129 million in Pell grants on the table by not completing the FAFSA – dollars that students do not have to repay.
The federal FAFSA deadline is June 30. However, different states and different post-secondary institutions have different deadlines. Applicants are encouraged to submit the FAFSA as early as possible to maximize eligibility for grants and work-study funds, some of which are awarded on a first-come, first-served basis.
The FAFSA Completion deadline for access to the PA State Grant and special programs is May 1st (first-time college students at 4-year PA schools).
August 1st is the FAFSA completion deadline for PA State Grant eligibility at 2-year and business/technical colleges.
For more information on the FAFSA, visit pheaa.org/college-planning/fafsa
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January 30, 2026
West Chester, Pa (January 30, 2026) – Nine projects to expand trails, upgrade parks, preserve open space, and protect watersheds were recently awarded state funding, state Senator Carolyn Comitta announced.
“While we weather frigid temperatures, residents, families, and visitors can rest assured that this spring we’ll all have even more opportunities to hike, play, exercise, and enjoy the outdoors in Chester County,” said Comitta, who serves as Minority Chair of the Senate Environmental Resources and Energy Committee. “Investments, like these, in local opportunities for outdoor recreation benefit our economy, public health, and the overall strong quality of life in our communities.”
The projects are funded through the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) Community Conservation Partnerships Program (C2P2). Those in the 19th Senatorial District, which Comitta represents, are as follows.
- $500,000 for the design work, drawings, and specifications for the rehabilitation of the Downingtown Trestle in East Caln and West Bradford Townships.
- $335,500 for East Bradford Township for the Development of the Plum Run Trail, including the construction of approximately 0.3 miles of the trail from Tigue Road of Plum Run Preserve to the Rockwell Field Athletic Complex. Additional work will include stormwater management measures, ADA access, landscaping, signage, and other improvements.
- $250,000 for the further development of East Fallowfield Township Community Park, including pickleball courts, a volleyball court, playground equipment with safety surfacing and fencing, pedestrian walkways, parking, ADA access, landscaping, project signage, and other site improvements.
- $109,500 for Oxford Borough to repair and improve Oxford Memorial Park by renovating the pedestrian walkways, constructing a bandshell, and installing utilities and stormwater management measures, as well as ADA access, landscaping, signage, and other site improvements.
- $96,700 for the Stroud Water Research Center to prepare a Watershed Conservation Plan for the Pennsylvania portion of the 69,000-acre White Clay Creek Watershed.
- $1.2 million for Natural Lands to acquire approximately 21.25 acres in Newlin Township for passive recreation and open space.
- $87,300 for Natural Lands to plant approximately 8 acres of riparian forest buffers and support post-planting establishment for 19 acres of recently planted buffers along waterways in the Delaware River Watershed in Chester County.
- $335,000 for the Chester-Ridley-Crum Watersheds Association to plant approximately 100 acres of riparian forest buffers along waterways in the Delaware River Watershed, Chester and Delaware counties.
- $132,100 for Chester County Conservation District to plant approximately 21 acres of meadows and/or upland trees in the Lower Delaware River Watershed.
In addition, Westtown Township was awarded $75,000 to prepare a Master Site Development Plan for the 204-acre Crebilly Preserve, a project that Comitta has supported since she served as state representative for the 156th District in the Pennsylvania House of Representatives.
“These investments open the door for more people to enjoy the parks, rivers, and trails that make Pennsylvania special — no matter where they live,” said DCNR Secretary Cindy Dunn. “When we invest in outdoor spaces close to home, we invest in people. These places bring families together, give kids room to play, help neighbors connect, and make our communities healthier and happier. Strong local parks and trails don’t just improve daily life, they help our towns and cities thrive for generations to come.”
The funds for the projects in Chester County come as part of nearly $82 million in total support for more than 295 recreation and conservation projects in 58 counties across the Commonwealth. Statewide, these investments will support 140 park, recreation, and conservation facility projects, 22 community and watershed forestry projects, 29 trail planning and development projects, 16 river conservation projects, and the conservation of 4,818 acres of land.
“The outdoors are for everyone — whether you enjoy spending time at a local park, out on the water, or on a trail — every Pennsylvanian deserves access to safe, welcoming outdoor spaces close to home,” said Governor Josh Shapiro. “Because of our investments, communities across Pennsylvania will be able to improve parks, build new trails, and help more people enjoy the benefits of nature, in cities and rural towns alike.”
The C2P2 grant program is funded by a variety of state and federal funding sources. The Chester County projects were funded through the Environmental Stewardship Fund, the Keystone Fund, and the Land and Water Conservation Fund.
January 28, 2026
EXTON, PA (January 28, 2026) – Nearly 300 local senior citizens will soon be saving money on SEPTA trips after State Senator Carolyn Comitta’s office helped them apply for SEPTA Senior Key Cards.
Through the SEPTA Senior Fare program, which is funded by the Pennsylvania Lottery, seniors 65 and older ride the SEPTA transit and regional rail system for free within Pennsylvania. Trains to and from New Jersey and Delaware using a senior card are charged at half fare.
At a recent event at the Chester County Library in Exton, Comitta’s team assisted 284 seniors in applying for their free SEPTA Senior Key Cards.
“Whether it’s getting to a doctor’s appointment, running errands, visiting family, or taking a day trip to the city, SEPTA Senior Key Cards help our residents get wherever they need to go,” said Comitta, who serves on the Senate Aging and Youth Committee. “My office is always ready to help our older neighbors obtain their cards, and I am grateful to the team at the Chester County Library in Exton for welcoming us for this event.”
In addition, Senator Comitta’s staff connected residents with other state resources and programs that can help.
Seniors who couldn’t attend but are interested in applying for a free card or renewing their existing one can contact Senator Comitta’s office at 610-692-2112 or pasenatorcomitta.com/contact.
Appointments are available at either her West Chester district office or one of eight monthly outreach office locations.
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January 20, 2026
West Chester, Pa (January 20, 2026) – Twelve infrastructure projects to improve stormwater management and water quality in communities across Chester County were recently awarded state funding, state Senator Carolyn Comitta announced.
“Flooding is the most common natural disaster in Pennsylvania and as we continue to face increased precipitation, extreme weather, and the growing impacts of climate change, investments in our water and stormwater runoff infrastructure play a key role in safeguarding the health, wellness, and economic prosperity of our communities,” said Comitta, who serves as minority chair of the Senate Environmental Resources and Energy Committee.
The funds, approved today by the Commonwealth Finance Authority, come through the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development’s Small Water and Sewer Grant Program.
Projects in the 19th Senatorial District that were awarded funds are as follows:
- $500,000 for the Borough of West Chester for Phase II of the Goose Creek Sanitary Sewer Conveyance Improvements.
- $205,000 for East Caln Township for the Windridge Subdivision Basin Retrofits.
- $250,000 for East Caln Township to rehabilitate the Bell Tavern Boulevard stormwater facilities.
- $205,000 for East Goshen Municipal Authority to upgrade the Hunt Country Pump Station.
- $386,000 for the City of Coatesville to replace stormwater inlets citywide.
- $355,000 for the Chester Water Authority for the Oxford Valve Replacement project.
- $36,000 for Londonderry Township for the Stormwater Culvert Pipe Replacement project.
- $355,000 for the Borough of Oxford for the Oxford Water Mains Replacement and Lead Remediation project.
- $355,000 for the Oxford Area Sewer Authority for the Tasty Bake Pump Station.
- $419,000 for the West Goshen Sewer Authority for the Interceptor Rehabilitation project.
- $180,000 for West Whiteland Township for the Air Release Valve project.
- $354,000 for Willistown Township for the West Chester Pike Sewer Extension project.
In addition to Comitta, the projects that were awarded funding are represented by State Representatives Chris Pielli, Dan Williams, Melissa Shusterman, Kristine Howard, and John Lawrence.
The PA Small Water and Sewer program assists with the construction, improvement, expansion, or rehabilitation or repair of a water supply system, sanitary sewer system, storm sewer system, or flood control projects with a cost of less than $500,000.
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January 20, 2026
West Chester, Pa (January 20, 2026) – Four projects to improve intersections, repair bridges, and install new sidewalks in Easttown, East Caln, New London, and Oxford were recently awarded state funding, state Senator Carolyn Comitta announced.
“These investments will help ensure public safety on our roads and bridges while expanding options for pedestrians and adding to the walkability of communities across Chester County,” Comitta said.
The grant funds, which were approved today through the Multimodal Transportation Fund (MTF), are as follows:
- $335,000 for East Caln Township to make pedestrian safety improvements along at the intersection of Wallace Avenue/Creek Road and Norwood Road.
- $996,000 for Easttown Township to install new sidewalks, ADA ramps, and crosswalks to enhance pedestrian safety around Beaumont Elementary and Hilltop Park.
- $338,000 for New London Township to repair the Conard Mill Bridge.
- $87,000 for Oxford Borough to install sidewalks along Western Terrance.
In addition to Comitta, the 4 projects that were awarded funding are represented by State Representatives Melissa Shusterman, Kristine Howard, and John Lawrence.
The Multimodal Transportation Fund provides grant funding to municipalities, councils of governments, businesses, economic development organizations, public transportation agencies, and ports and rail freight entities to improve transportation assets that enhance communities, pedestrian safety, and transit access.
January 16, 2026
Harrisburg, Pa (January 16, 2026) — Eligible seniors and adults with disabilities can now apply for a rebate of up to $1000 on property taxes or rent paid last year by applying for the Pennsylvania Property Tax/Rent Rebate Program, state Senator Carolyn Comitta announced today.
“The Property Tax Rent Rebate program is an important program to help put more money back in the pockets of our older neighbors and friends with disabilities,” said Comitta, who serves on the Senate Aging and Youth Committee. “If you or someone you know may qualify for the program, I encourage you to apply, and please reach out to my office if you have any questions about the application process. My team and I are ready to help.”
The program, funded by the Pennsylvania Lottery, provides seniors 65 and older, widows/widowers 50 and older, and adults 18 and older with disabilities with a rebate on their property tax or rent paid in 2025.
In addition to age requirements, an applicant’s household income must be $48,110 or less annually. Half of Social Security income is excluded when determining income.
Applications for the program are open from now until June 30th, 2026.
Thanks to Act 7 of 2023, which Comitta supported and voted for, the program’s income limit is now automatically increased to adjust for the cost of living so that no one loses eligibility due to the annual increase in Social Security payments.
Interested applicants can apply online at
PA.gov/PTRR or by completing the
PA-1000 paper application. Property owners must submit copies of stamped, paid property tax receipts for 2025, and renters must submit a completed
PA Rent Certificate completed by a landlord or property manager, along with the application.
Application assistance is available by appointment at Senator Comitta’s district office in West Chester or one of eight satellite outreach office locations throughout Chester County. To schedule an appointment, call Senator Comitta’s office at (610) 692-2112 or go to pasenatorcomitta.com/contact.
January 15, 2026
West Chester, Pa (January 6, 2026) – Senior citizens can apply for or renew their free SEPTA Senior Key Cards at Senator Carolyn Comitta’s signup event at the Chester County Library & District Center in Exton on Wednesday, January 28, from 10 a.m. to noon.
“Many seniors rely on SEPTA, and I hope they take advantage of this program to help them get where they need to go for free or at a discounted cost,” Comitta said. “From attending medical appointments to visiting loved ones, to taking a day trip to the park or a museum, SEPTA Senior Key Cards can be a lifeline for our older community members.”
The SEPTA Senior Key Card, funded by the Pennsylvania Lottery, is available for free to all seniors aged 65 and older. With the card, seniors can ride all SEPTA buses, trolleys, subways, and regional rail lines in Pennsylvania for free. Trains to and from New Jersey and Delaware using the senior card are charged at half fare.
To apply, seniors must bring a form of identification that verifies their age. This includes a driver’s license, photo identification card, birth certificate, passport, or Social Security statement of age.
The Chester County Library & District Center is located at 450 Exton Square Parkway.
If you cannot make the event, please contact Senator Comitta’s district office to schedule an appointment to apply for or renew your card.
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January 15, 2026
This month, we’re highlighting the importance of spending time outdoors in supporting mental health and wellness. Have you ever felt like fresh air and exercise put you in a better mood? You’re not alone.
Multiple studies show that spending time outdoors is associated with clear benefits for physical and mental health. In fact, 82 percent of Pennsylvanians agree that outdoor recreation supports mental health, with 74 percent advocating its use in mental health care, according to a recent Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) survey.
Outdoor recreation can also help:
- Combat seasonal affective disorder through exposure to natural light.
- Facilitate opportunities for healthy social interaction and community building.
- Manage stress, improve cardiovascular health, and boost endorphin levels.
- Gain a better understanding of local ecology, wildlife, and native species.
- Connect and create through painting, photography, or other outdoor arts.
- Aid in recovery for mental health or addiction disorders through the Commonwealth’s Recover in Nature initiative.
This year’s bipartisan state budget also includes continued investments in trails, state parks, and forests, and related infrastructure upgrades, as well as a funding increase for DCNR. DCNR is also posting information about the 9-8-8 crisis line and suicide prevention resources at start parks and forests, as sadly, remote natural areas and even local parks are sometimes the sites of suicides/attempted suicides.
With 2025 behind us, it’s the perfect time to develop a new habit or routine to support and maintain positive mental health. The good news it starts right outside your front door, and you don’t have to wait until spring to take the first step. Begin small with easy, manageable goals that fit your schedule. And if you’re looking for a change of scenery, Pennsylvania is home to numerous parks, trails, streams, waterways, and open spaces to explore.
January 6, 2026
West Chester, Pa (January 6, 2026) – West Whiteland Township will upgrade traffic lights at multiple intersections near the Main Street at Exton Shopping Center, thanks to state funding that was recently approved, state Senator Carolyn Comitta said.
The township was awarded funding to improve traffic signals at multiple intersections along Route 100 and Commerce Drive.
“West Whiteland Township is thrilled to receive this critical Green Light-Go grant,” said West Whiteland Township’s Board of Supervisors Raj Kumbhardare, Brian Dunn, and Libby Madarasz. “Traffic is a top concern for everyone who lives, works, or visits here, and this funding will support improvements along Route 100 and Commerce Drive. We are grateful to partner with Senator Comitta and her team on initiatives that make a meaningful difference for our community.”
“As our region continues to grow and attract more visitors, investments in our traffic safety infrastructure, like this, will help reduce congestion, improve the flow of traffic, and ensure a safe ride for everyone,” Comitta said.
The funding comes as part of nearly $30 million awarded to 57 municipalities across the Commonwealth through the Green Light Go Program. The program supports projects that upgrade traffic signal detection and control technology, enabling signals to respond to real-time traffic conditions, reducing congestion, and improving safety for drivers, pedestrians, and cyclists.
“Under Governor Shapiro’s leadership, our top priority is serving the people of our Commonwealth by improving the services that make a real difference in Pennsylvanians’ lives,” said Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) Secretary Mike Carroll. “The safety improvements supported by the Green Light-Go program will help municipalities reduce congestion, improve traffic flow, and keep Pennsylvanians moving safely and efficiently. I’m proud that PennDOT continues to partner with communities to deliver real results.”
The Green Light Go Program is a competitive state grant program administered by PennDOT. It is a reimbursement program, and applicants are required to provide a minimum 20 percent match.
Eligible projects include, but are not limited to, installation of light-emitting diode (LED) technology, traffic signal retiming, special-event traffic planning, traffic signal monitoring, and upgrades to modern signal technologies.
The program is made possible by Act 89 of 2013.
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January 5, 2026
West Chester, Pa (December 29, 2025) – The Oxford Area Historical Association (OAHA) got a big boost in its effort to purchase the historic building that it calls home, thanks to state funding secured by State Senator Carolyn Comitta and State Rep. John Lawrence.
Comitta and Lawrence worked together to secure a $700,000 investment from the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development’s Local Share Account Program.
OAHA will use the funds to buy the former Union School Building at 119 S. 5th Street in Oxford, which it has leased since 2003. The nonprofit organization has an agreement of sale for the property and plans to continue to develop it into a gateway for regional tourism, welcoming visitors to the area and directing them to nearby historic sites.
Krys Sipple, OAHA Executive Director, thanked Comitta, Lawrence, and West Nottingham Township for partnering with OAHA on the project.
“This support arrives at a particularly meaningful moment for OAHA, as we celebrate our 25th anniversary and prepare to commemorate the 250th anniversary of our nation. Together, these milestones underscore the importance of preserving and sharing local stories that help connect our community to the broader American experience,” Sipple said. “This investment will help ensure that our History Center can serve as a lasting resource for education, engagement, and civic pride for generations to come.”
OAHA’s History Center features 6,000 square feet of usable space, a side yard, and a 40-car parking lot. In addition, the recently renovated building includes an accessible entrance ramp, handicapped bathrooms, a full-building HVAC system, a large generator, and the potential to expand into the basement and develop shared space on the second floor. The added space and ample room to grow mean OAHA can house its archives on site and collaborate with more volunteers, students, community organizations, and municipal historical commissions.
“This investment will help ensure that Oxford and Southern Chester County have a permanent home to explore, preserve, and share the stories of our past,” Comitta said. “I want to thank all of the volunteers, supporters, and community partners who continue to work to keep our heritage alive at OAHA and the many historical organizations and commissions throughout our region.”
“For the past 25 years, OAHA has done remarkable work telling the story of the greater Oxford area from colonial times to the present,” said Rep Lawrence. “With the 250th anniversary of our nation approaching, we will celebrate the key role Southern Chester County played in our nation’s founding, with several founding fathers calling our area home. This funding ensures a permanent home to share the rich heritage and history of our community, both now and for generations to come.”
For more information on the OAHA, visit www.oxfordhistorical.org
December 30, 2025
West Chester, Pa (December 30, 2025) – West Goshen and West Bradford Townships were recently awarded state funding for infrastructure projects to improve stormwater management, build new culverts, install new trails, and make pedestrian-friendly improvements, state Senator Carolyn Comitta said.
The grant funding, which was recently awarded through the Multimodal Transportation Fund (MTF), is as follows:
- $126,827 for West Goshen Township to make storm sewer and pedestrian improvements on Montgomery Avenue.
- $113,920 for West Bradford Township to install naturalized trails, make ADA pedestrian improvements, and build new culverts on Broad Run Road.
“These investments will help address flooding, enhance safety, and improve pedestrian access on two of our region’s most well-traveled roads,” Comitta said. “As we continue to experience increased rainfall, flooding, and extreme weather, it’s important to invest in and build climate-resilient infrastructure, including the roads, bridges, and trails that make Chester County such a great place to call home.”
The Chester County investments are among 54 highway, bridge, bike, and pedestrian projects in 34 counties across Pennsylvania selected for more than $47 million in funding through the MTF.
“Infrastructure is essential to Pennsylvania’s growth and to connecting people with opportunity,” said Governor Josh Shapiro. “When we invest in safer roads, bridges, ports, and transit, we’re creating jobs, strengthening local economies, and making it easier for people to get where they need to go — whether that’s to work, school, or a small business on Main Street. These projects deliver real results for communities across the Commonwealth and keep Pennsylvania moving forward safely and efficiently, no matter how they get around.”
The Multimodal Transportation Fund provides grant funding to municipalities, councils of governments, businesses, economic development organizations, public transportation agencies, and ports and rail freight entities to improve transportation assets that enhance communities, pedestrian safety, and transit access.
Applications for the next round of MTF grants will open on Jan. 5, 2026, at 8 a.m. and will be due by Feb. 13, 2026, at 4 p.m. Grant recipients are expected to be announced in summer 2026. More information about the program and funded projects is available at the PennDOT website.
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December 22, 2025
West Chester, Pa (December 22, 2025) – Londonderry Township was recently awarded state funding to construct a new salt shed for its road department, an investment that will help improve operations, save taxpayer dollars, and protect the environment.
State Senator Carolyn Comitta and State Rep. John Lawrence worked together to secure the $150,000 investment from the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development’s Local Share Account Program.
“This funding will allow the municipality to construct a new winter storm materials storage building adjacent to the existing township facility. The new building will include separated storage bays designed to house multiple aggregates used to improve roadway conditions and traction during winter storms,” said Darryl M. King, Londonderry Road Master. “The entire staff at Londonderry is thrilled to see this goal become a reality! We are grateful for the extraordinary efforts of Senator Carolyn Comitta’s office and Representative John Lawrence’s office in securing this investment.”
The new, four-bay salt storage shed will replace the existing two-bay shed, which is structurally failing and unable to accommodate delivery trucks. The new shed will feature reinforced concrete floors and walls, metal siding, and a paved landing in front of the facility for more efficient cleanup. It will also be high enough to accommodate deliveries, improving cleanup and preventing salt residue from entering the stormwater system.
According to King, the average 140 to 200 tons of salt used by Londonderry Township each year is expected to decrease by up to one-third thanks to increased storage efficiency and improved protection from the elements in the new shed.
“When we work together, we can get things done,” Comitta said. “I was proud to work with Rep. Lawrence and Londonderry Township officials to secure this investment – one that will help ensure safer roads, cleaner streams, and lower costs for years to come. I also want to thank all of the workers and snowplow operators who help keep our roads safe and clear of snow, ice, and debris throughout the winter.”
“During my time in office, I have tried to focus on improvements to core local infrastructure – much of which has been neglected for far too long,” said Rep. Lawrence. “I commend the forward-looking approach of the Londonderry Township supervisors with the salt shed replacement project. This improvement will save taxpayer dollars in the long term and ensure better, more responsive service in clearing roads during the winter months. I am very glad to work with Senator Comitta to ensure this project can move forward.”
Londonderry will use the LSA funds for construction and engineering costs. The total project cost is $264,207.
The Local Share Account program is designed to distribute funds derived from gaming revenue to support community and economic development projects. Eligible applicants include counties, municipalities, municipal authorities, economic development agencies, redevelopment authorities, land banks, and councils of government. Eligible projects must improve the quality of life of community citizens and be owned and maintained by an eligible applicant or a nonprofit organization.
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December 19, 2025
West Chester, Pa (December 18, 2025) – Four projects to improve parks, restore a local stream, repair an embankment, and upgrade stormwater sewers were awarded $225,000 in total state funding today, state Senator Carolyn Comitta said.
“Investments in parks, outdoor recreation, and stormwater management help continue to ensure that communities in our region remain sought-after places to live, work, and raise a family,” said Comitta, who serves as minority chair of the Senate Environmental Resources and Energy Committee.
The funds, approved today by the Commonwealth Finance Authority, support the following projects in Pennsylvania’s 19th Senatorial District:
- $65,000 for West Chester Borough for Phase II of the Brick Storm Sewer Rehabilitation.
- $25,000 for West Bradford Township for Embreeville Park.
- $60,000 for West Whiteland for repairs to the Burgoyne Bridge Embankment.
- $75,000 for New London Township for the Kirk Farm Stream Restoration.
In addition to Comitta, the projects that were awarded funding are represented by State Representatives Christina Sappey, Chris Pielli, and Kristine Howard.
The projects were funded by Act 13 of 2012 (the Marcellus Legacy Fund), which supports stream restoration and maintenance, as well as the planning and development of recreational trails, open space, parks, and beautification projects.
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December 18, 2025
West Chester, Pa (December 18, 2025) – Fifteen municipalities and three organizations in Chester County were awarded state grant funding for projects to address flooding, strengthen infrastructure, support emergency services, upgrade public works, improve parks, prevent homelessness, promote local history, and enhance health and human services, state Senator Carolyn Comitta announced today.
“From repairing roads and bridges to upgrading public works and public safety equipment to expanding parks and recreational opportunities, these investments can make a big difference to ensuring a strong quality of life in communities across Chester County,” said Comitta. “As a former mayor and borough council member, I know just how important these investments are to ensuring health, safety, and opportunity for all residents and families.”
The funds, which come through the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development’s Local Share Account Program, were approved today by the Commonwealth Financing Authority.
In addition to Comitta, the 18 projects that were awarded funding are represented by State Representatives Christina Sappey, Chris Pielli, Dan Williams, Danielle Friel Otten, Melissa Shusterman, and Kristine Howard.
In total, they amount to a $5.8 million state investment in Chester County municipalities and local communities. They are as follows:
Infrastructure:
- $375,000 for Downingtown Borough to support engineering costs for the Downingtown Area Flood Planning project. It calls for developing a flood mitigation strategy as part of an intermunicipal effort to address flooding in the Brandywine Creek sub-basin.
- $475,000 for East Fallowfield Township to reconstruct the Mortonville Road Bridge. The funds will support construction, engineering, and administrative costs to replace the deteriorating bridge, which serves emergency first responders and a growing number of residents.
- $250,000 for the West Goshen Sewer Authority to replace 16 wastewater treatment process pumps and related equipment that maintain reliable treatment operations and prevent potential sewer overflows.
- $150,000 for West Whiteland Township to rehabilitate the Grubbs Mills Pump Station. The project calls for completely rehabilitating the 40-year-old pump station to comply with current codes, address reliability issues, and prevent ongoing costly repairs.
- $150,000 for Willistown Township to replace the Pump Station 3 interceptor along Eisenhower Drive. Constructed in the 1970s with asbestos-cement pipe, the current interceptor has deteriorated and collapsed, requiring emergency repairs. The funds will be used to replace the next section with corrosion-resistant polyvinyl chloride pipe.
Public Safety:
- $600,000 for the City of Coatesville to purchase a new pumper fire engine and tractor-drawn aerial apparatus ladder truck. The Coatesville Fire Department’s current engine and ladder truck are more than two decades old and frequently out of service. The new equipment will help ensure a reliable, timely response to the more than 700 emergencies the department responds to each year.
- $175,000 for Valley Township to replace and repave the main driveway of Westwood Fire Company #1. The existing driveway are severely deteriorated due to age and wear and tear, presenting a growing safety risk. The project calls for regrading and repaving the parking area, main driveway, and access points to and from the station.
- $818,576 for West Chester Borough to purchase a new fire apparatus for the West Chester Fire Department. It will replace a 21-year-old fire apparatus that is frequently out of service due to increasing repairs, as well as a lack of available parts, which is both time-consuming and costly.
Public Works:
- $150,000 for Londonderry Township to construct a new, four-bay salt storage shed for its road department. It will replace the existing two-bay salt storage shed, which is structurally failing and unable to fit delivery trucks. The new shed will be high enough to accommodate deliveries, improving cleanup and preventing salt residue from entering the stormwater system.
- $191,490 for Newlin Township to purchase a new tractor and boom mower for use in addressing encroaching vegetation on roadways. It will replace antiquated equipment, improve reliability, and enhance employee safety.
- $75,000 for East Bradford Township to purchase a new disc chipper to dispose of tree trimmings and other wood debris during routine work on roads, parks, and township property It will replace an outdated machine that lacks safety features and cannot process larger debris, requiring additional chainsaw work.
Housing:
- $350,000 for Safe Harbor of Greater West Chester (through the Chester County Economic Development Council) to expand its current facility by adding a second building. The new building will add 20 shelter units, expand trauma-informed day programming, and provide spaces for job readiness training, counseling, and life skills workshops.
Health:
- $100,000 for Main Line Health (through the Chester County Economic Development Council) to purchase and install 23 patient lift chairs at Bryn Mawr Rehabilitation Hospital. Ceiling-mounted patient lifts help to ensure a comfortable and dignified experience for everyone involved in moving a patient, reducing the risk of injury for both patients and caregivers.
Parks:
- $388,440 for East Caln Township to construct multiple park improvements to Bell Taven Park, the township’s only primary active public park. The project calls for resurfacing and upgrading the existing basketball courts, turning the obsolete roller hockey rink into pickleball courts, resurfacing the parking lot, and adding entrance gates, exercise/fitness stations, shade canopies, benches and trash cans, security cameras, signage and landscaping.
- $350,000 for Tredyffrin Township to make improvements to Friendship Park, including ADA parking spaces, an ADA accessible pathway, inclusive playground equipment, a dog play area, a new pavilion, benches and trash receptacles, stormwater management measures, and the restoration of a 3.6-acre greenspace with a fully accessible nature trail.
History:
- $700,000 for West Nottingham Township for the headquarters and visitor center for the new Oxford Area Historical Association. The association plans to acquire the historic former school building on 5th Street in Oxford Borough to serve as a gateway for regional tourism, welcoming visitors to the area and directing them to nearby historic sites.
- $325,000 for Malvern Borough for the Paoli Memorial Association to build the Heritage Center at Paoli Memorial Park. The funds will be used to construct a single-story timber-framed structure that will serve as the new Heritage Center on the site, along with connections to utilities, a driveway, parking, exhibit space, and interpretative signage.
Human Services:
- $200,000 for the Royer-Greaves School for the Blind (through Tredyffrin Township) for upgrades to the school’s energy infrastructure. The project calls for removing existing oil tanks and replacing them with natural gas-powered heating systems and adding solar panels and related roof modifications These improvements will be made across the school’s buildings.
The Local Share Account program is designed to distribute funds derived from gaming revenue to support community and economic development projects.
Eligible applicants include counties, municipalities, municipal authorities, economic development agencies, redevelopment authorities, land banks, and councils of government.
Eligible projects must improve the quality of life of community citizens and be owned and maintained by an eligible applicant or a nonprofit organization.
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December 17, 2025
West Chester, Pa (December 17, 2025) – Five Chester County historic organizations have been awarded more than $100,000 in total state funding through the Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission (PHMC), state Senator Carolyn Comitta said.
The investments, which come through the PHMC’s Cultural and Historical Support Grant Program, assist the general operations of eligible museums and official county historical societies. They are as follows:
“As we approach our nation’s 250 anniversary, the organizations that work to preserve and promote our local history continue to play a leading role in attracting visitors, educating the public, and ensuring that future generations know the stories that shaped Chester County and the United States,” Comitta said. “From the Revolutionary War to the Industrial Revolution to the Abolitionist Movement and Civil Rights Era and beyond, the story of Chester County is an integral part of the story of America.”
The Cultural and Historical Support Grant Program aims to strengthen Pennsylvania’s museum community by supporting eligible museums and official county historical societies that are not supported by other state agency funding programs. Under the program, museums must have an annual operating budget exceeding $100,000 (excluding capital and in-kind services) and at least one full-time professional staff person (or approved equivalent).
Award amounts are determined by a formula based on a percentage of the organization’s annual operating budget, with a maximum grant of $50,000 and a minimum grant of $4,000.
The grant funding is part of almost $4 million in total Cultural and Historical Support Grants awarded to 177 eligible museums and official county historical societies from 59 counties across the Commonwealth.
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December 8, 2025
West Chester, Pa (December 8, 2025) – As part of a multi-year program to strengthen its fiscal position and address priority needs, the Borough of South Coatesville received state grant funding to support the creation of a full-time municipal manager position, state Senator Carolyn Comitta said.
The funding comes through Phase 2 of the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development’s (DCED) Strategic Management Planning Program (STMP), which offers tools and consultant services to improve a municipality’s managerial, administrative, and financial capacity.
The $200,000 in grant funding will assist with the salary and benefits for a full-time borough manager position.
Through Phase 1 of STMP, South Coatesville was already awarded $72,000 to develop and adopt a comprehensive five-year plan to achieve structural budgetary balance. That plan calls for maintaining fiscal discipline by adopting and adhering to a fund balance policy, pursuing intergovernmental solutions, and improving administrative capacity by hiring a full-time borough manager and potentially converting the finance administrator to a full-time position or hiring a third-party financial consultant (as it has in the past).
“South Coatesville continues to take important steps to strengthen its finances, plan for the future, and improve municipal services for the benefit of residents and taxpayers,” Comitta said. “As a former mayor and borough council member, I know how hard our local leaders and officials work to keep our communities running. South Coatesville has faced a series of challenges in recent years, and I commend the borough for taking steps to improve its administrative operations and financial management.”
Last year, Comitta worked with state Rep. Dan Williams to secure funding for South Coatesville Borough to restore the administration building, which was significantly damaged by flooding from Hurricane Ida.
Earlier this year, she also secured state funding to restore and reopen Woodward Road, an important thoroughfare for emergency first responders, which has been closed since being damaged by Hurricane Ida.
December 3, 2025
West Chester, Pa (December 3, 2025) – Main Line Mentoring, a Tredyffrin-based nonprofit organization offering educational and tutoring programs for school-age children, is expanding its programs to help more young people prepare for future careers, thanks to funding secured by state Senator Carolyn Comitta.
“The sooner we can help young people explore career options and get thinking about how they can contribute to our economy and our society, the better positioned they will be for long-term success in school, work, and life,” said Comitta, a former public-school teacher who serves on the Senate Education Committee. “Integrating job and career-readiness into education programs just makes sense. We’re focusing on that in our schools, and Main Line Mentoring is, too. I also want to thank Kevin Stroman and all supporters and volunteers at Main Line Mentoring for their work on behalf of our kids.”
The $50,000 grant, which comes through the Pennsylvania Department of Education, will help Main Line Mentoring (MLM) restructure and expand to offer comprehensive job training and career readiness services, including career coaching, job skills development, resume writing and interview preparation, career workshops, information on certification programs, internship and job shadowing opportunities, and more.
“The funding will enable us to extend our free after-school tutoring program and introduce new educational, life skills, employment, and leadership initiatives for young adults across the Main Line. We express our sincere appreciation to Senator Comitta for her essential contributions and ongoing commitment to our community,” said MLM Founder and President Kevin D. Stroman Sr.
Based out of the historic Carr School/Mount Pleasant Chapel in Wayne, MLM was originally founded by Stroman in 1994 under the name “Kids First Now.” Since then, the organization has grown significantly to include after-school homework help and tutoring four nights a week, cultural programs like field trips to museums and theatrical performances, and opportunities for social interaction.
MLM’s plans to incorporate job training and career readiness in its academic support services aim to help bridge the gap between school and employment, particularly for underserved youth who face barriers to academic and career success.
The program will support about 35-50 students and families annually and plans to help them explore future careers and develop job-specific goals, while increasing high school graduation rates and college and career readiness.
Through access to hands-on learning experiences, information on jobs in high-demand industries, networking opportunities, and guest speakers from various fields, MLM aims to create a pipeline to sustainable employment and foster long-term economic growth.
For more information on Main Line Mentoring, visit mainlinementoring.org
December 1, 2025
West Chester, Pa (December 1, 2025) – This holiday season, state Senator Carolyn Comitta is again supporting the collection of new, unwrapped toys at her district office for the Toys for Tots program.
Donations will be accepted at the donation box in the atrium of Senator Comitta’s district office building at 17 E. Gay Street in downtown West Chester until Wednesday, December 10. The office is open during regular business hours, Monday through Friday, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Residents can also stop by one of Senator Comitta’s mobile/senior outreach offices to drop off their donations.
To support the effort online, find other toy collection sites, or volunteer through the program, visit chester-county-pa.toysfortots.org
“It’s the season of giving, and I hope you can join us in supporting Toys for Tots to help ensure that every child enjoys a new toy for the holidays,” Comitta said. “I also want to thank all of the supporters, volunteers, and organizers with Toys for Tots, especially Jeffery Smith, who has been leading the Chester County toy drive for years.”
Last year, Chester County Toys for Tots distributed nearly 26,500 toys to families in our region, supporting more than 11,600 children.
It is one of hundreds of local Toys for Tots campaigns that are conducted annually in over 800 communities covering all 50 states, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico, Guam, and the Virgin Islands.
Since 1947, the United States Marine Corps Reserve has operated Toys for Tots, a nonprofit charity, to help distribute toys to families facing financial hardship.
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