January 6, 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 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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November 25, 2025
West Chester, Pa (November 25, 2025) – The Hickman, a nonprofit senior living community in West Chester Borough, plans to renovate one of its buildings into affordable housing for senior citizens with support from tax credits recently approved by the Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency (PHFA).
The project, currently working under the name “Nathaniel Hickman House,” calls for the renovation of the three-story, 40,000-square-foot building, which will be reconfigured into six efficiency units, 22 one-bedroom units, and four two-bedroom units for seniors aged 62 and up. Architects also plan to retain the historic structure and brick façade of the building, which was built in 1936.
“As our senior population continues to grow, the need for high-quality affordable housing options is increasing with it,” said Comitta, who serves on the Senate Aging and Youth Committee. “This investment will help create 32 affordable apartments for older adults on the campus of The Hickman, a safe, welcoming community where they can live independently and access in-home care services when needed.”
“We are grateful to breathe new life into this historic building and reimagine it as affordable housing for older adults. This project continues The Hickman’s long tradition of providing compassionate, community-centered living options that honor the dignity and independence of every resident in Chester County,” said Toni Kelly, Executive Director of The Hickman.
The PHFA board voted to reserve $1,056,000 in federal low-income housing tax credits for the renovations, which will be designed to achieve National Green Building Standard (NGBS) Silver Certification and Zero Energy Ready Homes Certification.
“Tax credits are the main tool for PHFA to create affordable rental housing, and I’m pleased we are awarding credit to developments that will make a difference for so many Pennsylvanians,” said Robin Wiessmann, PHFA executive director and CEO. “The shortage of affordable housing is widely acknowledged. These credits are pivotal in helping to build and preserve homes that working families, seniors and vulnerable Pennsylvanians can afford.”
The tax credits for The Hickman come as part of $66.5 million in low-income housing tax credits approved by PHFA to support the construction of 1,900 new and rehabilitated affordable multifamily housing units statewide.
In addition to these tax credit awards, PHFA’s board authorized Pennsylvania housing tax credits and recognized the agency will also contribute first mortgages and/or soft funding sources to many of the awarded developments. Additionally, these low-income housing tax credits will be used to leverage local, state, federal and private financial resources needed to complete the financing plans for these construction initiatives.
Founded in 1891 and rooted in Quaker values, The Hickman currently provides personal care and memory care in the Anna T. Jeanes building on its campus near downtown West Chester. When the renovation is complete, the 1936 building—currently operating under the project name “Nathaniel Hickman House”—will introduce independent living apartments, expanding the continuum of care available to older adults.
For more information on The Hickman, visit thehickman.org
For more information on PHFA, visit phfa.org
November 21, 2025
West Chester, Pa (November 21, 2025) – As winter approaches, state Senator Carolyn Comitta is reminding residents of the dangers of carbon monoxide, a colorless, odorless, deadly gas that sends more than 100,000 Americans to the emergency room each year.
“With the colder temperatures, many of us are using furnaces, stoves, boilers, or appliances that produce carbon monoxide,” Comitta said. “It’s important to remember that this is when the risk of carbon monoxide exposure is greatest. Please take steps to protect yourself and your family, starting with installing a carbon monoxide detector.”
Comitta recently welcomed the Carly Imbierowicz Foundation to the State Capitol in Harrisburg to mark Carbon Monoxide Awareness Month and spread the word about how to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning.
Known as “the silent killer,” carbon monoxide (CO) is a highly toxic gas produced by devices that burn fuels, such as vehicles, furnaces, generators, grills, and many others that are found in our everyday lives. It can strike in your home, vehicle, garage, work shed, tent, or another enclosed or poorly ventilated space.
According to the CDC, non-fire-related poisoning, including CO, is the leading cause of accidental poisoning deaths in the U.S., with major sources including home heating systems, generators, and vehicle exhaust. Each year, more than 400 Americans die from unintentional CO poisoning not linked to fires, and more than 14,000 are hospitalized.
Tragically, one of those was 16-year-old Carly Marie Imbierowicz of Highland Township, whose life was cut short by CO poisoning on November 22, 2014. In the wake of their family tragedy, her parents, Donna and Matt, launched the Carly Imbierowicz Foundation, a nonprofit organization dedicated to sharing information and raising awareness of the dangers of CO, especially among young people and new drivers.
For nearly a decade, they have worked to prevent CO poisoning by sharing life-saving information and donating hundreds of CO detectors to community organizations and families in our region.
“Thanks to everyone who has supported us and the Save a Family – Save a Pet Carbon Monoxide Awareness campaign. We know how proud Carly is of everyone and we know she is saving lives,” Donna Imbierowicz said.
Comitta and the Carly Imbierowicz Foundation also encourage residents to educate themselves on the dangers of carbon monoxide:
- Have heaters, gas-burning appliances, and chimneys regularly inspected to make sure they are safe.
- Install CO detectors on each floor of a home, a garage, and near any gas-burning appliance.
- Make sure your vehicle’s exhaust pipe is free of snow, mud, leaves, or debris.
- Know the symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning – nausea, headaches, confusion, and drowsiness.
- Never use generators, grills, or camp stoves inside your home or garage, even if doors and windows are open.
- Never heat your house with a gas oven.
- Remember that children, pregnant women, the elderly, those with respiratory issues, and pets can be especially vulnerable to carbon monoxide poisoning.
- If you feel you are experiencing carbon monoxide poisoning, get to fresh air immediately.
Experts also warn that CO poisoning is often mistaken for other illnesses or conditions, including the flu, food poisoning, migraine headaches, motion sickness, or alcohol intoxication, due to their similar initial symptoms.
In recognition of the work of the Carly Imbierowicz Foundation and other advocates, Comitta introduced a Senate resolution officially designating November as Carbon Monoxide Awareness Month.
For more information on Carly Imbierowicz Foundation, visit www.cmiawareness.org
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November 17, 2025
Philadelphia, Pa – State Senators Nikil Saval and Carolyn Comitta, State Rep. Dougherty, and Solar States joined PennEnvironment for a rooftop solar tour at Greenfield Manufacturing, a warehouse in Northeast Philadelphia with an extensive rooftop solar installation. The tour highlighted the immense potential for solar energy generation on warehouse rooftops, an under-utilized space for solar panels. A recent PennEnvironment study found that if all of the warehouses in Pennsylvania added solar to their roofs it would generate enough electricity to power more than 820,000 homes and significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
“Warehouses have immense solar energy potential and can be a key component in moving Pennsylvania towards more clean, renewable energy generation,” said Belle Sherwood, PennEnvironment Clean Energy Advocate. “Putting solar panels on Pennsylvania’s warehouses would be good for communities, good for the electricity grid, and most importantly, good for our environment,”
Pennsylvania Senators Nikil Saval and Carolyn Comitta have proposed legislation that would help unlock the solar energy potential of warehouses and distribution centers across the state by requiring all new warehouses and distribution centers constructed in Pennsylvania be “solar-ready”. The senators’ legislation would also provide a tax credit for existing warehouses and distribution centers to make the necessary retrofits to be considered solar-ready.
“We have the technology we need right now to arrest climate change, advance a green and prosperous economy, and make life healthier, safer, and more affordable for working people and communities throughout Pennsylvania, and our built environment plays a key role,” said State Senator Nikil Saval. “If we harness the energy-generating capacity of the more than 500 million square feet of suitable rooftop space that sits atop warehouses across our commonwealth, we could power nearly a million households per year on solar energy alone.”
“Warehouses, distribution centers, and commercial buildings account for a significant portion of our carbon emissions. Meanwhile, they can be ideal sites for solar panels,” said State Senator Carolyn Comitta. “As the growth of e-commerce continues to drive warehouse development in Pennsylvania, this legislation can help ensure that they are ready to harness the economic, environmental, and public health benefits of solar energy.”
Greenfield Manufacturing is already seeing the benefits of their rooftop solar array. Their 3,600-panel system, installed by Solar States last year, generates more than 100% of the warehouse’s energy needs. They’re able to return any excess solar energy back to the grid, helping to alleviate the strain on the electricity grid and make their energy bills negative. Greenfield gets over $1,000 for their solar power production each month.
Greenfield Manufacturing is located in Pennsylvania Representative Sean Dougherty’s state house district in northeast Philadelphia. He says, “my neighbors are seeing energy costs increase exponentially because of energy-intensive warehouses popping up across Northeast Philadelphia. I’m proud to co-sponsor Solar Warehouses (HB 1260 sponsored by Rep. Josh Siegel) because it allows clean energy to be generated in-house, at their OWN warehouse. This will reduce the cost of electricity for everyone in our neighborhood.”
Advocates note that there’s never been a better time for businesses to invest in solar energy, since the cost of solar has decreased significantly over the past decade. It’s estimated that the cost of utility-scale solar decreased by 90 percent between 2009-2020.
“We have a 4.5-billion-year-old nuclear reactor in the sky that is raining down energy on us every day,” said Micah Gold-Markel. “If we don’t use it, it’s a waste.”
With rising utility bills and strain on the region’s electricity grid, tour attendees noted the need to diversify Pennsylvania’s energy mix. Currently, Pennsylvania gets only 4% of utility-scale energy from renewable sources, which includes solar, wind, and geothermal. Advocates noted that building more renewable energy sources adds much-needed capacity to the grid and moves Pennsylvania away from polluting fossil fuels, and that warehouses are a great place to start.
November 13, 2025
West Chester, Pa (November 13, 2025) – To support the next generation of public servants and learn more about the issues that matter most to them, state Senator Carolyn Comitta is welcoming high school students who live in her district to apply for the 2026 Student Advisory Council.
“So many students and young people in Chester County are already working to strengthen their communities and build a brighter future for Pennsylvania. Joining our Student Advisory Council can help expand their interest in public service and take their talents to the next level,” said Comitta. “I invite students to apply to learn more about our state government, further develop their skills, and have an opportunity to advance their priorities.”
The council, now in its fourth year, is open to high school juniors residing in the 19th Senatorial District. It brings together students from across the area to learn the roles and responsibilities within a state senate office and gather youth perspectives on the pressing issues facing the Commonwealth.
“The Student Advisory Council was by far my favorite extracurricular in high school. It was incredibly well organized, informative, and helped me discover my interests and passions,” said Delisha Makdani, a senior at Conestoga High School who participated in last year’s Student Advisory Council. “I also met so many new friends with similar goals and was surrounded by a community of like-minded peers. The staff was so supportive, and I found myself looking forward to every meeting.
“Even after the program ended, I’ve stayed in touch with the people I met, including the staff, who have continued to be so helpful and encouraging. I would recommend applying for the Student Advisory Council, even if you don’t plan to pursue a related field,” she added.
Council members are expected to attend a weekly meeting every Wednesday from 4 to 6 p.m., beginning in late January and running through the end of April.
Interested students can apply online at pasenatorcomitta.com/studentadvisorycouncil2026. Applications must be submitted by Friday, December 5, at noon. Late applications will not be accepted.
Upon submission of an application, students will be contacted for an interview.
Student applicants will be selected based on their demonstrated passion for service, prior experience and volunteer opportunities, and enthusiasm for progress through public policy.
For any questions about the council and the application process, interested applicants may contact Senator Comitta’s Director of Constituent Services, Ethan Shaffer, at ethan.shaffer@pasenate.com or by calling 610-692-2112.
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November 12, 2025
Harrisburg, Pa (November 12, 2025) — State Senator Carolyn Comitta released the following statement after voting for a budget agreement and related code bills that ended the state budget impasse:
“I am thankful that we were finally able to reach a compromise and pass a budget that invests in public education, safety, job growth, affordability, and the services that so many of our neighbors depend on.
Better yet, we were able to do it without touching the Rainy Day Fund or raising taxes. In fact, the budget includes a tax cut for nearly 1 million working Pennsylvanians and their families through a new program – the Working Pennsylvanians Tax Credit.
While the budget should have never taken this long, it delivers some stability and reliability for people being impacted by the ongoing turbulence and confusion at the federal level.
Government works through collaboration, bipartisanship, mutual respect, and compromise. This budget has some bright spots, but voting for it required putting aside Pennsylvania’s participation in the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative, which I have been working toward for years.
It was a tough decision, but it was the right one to move forward from this budget impasse and find a new way to reduce energy costs and cut carbon emissions.”
The budget also includes investments and reforms in the following areas:
Education:
- $526 million in new funding to meet our court-order obligation to adequately and constitutionally fund our public schools.
- $175 million in school district savings from cyber charter funding reform.
- $40 million increase in special education funding.
- $30 million for student teacher stipends.
Safety:
- Additional funding for new state police cadet classes.
- $61 million in targeted investments to reduce violent crime and gun violence.
- $10 million for the Nonprofit Security Grant Program.
Affordability and Economic Growth:
- $193 million back to families for the Working Pennsylvanians Tax Credit.
- $25 million to recruit and retain childcare workers.
- $2.5 to support emergency housing at the local level.
- $8.8 million to attract and retain businesses in Pennsylvania.
- $50 million for special events coming to Pennsylvania in the next year like America250, the FIFA World Cup, the NFL Draft, the NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament, and the MLB All Star Game.
Community Services:
- $11 million increase for food programs.
- $10 million increase for home and community-based services for seniors.
- $21 million increase for direct care workers.
- $5 million increase for public libraries.
November 10, 2025
West Chester, Pa (November 10, 2025) – Nearly 200 parents, families, and children recently came together at State Senator Carolyn Comitta’s Community Baby Shower in Oxford.
The free event, organized by Comitta, the Maternal and Child Health Consortium, and the Maternity Care Coalition, connected expectant parents and families with the many free resources and programs available to them in Chester County.
Held at the Oxford Presbyterian Church this fall, the Community Baby Shower featured more than 30 nonprofit organizations and agencies, informational presentations and demonstrations, a workshop on car seat safety, games and raffles, diaper and diaper bag giveaways, and family-friendly activities.
“Raising a child is one of the most rewarding experiences in life, but it’s not always easy, especially in uncertain times. Fortunately, community support makes all the difference,” said Comitta, a member of the Pennsylvania Women’s Health Caucus. “Chester County is home to dozens of groups that are here to help with everything from health and wellness services to educational programs to nutritional support, transportation, and more.
“It was wonderful to see so many mothers, babies, and families join us,” said Milena Lanz, Executive Director of the Maternal and Child Health Consortium. “With support from Senator Comitta, her staff and Maternity Care Coalition, families learned about car seat safety and connected with local providers offering valuable resources for moms and babies.”
“These events are more than just a celebration to us – they are an expression of care, support, connection, and commitment to the health and well-being of expectant parents and families in our community,” said Karen Pollack, Executive Vice President of Programs and Operations at the Maternity Care Coalition.
As a parent and grandparent, Comitta said she understands firsthand the importance of community when raising children.
“The Community Baby Shower is one of my favorite events because I have the opportunity to see the precious young children who are the future of our country, to interact with the parents and guardians who are helping raise them, and to help them build relationships with others on the same journey,” Comitta said. “Our children are the future, and we all benefit by helping nurture and shape them into strong, smart, and successful individuals.”
This marks Senator Comitta’s second Community Baby Shower in 2025, continuing her commitment to supporting maternal and child health across Chester County and beyond.
October 7, 2025
West Chester, Pa (October 7, 2025) — State Senator Carolyn Comitta issued the following statement on the state budget impasse and the federal government shutdown:
“Like many Pennsylvanians, I am very concerned about the state budget impasse and the federal government shutdown.
First, please know that Pennsylvania government is open and running. Our state parks, legislators’ offices, and governmental agencies are open, and we’re working. My district office staff is here for you. We are doing whatever we can to help impacted constituents and families during this chaotic and uncertain time.
I want to reemphasize that I remain ready and eager to vote on a state budget agreement that works for Chester County communities, families, workers, and businesses. We support a budget plan that funds vital services without raising taxes.
The Senate is in session this week, with additional session days scheduled for later this month. Hopefully, there will be an opportunity to pass a budget during that time. However, given the current lack of dialogue and ongoing atmosphere of hyper-partisanship, I am not optimistic.
Unlike our federal government, Pennsylvania has a divided legislature. Although I am not directly involved in budget negotiations, I believe that Pennsylvania House and Senate Democrats, as well as the Governor, have shown that they are willing to compromise to end this impasse. A compromise, however, requires both sides to make sacrifices and concessions.
At the federal level, the tone coming from Congress and the White House is not only unproductive – it’s toxic. Although the makeup is different from Pennsylvania’s (the Republicans control the House, Senate, and the Presidency), there are some striking parallels. When one side decides that it must win at all costs on every issue, we all lose. When one side decides gridlock and shutdowns are worth it to win political points, we all pay the price. That’s what’s happening right now.
Voters elect public officials to work in their best interest – that means working together, not trying to actively disrespect, humiliate, and destroy each other every step of the way. Right now, because of the lack of a state budget, schools, childcare centers, mental health providers, libraries, food banks, crime victim services, rape crisis centers, and more are facing cuts, layoffs, and disruptions in critical services.
Meanwhile, the federal government shutdown has further complicated and exacerbated the impact on these and other services, as the Commonwealth receives and relies on significant federal funding to support them, not to mention approximately 10,000 employees.
I sincerely hope the concerns heightened by the federal government shutdown motivate my colleagues in the Senate majority to come to the negotiating table in good faith and end the state budget stalemate. We have 23 Democratic Senators in the state legislature who are ready to vote on a budget agreement that works for Pennsylvania.
I entered public service for our children and grandchildren – to create a better, safer, healthier, and cleaner world for this generation and the next. That requires leaders working together to find common ground for the common good. Sadly, these days, that seems increasingly uncommon. The state budget stalemate and the federal government shutdown aren’t serving our children or grandchildren. Frankly, they’re not setting a very good example for them either.
At the same time, I appreciate my colleagues in government who are. Reaching across the aisle to solve problems is the way forward and it starts with respect and relationships. I thank our representatives in Congress who, like U.S. Rep. Chrissy Houlahan and U.S. Rep. Madeleine Dean, are striving to keep the spirit of bipartisanship alive by appealing to their counterparts as fellow elected officials and public servants. That’s how we’re going to cut through this mess, and that’s how we should all be treating each other – not as Republicans or Democrats or political foes – as people, as neighbors, as Pennsylvanians, and Americans. At the end of the day, our political differences and cultural battles are small compared to what we can gain by working together and what’s at stake if we don’t.
The state budget impasse and the federal government shutdown are opportunities for elected officials to demonstrate that we can still work together. This is a chance to show that we care more about our constituents than winning points, settling scores, or advancing political ambitions. Let’s get back to work and do our jobs.”
October 6, 2025
West Chester, Pa (October 6, 2025) – To help drivers replace hard-to-read or damaged license plates on their vehicle, State Senator Carolyn Comitta and the West Goshen Police Department are hosting a free License Plate Replacement Event on November 13 from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. at the West Goshen Township Building.
“Having a damaged or hard-to-read license plate could result in drivers getting pulled over or fined. To prevent that from happening to you, I’m partnering with the West Goshen Police Department to offer this free service,” said Comitta. “Please be sure to register now so you get your new license plate as quickly and efficiently as possible.”
License plates that require replacement have one or more numbers or letters that cannot be recognized from 50 feet away or show blistering, peeling, discoloration or loss of reflectivity.
This opportunity is open to all residents of the 19th Senatorial District. Advanced registration is required to participate, and spots are limited. Interested attendees must schedule an appointment at pasenatorcomitta.com/licenseplate2025
Eligible attendees will be contacted by Senator Comitta’s office and sent the required PennDOT forms to apply for replacement. At the event, a West Goshen Police officer will verify which plates need to be replace before filling out the forms. Once the forms are delivering to PennDOT and processed, new plates will be mailed directly to drivers or available for pickup at Senator Comitta’s West Chester district office.
Those unable to participate in the event but need to replace their hard-to-read or damaged license plate should contact Senator Comitta’s West Chester district office at 610-692-2112 or pasenatorcomitta.com/contact for more information.
September 29, 2025
West Chester, Pa (September 29, 2025) – Parents, expectant parents, grandparents, and families with babies and young children are invited to learn about the resources and programs available to them at a Community Baby Shower on Friday, October 24, from 3 to 6 p.m. at the Oxford Presbyterian Church.
The free event, organized by State Senator Carolyn Comitta, the Maternal and Child Health Consortium, and the Maternity Care Coalition, will help connect children, parents, and guardians with more than 20 community organizations and the resources they offer to local families.
“Becoming a parent is one of the most rewarding experiences in life, but raising children isn’t without its challenges. Luckily, there are many organizations and people who can help make navigating parenthood a little easier,” said Comitta. “Whether you’re considering becoming a parent, have a baby on the way, or are already raising a family, I encourage you to stop by the Community Baby Shower on October 24 to check out the many resources and services available here in Chester County.”
The event will feature free activities for children, raffle prizes, and the distribution of complimentary diapers and other essential baby items.
“At MCHC, we believe every family deserves to feel supported and celebrated as they welcome a new baby,” said Milena Lanz, Executive Director of MCHC. “This collaborative Oxford Community Baby Shower is more than just an event, it’s a way to bring people together, connect parents with resources, and show families that they are not alone on this journey. Since 1991, MCHC has been serving our community, and our long-standing presence is a reassurance of the positive impact we have had on the lives of families over the years. These collaborations not only strengthen our mission to serve others but also reflect our continued commitment to expand partnerships that uplift and empower families.”
“Baby showers are a celebration! It’s an opportunity for us to shower families with joy, uplift them with support, and wrap them in love as they prepare for an incredible journey of parenthood,” said Samia Bristow, Vice President of Programs at the Maternity Care Coalition
Comitta, who serves on the Pennsylvania Women’s Health Caucus, remains a strong supporter of protecting and investing in maternal health and the overall health, well-being, and growth of children and young people in the Commonwealth.
The Oxford Presbyterian Church is located at 6 Pine Street in Oxford Borough.
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