Comitta, Williams Announce State Funding for Housing Programs in Coatesville and Chester County

June 22, 2021

HARRISBURG (June 22, 2021) – A new program in the City of Coatesvillle will support residents and homeowners struggling to maintain or repair their homes thanks to $500,000 in state funding, state Senator Carolyn Comitta and state Representative Dan Williams said today.

The Movement Community Development Corporation (MCDC) was recently awarded the funding through the Pennsylvania Housing Affordability and Rehabilitation Enhancement (PHARE) fund.

The funds will support MCDC’s Coatesville Housing Rehabilitation Program, which aims to provide vital repair and rehabilitation services to vulnerable residents and property owners who may be at risk of losing the ability to live in their homes due to costly repairs.  

“This will give us the opportunity to help those in our community whose properties are in need of repair,” said Alphonso Newsuan, MCDC Founder and Executive Director. “During the COVID-19 pandemic, many members of our community have been adversely affected mentally, physically, and financially. It’s our hope that this initiative will bring about much-needed relief in regard to the rehabilitation of their homes

“MCDC wishes to thank all parties involved that helped make the approval of our grant possible,” he added.

The funding for MCDC comes as part of $2.285 million in total PHARE funding awarded to nine organizations supporting housing assistance, affordability, and homelessness prevention throughout Chester County.

“Helping residents stay in their homes, access affordable housing opportunities, and prevent homelessness benefits our entire Chester County community,” Senator Comitta said. “As we continue to recover economically from this pandemic, it’s important that we to move forward together. By investing in local services and organizations, we can help ensure that every individual and family has the opportunity to succeed, grow, and thrive.”

“Repairing homes in our community improves our community’s infrastructure. Improving access to critical home repairs ensures our community will rise and prosper. MCDC is an excellent advocate for improving quality of life in the 74^th district, and I’m elated that they will be able to advance their programs with this funding,” Rep. Williams said.

The Chester County Department of Community Development will receive $500,000 in PHARE funding for its Decade to Doorways Street Outreach and Non-Congregate Emergency Housing proposal. It aims to offer a continuum of services to Chester County’s most vulnerable individuals with the intent of making homelessness rare, brief, and non-recurring.

“We are very appreciative of the support that the Chester County Partnership to End Homelessness has received from the Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency and Pennsylvania Senator Carolyn Comitta.  This PHARE grant award in the amount of $500,000 will enable our street outreach team to continue to engage individuals and families experiencing homelessness and find housing solutions for them,” said Pat Bokovitz, Director of the Chester County Department of Community Development.

The Friends Association for the Care and Protection of Children will receive $400,000 in total PHARE funding to support two programs. They are:

• $300,000 to support the NIA House, Chester County’s first diversionary reentry home for women with children returning to the community after incarceration. The home, located in Coatesville, offers a respite for women healing from the trauma of incarceration and a catalyst for family reunification and long-term self-sustainability. PHARE funds will be used to provide operating support for the second year of this innovative project and will include additional programming to enhance the services offered to at least 25 women.

• $100,000 for the Eviction Prevention Court (EPC) and Homelessness Prevention Program, a newly established program that provides support to individuals and families facing eviction through legal representation, financial support, and linkages to social services. The funding will allow the Friends Association to expand the EPC to three additional courts in Chester County and expand its newly established Homelessness Prevention Program, focusing on women with co-occurring diagnoses.

 “We are thrilled to be named as a recipient of PHARE funds to support families in Chester County. This investment in Chester County allows us to address vital housing needs in innovative, community-driven ways. Together, we have the resources and creativity we need to make sure that all of our neighbors have access to stable, safe housing,” said Jennifer Lopez, Executive Director of the Friends Association for Care & Protection for Children.

Safe Harbor of Chester County will receive $130,000 in PHARE funding to support its emergency shelter for residents experiencing homelessness.

According to Chief Executive Officer Judy Jeffords-Homitz, the grant award will help Safe Harbor provide much needed emergency shelter and case management services to single men and single women during these unprecedented times our Chester County residents will face in the months ahead.

Safe Harbor is the only shelter available for single women and one of the two largest available for single men in Chester County, providing more than 65 percent of the total emergency beds available for single adults. Through case management services, residents are given full attention to help move them toward self-sustainability and permanent housing placement. Safe Harbor has also recently expanded services to assist former residents after housing placement, Jeffords-Homitz said.

The W.C. Atkinson Memorial Community Service Center in Coatesville will receive $150,000 in PHARE Funding for Housing Rehabilitation and Individualized Intensive Case Management services.

According to Minnie McNeil, who founded the center nearly three decades ago and continues to operate it today, the funding will support staffing for case management and the rehabilitation and upgrade of its five supportive homes and 22-bed emergency men’s shelter. She said the center maintains a safe and empowering environment where staff and volunteers effectively assist homeless men to identify their root cause for homelessness, acquire stable housing, and become self-sufficient with rare recidivism.

“This work could not be accomplished as effectively without the support of this grant award,” McNeil said.

Open Hearth will receive $115,000 in PHARE funding for its Targeted Homelessness Resource Coordination program, a community-wide effort to end homelessness in Chester County.

“Open Hearth is proud to be the recipient of generous funding for our Targeted Homelessness Resource Coordination program,” said Executive Director Kelly Raggazino. “The Targeted Homelessness Resource Coordinator leads the crucial work of facilitating weekly case conferencing attended by the homeless crisis response system providers with other health and human service providers to ensure the highest priority households on the By Name List are being enrolled into housing and supportive services as quickly as possible.”

The Housing Partnership of Chester County (HPCC) will receive $250,000 in PHARE funding to support its First Homes For Stronger Neighborhoods program, which is designed to purchase, renovate and sell homes at below market rates to low-to-moderate income first-time buyers. 

According to HPCC, the state support will augment funds already received from the Chester County Department of Community Development, the Wells Fargo Foundation, and others. Since 1988, HPCC has administered a number of successful programs including: The First Time Homebuyers Program, Home Rehabilitation, Senior Citizen Home Maintenance, Home Access Modification, and Budget and Credit Counseling.

The Housing Authority of Chester County will receive $240,000 in PHARE funding to support its Housing Locator Program, which with Chester County residents who are experiencing homelessness and need assistance to find and retain housing. The funds will be used to fund a Housing Locator and Housing Case Manager, as well as expanding the landlord incentive programs.

The PHARE fund, often referred to as the state’s Housing Trust Fund, is administered by the Pennsylvania Housing and Finance Agency (PHFA).

Funding for the PHARE-supported projects in Chester County comes from a portion of the realty transfer tax. Since 2012, PHARE also receives a portion of the impact fees collected from natural gas companies operating in Pennsylvania.

The $2.285 million in PHARE funding awarded to nine Chester County programs and organizations is part of 223 housing and community development initiatives statewide that will share a portion of the total $44.9 million in funding for the 2020-21fiscal year.

“Over the last nine years, the PHARE program has proven to be popular because local organizations and leaders determine how best to spend the funds to address their housing needs,” said Governor Tom Wolf. “The funding may come from Harrisburg, but its application to improve housing is driven locally, which is why it is so effective.”

In total, this round of PHARE funding is expected to impact more than 3,300 Pennsylvania households across the Commonwealth through a variety of efforts funding:

• Rental/utility assistance
• Down payment/closing cost assistance for first-time homebuyers
• Blight remediation initiatives
• Rental housing preservation and rehabilitation, and
• Other innovative projects and programs

“What I find most impressive about PHARE is the wide variety of ways the funding is used to address local housing challenges,” said PHFA Executive Director and CEO Robin Wiessmann. “The recipients of PHARE funding in each county know their housing needs best, so they direct the money to address pressing housing concerns in ways that will do the most good.”

PHFA reports that at least $30.1 million of the $44.9 million allocated today will be used to fund housing projects benefiting households with incomes below 50 percent of the area median income. That represents 67 percent of the awarded funding.

Chester County Awarded More than $975,000 in State Funding for Criminal Justice Services

June 16, 2021

WEST CHESTER (June 16, 2021) – Chester County will receive $975,965 in state grant funding through two programs to support probation services and provide rehabilitation and alternative sentencing programs.

The grants, approved by the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency (PCCD), are as follows:

• $442,821 for the Intermediate Punishment program to continue probation programs in Chester County by covering staffing costs for caseworkers, increasing resources and services to participants, and supporting treatment costs.

• $533,144 to support adult probation services through Improvement of Adult Probation Services Grant-In-Aid Funds. This funding program was established by Act 114 of 2019, which allows PCCD to review and approve county adult probation and parole grant funding.

Both grant programs work to address the high cost of incarceration, strengthen support for county probation programs, and focus on preventing recidivism through quality rehabilitation.

“These investments help our justice system address the underlying causes and issues related to criminal activity, including substance abuse, mental illness, and behavioral health issues,” state Senator Carolyn Comitta said. “It’s important that we support our county agencies with the necessary resources and funds to continue working to keep our communities safe through crime prevention, rehabilitation, and reducing recidivism.” 

Chester County Probation, Parole and Pretrial Services Chief Chris Murphy said, “We are appreciative of the recently awarded grants from PCCD.  The Grant in Aid fund helps support Adult Probation Officers salaries, and the Intermediate Punishment grant will help provide alternatives to incarceration, including electronic monitoring and treatment for those suffering from substance use disorders.”

Speaking on behalf of the Chester County Board of Commissioners, Chair Marian Moskowitz said, “The rehabilitative programs provided by Chester County’s court system are effective because of the dedication of the leadership and staff, and because of the many partnerships they have developed to create our treatment courts, our women’s re-entry program, and other services.  This funding helps the department to continue the important work of offering options to incarceration that benefit eligible offenders and that often include cost savings too.”

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Comitta, Herrin Introduce RGGI Investments Act to Benefit the Environment and Economy

June 14, 2021

HARRISBURG (June 14, 2021) – As Pennsylvania moves forward towards reducing harmful greenhouse gas emissions by participating in the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative (RGGI), Governor Tom Wolf today joined state Senator Carolyn Comitta and state Rep. Dianne Herrin, who are introducing legislation that would target funding from RGGI proceeds to communities impacted by climate change.

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“Participating in RGGI will further our commonwealth’s climate goals, mitigate ongoing damage from climate change and invest in our workforce. Funds brought in through RGGI will allow us to make targeted investments to support workers and communities affected by energy transition, invest in environmental justice, and strengthen Pennsylvania’s clean energy, commercial and industrial sectors,” Gov. Wolf said. “I want to thank Senator Comitta and Representative Herrin for introducing legislation to make those investments a reality.”

The Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (DEP), at the direction of the governor, is currently taking steps through the regulatory process to participate in RGGI, a market-based collaboration among nearly a dozen Northeast and Mid-Atlantic states to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and combat climate change while generating economic growth.

Participating states implement RGGI through a regional cap-and-invest program involving CO2 emitting electric power plants. In order to show compliance with the cap, power plants must purchase a credit or “allowance,” for each ton of CO2 they emit.

These purchases are made at quarterly auctions conducted by RGGI. The proceeds from the auctions are allocated back to the participating states in proportion to the amount of carbon subject to regulation in each state.

Senate Bill 15 and House Bill 1565 would create funds to disperse proceeds that would be generated for Pennsylvania through RGGI auctions. Specifically, it would make targeted investments to support workers and communities affected by energy transition, invest in environmental justice communities, and further strengthen Pennsylvania’s growing clean energy, commercial, and industrial sectors.

“RGGI and Senate Bill15, the RGGI Investments Act, will set us on a path towards a clean energy future in Pennsylvania,” said Comitta. “This legislation will ensure that our communities can transition to clean and renewable jobs, invest in energy efficient programs, and uplift the health and wellbeing of all Pennsylvanians. With the threat of the climate crisis, the time to act is now. It is our duty to create a safe and healthy future for all generations.”

“Just last week, we have seen a coal mine close and a coal-fired electric generating plant close in Western Pennsylvania, and it’s clearer than ever the energy industry is changing forever – not due to government regulation, but to simple economic realities,” said Rep. Herrin. “With this RGGI plan, mechanisms would be in place to support these hard workers and communities with worker training programs and economic development opportunities. Pennsylvania has always been a leader in energy, and it’s time we truly embrace the future and start doing the right thing for the health of our families, for job growth, and for protecting our air and water. Joining the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative is our best path forward with other mid-Atlantic states, while still putting our people and communities first.”

“RGGI participation will undoubtedly have tangible health, environmental and economic benefits for all of Pennsylvania overall,” said DEP Secretary Patrick McDonnell. “One highly anticipated benefit, though, is how this program will elevate and uplift our state’s most distressed communities by investing funding from RGGI proceeds into them.”

The RGGI states have reduced power sector CO2 pollution by 45 percent since 2005, while the region’s per-capita GDP has continued to grow.

Through its first six years of existence, RGGI investments were found to return $2.31 billion in lifetime energy bill savings to more than 161,000 households and 6,000 businesses that participated in programs funded by RGGI proceeds, and to 1.5 million households and over 37,000 businesses that received direct bill assistance.

General Assembly Democrats, Local Leaders Across PA Call for Immediate Action on Toxic and Unsafe School Infrastructure

June 11, 2021

Statewide, PA − June 11, 2021 — As the projected state budget surplus surged to $3 billion and more than $7 billion in federal aid remains idled by inaction, Senate & House Democrats gathered in front of local schools across Pennsylvania on Friday to call for immediate release of funds to end the scourge of toxic and dilapidated school buildings in Pennsylvania.

Elected officials and local leaders in four different regions of the commonwealth talked about how widespread health and safety concerns affect school districts large and small across the commonwealth, where school infrastructure has caused illness and even death to those who are forced to occupy them every day.

“We are here to put an end to the excuses,” state Sen. Vincent Hughes, D-Philadelphia, Montgomery said outside the century-old Overbrook High School where students go without water in science labs and duck pieces falling from the auditorium ceiling. “It’s budget season and the annual excuses that have kept our children trapped in toxic schools are as old and worn as the schools themselves.  Enough.  We have the resources to end this embarrassment right now.”

Democrats are seeking immediate investment in schools across the Pennsylvania, one of only 22 states that has failed to remove lead from school drinking water and where infrastructure has been rated C- by the American Society of Civil Engineers.

Senate Democratic Leader Jay Costa, who spoke from Kelly Primary School in Wilkinsburg, said indiscriminate boundaries should not play a role in school quality.

“Something as simple and arbitrary as a zip code determines the quality of buildings and facilities a student will have to learn in,” he said.  “This isn’t right and it’s not equitable, but this year we have the opportunity to level the playing field. With $7 billion in federal funding and a $3 billion surplus, we can address aging infrastructure in every district in this state that needs it.”

Senate Democrats and Gov. Tom Wolf have been urging the General Assembly for years to protect students, teachers and staff with investments in our schools that would also create thousands of jobs.  Still, news outlets continue to report lead in drinking water, asbestos pollution, and even carbon monoxide dangers in Pennsylvania schools.

Sen. Carolyn Comitta, a member of the Senate Education Committee who spoke said investment of surplus and American Rescue Plan funding would be benefit both students and local economies.

“Every child deserves the opportunity to attend school in a classroom that is a safe, healthy, and productive environment for learning,” she said. “With significant ARP funding, we now have a golden opportunity to upgrade Pennsylvania’s school facilities and address problems like mold, asbestos, and lead that are hazardous to the health of students, young people, and teachers. We can fix our educational facilities, create jobs, and prioritize the recovery of both our economy and our schools in the process.”

Under the state constitution, Pennsylvania’s annual budget must be passed by June 30.

“The renovation of schools has been deferred for far too long,” said Sen. Art Haywood, who represents schools in both Philadelphia and Montgomery counties. Now is the time to clear the asbestos, mold, lead, and water. We must fix poor ventilation and other hazardous conditions.”

Sen. Tim Kearney gathered community leaders outside Penn Wood High School in Lansdowne.

“We cannot send our children into schools with overcrowded classrooms and broken heating, and expect them to thrive,” he said. “How can students succeed when their schools are failing? Thanks to a historic investment from the American Rescue Plan, we have a real opportunity to deliver on our promise to Pennsylvania’s children by giving schools the resources they need.”

Sen. Anthony Hardy Williams, who represents Southwest Philadelphia and parts of Delaware County, said students exposed to the neglect of their schools can have that reflected in their performance.

“We must invest money that is readily into school buildings across Pennsylvania. It is appalling that we continue to allow students to sit in classrooms, walk hallways, and drink from water fountains that may be contaminated with lead, asbestos, and numerous other dangerous toxins,” he said.  “How can we expect students to care about their education if they don’t feel like we are committing and investing to them and their learning environment? We need to fund our facilities and invest now in the students of Pennsylvania.”

Sen. John Kane, who spent decades as a union plumber, said he has seen first-hand the materials once used routinely on large building projects.

“I’m from the construction industry – I spent four decades there,” he said. “There are materials in these buildings that we have learned are dangerous and need to be replaced. And the longer we go without doing that, the more we’re putting our students, our teachers, and our school administrators at risk. It’s that simple. It’s time we all do our jobs to right this wrong.”

Sen. Sharif Street, whose North Philadelphia district is one of the least wealthy in Pennsylvania, said education funding is at the root of economic disparity.

“There has never been a better opportunity to fully and equally fund education in Pennsylvania. With $3 Billion in unprecedented budget surpluses, there is no greater priority than making sure our kids have the resources they need to succeed in rural and urban districts,” he said. “Property taxes, new business and even where people choose to start a family are all linked to education funding. Investing in our students will allow us to grow our economy, population and the next the next generation of Pennsylvania.”

Sen. Nikil Saval, also representing portions of Philadelphia, highlighted the opportunity presented by this year’s budget.

“Healthy communities, in which people of all ages have what they need to thrive, do not exist without healthy schools,” said Saval. “COVID has laid bare the dire conditions of school buildings throughout the state, but organizers, teachers, school administrators, parents, and children have fought long and hard to call attention to the urgent need to repair and update the crumbling infrastructure. We have an incredible opportunity, right now, to respond to their calls.” 

The newest member of the Pennsylvania Senate Democratic Caucus, Senator Marty Flynn, joined the press event from Scranton and represents portions of Lackawanna, Luzerne and Monroe counties.

“Now, more than ever, COVID-19 has shown the need for removing all known health hazards from our classrooms as well as providing proper ventilation systems. An unhealthy learning environment leads to overcrowded classrooms and long-term health issues for students and educators. Our six neighboring states all have existing programs to deal with health and safety hazards in their public school buildings. There is no reason Pennsylvanians can’t move to protect our students in the same way,” said Senator Marty Flynn. “In the past, opponents of fair funding have claimed that more money for broken schools means less money for other schools.  The ARP funding eliminates that excuse.  The money is there. We have an opportunity to do the right thing now.”

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Wolf Administration Improves Access To Pennsylvania Senior Food Box Program, Encourages Enrollment

May 19, 2021

Phoenixville, PA – Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding and Aging Secretary Robert Torres today joined seniors at Kings Terrace to announce steps to increase access to Pennsylvania’s Senior Food Boxes, a supplemental food program available free to lower income seniors. Giving the program a new name and removing proof of income requirements are among the barriers to participation the state is removing, with the goal of encouraging seniors to take advantage of the program.

Formally known as Commodity Supplemental Food Program, the program previously required seniors to provide documented proof of their income when they applied to receive a food box. The new procedure requires only a statement of income. 

“We want to take hunger off the table for Pennsylvania’s seniors. They shouldn’t be worrying about whether to eat or pay for utilities and prescriptions,” said Redding. “They’ve supported their families or communities for a lifetime, and we want to support them now.

“This is why we’ve removed income verification as a requirement for the Senior Food Box, we want it to be as easy as possible to receive. So now, just indicate on the application form that you are eligible for help and you’ll receive it,” added Redding.

The Pennsylvania Senior Food Box is a product of the federally funded Commodity Supplemental Food Program. It works to improve the health of low-income seniors by providing a supplement to groceries of a variety of nutritious, shelf-stable products including shelf-stable fluid milk, juice, ready-to-eat cereal, rice, pasta, dry beans, peanut butter, canned meat, poultry, or fish, and canned fruits and vegetables. The Senior Food Box is a perfect supplement to other food assistance programs in Pennsylvania such as the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and the Pennsylvania Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program, which provides seniors with fresh, Pennsylvania-grown fruits and vegetables from summer through fall.

More than 300,000 Pennsylvania seniors are eligible for the Pennsylvania Senior Food Box, but only about 35,000 are enrolled to receive it this year. Seniors often face barriers to access for food assistance programs such as mobility, technology, and stigma. This food box program aims to overcome those barriers by being available for drop off or drive through in addition to pick up and, now, by reducing stigma and red tape with the removal of income verification requirements.

“Supporting older adults with the nutritious foods they need requires us to understand the challenges they face in their daily lives and provide options to overcome these challenges. We want seniors to have sufficient food and a stable meal routine that enables good health, independence and a positive quality of life,” said Aging Secretary Robert Torres. “I am pleased to support the Department of Agriculture’s efforts to make this important food assistance program more accessible, and I urge eligible seniors to take advantage of it through the many options available.”

Food insecurity and hunger can have harmful impacts on the health and well-being of older adults. Poor food intake can cause nutrition deficiencies that increase disease risk or worsen existing conditions. Consuming fewer calories and nutrients can also decrease independence and the ability to remain home without assistance.

State Senator Carolyn Comitta, member of the Senate Agriculture and Rural Affairs Committee and supporter of the Chester County Food Bank, joined Redding and Torres at Kings Terrace.

“It’s vital that senior citizens can easily access nutritious food to help ensure their health, well-being, independence, and happiness,” said Comitta. “This program is another tool we have to combat hunger among seniors. Seniors should know that food boxes are readily available and safely accessible in their communities.”

Pennsylvania’s Senior Food Box Program is administered on behalf of the Department of Agriculture by Hunger-Free Pennsylvania through their network of 17 food banks serving all 67 counties. Once signed up, eligible seniors can choose to receive their monthly box via pick up, drive-through, or delivery from a program partner including senior apartment complexes, senior community centers, and food pantries.

“Seniors are the greatest generation. They survived the Great Depression of the ’30’s, World War II, and the Korean War,” said executive director of Hunger-Free Pennsylvania Sheila Christopher. “Now, hundreds of thousands find themselves without enough food on their table. The PA Senior Food Box is available to help. Help us help them.”

The Senior Food Box is available for anyone age 60 or above whose household income is at or below 150 percent of the U.S. poverty level. That totals $16,744 annually for a household of one, or $22,646 for a household of two.

To apply, seniors may call 800-468-2433 to be directed to the regional food bank distributing the Senior Food Box in their county. Or go online at agriculture.pa.gov/seniorfoodbox and fill out the Senior Food Box Application Form.

Exton-Based Company Awarded $45,000 in State Funding to Provide Computer Training for Job Seekers

April 30, 2021

WEST CHESTER (April 30, 2021) – A local program that provides computer skills training to help residents prepare for and connect with new jobs will receive $45,000 in state funding.

Full Circle Computing, an Exton-based company that provides computer and career training, will use the funds to teach digital literacy skills to job-seekers, particularly those without home access to computers or the Internet.

“In today’s economy, digital skills and digital literacy can literally make or break a candidate’s job search, not to mention their long-term career success. From finding prospective opportunities to crafting strong online applications, job seekers must be prepared to navigate the online job market,” state Senator Carolyn Comitta said. “Ongoing investments, like this, will help bridge the digital divide and provide enhanced access to employment opportunities across Chester County and Pennsylvania.”

The program, developed in conjunction with the Chester County Workforce Development Board, will focus on preparing Chester County’s most affected populations for success in job searches, finding employment opportunities, digital citizenship, and digital navigation. It will also offer basic technology and PC skills, including Microsoft Office training.

“Ensuring everyone is digitally literate is important not only in rebuilding our economy, but in improving the lives of everyone in Chester County and beyond. This funding is a boon to the community,” said state Rep. Kristine Howard.

The funds come through the Pennsylvania Department of Labor and Industry’s Digital Literacy and Workforce Development Grant program,  which supports programs to promote digital literacy skills for people looking for work, including the ability to search and apply for online jobs, upload and submit a résumé via email, and the ability to develop and maintain a professional profile on networking sites.

Denean Williams, Managing Director, Chief Financial Officer of Full Circle Computing, thanked the Chester County Workforce Development Board and the Pennsylvania Department of Labor and Industry for supporting the program.

“Our role here is to provide a one-stop-shop for training solutions that improve business processes and career readiness,” Williams said. “To deliver those services, we work closely with local workforce development professionals and state agency partners to ensure that the customized, hands-on computer programs we provide help meet local employer’s needs.”

Pat Bokovitz, Director, Chester County Workforce Development Board said, “I am very appreciative of the support from the PA Department of Labor and Industry’s Deputy Secretary for Workforce, Sheila Ireland.  Full Circle Computing will make a big difference with this Digital Literacy funding.”

The grant awarded to Full Circle Computing comes as part of more than $1.3 million in state funding awarded to 32 organizations statewide to support digital literacy. 

“Pennsylvania employers need workers with the skills to navigate the new economy emerging in the wake of the global COVID-19 pandemic,” said Labor & Industry (L&I) Acting Secretary Jennifer Berrier. “The Digital Literacy and Workforce Development Grants will help ensure that workers develop the basic digital skills they need to succeed when applying for jobs and performing essential job duties that will be required of them in their new careers.”

L&I Deputy Secretary for Workforce Development Sheila Ireland visited Full Circle Computer in Exton to announce the funding.

“As Pennsylvania deals with the increased demand for employees to be able to telework, we must ensure that employees can effectively navigate the technology platforms used in the workplace,” Ireland said. “These grants support the Wolf Administration’s goal to prepare individuals for job searching and emerging employment opportunities, particularly in communities with limited broadband access, and to help job seekers obtain employment with family-sustaining wages.”

Comitta, Herrin Announce $175K in CFA Act 13 Funds for Inclusive, ADA-Compliant Playground in Everhart Park

April 23, 2021

WEST CHESTER, April 22 –  State Senator Carolyn Comitta and state Representative Dianne Herrin today announced that West Chester Borough will be the recipient of a total of $175,000 in Commonwealth Financial Authority (CFA) Act 13 funds. The funds will be used to upgrade the park’s playground.

Hillsdale Elementary School students designed this new playground for their peers during a workshop conceived by Friends of Everhart Park and facilitated by Play by Design, a playground design firm. “These young designers have ensured every child will feel welcome,” said Rep. Herrin. “A public park should be a place for inclusion, community, and togetherness, and this project really hits the mark. It promises to be a magical place where all children can unleash their imaginations, and families can come together to simply celebrate life. We are grateful for this generous award.”

This project includes the purchase and installation of new ADA-compliant equipment so all children can access the new playground – including a treehouse and six slides, a double-wide ramp and transfer stations for access, a ninja challenge course with ADA-accessible bars and rings, a wheelchair-accessible merry-go-round and swings, a braille activity panel, an accessible pirate ship, storefront panels, and natural materials for a nature play area. In addition, ADA-compliant wood fiber and safety surfaces will be installed for better wheelchair mobility.

“Everhart Park’s new playground is a project that is truly by, of, and for all children. I am grateful to all of those who are working together to make it a reality, including the Friends of Everhart Park, West Chester Borough Parks and Recreation, and the many professionals who have volunteered their time, support, and expertise,” Comitta said. “This park holds a special place in my heart. With these improvements, I have no doubt it will do the same for many children and families for years to come.”

The CFA was established in 2004 as an independent agency of the Department of Community and Economic Development to administer Pennsylvania’s economic stimulus packages. The CFA holds fiduciary responsibility over the funding of programs and investments in Pennsylvania’s economic growth. Unique among state agencies in structure and scope, the CFA consists of seven board members: four legislative appointees and the secretaries of DCED, the Office of the Budget and Department of Banking and Securities.

Act 13 of 2012 establishes the Marcellus Legacy Fund and allocates funds to the CFA for planning, acquisition, development, rehabilitation and repair of greenways, recreational trails, open space, parks and beautification projects using the Greenways, Trails and Recreation Program.

Comitta, Williams Announce $650,000 for Coatesville Train Station Parking Facility

April 21, 2021

WEST CHESTER (April 21, 2021) – Plans to build a parking and transportation facility adjacent to the new Coatesville train station received another boost in state funding today, state Senator Carolyn Comitta and state Rep. Dan Williams announced.

The Redevelopment Authority (RDA) of the City of Coatesville was awarded $650,000 in state funding to support the project, which calls for constructing a multimodal commuter parking facility on Fleetwood Street to serve rail riders others at the new train station.

“Investments in Coatesville’s transportation infrastructure will pay dividends in the economic success of the city and economic opportunities for its residents,” Comitta said. “Pairing the new train station with this parking and transportation facility will make Coatesville a true multi-modal transit hub. With more commuters, more rail riders, and more visitors come more customers, more jobs, and more investment dollars.”

“This grant will provide much needed funding for a safe, well-lit parking garage that is a key component of the new Amtrak/Septa station project here in Coatesville,” Williams said. “This new station will provide the Coatesville area with the transportation needs it has long deserved, and I’m honored to do whatever I can to help move this project forward so that Coatesville truly rises.”

The multi-level 175,000 square foot parking facility is key to the success of the train station, which currently offers Amtrak service but is expected to provide SEPTA Regional Rail service in the future. 

The facility will also feature bus transportation integration, covered waiting shelters, bike racks, ample lighting, wayfinding signage, and nearly 500 parking spaces to support SEPTA, Amtrak, and Link and Kraft Bus transportation services

The Coatesville RDA is now working with the City to construct the facility to support the train station, widely considered a lynchpin of the city’s ongoing revitalization plans and strategic economic development vision.

The funding, approved today by the Commonwealth Finance Authority, comes through Act 89 of 2013, Pennsylvania’s Comprehensive Transportation Funding Plan, which increased transit funding and established dedicated multimodal funding for aviation, passenger rail, rail freight, port, and bicycle-pedestrian projects.

Earlier this year, Comitta and Williams announced a $1 million Pennsylvania Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program (RACP) to support the parking facility, which comes with a total estimated price tag of more than $10 million. In addition, the Chester County Revitalization Program has committed $1 million and significant funds are also pending from the Coatesville RDA.

Comitta, Shusterman Announce $337,500 in State Funding for Phoenixville Walking Bridge and Road Improvements

April 21, 2021

WEST CHESTER (April 21, 2021) –Two projects that will enhance access to the Schuylkill River Trail in Phoenixville will receive $337,5000 in total state funding, state Senator Carolyn Comitta and state Rep. Melissa Shusterman announced today.

The funding, approved today by the Commonwealth Finance Authority, will support two projects:

• $250,000 for the Mowere Road Realignment and Reconstruction Project – The Borough of Phoenixville plans to repair and rebuild Mowere Road (locally known as West High Street) from St. Mary’s Street to Northridge Drive. This project will provide a safer alternative primary route in Phoenixville’s northside area and a safer street crossing and pedestrian connection to the Schuylkill River Trail and the borough’s downtown. The realignment of the travel lanes will result in safer road conditions for vehicular traffic allowing for better line-of-sight for oncoming traffic, as well as for trail users at the trail crossing. The improvements also call for addressing the impacts of stormwater runoff on the road through the installation of a new stormwater management system. In addition, plans call for new guide rails, fencing, striping, and trail crossing signs, constructing a new subbase, base course and wearing course, curbs, sidewalks, speed table, and ADA curb ramps to be added.

• $87,500 for the French Creek Walking Bridge –The Borough of Phoenixville plans to install a new 213-foot span pedestrian walking bridge over the French Creek to expand and improve access to the existing Schuylkill River Trail. The project will create a more convenient and safer pathway for pedestrians and cyclists to connect to both sides of the Schuylkill River Trail. The walking bridge will be constructed to include ADA-compliant decking, protective fence, and handrails. The fabricated bridge will be delivered in 5 sections and then assembled at the project site.

“One of the reasons why Phoenixville’s revitalization is a national success story is because the borough has done such a great job of incorporating trails and natural spaces into its historic downtown business district,” Comitta said. “These investments will build on that success while providing more safe, convenient, and easily accessible opportunities to enjoy the outdoors and everything Phoenixville and the Schuylkill River Trail has to offer.”

Funding for the projects comes through two state grant programs.

The Mowere Road Project grant comes through PennDOT’s Multimodal Transportation Fund, a program intended to provide financial assistance to municipalities, councils of governments, businesses, economic development organizations, and others to improve transportation assets that enhance communities, pedestrian safety, and transit revitalization. The fund was created by Act 89 of 2013, Pennsylvania’s Comprehensive Transportation Funding Plan, which increased transit funding and established dedicated multimodal funding for aviation, passenger rail, rail freight, port, and bicycle-pedestrian projects. The estimated total cost for the Mowere Road project is $1,039,001 with the borough committing $311,701.

“The Multimodal Transportation Fund allows communities to rehabilitate and fortify their existing infrastructure systems. Whether you depend on sidewalks and adequate lighting for safe travel on foot, or you catch the train every morning, reliable methods of transportation are often the key to success in our everyday lives. I am pleased to see this funding awarded to our communities,” Shusterman said.

The French Creek Walking Bridge grant comes through the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development’s Greenways, Trails, and Recreation Program (GTRP). It is funded by the Marcellus Legacy Fund, created by Act 13 of 2012, to provide for planning, acquisition, development, rehabilitation and repair of greenways, recreational trails, open space, parks, and beautification projects. The estimated total project cost for the French Creek Walking Bridge is $502,7675 with the borough committing $252,675.

“Many of our constituents count on our parks and green spaces for exercise, leisure, and a safe place to gather with friends and loved ones, especially during this pandemic. It is critical that we uphold the beauty and functionality of these spaces in order to serve our communities. I believe funding from GTRP program will go a long way toward preserving and further developing our beloved outdoor spaces,” Shusterman said.

Comitta said she looks forward to the completion of both projects.

“As we’ve learned during the pandemic, outdoor spaces are key to the health and well-being of our communities,” she added. “Places to exercise, enjoy a walk, or simply take in the natural scenery add to our innate quality of life in Phoenixville and Chester County.”

More information on DCED and state grants can be found online: https://dced.pa.gov/

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Comitta Releases Statement on Conviction in Murder of George Floyd

April 20, 2021

State Senator Carolyn Comitta today released the following statement upon the conviction of former Minneapolis Police Officer Derek Chauvin in the murder of George Floyd:

Comitta, Williams Announce $1.5 Million to Repair, Reopen Wagontown Road

April 16, 2021

WEST CHESTER (April 16, 2021) – Valley Township will receive $1.5 million in state funding to repair and reopen Wagontown Road, state Senator Carolyn Comitta and state Representative Dan Williams announced today.

The project, funded through PennDOT’s Multimodal Transportation Fund, calls for reconstructing a collapsed portion of Wagontown Road, including an approximate 400-foot concrete retaining wall and associated drainage and paving improvements.

The project, which is estimated to cost $2.1 million in total, will result in reopening Wagontown Road to safely restore vehicular connectivity.

“This is an important investment to reopen the road, reduce traffic congestion, and help drive economic growth in Valley and the surrounding region,” Comitta said. “I look forward to continuing to work with local municipalities and my legislative colleagues to support the transportation infrastructure needs of communities like Valley Township and others across Chester County.

“This $1.5 million infrastructure grant will help rebuild a portion of Wagontown Road, making it possible to reopen the road to motorists,” Williams said. “This investment will help improve the local economy by making travel more accessible in the area, increasing motorist and pedestrian safety, and decreasing environmental impacts on the road. I’m very glad that this project can now move forward to completion thanks to this grant.”

PennDOT’s Multimodal Transportation Fund provides grants to ensure that a safe and reliable system of transportation is available to the residents of this commonwealth. The program is intended to provide financial assistance to municipalities, councils of governments, businesses, economic development organizations, public transportation agencies, rail freight, passenger rail, and ports in order to improve transportation assets that enhance communities, pedestrian safety, and transit revitalization. 

PennDOT evaluated the applications and made selections based on criteria such as safety benefits, regional economic conditions, the technical and financial feasibility, job creation, energy efficiency, and operational sustainability. 

“Investing in our communities continues to be critical to moving the economy forward in 2021,” PennDOT Secretary Yassmin Gramian said. “Making roadways more accessible for all modes of travel assures that we are making continued business connections for the future and keeps transportation an integral part of daily living.”   

The Wagontown Road project comes as part of four transportation projects in Chester County set to receive more than $6.2 million in support through PennDOT’s Multimodal Transportation Fund.

Funding for these projects comes through Act 89 of 2013, Pennsylvania’s Comprehensive Transportation Funding Plan, which increased transit funding and established dedicated multimodal funding for aviation, passenger rail, rail freight, port, and bicycle-pedestrian projects.

Additional multimodal funds awarded to highway and bridge projects in Chester County were $2.19 million to Kennett Township, $1.69 million for West Brandywine Township, and $824,500 for West Nottingham Township.

Statewide, 43 highway, bridge, rail, and bike and pedestrian projects in 21 counties were selected for $45.9 million in total grant awards in this round of funding.

The next round of Multimodal grant applications will open in September 2021. For more information about the program, visit www.penndot.gov and click on “Multimodal Program” under the “Projects & Programs” button.

Comitta, Lawrence Announce $842,000 in Funding for Nottingham Intersection Improvements

April 16, 2021

WEST CHESTER (April 16, 2021) – West Nottingham Township will receive $842,000 in state funding to support important improvements at the intersection of Pennsylvania Route 272 and Baltimore Pike, state Senator Carolyn Comitta and state Representative John Lawrence announced today.

The project, which is funded through PennDOT’s Multimodal Transportation Fund, calls for upgrading the main signalized intersection of Route 272 (Christine Road) and Baltimore Pike in Nottingham, including adding a left-turn lane for eastbound Route 272 and a right-turn lane for southbound Baltimore Pike.  

“Investments in our transportation infrastructure and key intersections, like this one, are important to both enhancing safety on our roadways and driving economic growth in our region,” Comitta said. “I look forward to continuing to work with local municipalities and my legislative colleagues to support the needs of communities like West Nottingham and others across Chester County.”

“This intersection is a crossroads of Southwestern Chester County, and it hasn’t seen major improvement for decades,” said  Lawrence.  “For the last few years, I’ve worked with the township supervisors, local property owners, and other elected officials to help make the Nottingham village intersection project a reality, and today’s announcement is a culmination of this team-based approach.  Once completed, the improved intersection will serve the community for many years to come.”

“West Nottingham Township is grateful for the continued support of our elected officials in helping to move this project forward,” said Tiffany Bell, Chair of the West Nottingham Township Board of Supervisors. “Improvements in Nottingham village have been a priority for many years, and this significant funding will help take the intersection project from the drawing board to reality for our community.”

The nearly $1.2 million West Nottingham intersection project comes as part of four transportation projects in Chester County set to receive more than $6.2 million in support through PennDOT’s Multimodal Transportation Fund grant program.  

The program is intended to provide financial assistance to municipalities, councils of governments, businesses, economic development organizations, public transportation agencies, rail freight, passenger rail, and ports in order to improve transportation assets that enhance communities, pedestrian safety, and transit revitalization. 

PennDOT evaluated the applications and made selections based on criteria such as safety benefits, regional economic conditions, the technical and financial feasibility, job creation, energy efficiency, and operational sustainability.

“Investing in our communities continues to be critical to moving the economy forward in 2021,” PennDOT Secretary Yassmin Gramian said. “Making roadways more accessible for all modes of travel assures that we are making continued business connections for the future and keeps transportation an integral part of daily living.”   

Additional multimodal funds awarded to highway and bridge projects in Chester County were $2.19 million to Kennett Township, $1.69 million for West Brandywine Township and $1.5 million for Valley Township.  

Funding for these projects comes through Act 89 of 2013, Pennsylvania’s Comprehensive Transportation Funding Plan, which increased transit funding and established dedicated multimodal funding for aviation, passenger rail, rail freight, port, and bicycle-pedestrian projects.

The next round of Multimodal grant applications will open in September 2021. For more information about the program, visit www.penndot.gov. 

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American Mushroom Institute Awarded $40,000 in State Grant Funding

April 15, 2021

WEST CHESTER (April 15, 2021) – An important program to promote the nutritional, culinary, and health benefits of Pennsylvania-grown mushrooms will receive $40,000 in state grant funding through the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture, state Senator Carolyn Comitta and state Representative Christina Sappey announced today.

The American Mushroom Institute (AMI), the leading national trade association representing the growers, processors, and marketers of cultivated mushrooms in the United States, will receive the matching funds for the Mushroom Farmers of Pennsylvania’s “Eating Better to Build Back Better” program.

This program focuses on mushroom culinary properties and health benefits, including naturally occurring vitamin D. It will also promote contributions to soil health and carbon sequestration.

“Local farms are an important part of our economy and locally grown agricultural products, like fresh mushrooms, can be the best part of any meal,” Comitta, who serves on the Senate Agriculture and Rural Affairs Committee, said. “As we continue to work to advance our economic recovery, these funds will support efforts to promote the value of local farming and homegrown crops.”  

 “The mushroom industry is one of Pennsylvania’s largest, with an economic impact of about $1.1 billion,” said Sappey, who serves on the House Agriculture and Rural Affairs Committee. “We want to highlight these family-owned and operated farms and all of the ways this healthy and valuable crop can be used in food.”

The funding comes through the Pennsylvania Agricultural Product Promotion, Education and Export Promotion Matching Grant, a program within the 2020-21 state budget. The department’s Bureau of Market Development offers the grant to encourage and maximize the promotion of Pennsylvania-produced agricultural products.

The AMI grant project was one of 16 across the Commonwealth to be awarded $300,000 in total state matching funds to increase consumer awareness of Pennsylvania agriculture products and market opportunities for agriculture producers.

“With so many appealing products produced in Pennsylvania, consumers don’t have to look far to find fresh, healthy choices close to home,”  Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding said. “When aware of the options, consumers are more likely to choose local products. Promoting the story behind the food is a compelling way to attract consumers to Pennsylvania products. Once they make that first purchase, it is natural for them to become repeat customers.”

Non-profit organizations based in 11 counties received matching funds for projects, many of which have a regional or statewide focus. The department prioritized projects aligned to COVID-19 recovery.

Southeastern Pennsylvania is known as the Mushroom Capital of the World.  Mushroom farms, many of them family-owned, have been growing mushrooms here for more than 120 years.

Pennsylvania continues to lead the country in mushroom growing. Today, more than 60 percent of all mushrooms produced in the U.S. are grown in Kennett Square, southern Chester County, and the surrounding region, according to the American Mushroom Institute, headquartered in Avondale. In 2020, Agaricus mushroom volume of sales totaled 796 million pounds, with Pennsylvania accounting for 66 percent of the total.

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