More than $600,000 in grants have been approved for projects in Bethel Park and Upper St. Clair Township, according to an announcement from Rep. Natalie Mihalek (R-Allegheny/Washington). The funding comes from the Allegheny Gaming Economic Development Tourism Fund (GEDTF).
Mihalek stated, “Projects like these are tangible and worthwhile investments that improve neighborhoods, and exactly the investments that Harrisburg can and should be delivering on. Both projects involve significant community hubs that also lure visitors who then patronize our local businesses, so it makes sense that grant dollars are invested this way.”
In Upper St. Clair, Gilfillan Farm will receive just over $450,000 for renovations such as removing two cisterns, masonry repairs, utility upgrades, and excavation work. The farm is managed by the Historical Society of Upper St. Clair and serves educational and historical purposes.
Bethel Park’s Millenium Park has been awarded more than $150,000 for a new band shell project. This initiative includes installing electricity connections and purchasing audio-visual equipment to support concerts and other community events.
The GEDTF program was created under Act 71 of 2004 to fund economic development projects using gaming revenues rather than taxpayer money from the General Fund. Although initially set to end in 2019, Act 42 of 2017 extended the program for another decade.
