Southwest Allegheny News

Rep. Jason Ortitay has announced the allocation of over $312,000 in grants from the Gaming Economic Development and Tourism Fund (GEDTF) for projects in McDonald and Oakdale boroughs. The GEDTF program funds projects that aim to promote development in Allegheny County through various improvements, including economic, infrastructure, community enhancements, job training, public safety, and public interest initiatives. These funds are sourced from taxes on slot machines in casinos.

Ortitay stated that "both of these projects will address local issues," expressing satisfaction with collaborating with Sen. Devlin Robinson to realize the Oakdale project. He described it as part of a comprehensive approach to mitigate flooding in Oakdale. Additionally, the McDonald project is set to enhance East End Park.

Specifically, McDonald will receive $120,000 for development and security upgrades at East End Park. Meanwhile, Oakdale's grant of $192,363 will fund riprap stone installations aimed at stabilizing the Clinton Avenue stream bank.

The 46th Legislative District covers South Fayette Township along with McDonald and Oakdale boroughs in Allegheny County. It also includes Cecil, Chartiers, Mt. Pleasant and North Strabane townships as well as Canonsburg and Houston boroughs in Washington County.

"Both of these projects will address local issues,” Ortitay said.

"I’m pleased to have been able to work with Sen. Devlin Robinson to make the Oakdale project a reality."

"This project is part of a multi-pronged approach to mitigate flooding in Oakdale."

"In addition, the McDonald project will improve East End Park."