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| FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE |
| State Rep. Jaret Gibbons |
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Gibbons: Ellwood City project can move forward
with latest $500,000 in state funding
HARRISBURG, July 22 – State Rep. Jaret Gibbons, D-Beaver/Butler/Lawrence, announced today that the last of the state funding has been released for Ellwood City's $2.4 million downtown revitalization project, enabling the project to move forward.
This afternoon, the governor released $500,000 in Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program funding for the Community Plaza project. While the funding was secured by Gibbons late last year, the governor must authorize the release of RACP funds.
"This is what we were waiting for. This grant finally will allow the city to bid out the project and begin construction this year," Gibbons said. "Now we can bring to fruition our downtown community hub that has the ability to improve the quality of life for residents, while helping businesses expand and create jobs, and increase property values."
The $2.4 million project will create a community plaza in the heart of Ellwood City that incorporates a permanent farmers' market and stage for outdoor performances in all seasons. The plaza will connect the municipal lot and Lawrence Avenue businesses district.
RACP provides funding for capital improvement projects, and the competitive grants must be matched by private and non-state funds.
Gibbons said the project has been a community effort with the borough of Ellwood City, Ellwood City Revitalization, community leaders and the state.