Harkins, Merski: Over $2.9M secured to bolster Erie community’s infrastructure, public services
Rep. Patrick J. Harkins December 18, 2025 | 3:02 PM
HARRISBURG, Dec. 18 – More than $2.9 million in funding from the Commonwealth Financing Authority will help enhance local infrastructure and public services, state Reps. Pat Harkins and Bob Merski, both D-Erie, announced today.
This significant investment will support various projects designed to improve the quality of life for all residents and ensure the Erie area’s continued growth and development.
“This investment reflects our commitment to making targeted improvements that benefit residents across Erie,” Harkins said. “From safer roads and modern community venues to expanded water service and accessible recreation, these projects will deliver tangible results for our neighborhoods for years to come.”
Merski said, “This grant funding is a major step forward in addressing long-standing needs and building capacity for local governments and institutions. I’m proud to partner with our municipal leaders to secure funding that improves safety, accessibility and quality of life for our constituents.”
The funding includes:
- $1,000,000 to the Erie County Redevelopment Authority/Gannon University for a 3,000-square-foot CLIA-certified medical laboratory in the iHACK building.
- $400,000 to Erie City Water Authority for the Greene & Millcreek Water System Expansion (Phase 2) to extend water service and support regional growth.
- $346,250 to Harborcreek Township for the purchase of a Mack Granite dump truck and plow to support year-round municipal operations.
- $300,000 to Erie City Water Authority for the Clark Road Water Main Extension to provide public water service to new customers and a community park.
- $250,000 to Wesleyville Borough for the Euclid Boulevard Reconstruction Project to fully rebuild the roadway and upgrade ADA curb ramps and crosswalks.
- $205,474 to the City of Erie for a new street-cleaner screener with hopper to meet DEP recycling standards and improve debris processing.
- $184,500 to Mercy Center for Women to convert the Holy Rosary Rectory into transitional housing with wraparound services.
- $122,250 to Lawrence Park Township for a new leaf vacuum to replace aging equipment.
- $100,000 to Erie County for H.O. Hirt Auditorium renovations to modernize AV, seating, flooring and electrical systems.
- $80,151 to Harborcreek Township for Shades Beach accessibility improvements, including an EZ kayak launch and mobi-mats.
The funding was awarded through the Statewide Local Share Account, which is financed by gaming revenues. Under Act 71 of 2004, those gaming revenues are distributed to support projects that serve the public interest across Pennsylvania.