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Matzie: $140,000 awarded to help Ambridge Area School District bridge digital divide

(Oct 01, 2021) Rep. Robert Matzie

AMBRIDGE, Oct. 1 – More than $140,000 in grant funding will help close connectivity gaps for students in the Ambridge Area School District by ensuring all students have access to internet and technology resources, state Rep. Rob Matzie, D-Beaver/Allegheny, announced today. Matzie, D-Beaver/Allegheny, said the funding from the Emergency Connectivity Fund will help schools and libraries ensure students have equal access to tech tools that are so important for off-campus learning. “Digital access is key to helping reinforce what kids learn in the classroom, but for some, access to those tools is not a given,” Matzie said. “Securing this funding will help us close the digital divide and ensure all kids have the access they need to achieve, regardless of household income.” Matzie said the program will help schools and libraries cover costs associated with digital devices such as laptops, tablets, Wi-Fi hotspots, modems, routers and broadband connectivity purchases for off-campus use by students, educators and library patrons who currently lack sufficient access to broadband and connected devices. The funding is part of a package of $20 million in funding to school districts statewide under the Emergency Connectivity Fund, a temporary fund created through the American Rescue Plan and administered by the Federal Communications Commission. More about the awards is Read more

 

Matzie: Nearly $400,000 awarded to educate, protect Beaver County kids from opioid risks

(Sep 08, 2021) Rep. Robert Matzie

AMBRIDGE, Sept. 8 – More than $390,000 from the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency will keep Beaver County students learning about the risks of opioids and help families develop the skills to keep kids safe, state Rep. Rob Matzie announced today. Matzie, D-Beaver/Allegheny, said the funding includes $370,805 to Community Health Challenge of Southwestern Pennsylvania to continue the Beaver County Opioid Prevention Project – one of five pilot programs statewide that team counties with school districts, local nonprofits and the community. “The Beaver County programs are teaching students in the Aliquippa, New Brighton and Rochester Area school districts how to recognize and avoid the dangers of opioid abuse,” Matzie said. “The programs are also helping families develop skills to protect kids from the risks of substance abuse and other factors that can lead them into trouble. “The programs have already helped many students and families in our district over the past two years. Securing this funding will allow them to continue for another year.” Matzie said that a second grant of $22,313 to The Prevention Network will fund the Project Towards No Drug Abuse, which supports at-risk youth. Both grants were recommended by the PCCD’s Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention Committee and come from federal State Opioid Response funds. Read more

 

Matzie, Marshall and Quinn lead public hearing on solar energy in Pennsylvania

(Aug 26, 2021) Rep. Robert Matzie

HARRISBURG, Aug. 26 – As lawmakers continue searching for solutions on best energy practices, House Consumer Affairs Committee Democratic Chairman state Rep. Rob Matzie, D-Allegheny/Beaver, majority chairman state Rep. Jim Marshall, R-Beaver/Butler, and state Rep. Chris Quinn, R-Delaware, led a public hearing today on solar energy and its impacts in Pennsylvania from an economic, business and community perspective. “I’m on record in favor of an all-in energy portfolio for Pennsylvania,” Matzie said. “That includes renewables like solar. This is a great opportunity for members to get information on where we are and what is needed to get to that diverse and, in my judgment, necessary energy mix.” Held at the Penn State Brandywine Campus, here are the testifiers who participated today and provided valuable input: Scott Elias, Solar Energy Industries Association. Mark Haas, PECO Energy Co. Kathleen Robertson, Sol Systems. Katie Rever, IGS Energy. Joel Harrington, Enel North America. Brent Alderfer, Community Energy. Leslie Elder, Coalition for Community Solar Access. Tim Mills, program manager, Renewable Energy Division, ARM Group (Renewable Works for PA). “With solar energy rising in popularity for customers, it is critical to hear how it could benefit Read more

 

Matzie: More than $77,000 awarded to boost fresh fruits and vegetables for grade-schoolers

(Aug 04, 2021) Rep. Robert Matzie

AMBRIDGE, Aug. 4 – More Beaver County elementary school students will have access to fresh fruits and vegetables, thanks to $77,155 in grant funding awarded by the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Matzie, D-Beaver/Allegheny, said the funding awarded under the USDA’s Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program includes $36,140 to the Aliquippa School District, $20,800 to the Ambridge Area School District, and $20,215 to the Rochester Area School District. “Fresh, nutritious food helps kids learn,” Matzie said. “Securing this funding is going to allow school cafeterias to offer fresh produce to more grade-schoolers in our schools.” Matzie said the grants are part of a package of more than $7 million awarded to 288 elementary schools statewide under the FFVP. Funding priority was given to the schools with the highest rates of students eligible for free and reduced-price meals. More information about the grants is available here , and a full list of the schools receiving funding is available here . Read more

 

Matzie: Aliquippa secures more than $140,000 for blight removal project

(Aug 02, 2021) Rep. Robert Matzie

AMBRIDGE, Aug. 2 – A grant of $140,233 from the state Department of Community and Economic Development will allow the city of Aliquippa to clear The Bricks site in Plan 12 and prepare the site for future development. Matzie, D-Beaver/Allegheny, said the grant, awarded under the Keystone Communities Program, will fund the first steps of blight removal, demolition and preliminary site work. “The funding awarded today will allow Aliquippa to clear the overgrown, debris-ridden Bricks site located along Temple and Oliver streets in Plan 12 and prepare the site for development,” Matzie said. “In addition to blight removal, the grant will fund demolition of several structures and excavation and grading work. “Those projects will lay the groundwork for eventual construction of single-family homes, duplexes and townhomes, meeting the growing demand for workforce housing and drawing new and welcome residential and commercial activity to the area.” The Keystone Communities Program assists Pennsylvania’s core communities in achieving revitalization. More information about the grants is available here. Read more

 

Matzie urges DEP to deny Penn Energy petition to source water from Big Sewickley Creek

(Jul 19, 2021) Rep. Robert Matzie

AMBRIDGE, July 19 – State Rep. Rob Matzie, D-Beaver/Allegheny, has written to the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection urging it to deny Penn Energy’s request to withdraw water from Big Sewickley Creek. In a July 16 letter to DEP Secretary Patrick McDonnell, Matzie expressed his opposition to the permit application, which would allow Penn Energy to withdraw 3 million gallons of water daily from the creek. Read more

 

Marshall, Matzie, Browne commend Gov. Wolf signing bill to expand 5G technology

(Jul 01, 2021) Rep. Robert Matzie

HARRISBURG, July 1 – Gov. Tom Wolf signed House Bill 1621 into law, announced prime sponsor Rep. Jim Marshall, R-Beaver/Butler, co-sponsor Rep. Rob Matzie, D-Beaver/Allegheny, and Sen. Patrick Browne, R-16 th District. This increases access to 5G technology by deploying small wireless facilities, which could be as small as a backpack and attached to an existing utility pole. “While I know we still have work to do, I am truly hopeful this legislation will improve connectivity across the Commonwealth,” said Marshall, Republican chairman of the House Consumer Affairs Committee. “I greatly appreciate the hard work of Sens. Browne, Phillips-Hill, and Kane - along with their staff - to help Chairman Matzie and I create a law that we all can be proud of.” The Federal Communications Commission announced a $20.4 billion investment by establishing the Rural Digital Opportunity Fund. In December 2020, the FCC reported $368 million would be awarded to bidders to provide technology to nearly 185,000 Pennsylvanians. The bidding for the next auction is expected to begin in 2022. “If the past year has shown us anything, it’s that access to fast, reliable broadband is a necessity in practically every aspect of life,” said Matzie, Democratic chairman of the House Consumer Affairs Committee. “The technology is out there, but we needed a seamless plan to harness it. Our Read more

 

Matzie announces nearly $200,000 in fire, EMS grants

(Jun 29, 2021) Rep. Robert Matzie

AMBRIDGE, June 29 – Fire and EMS companies in the 16 th Legislative District were awarded $197,903 in grant funding to address a wide range of needs, from equipment, building repairs and training to replenishing pandemic-related expenses, state Rep. Rob Matzie announced today. Matzie, D-Beaver/Allegheny, said 15 fire and EMS companies are receiving grants from the Office of the State Fire Commissioner at a critical time. “The pandemic made working on the frontlines even more difficult than usual, as departments faced shortages while battling new risks and logistical problems,” Matzie said. “Securing this funding should ease a bit of the burden on our tireless first responders by ensuring they have the resources they need to stay safe.” Matzie said the following grants were awarded: Ambridge Borough Fire Department – Fire Company, $12,233. Ambridge Volunteer Fire Department – Fire Company, $12,411. Baden Volunteer Fire Department – Fire Company, $15,000. City of Aliquippa – Fire Company, $13,302. Conway Volunteer Fire Department – Fire Company, $12,946. Economy Volunteer Ambulance Service – EMS, $8,855 Economy Volunteer Firemens Association – Fire Company, $14,193. Freedom Volunteer Fire Department -- Fire Company, $11,520. Harmony Township Read more

 

Matzie: New budget holds the line on taxes, makes important investments

(Jun 25, 2021) Rep. Robert Matzie

HARRISBURG, June 25 – State Rep. Rob Matzie, D-Beaver/Allegheny, issued the following statement after passage of the Pennsylvania state budget. “Budgets are never easy. Finding common ground is often difficult. This particular budget was no different. There are some areas that came up short, but enough positives that I voted in its favor. “First and foremost, this budget is on time with no tax increase of any kind. “Equally as important is a large investment in education. Basic education, special education and early education all will see significant increases in funding. In addition, there is a new program called Level Up that brings additional dollars to our lowest income schools, benefiting several schools in my district. Colleges and job training programs will also be fully funded. “Other key highlights include nearly $40 million for a new Water Assistance Program that will help folks struggling with keeping the water turned on and nearly $300 million for nursing, assisted living and personal care homes. “This budget is not perfect, but it holds the line on state taxes, makes important investments and moves us closer to recovering from the pandemic.” Read more

 

Matzie Leads House in Opening Prayer

(Jun 25, 2021) Rep. Robert Matzie

Pa. state Rep. Rob Matzie led the House Chamber in the daily opening prayer. Matzie reflected on those who suffered this past year during the pandemic and prayed about cooperation as this year's budget season comes to a close. Read more

 

Matzie: $1.3 million awarded to boost affordable housing, fight homelessness, empower vulnerable residents

(Jun 10, 2021) Rep. Robert Matzie

AMBRIDGE, June 10 – New grant funding of $1.3 million will create affordable housing and other opportunities for Beaver and Allegheny county residents struggling with homelessness, substance use and other issues , state Rep. Rob Matzie, D-Beaver/Allegheny, announced today. Matzie said the funding – administered by the Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency through the Pennsylvania Housing Affordability and Rehabilitation Enhancement Fund – will go to area organizations serving the area’s most vulnerable residents. “Having a place to call home can provide new hope and a fresh start for those in our community who are struggling because of addiction, domestic violence and other hardships,” Matzie said. “Securing this funding will help them get back on their feet, and it comes at an important time, when the pandemic has made life more difficult for many of our most vulnerable residents.” Matzie said the projects funded include: Cornerstone of Beaver County – Emergency Shelter Renovation Project -- $200,000. Beaver County Commissioners – Home Modification Program -- $100,000. Beaver County – Rental and Utility Assistance -- $50,000. Willissae’s Agency for Vision and Empowerment for WAVE Housing Services -- $50,000. Allegheny County Department of Human Services – Mobility Counseling Read more

 

Matzie: $3.5 million awarded to strengthen Beaver, Allegheny county probation services, drug treatment, victim support programs

(Jun 09, 2021) Rep. Robert Matzie

AMBRIDGE, June 9 – State grants totaling more than $3.5 million will bolster Beaver and Allegheny county probation services, improve treatment and support for abuse victims, and fund opioid abuse education and overdose prevention programs, state Rep. Rob Matzie announced today. Matzie, D-Beaver/Allegheny, said some of the funding from the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency will fund rehabilitation programs that can reduce recidivism rates by offering treatment-based alternatives to jail time. “Good, quality probation services can play a huge role in steering offenders back on the path to productive lives,” Matzie said. “Securing this funding is going to strengthen Beaver County’s probation services and support sentencing alternatives like drug and alcohol treatment programs, which reduce recidivism rates by targeting the root causes of many crimes. Successful programs end up saving taxpayers in incarceration costs and add wage earners back to our economy. “Other funding will support treatment for domestic violence and sexual abuse victims who are struggling with substance use disorders to help them overcome addiction.” Matzie said the grants include the following: Beaver County $282,501 to Beaver County Commissioners in grant-in-aid funding to improve probation services. $149,693 to the Women’s Center of Beaver County to provide trauma-informed Read more

 

Matzie: Nearly $800,000 awarded to preserve historic sites in Beaver, Allegheny counties

(Jun 02, 2021) Rep. Robert Matzie

AMBRIDGE, June 2 – Grant funding of $783,535 from the Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission will support projects to preserve and rehabilitate historic sites in Beaver and Allegheny counties, state Rep. Rob Matzie, D-Beaver/Allegheny, announced today. Matzie, one of the PHMC commissioners who voted today to approve the grants, said they are part of a package of $2.3 million awarded under the Keystone Historic Preservation grant program to more than 50 projects statewide through a competitive selection process. “Historic sites teach us about our roots in ways textbooks never can, by allowing us to revisit places and retrace paths built by our ancestors,” Matzie said. “Here in Beaver County, part of the funding will lay the groundwork to rehabilitate the Old Economy Ambridge Bicentennial House – one of the first six houses built by the Harmony Society in 1824. Statewide, the grants are going to ensure similar unique landmarks are preserved for future generations.” Matzie said the grants to Beaver and Allegheny counties include the following: Beaver County Ambridge Historic District Economic Development Corp. - $17,950 New Brighton Historical Society - for Preservation Plan at the Irish-Townsend House - $25,000 Allegheny County Carnegie Library of Homestead - $100,000 City of Pittsburgh - $17,500 Frick Art Read more

 

Matzie: Nearly $237,000 secured to improve Aliquippa’s West End Franklin Avenue Gateway

(May 25, 2021) Rep. Robert Matzie

AMBRIDGE, May 25 – A $236,480 grant from the Commonwealth Financing Authority will fund a project to clear blight and improve the West End Franklin Avenue Gateway, state Rep. Rob Matzie, D-Beaver/Allegheny, announced today. Matzie said the grant to the Aliquippa Economic Development Corporation will fund demolition and construction work that will reshape the area by creating new green areas and residential spaces. “Securing this funding will allow the city to purchase and demolish seven to eight properties in the West End Franklin Avenue Gateway, with the land being offered to adjoining property owners for use as side yards or to prospective builders, in accordance with residential property resale guidelines,” Matzie said. “The grant will also fund rehabilitation of the sidewalk along the 1000 and 1100 blocks of Franklin Avenue, including replacement of access ramps and adjacent lawn restoration. “The project is going to give this section of the city a new face while generating jobs, increasing property values, and creating new living spaces that attract new residents. It’s also going to allow the city to build on other recent progress it has made on the path to renewal.” Matzie said the total project cost is $312,564, with the Aliquippa Economic Development Corporation providing $24,044 of matching funds. In December, Matzie secured a $1 Read more

 

Matzie: $25,000 secured to fund Beaver County ‘Heart and Soul’ projects

(Apr 30, 2021) Rep. Robert Matzie

AMBRIDGE, April 30 – Grants totaling $25,000 will fund Beaver County projects designed to ensure more residents have a say in community planning, state Rep. Rob Matzie, D-Beaver/Allegheny, announced today. Matzie said Ambridge and Rochester are each receiving a $12,500 grant to fund Heart and Soul projects in collaboration with the Pennsylvania Humanities Council and the Orton Family Foundation. “To be successful, community planning and development must be a collaborative effort that reflects the needs, desires and aspirations of all residents,” Matzie said. “Heart and Soul projects help make that happen by bringing residents to the table to share stories and experiences, ensuring that future development is based on a shared vision for the community. “Today’s funding is exciting because it’s going to help get more Ambridge and Rochester residents involved in that process.” Matzie said funding for the grants comes from the Municipal Assistance Program, which is administered by the state Department of Community and Economic Development. Program funding assists local governments with planning and management of services, resources and development. More about the program is available here. Read more

 

Matzie: More than $2 million secured to eliminate Aliquippa drinking water lead risk

(Apr 21, 2021) Rep. Robert Matzie

AMBRIDGE, April 21 – Grant funding of $2.04 million will allow Aliquippa to eliminate a potential lead risk to the city’s drinking water, state Rep. Rob Matzie, D-Beaver/Allegheny, announced today. Matzie said the funding from the Pennsylvania Infrastructure Investment Authority will enable the Municipal Water Authority of Aliquippa to replace 184 lead water service lines with copper lines, eliminating the threat of corroded lines leaching lead into the water supply. “People should not have to worry over the safety of their tap water,” Matzie said. “After testing last year showed elevated lead levels in a small number of samples, there was reason for concern. Securing this funding is going to eliminate that risk.” Read more

 

Matzie Leads House in Opening Prayer

(Apr 21, 2021) Rep. Robert Matzie

Pa. state Rep. Rob Matzie led the House Chamber in the daily opening prayer, and a reflection focusing on being your best self. Read more

 

Matzie: $750k secured for Beaver County transportation, recreation projects

(Apr 21, 2021) Rep. Robert Matzie

AMBRIDGE, April 21 -- Grant funding of $750,000 from the Commonwealth Financing Authority will help bring safer, smoother travel for Aliquippa residents and new recreational options for Ambridge families, state Rep. Rob Matzie, D-Beaver/Allegheny, announced today. Matzie said the funding includes a $500,000 grant under the CFA’s Multimodal Transportation Fund for major upgrades to Fifth Avenue in Aliquippa. “Securing this funding will fix the road and intersection along Fifth Avenue between Jefferson Street and Sheffield Avenue,” Matzie said. “There will be new sidewalks and ADA-accessible curb ramps, and other upgrades will improve stormwater management. “Aliquippa was recently recognized with a Governor’s Award for Local Government Excellence. Working in partnership with the city’s leaders – specifically Mayor Dwan Walker and Councilman Donald Walker – was crucial in securing this funding.” The total project cost is estimated at $1.5 million, and the city is requesting a waiver of the local matching requirement. Matzie said a second grant of $250,000 to the Borough of Ambridge under CFA’s Greenway, Trails and Recreation program will provide the remaining funding for a unique new playground. “The funding for Ambridge builds on last year’s money I secured from the Department of Conservation Read more

 

Expanding digital connection key for PA development, advancement

(Apr 01, 2021) Policy Committee

HARRISBURG, April 1 -- State Representative Rob Matzie, Democratic Chairman of the House Consumer Affairs Committee, led yesterday’s House Democratic Policy Committee on bridging the digital divide. The hearing is the third in a series this week focused on net neutrality and bridging the gap to improve future outcomes for educators, students, health care access and Pennsylvania businesses. “This hearing was a great cap on the weeks’ discussions on how we can make sure Pennsylvania is digitally connected. The last year has shown us that reliable internet, computers and phone help keep us learning, working, entertained, managing health and in touch with family and friends. I thank Chairman Matzie for leading the discussion and look forward to a public-private partnership that helps close the divide,” said Ryan Bizzarro, chairman of the Democratic Policy Committee. “Quick, reliable Internet access isn’t a luxury in today’s world – it’s a necessity,” said Matzie. “Those without it face major disadvantages when it comes to competing for jobs, accessing health and education services and connecting to state programs. I’m hosting this hearing because we need to develop solutions to bridge this digital divide now, before it threatens to disenfranchise more Pennsylvanians.” The committee heard testimony from Brian Barno, Broadband Cable Association of Pennsylvania; Joseph Glinka, government Read more

 

Matzie: District schools slated to receive more than $25 million to support continued learning

(Mar 30, 2021) Rep. Robert Matzie

AMBRIDGE, March 30 – Schools in the 16 th Legislative District are expected to receive $25.4 million in federal funding to ensure students and staff enjoy a safe and productive return to the classroom, state Rep. Rob Matzie announced today. Matzie, D-Beaver/Allegheny, said schools will be able to use the funding for a broad range of needs, from basic education, transportation and food services to program-based student supports. “Learning is a dynamic process, and a successful return to the classroom will involve more than simply replenishing supplies and resuming regular programs,” Matzie said. “Educators will need to assess student progress and address gaps in learning. Securing this funding will give schools the resources needed to ensure that all students – despite pandemic-related setbacks – are ready to move forward and thrive.” Matzie said the following allocations are expected: Aliquippa School District – $8.1 million. Ambridge Area School District – $4.6 million. Baden Academy Charter School – $1.8 million. Central Valley School District – $2.4 million. Freedom Area School District – $2.2 million. Hopewell Area School District – $2.1 million. Quaker Valley School District – $1.4 Read more

 

Matzie: $140,000 awarded to help Ambridge Area School District bridge digital divide
Oct 01, 2021

Matzie: Nearly $400,000 awarded to educate, protect Beaver County kids from opioid risks
Sep 08, 2021

Matzie, Marshall and Quinn lead public hearing on solar energy in Pennsylvania
Aug 26, 2021

Matzie: More than $77,000 awarded to boost fresh fruits and vegetables for grade-schoolers
Aug 04, 2021

Matzie: Aliquippa secures more than $140,000 for blight removal project
Aug 02, 2021

Matzie urges DEP to deny Penn Energy petition to source water from Big Sewickley Creek
Jul 19, 2021

Marshall, Matzie, Browne commend Gov. Wolf signing bill to expand 5G technology
Jul 01, 2021

Matzie announces nearly $200,000 in fire, EMS grants
Jun 29, 2021

Matzie: New budget holds the line on taxes, makes important investments
Jun 25, 2021

Matzie Leads House in Opening Prayer
Jun 25, 2021

Matzie: $1.3 million awarded to boost affordable housing, fight homelessness, empower vulnerable residents
Jun 10, 2021

Matzie: $3.5 million awarded to strengthen Beaver, Allegheny county probation services, drug treatment, victim support programs
Jun 09, 2021

Matzie: Nearly $800,000 awarded to preserve historic sites in Beaver, Allegheny counties
Jun 02, 2021

Matzie: Nearly $237,000 secured to improve Aliquippa’s West End Franklin Avenue Gateway
May 25, 2021

Matzie: $25,000 secured to fund Beaver County ‘Heart and Soul’ projects
Apr 30, 2021

Matzie: More than $2 million secured to eliminate Aliquippa drinking water lead risk
Apr 21, 2021

Matzie Leads House in Opening Prayer
Apr 21, 2021

Matzie: $750k secured for Beaver County transportation, recreation projects
Apr 21, 2021

Expanding digital connection key for PA development, advancement
Apr 01, 2021

Matzie: District schools slated to receive more than $25 million to support continued learning
Mar 30, 2021