Guzman announces over $300,000 in investments for local projects
Funding going toward emergency services and more
Rep. Manuel Guzman March 18, 2026 | 10:50 AM
READING, March 18 – More than $300,000 in state investments will be going toward countywide and local projects, state Rep. Manuel Guzman announced.
Funding was approved through the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development’s Local Share Account, which distributes gaming revenues to support projects in the public interest.
Countywide, $150,000 was approved for the purchase and upfitting of a crime scene response vehicle to serve as the primary crime response vehicle in Berks County.
“I know that in times of crisis, such as responding to a crime scene, our first responders need the most up-to-date and functional equipment,” Guzman said. “This funding will help first responders reach the scene quickly, safely, and ready to react to any situation.”
In addition, the following projects will receive grant funding in Shillington Borough:
- $103,598 has been approved for the purchase of a new dump truck, plow and corresponding accessories for use in street plowing, salting, repairing existing sewer lines and delivering heavy materials.
- $20,164 has been approved to purchase a new mower with accessories package. The project will replace existing equipment that has reached the end of its useful life, with the new equipment to be used to maintain parks, pools, open spaces and other areas.
“I’m proud to have made the push for these projects that improve the quality of life in our communities,” Guzman said. “Keeping the streets of Shillington Borough safe to navigate in winter, and keeping its open spaces clean year-round, will maintain the borough’s beauty.”
In Cumru Township, $30,000 has been approved for the purchase of a police vehicle equipped with uplifts for a canine therapy unit. The township’s police department wants to expand its canine therapy program, having experienced success with their first therapy dog in cases such as missing children.
“I’m ecstatic that Cumru Township has been able to use its canine therapy program in a variety of positive ways, and I’m excited to see how the program will continue to expand with this funding,” Guzman said.