At least $2.1 million in projects on tap for Alle-Kiski Valley communities

Safer crosswalks, energy-saving solar panels and improved sewer lines are planned for several Alle-Kiski Valley municipalities that will share in more than $2 million in state grants.

From Harrison to Blawnox, communities along the Allegheny River will benefit from the funding announced last week by state Rep. Mandy Steele, D-Fox Chapel.

Grants totaling $2.1 million were doled out through the Local Share Account program of the Commonwealth Financing Authority.

“We’re very happy about it,” said Fawn Township Secretary Pam Ponsart.

The township is slated to get about $171,000 to replace the roof and rehabilitate the parking lot of its municipal building.

“The parking lot is in bad need of repair,” Ponsart said.

The municipal building roof is also a top priority for the township this year. The metal roof is 50 years old and rusted.

“It leaks right into our meeting room,” Ponsart said.

“We haven’t received any paperwork yet, but we’re hoping to get it bid and done by the end of summer.”

Some of the other awards include:

• $500,000 for Brackenridge to build a five-door public works garage.

• $116,600 for Springdale Township to replace a waterline along Parkway Drive.

• $111,750 for Harrison to establish the trailhead of the Three Rivers Water Trail.

• $100,000 for Harmar to line and rehabilitate sanitary sewer lines in the Chapel Downs housing development.

• $81,875 for Blawnox to purchase a new truck with a snowplow attachment.

• $51,500 for Fox Chapel to install solar panels on its public works garage facility.

Steele, who was elected in November, called the funding desperately needed and said she would continue to lobby for more money to be funneled into the Valley.

“I fought hard for this funding because it’s important for the people in the 33rd District,” she said.