HARRISBURG – Sen. Pat Stefano (R-32) and Rep. Carl Walker Metzgar (R-69) today announced state grants totaling $265,000 have been awarded by the Commonwealth Financing Authority (CFA).
Meyersdale Borough will receive $225,000 to correct an eroded levee embankment that currently leaves a large portion of the borough’s flood control system unprotected from scour from the Casselman River during a high-water event.
“Safety is paramount, and this funding allows Meyersdale Borough to restore the flood control system and safeguard the homes, businesses and families who depend on it,” Stefano said.
The grant was awarded through the CFA’s Flood Mitigation Program, which funds projects authorized by a flood protection authority, the Department of Environmental Protection, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers or the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Natural Resources Conservation Service. Projects identified by a local government for flood mitigation are also eligible.
“These grants will play a significant role in Somerset County’s future by preserving our safety and way of life,” Metzgar said. “I am pleased to see the importance of these projects recognized and subsequently funded.”
Another $40,000 was allocated for the Remember Me Rose Garden to construct an amphitheater and stage to serve as a living tribute to the spirit of the men, women and children who died in the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks, specifically those aboard United Airlines Flight 93. The amphitheater will serve as a recreational venue for the Flight 93 National Memorial and will help fund the operating expenses of the rose garden.
“This project further advances Flight 93 National Memorial’s mission to preserve the memory of the brave individuals who tragically lost their lives while also creating a meaningful space for community events. The addition will help sustain the ongoing operations of the Rose Garden and ensure that future generations continue to honor and remember the sacrifices made on that fateful day,” Stefano said.
Funding for the amphitheater was awarded through the CFA’s Greenways, Trails and Recreation Program, which funds projects that include developments, rehabilitation and improvements to public parks, recreation areas, greenways, trails and river conservation.
All projects were funded through the CFA, which is an independent agency of the Department of Community and Economic Development that administers many of Pennsylvania’s economic development and community improvement programs.
CONTACT: Amanda Cuteri, (Stefano’s office), 717-787-7175
Nate Temple, (Metzgar’s office), 717-260-6396