Monroe County News

State Representative Jack Rader announced that nearly $2.2 million in state grants have been allocated for projects in the 176th Legislative District. The funding will support two school energy-saving initiatives and the renovation of a historic bridge.

The Monroe County Industrial Development Authority received $750,975 to renovate the Stone Arch Bridge in Eldred Township. Built in the 1860s, this bridge is a central feature of Kunkletown village. Rader expressed hope that it could become "the heart of a larger business district in the future." This grant was provided through the Local Share Account program, which allocates gaming revenue for community and economic development.

The Pleasant Valley School District was awarded $1 million to upgrade its high school's HVAC system, exterior windows, and lighting. Additionally, Pocono Mountain School District received $416,250 to replace old water heating systems at several schools. Rader emphasized that these projects aim to improve building systems that are currently "in very poor condition" while also providing cost savings for taxpayers.

These educational grants were made available through the Public School Facility Improvement Grant Program. All grants were approved by the Commonwealth Financing Authority, an independent agency responsible for managing Pennsylvania's economic growth funding.