Monroe County News

State Representative Jack Rader announced that nearly $2.2 million in state grants have been awarded for projects in the 176th Legislative District. The funding will be used for 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, the Stone Arch Bridge still marks the center of the village of Kunkletown and serves as a gathering place," said Rader. "The hope is that it will become the heart of a larger business district in the future." This grant was provided through the Local Share Account program, which allocates funds from gaming revenue to community and economic development projects.

In addition, Pleasant Valley School District was awarded $1 million to replace HVAC systems, exterior windows, and lighting at its high school. Pocono Mountain School District received $416,250 to update water heating systems at West Junior High School, West High School, Clear Run Intermediate School, and Clear Run Elementary School. "The focus of the school projects is to upgrade existing building systems that are in very poor condition and provide an efficient solution for the needs of students, faculty and staff while saving money for district taxpayers," noted Rader.

These school grants were made available through the Public School Facility Improvement Grant Program aimed at assisting public schools with eligible building projects. The Commonwealth Financing Authority approved these grants as part of its responsibility over Pennsylvania's economic growth programs.