Monroe County News

Rep. Jack Rader of Monroe County has announced the allocation of nearly $2.5 million in state funding for community improvements within the 176th Legislative District and Monroe County. This funding comes through 16 Local Share Account (LSA) grants, which Rader was instrumental in securing.

"The projects and purchases supported through these grants are going to benefit our local communities in a variety of ways," stated Rader. "From infrastructure upgrades and building renovations to new emergency vehicles and recreational facilities, the quality of life in our area is being enhanced, which is exactly what this funding is supposed to do. I was happy to advocate on behalf of every one of the grant applications."

The grants awarded include $400,000 for Brodhead Creek Regional Authority to build a water storage tank in Pocono Township, $308,514 for Chestnuthill Township to replace culverts under Silver Valley Road, and $14,775 for Clymer Library in Tobyhanna Township for computer upgrades. Additionally, East Stroudsburg University Foundation received $375,000 for bleachers and a scoreboard at a new soccer facility.

Other recipients include Eldred Township with $161,700 for a backup generator at its municipal building, and Eldred Township Historical Society with $23,625 to convert the old Kunkletown Post Office into its headquarters. Hamilton Township will use $60,000 to repair a pedestrian bridge at the historic Old Mill.

Emergency services also benefited from these grants: Jackson Township Volunteer Fire Company received $42,300 for rescue tools; Pocono Mountain Regional Emergency Medical Services was granted $175,000 for a new ambulance; Suburban Emergency Medical Services received $100,000 also for an ambulance; and Pocono Mountain Regional Police Department was allocated $79,500 for a police cruiser.

The Commonwealth Financing Authority approved these grants as part of their role in managing funds aimed at Pennsylvania's economic growth. LSA grants are funded by gaming revenues.