Dec 11, 2002 By Patty Shultz 3 min read

CONNELLSVILLE – Organizational representatives, department officials and residents with proposals to improve local buildings and infrastructure are hoping to garner a portion of the city’s annual state grant allocation. Connellsville Redevelopment Authority executive director Ralph Wombacker received seven suggestions for funding through the state Development Block Grant program at a public hearing on Wednesday to solicit requests.

The city, said Wombacker, is expected to receive approximately $346,000 for expenditures as a participant in the program.

The Carnegie Free Library, through its board trustee president John Malone, requested the city earmark $30,000 for the facility to install a power source that will be used to operate an elevator.

“The Carnegie Free Library is one of the last true city treasures that we have,” said Malone, during his presentation. “We as a community must continue to enhance and preserve such community assets.

“By installing the elevator, we will open doors to the citizens of the community that they would otherwise not have access to due to either age or handicap.”

Malone noted that the library, through its own resources and obtained grant money, would be able to afford the cost of the elevator.

Councilwoman Chris Wagner, who oversees the city recreation department, asked that $50,000 be allocated to the Connellsville Community Center for the renovation of its auditorium.

“This auditorium at one time was utilized for many different events, such as presentations, dance companies, plays and musicals,” said Wagner. “(The renovation) would be a gift to the children of Connellsville who do not have the opportunity to travel to other areas to be exposed to these types of programs.”

Wagner speculated the renovation would be a two-phase project with the first undertaking to include repairs to the stage, upgrading of the electrical system and the purchase of seating and carpeting.

The New Haven Volunteer Hose Co. requested the city again earmark $50,000 toward the purchase of the Quint aerial truck that is expected to be delivered to the city in February.

Ken Jaynes, company equipment committee chairman, said the company secured a loan to purchase the truck, but the loan must now be paid.

The city has set aside $131,000 in prior years to help defray the $367,000 cost of the equipment.

Dick Widmer, vice-president of Widmer Engineering Inc., the city’s engineering firm, proposed funding be allocated to three storm sewerage projects, including Church Place, Water Street and 4th and 5th streets.

Former councilman Ted Alisantrino requested a portion of the 2003 grant money be earmarked for the removal and replacement of the stone retaining wall at Cameron Court.

“I feel that this project is worthy of consideration due to the fact that the neighborhood children actively use the basketball court and the Women’s Garden Club maintain a beautiful display of flowers, giving much pride to the city,” said Alisantrino in a submitted letter.

The city was also asked to consider sidewalk improvements along Snyder Street and Washington Avenue.

Wombacker said the authority would accept additional written requests until Dec. 31.

In January, the information will be transferred to council members who will make the final determination about which projects will be funded through the 2003 program.

Letters of request should be addressed to the redevelopment authority at 300-A South First St., Connellsville, Pa., 15425.