Redevelopment authority lands $200,500 grant for business park
The Fayette County Redevelopment Authority was successful in its application for a $200,500 grant from the Appalachian Regional Commission, U.S. Rep. John Murtha (D-Johnstown) announced Monday. The money will aid infrastructure development in the 277-acre Fayette County Business Park located in South Union Township along Route 40. Murtha made the announcement even though he currently does not represent South Union. However, his current district does include North Union Township, which is located on the opposite side of Route 40.
“I work hard to maintain funding for the ARC, and to coordinate with the local and county officials to make sure the available ARC funds go to the priority projects,” said Murtha. “The Fayette County Business Park is a key priority for all of us.”
Redevelopment authority Executive Director Raymond C. Polaski said that his agency and the county commissioners look upon the former county-owned property on either side of Route 40 as a one big development.
“(Murtha) represents North Union Township but the park is in South Union,” said Polaski. “The $200,500 we will use is for the 277 acres in South Union, for infrastructure work such as water and sewerage (lines).”
Polaski said the redevelopment authority had previously applied for the federal ARC funds, for use in Phase 1 of the business park development.
Murtha’s press release noted that two of eight parcels in the 23.5-acre Phase 1 plan have been sold, with negotiations under way on three additional parcels. Polaski said the sold parcels are for a Super 8 Motel and for new offices for McMillen Engineering Co.
Polaski also said three other parcels are under option: one for a new CareerLink center, one for a Uniontown Hospital treatment facility and a third for a “franchise restaurant” near the Super 8 Motel.
Polaski said that two of the motel partners sought and acquired the restaurant 120-day option on a 2.5-acre maximum tract located on the northwest corner of Wayland Smith Drive and Route 40. Polaski said they have until early June before that option, awarded at his board’s February meeting, runs out.
“They’re searching for a franchise now for a restaurant,” said Polaski. “I know that they’re having active negotiations with several franchises right now.”
Murtha’s press release noted that the Phase 1 development, when completed, is expected to be home to 100 jobs, including 17 new ones from the motel, 24 existing and six new ones through McMillen, and 30 through CareerLink.
The ARC funds will help build water and sewerage lines, and will assist with installation of drainage, power, gas and cable systems, said Murtha. He also noted that that county has committed $379,655 in bond funds to complete Phase 1.
Polaski said this is the first time the redevelopment authority has been awarded federal ARC funds. He added that the presence of such a revenue stream means the county will have to spend less in bond money to complete the project, or can use the savings to speed along other aspects of the business park development.
“It is absolutely good news,” said Polaski.